Beyond the coast - discover why Montenegro's capital is gaining popularity with expats.
Most visitors skip Podgorica entirely, but the capital is increasingly attractive for expats seeking year-round living, career opportunities, and authentic Montenegrin life.
Year-Round Economy Unlike the coast, Podgorica doesn't shut down in winter. Government, universities, and businesses operate normally.
Career Opportunities If you want to work locally, most professional jobs are here.
Affordability 20-30% cheaper than the coast for rent and daily expenses.
Authentic Experience No tourist crowds - this is real Montenegro.
Hot Summers Podgorica is one of Europe's hottest capitals. July-August averages 35°C+.
Mild Winters Rarely below freezing, but grey and rainy November-February.
Best Months April-June and September-October are ideal.
Stara Varos (Old Town) Ottoman-era quarter with mosques, small streets, traditional atmosphere.
City Centre Modern area around Independence Square. Banks, cafes, shopping. - Apartments: €1,500-2,500/sqm - Rent: €350-600/month
Gorica Residential hill with views and villas. - Family-friendly - Quieter - Houses from €200,000
Zabjelo & Konik Newer developments, affordable housing. - Best value - Further from centre - Car recommended
Delta City Area Near the main shopping mall, modern apartments. - Convenient - Good transport links - Popular with young professionals
Transport - City buses functional - Taxis cheap (€2-5 within city) - Car recommended but not essential - Airport 15 minutes south
Amenities - Delta City Mall (major retail) - Hospitals and clinics - International schools - Cinema and theatre
Internet Excellent - many tech companies located here.
Major Employers - Government ministries - Banks and finance - Telecom companies - IT sector (growing rapidly) - International organisations
Coworking - Impact Hub Podgorica - Various shared offices - Growing startup scene
International Options - QSI International School - Arcadia Academy - Several bilingual kindergartens
Universities - University of Montenegro - Several private universities
Local Specialities - Ćevapi (grilled meat) - Njeguški pršut (smoked ham) - Kačamak (polenta dish) - Local wines from Crmnica
Dining Out - Budget lunch: €5-8 - Dinner for two: €25-40 - Fine dining: €50-80
Podgorica is centrally located for exploring: - Skadar Lake: 30 minutes - Coast (Budva): 1 hour - Ostrog Monastery: 45 minutes - Durmitor mountains: 2.5 hours
Purchase Prices - New build apartments: €1,200-2,000/sqm - Older apartments: €800-1,500/sqm - Houses with garden: from €150,000
Rental Market - Studio: €250-350/month - 1-bedroom: €300-500/month - 2-bedroom: €400-650/month - Houses: €500-1,000/month
Year-round prices, no seasonal variation.
Smaller than coast but growing: - Diplomatic community - International organisation staff - Remote workers - Business owners
Pros - Affordable - Year-round economy - Career opportunities - Authentic culture - Central location
Cons - Very hot summers - No beach - Less picturesque - Smaller expat community - Language more necessary
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