Work and Live in Croatia
Why Croatia? Discover a country that combines warmth, safety and European quality of life
Located at the crossroads of Central Europe, the Balkans and the Mediterranean, Croatia is a country that successfully combines the best of all three worlds: pleasant climate, relaxed lifestyle and all the benefits of European Union membership. You may know it for its crystal clear sea and thousands of islands – but Croatia is much more than postcards.
Where is Croatia located?
Croatia is located in southeastern Europe, bordering Italy across the Adriatic Sea, while sharing land borders with Slovenia, Hungary, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Montenegro. Thanks to this position, the country is ideally connected to the rest of the continent – by plane, highways and railways.
What is life like in Croatia?
Croatia offers a rare combination:
- high security – one of the safest countries in Europe, with a Safety Index of 75.66 (High) according to Numbeo
- stability – member of the EU, Schengen and eurozone
- pleasant pace of life – people value socializing, family and free time
- mild climate – from the Mediterranean south to the forested north, with a Climate Index of 89.92 (Very High) according to Numbeo
Healthcare and education are well organized and accessible. Croatia has a Health Care Index of 65.13 (High) and a Cost of Living Index of 51.35 (Low), making it more affordable than many Western countries, according to Numbeo.
Main economic sectors
Although tourism gets the most attention, Croatia has a surprisingly diverse economy:
Tourism
One of the largest drivers of the economy, with more than 20% share of GDP. Croatia attracts over 20 million guests annually thanks to its coast, history and nature.
IT and Technology
One of the fastest growing sectors. Croatia is home to globally recognized startups and technology companies – from Infobip to Rimac Technology. IT professionals here often work for international clients and earn competitive salaries.
Industry and Shipbuilding
The tradition of metal industry, pharmaceuticals, electrical engineering and shipbuilding still maintains its strength, especially in Rijeka, Split and Pula.
Agriculture and Food Industry
Due to diverse climate and clean environment, Croatia produces high-quality food – olive oil, wine, honey, vegetables, cereals and meat products.
Energy
More and more investment is being made in renewable energy sources: solar, wind and hydro. Croatia has some of the largest potentials in the EU for the development of green energy.
Progress since joining the European Union
Since joining the EU in 2013, Croatia has undergone a huge wave of modernization:
- Schengen (2023) – Croatia joined the Schengen area, allowing free travel throughout the entire EU without border controls
- Eurozone (2023) – introduction of the euro simplified business, investment and tourism
- EU funds – investments in infrastructure, digitalization, youth and entrepreneurship
- faster technological and administrative reforms
- improvements in legislation and transparency
The result? Croatia today has faster roads, modern ports and airports, renovated cities, more digital services and strong development of small and medium enterprises.
Why do people choose Croatia to live?
- Security and quality of life – One of the safest countries in Europe, ideal for families.
- Clean environment and nature – Sea, national parks, mountains, lakes – everything is within reach.
- Warm and hospitable people – Culture of socializing, relaxation and neighborly spirit.
- Modern life with lower costs – Housing and food are still more affordable than in most Western metropolises.
- Growing economy and business opportunities – Especially in tourism, IT sector, energy and startup ecosystem.
Croatia: small country – great potential
If you are looking for a country that offers security, natural beauty, EU stability and growing business opportunities, Croatia is a place you should seriously consider.
More and more foreigners from Germany, Austria, Italy, Ireland and the USA are already deciding to move – some for work, others for lifestyle, and many because they feel they have "finally found their peace".