Digital nomad’s cost of living in Montenegro

Montenegro has been a long-time favourite destination amongst digital nomads who explore the Balkans and Eastern European cities. The country is not only attractive for the very affordable cost of living but also for the inspiring and unreal natural beauty it offers.

There are over 115 different beaches within Montenegro, making it an ideal destination for the warmer months. With a Mediterranean climate, you can surely find peace and relaxation here. Plus, the seafood cuisine you'll find at restaurants will surely be memorable.

Since the digital nomad community is still growing in Montenegro, you'll find a handful of coworking spaces, mostly in the capital city, Podgorica, or in cities along the coastline. However, there are plenty of cafes with free Wifi where you can set up your workspace for a couple of hours

The assessment of the Expatisan service is as follows

Family of four estimated monthly costs: €3,703
Single person estimated monthly costs: €1,723

Cost of living in London (United Kingdom) is 186% more expensive than in Budva (Montenegro)

Cost of living in Budva (Montenegro) is 50% cheaper than in Paris (France)

Cost of living in Zurich (Switzerland) is 181% more expensive than in Budva

Cost of living in Rome (Italy) is 43% more expensive than in Budva (Montenegro

Cost of living in Vienna (Austria) is 47% more expensive than in Budva (Montenegro)

Cost of living in Split (Croatia) is 28% more expensive than in Budva (Montenegro)

Cost of living in Athens (Greece) is 28% more expensive than in Budva (Montenegro)

Food and Meals cost in Montenegro

The cost of a meal in Montenegro can vary widely depending on the type of restaurant and its location. Here are some general guidelines:

1. Budget Dining: For a budget-friendly meal, such as in a casual dining restaurant or a local eatery, you might spend around €5 to €10 per person. This could include local dishes, pizza, or fast food.
2. Mid-Range Restaurants: In a mid-range restaurant, a three-course meal for one person might cost between €10 and €20. These restaurants typically offer a mix of Montenegrin and international cuisine.
3. Fine Dining: At a higher-end restaurant, particularly in tourist areas or in luxury hotels, you can expect to pay upwards of €20 to €40 per person for a meal. Prices can be even higher for gourmet dining experiences.
4. Street Food and Snacks: For quick snacks or street food, such as burek (a pastry filled with meat or cheese), sandwiches, or local fast food, the cost is usually between €1 to €5.
5. Drinks: The price for a cup of coffee is typically around €1 to €2.5, and local beers can cost between €1.5 and €3 in most bars and restaurants.

These prices are indicative and can fluctuate based on the location (coastal towns might be more expensive, especially during the tourist season), the type of establishment, and the specific menu items you choose. Montenegro offers a variety of dining experiences that can cater to different budgets. 

Numbeo statistic

The monthly food expenses in Montenegro can vary based on several factors such as dietary preferences, cooking habits, and the choice between dining out or cooking at home. Here's a rough estimate:

1. For a Single Person:
   • Budget-Conscious: If you mostly cook at home, shop at local markets, and occasionally eat out at budget-friendly restaurants, you can expect to spend around €150 - €250 per month.
   • Moderate Spending: If you mix cooking at home with regular dining out at mid-range restaurants, your monthly food expense could be around €250 - €400.
   • Higher-End Choices: For those who frequently dine at more expensive restaurants or purchase high-end grocery items, the cost can exceed €400 per month.
2. For a Family (of four):
   • Budget-Conscious: A family that mainly cooks at home, shops for groceries at local markets, and rarely eats out might spend around €400 - €600 per month.
   • Moderate Spending: If the family enjoys dining out occasionally at mid-range restaurants along with cooking at home, the budget can range from €600 to €1000.
   • Higher-End Choices: For families who often dine out at upscale restaurants and buy premium grocery items, the monthly expense can be well above €1000.

These estimates are indicative and can vary significantly based on personal eating habits, the type of food purchased (imported goods are usually more expensive than local products), and the specific region in Montenegro, as tourist areas and cities tend to be more expensive than rural areas.

