Question 1

How much does it cost to live in Makarska each month?

Accepted Answer

At the mid-range tier, one adult needs about $1,255 a month in Makarska, rent included, with $560 of that going to rent. That leaves roughly $695 for everything except housing.

Question 2

What is rent like in Makarska?

Accepted Answer

In Makarska, a one-bedroom runs $672 in the center and $560 outside it and three bedrooms come to $896 in the center and $784 outside it, per month.

Question 3

Is Makarska safe for expats?

Accepted Answer

Makarska scores 73.28 on the safety index (higher is safer) and a crime index of 26.72 (lower is safer).

Question 4

What is the internet like in Makarska?

Accepted Answer

Average internet speed in Makarska is 50 Mbps. A home connection costs about $40/mo.

Question 5

What is the weather like in Makarska?

Accepted Answer

In Makarska, summer averages 28°C, winter averages 8°C and annual rainfall is 1718 mm.

Question 6

Can I find year-round work in Makarska?

Accepted Answer

Realistically, no. Tourism jobs vanish November–March. Remote work or running a seasonal business are your best bets. Teaching English exists but is sporadic and low-paid. Most expats either freelance or work tourism seasonally.

Question 7

Is it expensive to live here?

Accepted Answer

Off-season (October–April), $650–800/month for a one-bedroom is reasonable. Summer rents spike to $1,200+ for short-term rentals. Food and utilities are cheap. The real cost is seasonal: you'll pay premium prices or face empty streets depending on when you arrive.

Question 8

What's the expat community like?

Accepted Answer

Small and transient. Most expats are seasonal workers, digital nomads, or retirees. Winter is isolating—many leave. Summer brings temporary crowds but little permanent infrastructure. Don't expect a built-in social network; you'll need to create your own or embrace solitude.

Question 9

What's the internet speed like in Makarska for digital nomads?

Accepted Answer

Generally, you can expect reliable internet in Makarska, especially in apartments and cafes catering to tourists. Download speeds typically range from 20-50 Mbps, sufficient for most remote work tasks, but it's wise to confirm speeds with your accommodation provider beforehand. Coworking spaces are limited; most nomads work from cafes or their apartments.

Question 10

How safe is Makarska for expats?

Accepted Answer

Makarska is generally considered a very safe city with low crime rates. Petty theft can occur, especially during the peak tourist season, so it's wise to be aware of your belongings. Violent crime is rare, and you can feel comfortable walking around most areas at night.

Question 11

What are the visa options for Americans wanting to retire in Makarska?

Accepted Answer

As a US citizen, you can initially stay in Croatia for 90 days within a 180-day period visa-free. For longer stays, you'll need to apply for a temporary residence permit, often based on reasons like retirement, self-employment, or property ownership. The process can be bureaucratic, so consider consulting with an immigration lawyer.

Question 12

How much does it cost to rent an apartment in Makarska?

Accepted Answer

Rental costs in Makarska vary depending on the season and location. Expect to pay around €400-€700 per month for a one-bedroom apartment outside the main tourist season (October-May). Prices can easily double during the summer months, especially for apartments near the beach.

Question 13

Are there many English-speaking doctors and dentists in Makarska?

Accepted Answer

While not all medical professionals are fluent in English, you can find English-speaking doctors and dentists in Makarska, especially at private clinics. It's always a good idea to confirm their English proficiency when making an appointment. The local pharmacy will also be able to help with minor ailments.

Question 14

What's the best way to get around Makarska?

Accepted Answer

Makarska is a relatively small town, and walking is the easiest way to get around. Local buses connect Makarska with nearby towns and villages. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available, but can be more expensive.

Question 15

How does the cost of groceries and eating out compare to the US?

Accepted Answer

Groceries in Makarska are generally cheaper than in the US, especially if you buy local produce at the market. Eating out can also be more affordable, with a decent meal at a local restaurant costing around €15-€25. Prices at tourist-oriented restaurants can be higher.

Question 16

What's the climate like in Makarska?

Accepted Answer

Makarska has a Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Expect average temperatures of 25-30°C (77-86°F) in July and August, and 8-12°C (46-54°F) in January and February. It's a popular destination for sun and sea during the summer months.

Question 17

Are there ATMs in Makarska, and what are the fees like?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you'll find plenty of ATMs in Makarska, especially along the main promenade and in tourist areas. Be aware that some ATMs may charge fees for withdrawals, so it's best to check with your bank beforehand and try to use ATMs from reputable banks like Zagrebačka banka or Erste bank. Consider using a debit card with no foreign transaction fees.

Question 18

How well is English spoken in Makarska?

Accepted Answer

English is widely spoken in Makarska, especially among younger people and those working in the tourism industry. While learning some basic Croatian phrases is appreciated, you can generally get by speaking English in most situations. However, knowing some Croatian will definitely enhance your experience and integration.

Question 19

What are the US tax implications of living in Makarska?

Accepted Answer

As a US citizen, you're still required to file US taxes even when living abroad. You may be able to exclude a certain amount of your foreign-earned income using the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE). You may also need to report foreign bank accounts if the total value exceeds $10,000 using FinCEN Form 114 (FBAR). Consult with a tax professional specializing in expat taxes.

Question 20

Is Makarska a good place for FIRE (Financial Independence, Retire Early)?

Accepted Answer

Makarska can be a viable option for FIRE, especially if you're looking to stretch your passive income. The cost of living is lower than in many Western European countries or the US, allowing you to live comfortably on a smaller budget. However, it's essential to factor in healthcare costs and potential currency fluctuations.

Question 21

What's the day-to-day quality of life like in Makarska as an English speaker?

Accepted Answer

The quality of life in Makarska is generally very good. The pace of life is slower and more relaxed than in many larger cities. As an English speaker, you'll find it relatively easy to navigate daily life, although learning some Croatian will definitely improve your experience and help you connect with locals.

Question 22

Can I open a bank account in Croatia as a non-resident?

Accepted Answer

Yes, it is possible to open a bank account in Croatia as a non-resident, but it might require more documentation than opening one as a resident. You'll typically need your passport, proof of address (even if temporary), and potentially a Croatian tax identification number (OIB). Check with individual banks for their specific requirements.

Name	Notes
Regus Makarska	Located in a central business area of Makarska, Regus offers a professional environment with reliable internet, meeting rooms, and administrative support. It's a good option for those seeking a familiar, corporate-style coworking experience.
Work in Split (Likely used by Makarska residents)	While technically in Split, it's a viable option for those willing to commute or split their time. Offers a vibrant community, workshops, and events, making it attractive for digital nomads seeking networking opportunities.

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