Wages and Salary in Montenegro
The average monthly net salary in Montenegro is around 560 EUR (as of 2021). However, salaries can vary depending on the industry and profession. For example, the average salary in the IT sector is higher than in other industries, such as hospitality or retail.
It’s also important to note that the cost of living in Montenegro is generally lower than in Western European countries, so even with a lower salary, expats can still enjoy a good quality of life.
Housing Costs in Montenegro
Housing costs in Montenegro can vary depending on the location and type of housing. In popular tourist areas such as Budva and Kotor, rental prices for apartments can range from €300 to €800 per month, while in the capital city of Podgorica, rent can range from €200 to €600 per month. The cost of purchasing a home in Montenegro can also vary greatly depending on the location and size of the property. In popular tourist areas, the cost of purchasing property can be significantly higher than in other areas.
Cost of Domestic Bills in Montenegro
The cost of domestic bills in Montenegro can vary depending on the size of the residence and usage of utilities such as electricity, water, gas, and internet. On average, monthly expenses for a 85m2 apartment in Montenegro can range from €80 to €150 for utilities and around €15 for the internet. It’s important to note that these costs can vary depending on the location, as coastal cities and popular tourist areas may have higher utility costs.
Healthcare Costs in Montenegro
Healthcare in Montenegro is provided by both public and private healthcare providers. The public healthcare system is funded by the state and provides healthcare services to all citizens and permanent residents. However, the quality of healthcare in the public sector can be variable and some people choose to use private healthcare providers instead.
Residents are required to make monthly contributions to the national health insurance fund in order to access the public healthcare system. The amount of the contribution depends on the individual’s income and is typically around 13% of gross salary.
Private healthcare in Montenegro is also available, but can be expensive, particularly for specialist treatments or procedures. It is recommended that expats consider purchasing private health insurance to cover the costs of private healthcare.
In general, the cost of healthcare in Montenegro is lower than in many Western countries, but the quality of care can be variable, particularly in rural areas.
Childcare Costs in Montenegro
The cost of childcare in Montenegro can vary depending on several factors such as the age of the child, the type of care required, and the location. Generally, the cost of childcare in Montenegro is lower compared to many European countries.
For instance, a full-time daycare center in Podgorica, the capital city, may cost around €200-€300 per month, depending on the age of the child. However, the cost may be significantly lower in smaller towns and rural areas.
Babysitters and nannies are also available in Montenegro, and their rates may range from €3-€5 per hour. Again, rates may vary depending on the location and experience of the caregiver.
Study Costs in Montenegro
Public education in Montenegro is free, but private schools and universities can be expensive. The cost of tuition at a private university can range from €3,000-6,000 per year.
The Cost of Food and Drink: The cost of food and drink in Montenegro is relatively affordable, with a typical meal at a local restaurant costing around €10-15. However, imported goods can be more expensive.
Transport Costs in Montenegro
In Montenegro, the cost of studying varies depending on the level of education and the institution. Public universities are generally less expensive than private universities, and tuition fees for international students are usually higher than for domestic students.
For undergraduate programs, tuition fees for international students range from €1,200 to €3,000 per year, while fees for graduate programs range from €1,500 to €3,500 per year. Private universities may have higher fees.
In addition to tuition fees, students should also consider the cost of textbooks and other materials, accommodation, and living expenses.
There are also some scholarship opportunities available for international students, such as the Government of Montenegro Scholarship for Foreign Students, which covers tuition fees and provides a monthly stipend.
Leisure Activities in Montenegro
Montenegro offers a variety of leisure activities for residents and tourists alike. With a beautiful coastline on the Adriatic Sea and numerous national parks, outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, and water sports are popular.
Montenegro also has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors can explore historic sites such as the medieval town of Kotor and the Ostrog Monastery. The capital city of Podgorica offers a range of entertainment options, including cinemas, theaters, and live music venues.
In addition, Montenegro has a growing food and wine scene, with traditional dishes such as cevapi and burek being popular among locals and visitors alike. Wine tasting tours are also available in several regions of the country.
Taxation and Social Security in Montenegro
Montenegro has a flat income tax rate of 9%, which is applicable to both residents and non-residents. Social security contributions are also applicable, with the employer paying 23.5% of an employee’s gross salary and the employee paying 11% of their gross salary.
For value-added tax (VAT), the standard rate is 21%, with reduced rates of 7% and 0% applicable to certain goods and services.
It’s important to note that the tax system in Montenegro can be quite complex, so it’s advisable to seek professional advice when it comes to taxation and social security matters.
Assistance with Living Costs in Montenegro
Montenegro does not have a comprehensive social welfare system for its citizens, and there are no specific government programs providing assistance with living costs for expats. However, certain groups may be eligible for social assistance benefits, such as those who are elderly, disabled, or unemployed.
Expats can also seek assistance from private charitable organizations and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in Montenegro that provide support to those in need. These organizations may offer food, clothing, and other necessities, as well as financial assistance for housing, healthcare, and education.
Additionally, expats may be able to negotiate their living expenses with their employer, particularly if they are relocating to Montenegro for work. Employers may offer housing allowances or other benefits that can help cover the costs of living.