Prices of accommodation for rent

In Montenegro, the cost of renting an apartment or a house on the coast is relatively affordable compared to its European counterparts. With options ranging from cozy apartments to luxurious beachfront villas, digital nomads can find a comfortable living space that suits their budget. However, in countries like England, France, and Sweden, the cost of accommodation can be significantly higher, especially in major cities.

Finding suitable accommodation is essential for a digital nomad. In Montenegro, you can choose from various options, such as apartments, guesthouses, or even shared co-living spaces. On average, you can expect to spend around $800 to $1,200 per month for a comfortable and well-located place to stayAccommodation prices in Montenegro can vary significantly based on several factors, including location, type of accommodation, and the time of year. Here's a general overview for different types of accommodations for both single persons and families:

1. Apartments:
   • Studio or One-Bedroom Apartment: Suitable for a single person or a couple. In cities like Podgorica, the monthly rent can range from about €200 to €400. In coastal towns like Budva or Kotor, prices might be higher, especially during the tourist season.
   • Two to Three-Bedroom Apartment: Suitable for a small family. In urban areas, these can range from €300 to €600 per month. Prices are generally higher in tourist areas and lower in inland or less touristy regions.
2. Houses:
   • Small Houses or Cottages: These can be a more spacious option for families. Monthly rents can vary widely, from about €400 to over €1000, depending on the location, size, and amenities.
   • Larger Houses or Villas: These are typically more expensive, especially if they are in prime locations or offer luxury amenities. Rents can range from €1000 to several thousand euros per month.
3. Rooms and Shared Apartments:
   • Renting a Room: This is a budget-friendly option for singles, with prices typically ranging from €150 to €300 per month, depending on the location and the facilities offered.
4. Short-Term Rentals:
   • Airbnb and Vacation Rentals: These are popular, especially in coastal areas. Prices vary greatly depending on the season, location, and type of property. A one-bedroom rental might cost anywhere from €30 to €100 per night, while larger properties or those with premium amenities can be significantly more expensive.

Remember, these prices are indicative and can fluctuate based on various factors. In tourist areas, prices can increase significantly during the peak season (summer months), and it's often possible to negotiate better rates for long-term rentals. It's also worth considering additional costs such as utilities, internet, and possibly service fees if you're renting through an agency or a platform like Airbnb.

For the most accurate and current information, it's advisable to check online real estate listings, contact local real estate agents, or explore rental platforms specific to Montenegro.Accommodation:

Finding suitable accommodation is essential for a digital nomad. In Montenegro, you can choose from various options, such as apartments, guesthouses, or even shared co-living spaces. On average, you can expect to spend around $800 to $1,200 per month for a comfortable and well-located place to stay

Important Notice: Accommodation prices may vary from city to city. For example, rental prices in coastal cities such as Budva and Tiva can be more expensive than those in the central part of Montenegro, such as the capital Podgorica, Cetinje, Nikisc. And also prices can be different in the north of Montenegro in the cities of Kolasin, Zabljak...Another note: in the summer season from May to October, prices can also be higher by 30-40 percent...

Transport Prices

Getting around in Montenegro is convenient and cost-effective. The country offers an extensive transportation network, including buses, taxis, and trains, with reasonable fares. On the other hand, European countries like Germany and Italy have efficient public transportation systems, but they may be relatively more expensive. In contrast, countries like England and Sweden may have higher transportation costs due to their larger size and complex infrastructures.

Getting around Montenegro is relatively affordable, thanks to an efficient public transportation system. Buses and trains connect major cities, and fares are usually between €2.0 and €7. If you prefer more flexibility, renting a car costs approximately €500 to €800 per month, including insurance and fuel. 

The cost of transportation in Montenegro varies depending on the mode of transportation and the distance traveled. Here's a general overview:

