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Cost of Living in Novi Sad (2026)
Monthly budget breakdown for expats living in Novi Sad, Serbia
Last updated: March 2026
The cost of living in Novi Sad, Serbia for an expat in 2026 averages €300–€400 per month for 1-br apt (city centre). Key costs include 1-br apt (city centre) (€300–€400), 1-br apt (outside centre) (€200–€300), groceries (€180–€250).
Novi Sad is a popular destination for expats relocating to Serbia. Novi Sad is Serbia's second city and arguably its most liveable. Sitting on the Danube beneath the imposing Petrovaradin fortress — the site of the world-famous EXIT Festival every July — this city of 280,000 has all the infrastructure of a proper city at prices well below Belgrade. Below is a detailed monthly budget breakdown based on real expat spending data.
Monthly Expenses Breakdown
| Expense | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| 1-BR apt (city centre) | €300–€400 |
| 1-BR apt (outside centre) | €200–€300 |
| Groceries | €180–€250 |
| Dining out (3–4x/week) | €60–€110 |
| Utilities (electricity, water, heating) | €60–€100 |
| Fibre internet | €10–€20 |
| Mobile SIM (data plan) | €10–€15 |
| Transport (buses + occasional taxi) | €20–€40 |
| Health insurance (private VHI) | €40–€100 |
| Gym membership | €15–€30 |
| Total (comfortable) | €700–€1,100 |
Novi Sad Quick Facts
English Level
Good
Best For
Budget-conscious expats, digital nomads, families, retirees
Monthly Budget
€700–€1,100
1-BR Centre Rent
€300–€400/mo
Internet Speed
100+ Mbps fibre (€10–20/mo)
Closest Airport
Belgrade (80 km, 1.5 hrs by new high-speed train)
Famous For
EXIT Festival (July); Petrovaradin fortress; Austro-Hungarian old town
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to live in Novi Sad per month?
Monthly costs in Novi Sad depend on your lifestyle. Key expenses include 1-br apt (city centre) (€300–€400), 1-br apt (outside centre) (€200–€300), groceries (€180–€250). See the full breakdown above for a complete picture.
Is Novi Sad affordable for expats?
Novi Sad is a popular expat destination with costs that vary by neighborhood and lifestyle. Many expats find they can live comfortably on a mid-range budget.
What is the average rent in Novi Sad?
Rental prices vary by neighborhood and apartment type. Check the table above for current rates.