The Cost of Living in Montenegro | An Expert Guide

Montenegro, a small Balkan nation on the Adriatic Sea, combines stunning coastal beauty with mountain landscapes while maintaining relatively affordable living costs. With a population of approximately 620,000 people, Montenegro offers a mix of Mediterranean and Balkan lifestyle choices, making it increasingly popular with digital nomads and retirees.

Montenegro's economy is primarily driven by tourism, services, and a growing real estate sector. The country has positioned itself as an emerging investment destination, particularly along its coast, while maintaining significantly lower living costs than most Western European countries.

The expatriate community in Montenegro is concentrated primarily in coastal areas like Budva, Tivat, and Porto Montenegro, with a growing presence in the capital, Podgorica. Many are drawn by the combination of affordable living costs, beautiful scenery, and the country's strategic location between East and West.

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Regional Comparison

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Housing Costs in Montenegro

Housing costs in Montenegro vary significantly between coastal areas and inland regions. In premium coastal locations like Budva or Tivat, a one-bedroom apartment typically rents for 400-600 EUR monthly, while similar accommodations in Podgorica range from 300-450 EUR. Inland cities offer more affordable options, with rentals typically costing 200-350 EUR monthly. Seasonal variations can be significant, with coastal prices often doubling during summer months.

Summary:

• Rent, 1-bedroom apartment (Coast): 400-600 EUR/month
• Rent, 1-bedroom apartment (Podgorica): 300-450 EUR/month
• Rent, 1-bedroom apartment (Inland): 200-350 EUR/month

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Food Costs in Montenegro

Food expenses in Montenegro are relatively affordable, particularly when choosing local products. A meal at a local restaurant costs 7-12 EUR, while dinner at an upscale restaurant might run 20-35 EUR per person. Monthly grocery shopping at supermarkets like Voli or Idea typically costs 200-300 EUR for one person, though shopping at local markets can reduce costs significantly.

Summary:

• Local restaurant meal: 7-12 EUR
• Upscale dinner: 20-35 EUR
• Monthly groceries (1 person): 200-300 EUR

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Transportation Costs in Montenegro

Transportation in Montenegro relies primarily on buses, taxis, and private vehicles. Local bus fares cost 0.80-1.20 EUR, while intercity travel ranges from 3-15 EUR depending on distance. Taxis are relatively affordable, with most inner-city journeys costing 3-7 EUR. Many expatriates choose to own vehicles due to limited public transportation options outside major cities.

Summary:

• Local bus fare: 0.80-1.20 EUR
• Taxi (inner city): 3-7 EUR
• Intercity bus: 3-15 EUR

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Healthcare Costs in Montenegro

Healthcare in Montenegro operates through both public and private systems. Private health insurance typically costs 50-100 EUR monthly per person, depending on coverage. A consultation at a private clinic costs 20-40 EUR, while specialist visits range from 30-60 EUR. Most expatriates use a combination of local private facilities and international insurance coverage for more serious conditions.

Summary:

• Private health insurance: 50-100 EUR/month
• Doctor's consultation: 20-40 EUR
• Specialist visit: 30-60 EUR

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Utility Costs in Montenegro

Utility costs in Montenegro vary seasonally, with higher expenses during winter months for heating and summer months for cooling. Monthly utilities including electricity, water, and garbage collection typically range from 70-150 EUR for an apartment. Internet service costs 20-35 EUR monthly for reliable connections. Mobile phone plans with data typically range from 10-25 EUR monthly.

Summary:

• Basic utilities: 70-150 EUR/month
• Internet: 20-35 EUR/month
• Mobile phone plan: 10-25 EUR/month

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Example Monthly Expenses in Montenegro

Average monthly expenses for a single person living in a coastal area:

• Rent (1-bedroom, good area): 500 EUR
• Utilities: 100 EUR
• Food: 250 EUR
• Transportation: 50 EUR
• Healthcare (insurance): 75 EUR
• Internet/Phone: 40 EUR
• Entertainment: 150 EUR
• Total: 1,165 EUR

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Cost of Living vs Quality of Life Correlation

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If you want to know more about Montenegro and the cost of living there you can also check out the Montenegro page.