1. City Buses:
   • In cities like Podgorica, Nikšić, and others, the fare for a single ride on city buses is typically very affordable, often around €2.5 to €7
2. Intercity Buses:
   • For traveling between cities, intercity buses are a popular option. Fares depend on the distance and the bus company. For example, a bus ticket from Podgorica to Budva might cost between €5 to €10. Longer routes, like Podgorica to Kotor, might be slightly more expensive.
3. Renting a Car:
   • Daily rates for renting a car can vary widely based on the type of car and the rental company. On average, you might expect to pay between €20 and €50 per day for a basic car. Prices can be higher for luxury cars or during peak tourist season.
4. Taxis:
   • Taxi fares typically include a base fare plus a per-kilometer charge. For short trips within cities, you might expect to pay around €2 to €5. Longer distances, like from an airport to a city center, will cost more. Always check if the taxi uses a meter or agree on a fare before starting your journey.
5. Renting a Bicycle or Scooter:
   • Renting a bicycle or an electric scooter is an eco-friendly way to get around, especially in smaller towns or for exploring coastal areas. Rental prices can vary, but you might expect to pay around €5 to €15 per day for a bicycle and around €10 to €30 per day for a scooter.
6. Renting an Electric Scooter (Trotinet):
   • These are becoming increasingly popular in urban areas. The cost usually includes an unlocking fee (often around €1) and a per-minute rate, which can be around €0.10 to €0.20 per minute.

Keep in mind that prices can fluctuate based on the season, specific location, and the current market situation. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it's advisable to check with local transportation providers, rental agencies, or official city transport websites. In tourist areas, especially during the high season, prices can be higher. It's also worth exploring any available travel cards or tourist passes that offer discounts on public transportation.

1. Seasonal Variations:
   • Prices tend to be higher during the peak tourist season (summer months, especially July and August) and lower during the off-season.

Renting a boat in Montenegro can be a fantastic way to explore its beautiful coastline and enjoy the Adriatic Sea. The cost of renting a boat varies widely based on several factors including the type of boat, rental duration, the season, and whether you're hiring a boat with or without a skipper. Here's a general guide:

1. Small Motor Boats and Speedboats:
   • For a small motorboat or speedboat, suitable for day trips or short excursions, prices can start from around €100 to €300 per day. These are often rented for self-driven trips around the nearby bays and islands.
2. Sailboats and Yachts:
   • Renting a sailboat or a yacht is more expensive. Prices can range from €300 to over €1000 per day, depending on the size, luxury level, and age of the vessel. Larger yachts with more amenities will be at the higher end of this range.
3. With or Without a Skipper:
   • If you do not have appropriate boating experience or qualifications, you'll need to rent a boat with a skipper. The cost for a skipper can be an additional €100 to €150 per day. Self-driven boats usually require a valid boating license.
4. Hourly Rentals:
   • Some smaller boats can also be rented on an hourly basis, particularly for popular activities like fishing or short coastal tours. Hourly rates can vary, but might start from around €30 to €50 per hour.

Internet and other household bills

In Montenegro, apart from rent, there are several other living expenses that contribute to the monthly bills. Here's an approximate breakdown of these costs:

1. Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage):
   • For a standard 85m² (approx. 915 sqft) apartment, utility bills can range from €100 to €200 per month. This varies based on consumption, the size of the apartment, and the season (heating in winter, air conditioning in summer).
2. Internet and Cable TV:
   • A combined package for internet and cable TV usually costs around €20 to €50 per month, depending on the provider and the speed/package chosen. As a digital nomad, a stable internet connection is crucial. Montenegro has reliable internet services, with high-speed options available in most areas. The monthly cost for an unlimited internet plan generally ranges from $25 to $50, depending on the provider and package you choose.Transportation:Getting around Montenegro is relatively affordable, thanks to an efficient public transportation system. Buses and trains connect major cities, and fares are usually between $1.5 and $3. If you prefer more flexibility, renting a car costs approximately $350 to $500 per month, including insurance and fuel.
3. Mobile Phone:
   • A basic mobile phone package with some call minutes and data can cost around €5 to €15 per month. Comprehensive plans with more data and unlimited calls might cost more.
   • Mobile Internet You can get a Montenegrin SIM card for 5 EUR (5.40 USD) from Crnogorski Telekom or 10 EUR (10.80 USD) from One (formerly Telenor) and m:tel in their stores. Tourist SIM cards with 500 GB of data are sold for 10 EUR and 15 EUR (16.20 USD).
4. Groceries:
   • Monthly grocery shopping for one person can range from €150 to €250, depending on dietary habits and whether you prefer local or imported products.
5. Transportation:
   • Public transportation is relatively inexpensive. A monthly pass for local transit might cost around €30. If you're using a personal vehicle, fuel costs need to be considered, and they vary based on gas prices and usage.
6. Health Insurance:
   • If not covered by a travel or health insurance plan from abroad, private health insurance in Montenegro can range from €20 to €50 per month, depending on the coverage.
7. Leisure and Entertainment:
   • Expenses for dining out, movies, sports, or other activities can vary greatly, but on average, you might spend around €50 to €100 per month, depending on your lifestyle.
8. Gym Membership:
   • A standard gym membership can cost around €20 to €50 per month.

