Living Safely in Serbia as an Expat: The Reality Behind the Headlines

For many people hearing about Serbia for the first time, their minds still jump to outdated images of conflict, instability, or poverty. Western media coverage during the 1990s left a long-lasting impression that Serbia is unsafe or unpredictable. Yet for those who have actually visited or chosen to settle here, the story could not be more different.

At Relocation Serbia, we regularly speak with clients whose friends and families react with the same hesitation: “Is Serbia really safe?” The answer, supported by both data and daily life, is a confident yes. Serbia today is one of the calmest, most grounded, and community-oriented countries in Europe—a place where families, professionals, and retirees find not only safety but peace of mind.

Media in North America and Western Europe often portrays unfamiliar countries as dangerous. Even small incidents abroad receive magnified coverage, while domestic challenges—rising crime, homelessness, and social disorder—receive far less attention. This creates the illusion that moving abroad, especially to Eastern Europe, carries significant risk.

In reality, many expats leave precisely because of growing insecurity at home. Countries such as Canada, the United States, and the United Kingdom are witnessing record levels of burglary, car theft, and violent crime. By contrast, Serbia’s day-to-day life moves at a slower, steadier rhythm where community ties remain strong and mutual respect is still a cultural norm.

Statistically, Serbia’s violent crime rate remains among the lowest in Europe. In 2023, the country recorded around 93 homicides nationwide—approximately 1.4 per 100,000 people. For comparison, Canada sits at about 1.9, France at 1.5, and the United States at 5.6 per 100,000.

Most reported crimes in Serbia involve property offenses such as theft or small-scale burglary, not random or violent acts. Drug-related and domestic disputes make up much of the rest. Stranger-to-stranger violence, the type that shapes fear in larger Western cities, is exceptionally rare.

Another important note: terrorism risk is virtually zero. The U.S. Department of State recorded no terrorist incidents in Serbia throughout 2023 and 2024.

What expats often notice most is Serbia’s social cohesion. People look out for one another. If an argument breaks out or someone harasses a woman or a child in public—a rare event—bystanders step in. Traditional values of decency and protection are still alive in daily life.

Unlike in many Western countries where citizens are told not to intervene, Serbians often feel personally responsible for their surroundings. That civic instinct contributes to a feeling of security that statistics alone cannot capture.

Homelessness is another visible measure of how safe a place feels. In North America, tent cities and open drug use have become a common sight, even in smaller towns. Serbia presents an entirely different reality.

The estimated number of people experiencing homelessness nationwide is around 4,000, with few visible encampments. Streets are clean, residential areas are calm, and walking alone at night—even in major cities like Belgrade or Novi Sad—rarely feels unsafe. For expats arriving from cities such as Toronto, London, or Los Angeles, this contrast is striking.

Many Westerners also express concern about Europe’s ongoing migration issues. Serbia, positioned on the Balkan route, does see transient migrant traffic—but without the instability seen elsewhere. The difference lies in Serbia’s immigration policy: there are no long-term social benefits for non-residents, and work is expected, not optional.

Most migrants pass through Serbia briefly, using it as a transit point toward the EU. As a result, communities remain stable, and social systems are not strained by uncontrolled inflows.

Beyond the statistics, safety is about how you feel where you live. Serbia ranks high in quality-of-life surveys among European cities, with Belgrade noted for its walkability, social warmth, and affordability. Local residents maintain strong family structures, and community events—from neighborhood markets to evening walks along the Danube—reinforce a shared sense of belonging.

For expats raising children or seeking a quieter lifestyle, this environment offers something many Western countries have lost: predictability, order, and mutual respect.

No country is perfect. But Serbia’s imperfections are small compared with the challenges many expats are leaving behind—rising costs, over-regulation, and insecurity. Living safely in Serbia is not just about low crime rates; it’s about feeling grounded, respected, and at ease in your everyday life.

If you’re ready to experience a country that values stability, community, and freedom, Serbia deserves your attention.

Relocation Serbia provides full-service support for those considering the move—from residency and business setup to citizenship and language learning.
Book a paid consultation today and discover what life in Serbia can truly offer.