Porec, Croatia

Porec sits on the western coast of the Istrian peninsula in Croatia, with a subtropical climate that brings mild winters and warm summers. The town's elevation is just 30 meters above sea level, and its population of 17,000 swells in the tourist season. Expats tend to settle in Stari Grad, the historic core, or in the resort neighborhoods of Zelena Laguna and Lanterna, drawn by the coastal setting and the small but present expat community.

Living costs in Porec are moderate. A single person's monthly expenses excluding rent total $880, while a family of four spends about $2,950 per month without housing. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center averages $692 per month, dropping to $523 outside the center. A three-bedroom in the center runs $1,196, and outside the center it is $1,009. Utilities add $163 monthly, internet is $34, and a mobile phone plan costs $24. A gym membership is $112 per month. An inexpensive restaurant meal is $12, and a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant is $63. A cappuccino costs $2. The average monthly net salary locally is $1,271, and the cost of living index stands at 55 out of 100, with New York City as the baseline.

Safety is a strong point: Porec's safety index is 70 out of 100, and its crime index is 30 out of 100, with lower numbers meaning less crime. Healthcare quality is rated as good, and the air quality index is a low 35, indicating clean air. English is common in tourist areas, making daily life easier for newcomers.

For those looking to stay long-term, Croatia offers a Temporary Residence Permit (Privremeni boravak) requiring a minimum monthly income of $1,000, and the Croatia Digital Nomad Visa requires a minimum monthly income of $3,762. The nearest airport is PUY. Porec suits retirees, who give it a score of 68 out of 100, and those pursuing financial independence or early retirement, with a FIRE score of 76. Digital nomads rate it 64 out of 100, and the overall expat score is 76 out of 100.