These are approximate costs and can vary based on personal lifestyle, the specific area in Montenegro, and market changes. It's also important to note that living in tourist areas or larger cities like Podgorica might be more expensive compared to smaller towns or rural areas. 

The cost of health and fitness centers

The cost of health and fitness centers in Montenegro can vary depending on the location, type of facility, and the range of services offered. Here's a general breakdown:

1. Gym Memberships:
   • Standard Gyms: For regular gyms offering basic equipment and facilities, the monthly membership fee can range from approximately €20 to €50. The price can vary based on the gym's location, size, and the equipment available.
   • Premium or Specialized Gyms: Higher-end gyms or those offering specialized services like personal training, group fitness classes, or additional amenities (such as a pool, sauna, or spa facilities) can cost anywhere from €50 to over €100 per month.
2. Fitness Classes:
   • Group Classes: Yoga, Pilates, Zumba, spinning, or other group fitness classes typically charge per session or offer packages. A single class might cost between €5 to €15, while package deals for multiple classes can offer some savings.
   • Personal Training: The cost for personal training sessions can vary widely, from about €20 to €50 per session, depending on the trainer's experience and qualifications.
3. Health Clubs and Wellness Centers:
   • Membership Fees: These facilities, which often include comprehensive fitness equipment, pools, spa areas, and sometimes even health and beauty treatments, can charge monthly fees from €50 to over €100, based on the range of services and luxury level.
4. Day Passes:
   • Some gyms and health clubs offer day passes for those who don't wish to commit to a monthly membership. These can range from €5 to €20 per day, depending on the facility.
5. Discounts and Offers:
   • Many gyms and fitness centers offer discounts for longer-term commitments, student discounts, off-peak hours pricing, or special introductory offers.

It's important to note that prices can be higher in tourist areas and lower in smaller towns or less touristy regions. Additionally, many hotels and resorts in Montenegro have fitness facilities that are free for guests and available at a fee for non-guests.

For the most accurate and current pricing, it's recommended to directly contact the health and fitness centers in the specific area of Montenegro you are interested in. Remember, the best choice depends not only on price but also on the location, convenience, and the types of activities or facilities that are important to you. 

Montenegro betwen other digital nomad popular countries

One of the most important places for digital nomads in the world is Thailand. To make it easier for you to get an impression of the prices, we have compared Montenegro with one of the cheapest destinations for digital nomads 

NUMBEO

And in the case that we would compare the price of life with countries such as England, USA, France and others, the difference would be huge, for example ..

Cost of living in Montenegro is, on average, 42.13% lower than in Germany. Rent in Montenegro is, on average, 59.00% lower than in Germany. The cost of living in Montenegro is, on average, 48.07% lower than in United States. And Rent in Montenegro is, on average, 75.79% lower than in United States. Cost of living in Montenegro is, on average, 42.33% lower than in Germany. Rent in Montenegro is, on average, 58.62% lower than in Germany. And living in Montenegro is cheaper 65% than England, 62% than France and 47% than Austria

Life for digital nomads is also more affordable than  countries in region, such as Croatia, Slovenia, Greece, Hungary .

NUMBEO STATISTIC FOR MONTENEGRO

Differnce betwen Montenegro and Germany

The cost of living in Montenegro is generally lower than in Germany, with some variations in specific categories.

