Why Serbia Is Better Positioned Than Many Western Countries
TL;DR:
Many people still see Serbia through the lens of the 1990s, imagining it as war-torn, unstable, and stuck in the past. But that image couldn’t be further from today’s reality. Serbia is not only freer and more affordable than many Western countries—it’s also rapidly modernizing, attracting entrepreneurs, digital nomads, and returning expats seeking stability, opportunity, and a higher quality of life.
Is Serbia really safer and more stable than the West?
Is Serbia really safer and more stable than the West?
Yes. Serbia today is far more stable than many assume. While Western countries face increasing civil unrest, digital surveillance, and economic instability, Serbia offers a slower-paced lifestyle, fewer restrictions, and a surprising amount of personal freedom.
Why do people still overlook Serbia?
Why do people still overlook Serbia?
Most people who research Serbia stumble upon outdated media from the 1990s. They associate the country with war and political chaos. Meanwhile, they overlook protests, high taxes, and collapsing public systems in places like France, California, Canada, or Australia—because they’ve been conditioned to believe that Western problems are normal and Eastern Europe is dangerous.
How did Serbia respond to the COVID crisis?
How did Serbia respond to the COVID crisis?
Serbia remained one of the freest countries in Europe during the pandemic.
No digital IDs or vaccine passports
No harsh lockdowns like Australia or Canada
Small businesses kept operating
Many chose to stay in Serbia instead of complying with strict EU entry rules. Even today, Serbia has no sweeping surveillance systems or laws that punish citizens for what they post online.
What are taxes like in Serbia?
What are taxes like in Serbia?
| Tax Type | Serbia | Canada/UK/Germany |
|---|---|---|
| Personal Income | 10% flat | 40–50% marginal |
| Corporate Tax | 15% | Up to 39%+ |
| Capital Gains | Favorable rules | Heavily taxed |
Can foreigners invest in real estate?
Can foreigners invest in real estate?
Absolutely. You can buy a centrally located apartment in Belgrade or Novi Sad for as low as €100,000—a price that won’t get you a parking space in London, Paris, or Toronto.
You also benefit from:
Low property taxes
Minimal utility costs
Affordable phone/internet (as low as $17/month for unlimited plans)
Is Serbia a good place to launch a business?
Is Serbia a good place to launch a business?
Yes. Many expats are setting up:
IT startups
Restaurants
Freelance or remote businesses
You can register as an entrepreneur or open an LLC with a flat tax model. There’s no punishment for growth—just consistent, low taxation.
“It’s easier to run a business here than it was in Canada,” says one of our clients who previously faced 40%+ corporate tax.
What about Serbia’s economic future?
What about Serbia’s economic future?
| Country | GDP Growth (2024) |
|---|---|
| Serbia | 4.2% |
| Canada | 0.5% |
Serbia is attracting foreign investment, especially with Expo 2027 approaching and cities like Belgrade and Novi Sad becoming regional tech hubs.
How does the cost of living compare to Western countries?
How does the cost of living compare to Western countries?
Serbia is significantly more affordable:
Rent and real estate prices are 2–3x lower
Groceries and utilities are modest
Healthcare is accessible, with high-quality private options
While Western economies buckle under inflation and debt, Serbia offers a buffer against global economic uncertainty.
Is Serbia still underpriced?
Is Serbia still underpriced?
Yes—but not for long.
Prices have risen with the influx of Russians, Ukrainians, and digital nomads, but Serbia remains one of Europe’s most affordable countries—especially outside of major cities.
If you’re into homesteading or sustainable living, rural properties offer unmatched value.
Is Serbia a safe country for families?
Is Serbia a safe country for families?
A simple metric: children.
In Serbia, you’ll see kids playing outdoors, strollers in parks, and families walking the streets. That says a lot about day-to-day safety and quality of life. Serbia offers a slower, more connected lifestyle ideal for raising a family.
Why are more people returning to Serbia?
Why are more people returning to Serbia?
Many of our clients are:
Former Serbians regaining citizenship
Second-generation expats seeking citizenship by descent
Foreigners drawn by freedom, affordability, and stability
As Western countries decline in quality of life, Serbia is on an upward trend.
What should I do if I’m unsure about Serbia?
What should I do if I’m unsure about Serbia?
Take the Warren Buffett approach:
"Invest in a country the same way you invest in a stock. Where will it be in 10, 20, or 30 years?"
Serbia is trending up—economically, socially, and politically. Don’t wait until prices rise or freedoms disappear in your home country. Visit Serbia now, see it with your own eyes, and experience life here firsthand.
Final Thoughts: Why Serbia?
Final Thoughts: Why Serbia?
Serbia is:
Stable – despite the media bias, it’s peaceful and organized.
Free – no digital IDs, no thought-policing, no government overreach.
Affordable – real estate, food, and services are accessible.
Opportunity-rich – especially for entrepreneurs and digital nomads.
Family-friendly – safe streets, traditional values, and a welcoming society.
FAQs About Serbia for Expats
Is Serbia still recovering from war?
No. The war ended over two decades ago. Serbia is now a modern, peaceful, and functioning European country.
How hard is it to get residency in Serbia?
It’s straightforward—especially if you buy property, start a business, or have Serbian ancestry. Relocation Serbia can help.
Can foreigners open businesses in Serbia?
Yes. You can register an LLC or operate as an entrepreneur with minimal red tape.
Can Americans and Canadians live in Serbia long-term?
Yes. Many already do. Temporary and permanent residency options are available.
Ready to Explore Serbia for Yourself?
Ready to Explore Serbia for Yourself?
If you’ve been on the fence, now is the time. Don’t wait until your freedoms vanish or your cost of living becomes unbearable.
👉 Book a consultation with Relocation Serbia today
We’ll help you make the move smoothly—step by step.