Moving from North America to Serbia: Why More People Are Making the Move

The landscape of North America is changing, and many individuals and families are considering new destinations that align better with their values, lifestyle preferences, and financial well-being. One such destination gaining popularity is Serbia—a country offering affordability, safety, and freedoms that many feel are eroding in Canada and the U.S.

In this blog, I’ll share my personal experience moving to Serbia and the top reasons why many North Americans are choosing to relocate. From financial flexibility to a lower crime rate and better quality of life, Serbia presents an attractive alternative to the challenges faced in North America.

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1. Financial Freedom & No Civil Asset Forfeiture

One of the biggest advantages of living in Serbia is financial autonomy. Unlike in North America, where governments and banks impose strict controls on personal finances, Serbia offers greater freedom over how you access and use your money.

  • In Canada and the U.S., large cash withdrawals or deposits can lead to extensive questioning and even account freezes.
  • Civil asset forfeiture laws in North America allow law enforcement to seize cash and assets without due process, forcing individuals to fight for their money back.
  • In Serbia, withdrawing or depositing large sums of money is straightforward. There are no excessive bank restrictions, and transactions are processed quickly without unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles.

For instance, when purchasing property in Serbia, I needed to withdraw a large sum in U.S. dollars and convert it to Serbian dinars. Unlike my experience in Canada—where such a withdrawal would take weeks of approvals and paperwork—my Serbian bank facilitated the transaction within 24 hours with minimal hassle.

This level of financial freedom is a major attraction for entrepreneurs, investors, and retirees looking to move from North America to Serbia.

2. Lower Crime Rates & A Safer Environment

Safety is a major concern for those considering relocation. Serbia offers a safer daily life compared to many North American cities, where rising crime rates, theft, and violent incidents have become all too common.

  • Street safety: Walking with cash in hand in Serbia doesn’t carry the same risks as it does in cities like New York, Toronto, or Los Angeles. Violent robberies and home invasions are rare occurrences here.

  • No mass theft incidents: Unlike the "smash-and-grab" crimes seen in U.S. malls or the carjackings common in North America, Serbia has a much lower rate of organized theft and violence.

  • Police interactions: Serbian law enforcement operates with a different approach. Unlike in North America, where interactions with police can feel tense and confrontational, Serbian officers engage with citizens more casually. It's not uncommon to see police having coffee with civilians, fostering a more relaxed relationship between law enforcement and the public.

If safety and security are high on your priority list, moving to Serbia could provide a more peaceful and worry-free lifestyle than what is currently experienced in many North American cities.

3. Lower Cost of Living & Better Value for Healthcare

Affordable Healthcare

One of the biggest downsides to living in North America—especially in the United States—is the high cost of healthcare.

  • In the U.S., the cost of having a baby can exceed $50,000 without insurance.
  • Long wait times in Canada can leave patients suffering for months or even years before seeing a specialist.
  • Increasingly, assisted suicide programs (MAID) are being offered as an alternative to expensive medical treatments.

In contrast, Serbia offers both public and private healthcare, allowing residents to access affordable, quality medical care without the financial burden seen in North America.

Lower Cost of Living

For those concerned about finances, Serbia offers an excellent quality of life at a fraction of the cost.

  • Rent and property prices are significantly lower than in North America.
  • Dining out, groceries, and utilities cost much less, making it easier to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank.
  • No homelessness crisis—Unlike in major North American cities, Serbia does not have large-scale tent cities, open drug use, or widespread urban decay.

For many expats, these financial benefits make moving to Serbia an easy decision.

4. Cultural & Social Stability

A More Balanced Society

Serbia does not experience the same level of social division seen in parts of North America.

  • There is less political polarization, and people are not at odds over identity politics, gender debates, or social justice movements.
  • Public protests do occur, but the government does not freeze bank accounts or persecute citizens for participating in peaceful demonstrations, as seen in recent years in Canada.

Traditional Family Values

Another reason many people move to Serbia is the strong emphasis on family and community.

  • Children still play outside freely without the same concerns parents have in North America.
  • The culture values traditional education and life skills over ideological debates.
  • Public education in Serbia focuses on practical knowledge rather than controversial social topics.

For families looking for a stable and traditional environment to raise children, Serbia presents a refreshing alternative.

5. Strong Expat & Business Community

Many who relocate to Serbia find a thriving expat community with individuals who share similar concerns about North America’s future. Whether you’re a remote worker, business owner, or retiree, Serbia provides:

  • Lower business taxes compared to the U.S. and Canada.
  • Real estate investment opportunities at reasonable prices.
  • A growing digital nomad and entrepreneur-friendly ecosystem.

Many of my clients who have moved here share a similar story:

  • They wanted a better financial future.
  • They were tired of government overreach and social instability.
  • They sought a safer, more affordable, and freer lifestyle.

Is Moving to Serbia Right for You?

While no country is perfect, Serbia offers many advantages for those seeking an alternative to the high costs, crime rates, and increasing restrictions of North America. If you value financial independence, safety, and a high quality of life at a lower cost, Serbia could be the right place for you.

🚀 Thinking about moving to Serbia? We specialize in helping North Americans relocate, set up businesses, and find housing with ease.


📩 Get a consultation today and learn how we can assist you with residency, business setup, and real estate investments in Serbia.


🚀 Visit us at RelocationSerbia.com to learn more!