1. Housing: Renting in Montenegro is cheaper than in Germany. For example, monthly rent for an 85 m2 furnished accommodation in an expensive area in Montenegro is about 36% lower than in Germany. Similarly, renting a smaller studio in normal areas is also significantly cheaper in Montenegro.
2. Utilities: Interestingly, utilities for a similar-sized flat are more expensive in Montenegro compared to Germany. For a 2-person household in an 85m2 flat, utilities in Montenegro are nearly double those in Germany.
3. Food and Groceries: Food in Montenegro is generally more affordable than in Germany. Basic lunch menus, chicken breast, eggs, and local cheese, for example, are cheaper in Montenegro. However, some items like milk and high-quality red wine are more expensive in Montenegro.
4. Transportation: Public transportation and taxi services are more cost-effective in Montenegro. The cost for a one-way local transport ticket, taxi fares, and gasoline are lower in Montenegro than in Germany.
5. Childcare and Education: Childcare costs, such as for daycare or preschool, are lower in Montenegro. The same goes for annual fees for international primary schools.
6. Eating Out and Leisure: Dining out at restaurants and leisure activities like going to the cinema are generally cheaper in Montenegro.
7. Overall Cost of Living: The overall cost of living in Germany is estimated to be about 15% more expensive than in Montenegro.

Deffernce betwen Montenegro and Portugal

Comparing the cost of living for digital nomads between Montenegro and Portugal involves looking at various factors that affect daily expenses. Both countries are popular among digital nomads for their beautiful landscapes, pleasant climates, and relatively lower cost of living compared to many Western European countries. However, there are differences in costs that you should consider:

• Montenegro: Generally offers affordable accommodation. A one-bedroom apartment in cities like Podgorica or coastal towns might cost between €200 to €400 per month, with prices increasing in touristy areas during peak season.
• Portugal: Accommodation costs vary. In Lisbon or Porto, prices are higher, with one-bedroom apartments costing around €600 to €1000 per month. Smaller towns and off-peak seasons offer lower prices.

• Montenegro: Dining out and groceries are reasonably priced. A monthly grocery bill for one person might range from €150 to €250, with eating out adding more depending on the frequency.
• Portugal: Comparable to Montenegro, with a slightly higher cost in larger cities. Expect to spend around €200 to €300 per month on groceries.

• Montenegro: Utilities and internet for a standard apartment can cost around €100 to €150 per month.
• Portugal: Similar or slightly higher, averaging around €100 to €200 per month, depending on usage and location.

• Montenegro: Public transport is affordable; however, many digital nomads choose to rent cars for more flexibility. Monthly public transport passes cost around €30.
• Portugal: Offers a good public transportation network, with a monthly pass costing around €40 in cities. Car rentals and taxis are available but more expensive than in Montenegro.

• Montenegro: Offers affordable entertainment options. Activities like dining out, nightlife, and cultural events are generally cheaper than in Western Europe.
• Portugal: Similar in terms of affordability, with a slightly higher cost for dining and entertainment in larger cities.

• Both Countries: Health insurance is a must for digital nomads. The cost depends on the coverage but expect to pay around €40 to €100 per month.

• Montenegro: Growing availability in cities, with daily passes around €5 to €15.
• Portugal: Well-established co-working scene, especially in larger cities, with similar or slightly higher prices than Montenegro.

Overall, Portugal might be slightly more expensive than Montenegro, particularly in popular cities like Lisbon and Porto. However, both countries offer a good quality of life for a relatively low cost compared to many other European destinations. The choice between the two may come down to personal preferences regarding climate, culture, language, and lifestyle. Digital nomads often consider factors like the availability of co-working spaces, community, and ease of travel when making their choice. 

Differnce bettwen Montenegro and Greece

Comparing the cost of living for digital nomads between Montenegro and Greece involves assessing various living expenses. Both countries are favored for their beautiful landscapes, rich history, and generally lower cost of living compared to many Western European countries. However, there are notable differences:

• Montenegro: Offers relatively affordable rental options. Monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment ranges from €200 to €400, increasing in tourist areas during peak season.
• Greece: Similar to Montenegro in smaller towns and cities, but Athens and popular islands like Mykonos or Santorini can be more expensive. Expect €300 to €600 per month for a one-bedroom apartment in cities, with higher prices in tourist spots.

