Living in Dubrovnik: the ultimate expat guide

Dubrovnik's economy is heavily driven by tourism, which accounts for a significant portion of local employment. The city welcomes nearly 3 million visitors annually through its airport alone, creating substantial demand for hospitality, tour guiding, and service sector professionals. Beyond tourism, opportunities exist in maritime industries, IT services, and real estate.

Job Market Overview

Croatia's national unemployment rate has dropped to historic lows, reaching 4.1% in September 2025 according to Trading Economics. The labor market is tight, with shortages in skilled trades, IT professionals, and healthcare workers. For non-EU citizens, securing employment requires a work permit, which your employer must sponsor. EU/EEA citizens enjoy full freedom of movement and can work without restrictions.

Digital Nomad Visa

Croatia offers one of Europe's most attractive Digital Nomad Residence Permits, allowing remote workers to live in the country for up to 18 months (extendable for another 18 months). Applicants must demonstrate a minimum monthly income of EUR 3,295 and work for non-Croatian employers. This permit includes tax exemption on foreign-earned income.

The table below shows key employment indicators:

Sources: Trading Economics, EURES, Croatian Bureau of Statistics

Dubrovnik offers several higher education options, combining local institutions with international programs. The city's academic scene attracts students from around the world, particularly in fields related to maritime studies, international relations, and business.

University of Dubrovnik

The University of Dubrovnik, established in 2003, is a public university offering undergraduate, master's, and doctoral programs. It specializes in maritime engineering, tourism management, economics, media studies, and applied ecology. In the 2024/2025 academic year, the university welcomed a record 109 international exchange students from over 10 countries. Many programs are offered in English, and tuition fees for international students range from EUR 1,500 to EUR 4,000 per year depending on the program.

Dubrovnik International University (DIU)

Dubrovnik International University (Libertas University) offers English-taught programs in International Relations & Diplomacy and International Business & Economics. The university follows the Bologna process and maintains partnerships with institutions across Europe and the United States. Class sizes are intentionally small, typically 20-30 students, fostering close interaction between students and faculty.

Inter-University Centre (IUC)

The Inter-University Centre Dubrovnik hosts advanced academic courses and conferences year-round, bringing together scholars from global institutions. It serves as a bridge for international academic collaboration.

Sources: University of Dubrovnik, IUC Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik has become an increasingly popular retirement destination for those seeking a Mediterranean lifestyle with lower costs than Western Europe. While Croatia does not offer a specific "retirement visa," several pathways allow retirees to establish legal residency.

Residency Options for Retirees

Non-EU retirees can obtain a Temporary Residence Permit by demonstrating sufficient financial means (approximately EUR 460/month for singles, EUR 660/month for couples) plus health insurance and proof of accommodation. The most common approach is prepaying one year of rent, which qualifies you for the permit. This permit is renewable annually, and after 5 years of continuous residence, you may apply for permanent residency.

Healthcare for Retirees

Croatia has a solid public healthcare system, and private health insurance is affordable compared to the US. Expats typically pay EUR 80-150/month for comprehensive private coverage. The Dubrovnik General Hospital provides quality care, and many doctors speak English. For specialized treatment, Zagreb or even EU neighbors are easily accessible.

Tax Considerations

If you spend more than 183 days per year in Croatia, you become a tax resident. However, income from foreign pensions is often protected by double taxation treaties. Croatia has such agreements with the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and many EU countries. Income tax rates are 20% (up to EUR 50,400/year) and 30% above that threshold. Consult a tax professional for your specific situation.

Sources: Croatian Ministry of Interior

Education options for expat families in Dubrovnik require careful planning, as the city has limited international schooling compared to larger Croatian cities like Zagreb or Split. However, several solutions exist for families relocating with children.

Public Schools

Croatian public education is free for all residents, including foreigners with legal residency. The system comprises 8 years of primary school (ages 6-14) and 4 years of secondary school. Classes are taught entirely in Croatian, which can be challenging for non-Croatian-speaking children. However, younger children typically adapt quickly and become fluent within 1-2 years. The Marin Držić Elementary School in Dubrovnik serves local families and accepts international students.

International School Options

Dubrovnik does not currently have a fully international school. The nearest options include the Split International School (approximately 230 km away), which offers an IB curriculum and Cambridge qualifications taught in English. Some families opt for online international schooling or homeschooling while living in Dubrovnik. Helen Doron English Dubrovnik provides supplementary English language courses for children.

