One Of The Safest European Cities To Retire In Comes With Beaches, Protection, & A $1,221 Average Cost Of Living

Europe is a continent known for having large, bustling cities, including London, Paris, and Berlin, each with millions of residents. At the same time, Europe has some of the oldest cities, many of which were founded before 1000 BCE.

Beyond its size and history, many European cities are incredibly safe. Many of the continent’s capitals are among the top places for tourists seeking a scenic, worry-free vacation. One of these cities, Zagreb, is the capital of Croatia, one of the youngest countries in the world.

Zagreb is known for its charming architecture, lively café culture, and proximity to some of Croatia’s most beautiful landscapes. Many retirees choose Zagreb as their long-term home thanks to the city’s countless activities and affordability.

In this article, we’ll explore why Zagreb is not only one of Europe’s safest cities to spend your golden years, but how it’s also incredibly affordable, making it an ideal retirement destination.

What Makes Zagreb, Croatia One Of The Safest European Cities To Retire In?

The city has a years-long track record of safety

Currently, the U.S. Department of State lists Croatia under a Level 1 Travel Advisory, which means travelers are advised to exercise normal precautions. While petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in touristy areas, violent crime, and civil unrest are rare.

The country’s political environment is also stable, with Croatia gaining its independence from Yugoslavia in 1995 during the Croatian War of Independence.

Croatia’s title as one of the safest countries in Europe is further reflected in its ranking on the 2024 Global Peace Index. The country has consistently ranked high on the index, placing 15th in 2022, 17th in 2023, and 15th again in 2024 out of 163 countries.

Beyond statistics about Croatia as a whole, locals and expats who live in Zagreb often talk about how safe they feel in the city:

“I mean, I’ve lost my wallet twice in the last couple of years, and it was returned to me both times with all [my] credit cards and money untouched. The person who found it the second time didn’t want any reward. [They] just returned it.”

“It’s very safe. You can walk in 95% of the city at 4 a.m. alone and feel safe.”

Its consistently high safety ratings and the positive experiences of many locals suggest that Zagreb is one of the safest European cities to retire in.

How Much Does It Cost To Retire In Zagreb, Croatia?

Monthly costs are much lower than in the U.S. and even other European countries

The cost of living in Zagreb is significantly lower compared to the United States. A retiree can comfortably live on an average of $1,221 per month, covering housing, utilities, transportation, and daily expenses. In contrast, many Americans spend twice that amount just on rent, making Croatia’s capital an appealing option for retired folks without sacrificing quality of life.

Zagreb is one of the most affordable European capitals, especially when it comes to housing. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is around $750 a month, while options further out can be even cheaper.

Basic utilities, including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage collection, cost around $189 monthly. A mobile phone plan is about $18, and internet service averages $29 a month.

Public transportation in Zagreb is also efficient and budget-friendly, with an electric tram system offering affordable fares.

These lower costs make day-to-day expenses much more manageable, allowing retirees to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank.

What Is There To Do In Zagreb, Croatia?

From museums to cafe culture, there’s something for everyone

Zagreb is home to a wide range of museums and galleries that document its rich history dating back to the 11th century. From the quirky Museum of Broken Relationships to the iconic Art Pavilion, there’s something for all types of travelers.

In addition to its historical attractions, Zagreb is famous for its café culture, where locals gather to enjoy coffee. This tradition dates back to the 18th century when the first kavana (coffeehouse) opened in the city. Today, Zagreb’s hundreds of cafés offer a relaxed atmosphere perfect for socializing.

For those looking to escape the city, some of Croatia’s most picturesque beaches make a great day trip from Zagreb. While the coast is just over a two-hour drive away, the trip is well worth it. One of the best spots is Mošćenička Draga, a peaceful pebble beach with crystal-clear blue waters, ideal for a quiet break.

With low crime rates, a vibrant café scene, and a high quality of life for under $2,000 per month, Zagreb is a safe and beautiful retirement destination that won’t break the bank.