• Montenegro: Reasonably priced. Monthly groceries could cost around €150 to €250, with dining out adding more depending on frequency.
• Greece: Comparable to Montenegro, though dining out in popular tourist areas and islands can be more expensive. Monthly groceries typically range from €200 to €300.

• Montenegro: Monthly costs for utilities and internet are generally around €100 to €150.
• Greece: Similar, averaging €100 to €200 per month, depending on location and usage.

• Montenegro: Affordable public transport, with monthly passes around €30. Car rentals are a popular choice for flexibility.
• Greece: Extensive public transportation network, especially in Athens. Monthly passes cost around €30 to €40. The islands may require additional transportation like ferries, which can add to the cost.

• Montenegro: Offers various affordable leisure activities. The cost of entertainment is generally lower than in Western Europe.
• Greece: Slightly higher costs for dining and entertainment, especially in touristy areas and islands.

• Both Countries: Essential for digital nomads. Costs vary based on coverage, typically between €40 to €100 per month.

• Montenegro: Emerging co-working scene, with daily rates around €5 to €15.
• Greece: Well-established, especially in Athens and Thessaloniki, with similar prices. Islands may have fewer options.

• Montenegro: Smaller and less diverse in terms of cultural and entertainment options compared to Greece.
• Greece: Offers a richer cultural experience, with more historical sites, islands, and a vibrant culinary scene.

• Both Countries: Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild winters. Greece has a longer tourist season, affecting prices and availability.

In summary, while the cost of living in Montenegro and Greece can be similar in many aspects, Greece tends to be slightly more expensive, particularly in tourist hotspots and major cities. Both offer great environments for digital nomads, with the choice often coming down to personal preferences in terms of culture, lifestyle, and specific location needs. 

Differnce between Montenegro and Croatia

Comparing the cost of living for digital nomads between Montenegro and Croatia involves examining various aspects of daily expenses. Both countries offer stunning Adriatic coastlines and are popular among tourists and digital nomads for their natural beauty and historical sites. However, there are differences in living costs:

• Montenegro: Generally more affordable. A one-bedroom apartment might cost €200 to €400 per month, with higher prices in tourist areas during peak season.
• Croatia: Slightly more expensive, especially in popular cities like Zagreb, Dubrovnik, and Split. Expect to pay €300 to €600 per month for a similar apartment, with significantly higher prices in prime locations.

• Montenegro: Reasonably priced. Monthly groceries could be around €150 to €250, plus additional costs for dining out.
• Croatia: Comparable to Montenegro but can be more expensive in tourist-heavy areas. Monthly grocery expenses might range from €200 to €300.

• Montenegro: Utilities (including internet) for an average apartment are around €100 to €150 per month.
• Croatia: Similar to Montenegro, averaging €100 to €200 per month, depending on the location and usage.

• Montenegro: Affordable public transport, with monthly passes costing around €30. Car rentals are popular for exploring more remote areas.
• Croatia: Well-developed public transportation, especially in larger cities. Monthly passes are around €40 to €50. Costs can be higher if you're traveling between islands or using ferries.

• Montenegro: Offers affordable leisure and entertainment options, though with fewer choices than Croatia.
• Croatia: A bit more expensive, especially in tourist hotspots. It offers a wider variety of cultural and recreational activities.

• Both Countries: Essential for digital nomads. Costs vary but expect to pay between €40 to €100 per month for coverage.

• Montenegro: An emerging scene with affordable options, daily rates are around €5 to €15.
• Croatia: More established, particularly in Zagreb and Split. Prices are comparable or slightly higher.

• Both Countries: Enjoy a Mediterranean climate. Croatia has a longer coastline and more islands, offering a diverse range of environments.

• Montenegro: Smaller and less diverse but offers a quieter lifestyle.
• Croatia: More touristic and developed, with a richer cultural scene and more amenities.

In summary, Croatia tends to be slightly more expensive than Montenegro, particularly in popular cities and tourist areas. However, both countries offer attractive environments for digital nomads, with the choice often depending on personal preferences regarding cultural experiences, lifestyle, and specific geographical interests. 

Check detailed price comparison:

Thailand vs Montenegro

Source: Cost of Living in Montenegro

Source: Cost of Living in Thailand

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