Enrollment Requirements

To enroll children in Croatian public schools, parents need proof of residency, the child's birth certificate (translated and apostilled), and previous school records. The school year runs from September to June.

Sources: Croatian Ministry of Science and Education, Split International School

Finding housing in Dubrovnik requires patience and flexibility, as the market is heavily influenced by tourism. Many property owners prefer short-term vacation rentals during peak season (May-October), making year-round leases more challenging to secure but not impossible.

Rental Market

Long-term rental prices in Dubrovnik are higher than most Croatian cities due to tourist demand. Expect to pay EUR 700-900/month for a one-bedroom apartment outside the Old Town, and EUR 1,000-1,400/month for a three-bedroom apartment. Properties inside the historic walls command premium prices. The best strategy is to search during the off-season (October-April) when landlords are more willing to negotiate long-term contracts. Local websites like Njuskalo.hr and Index Oglasi offer more competitive prices than foreigner-targeted platforms.

Popular Neighborhoods

Lapad and Babin Kuk are favored by expats for their beach access, restaurants, and more residential atmosphere. Gruž, near the port and bus station, offers practical amenities and better value. The Old Town (Stari Grad) is charming but expensive and can feel crowded during tourist season. Ploče provides stunning views and proximity to the Old Town while remaining slightly quieter.

Sources: Numbeo, Njuskalo

Dubrovnik offers an exceptional range of leisure activities, from historic exploration to outdoor adventures. The city's UNESCO-listed Old Town alone could keep you busy for weeks, while the surrounding coastline and islands provide endless opportunities for relaxation.

Must-See Attractions

Walk the famous City Walls (nearly 2 km long) for panoramic views of the terracotta rooftops and Adriatic Sea. Visit Rector's Palace, Sponza Palace, and the Franciscan Monastery with its historic pharmacy. Take the cable car to Mount Srđ for sunset views and explore the Homeland War Museum at the summit. The nearby Lokrum Island is a 15-minute ferry ride away, perfect for swimming, hiking, and visiting peacocks in a botanical garden.

Beaches and Outdoor Activities

Banje Beach is the most famous, located just outside Ploče Gate. Lapad Beach offers a more family-friendly atmosphere with shallow waters. Water sports include kayaking along the walls, paddleboarding, and diving to explore underwater caves. Day trips to the Elaphiti Islands or Mljet National Park are highly recommended.

Events and Nightlife

The Dubrovnik Summer Festival (July-August) brings 45 days of theater, music, and dance to historic venues. Year-round, enjoy rooftop bars like Buža Bar carved into the cliffs, or dine at restaurants along the Stradun, the main street. The winter Dubrovnik Winter Festival and Christmas markets create a magical off-season atmosphere.

Sources: Dubrovnik Tourist Board

Daily life in Dubrovnik blends Mediterranean relaxation with modern convenience. The city is compact and highly walkable, though its hilly terrain means you'll encounter plenty of stairs. English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas, making initial settling easier for newcomers.

Getting Around

Dubrovnik's public transport consists of 13 bus lines operated by Libertas. A single ticket costs EUR 1.73 from a kiosk or EUR 1.99 from the driver. Tickets are valid for 59 minutes and can be used in any direction. Most buses converge at Pile Gate, the main entrance to the Old Town. The Dubrovnik Cable Car offers scenic rides to Mount Srđ for panoramic views. Dubrovnik Airport, located 20 km southeast, connects to major European cities, with airport shuttle buses costing EUR 10 one-way.

Lifestyle and Culture

Croats value a relaxed pace of life, with coffee culture playing a central role. Expect long café visits and leisurely meals. Shops typically open 8:00-20:00 on weekdays, with reduced hours on Saturdays and limited Sunday openings. Summers are lively with tourists, while winters offer a quieter, more local experience. The local currency is the Euro, and card payments are widely accepted.

Sources: Libertas Dubrovnik, Dubrovnik Cable Car

Dubrovnik is one of the more expensive cities in Croatia due to its popularity as a tourist destination. However, costs remain significantly lower than major Western European cities or North American metros. The tables below provide monthly budget estimates.

Monthly Budget: Single Person

Monthly Budget: Family of Four

Sources: Numbeo 2025, LivingCost.org