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Retire in Split

A closer look at Split, including Diocletian's Palace and Riva Promenade.

Split retirement destination
170,000Population estimate
700-1200 EUR/monthAverage rent

At a glance

The local signals that matter most for a first visit or a first budget.

Population estimate170,000Published city/urban-area estimate; scope varies
Safety78Safety index
Healthcare8/10Quality rating
Average rent700-1200 EUR/monthMonthly cost

Why Split

The character of the city matters as much as the national averages.

  • Diocletian's Palace
  • Riva Promenade
  • Marjan Hill
  • Beaches

Housing snapshot

One bedroom
700-1200 EUR/month
Three bedrooms
1200-2000 EUR/month
Purchase, city center
3000-5000 EUR/m²

Costs and daily life

Use these figures to build a realistic monthly budget.

Monthly essentials

Groceries
300-450 EUR
Utilities
150-250 EUR
Transport
40 EUR (bus pass)
Health insurance
Approx. 70-120 EUR/month

Healthcare

Hospital quality
4/5
Doctor visit
Covered by public healthcare
Emergency response
10-15 minutes
Specialist wait time
2-6 weeks

Getting around

Walkability
70/100
Public transport
7/10
Airport
Split Airport
Airport distance
25km from city center

Climate and community

The details that determine how a place feels through the year.

Climate

Average temperature
14°C
Summer high
28°C
Winter low
5°C
Rainfall
90 days/year
Sunshine
2,500 hours/year

Expat community

Expat population
8,500
Population share
5%
Main nationalities
German, British, Austrian
Integration support
Croatian language courses, Expat groups

Climate planning gear for Split

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Neighborhoods to compare

A useful shortlist for a first visit, rental search, or longer stay.

Diocletian's Palace

Why it works: Historic, central

Watch for: Very touristy, expensive

Riva

Why it works: Seafront, lively

Watch for: Busy

Bačvice

Why it works: Beach access, family-friendly

Watch for: Popular, can be noisy

Marjan

Why it works: Green, quiet, views

Watch for: Less central

Lifestyle and recreation

A quick read on the parts of city life that do not appear in a rent index.

Dining4/5Local rating
Culture4/5Local rating
Nightlife3.5/5Local rating
Shopping3.5/5Local rating
Green space4/5Local rating

Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know about retiring in Split

What is the cost of living in Split?

The published one-bedroom rent for Split is 700-1200 EUR/month. Total monthly expenses depend on the local currency, housing choice, healthcare, taxes, and lifestyle.

Is Split safe for retirees and expats?

The directory safety index for Split is 78/100. A comparable citywide crime rate is not published here; conditions vary by district. The walkability score is 70/100 and public-transport coverage is 7/10.

What are the best neighborhoods to live in Split for retirees?

The listed retirement neighborhoods in Split include Diocletian's Palace, Riva, Bačvice. Compare healthcare access, services, transport, noise, and housing costs at neighborhood level before choosing.

How is the healthcare system in Split?

Split hospital facilities are rated 4/5. Doctor visits are listed at approximately Covered by public healthcare; insurance acceptance and newcomer eligibility vary by provider and status.

What transportation options are available in Split?

Split has a public-transport efficiency score of 7/10 and coverage score of 7/10. The walkability score is 70/100, and the nearest international airport is 25km from city center.

What is the climate like in Split?

Split has an average temperature of 14°C with 90 days/year rainfall days listed per year; occasional snow is listed. Seasonal comfort depends on personal needs and the specific neighborhood.

Are there other expats and retirees in Split?

Split has a listed international-resident share of 5% and the recorded nationalities are German and British. Integration services are Croatian language courses, Expat groups, Visa assistance; availability should be confirmed locally.

What visa or residence route applies to retirees in Croatia?

Croatia lists Temporary stay for another purpose (retiree). The published annual income figure is EUR 10,433 per year; requirements, processing and eligibility are route-specific and should be confirmed with the responsible authority before applying.

What tax points should retirees check before moving to Croatia?

The country-level tax notes list income tax: Progressive up to 33%. CGT: 12%. Inherit: 4% (Property only).; property tax: Local property taxes and charges vary by municipality; VAT or sales tax: 25%. Tax residence, pension source, treaty status, property and local rules can change the result, so obtain current advice for the individual case.

Can foreigners buy property near Split?

Property ownership rules are country- and property-specific and are not a city-level guarantee in this profile. Check title, restricted-zone, tax, registration and residency rules with the relevant authority and a qualified local adviser before signing.

Continue your research

Compare the wider destination.

Use the parent guide to see how this city fits within the larger country or state.

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