Living in Montenegro on a €1,500 Salary as a Programmer
Moving to Montenegro as a programmer comes with its own set of opportunities and challenges. In this article, we will explore whether a €1,500 salary is enough, the actual cost of living, job opportunities, adaptation challenges, and money-saving strategies. A Middle Software Developer from Chelyabinsk shares his personal experience and tips on thriving in Montenegro.
Renting Real Estate in Montenegro: Finding Affordable Housing
Finding long-term rental housing on the Montenegrin coast can be difficult. Demand has outpaced supply, and prices have increased by 20% compared to 2023. While online forums and specialized platforms list available properties, most landlords do not offer notarized agreements and often demand 4 months' rent upfront.
To avoid issues, I turned to Boka Real Estate, where I found an affordable studio apartment in Budva for €400/month with a proper notarized lease. My utility bills and internet cost an additional €100/month.
Browse rental listings in Montenegro here
Work & Income: Can You Live on €1,500 Per Month?
I work two jobs:
Full-time job at a company in Cyprus
Freelance work to cover additional expenses
With a €1,500 salary, I can cover basic expenses like rent, food, and healthcare. However, for travel, entertainment, training, and shopping, I rely on freelance projects, earning an additional €1,000 - €3,000 per month.
Challenges of Living in Montenegro
Moving to another country always involves adaptation challenges:
Learning a new culture, language, and customs
Understanding local bureaucracy and residency processes
Adjusting to the cost of living and financial planning
Residence Permit in Montenegro: Costs & ProcessIn 2024, obtaining a residence permit through company registration costs €1,000 (including notary, translator, and accountant fees). The required documents include: ✔ Diploma or school certificate
✔ Police clearance certificate
✔ Notarized rental agreement
✔ 30-day tourist registration
✔ Medical insurance
✔ Payment of state feesBoka Real Estate assisted me in obtaining my residence permit, making the process stress-free despite my lack of Montenegrin language skills.
Daily Living Costs in Montenegro
I try to cook at home to save money. Occasionally, I order delivery or eat out. Below is a breakdown of my daily expenses:
Takeaway coffee & pastry: €8
Frozen tuna (0.6kg): €5.95
Cabbage (1.2kg): €1.80
Potatoes (1kg): €0.80
Bottled water (1.5L): €0.75
Apples (1.5kg): €3
Public transport (Sveti Stefan - Budva, round trip): €5
Mobile phone plan: €5
Internet: €21
Computer keyboard delivery: €25
Craft beer (2 mugs, 0.3L): €4.50
Cat food (for local stray cats): €3
Total daily expenses: €80.50
How Much Do You Need Per Month to Live in Montenegro?
The average monthly expenses for a single person range between €1,400 - €2,000. Costs are higher in winter due to expensive electricity bills.
Rent - 400, Utilities & Internet - 100, Food - 500, Transport - 15, Leisure & Entertainment - 150, Computer Components - 100, Healthcare - 150, Household Goods - 50.
Total: 1,450
Tech & Equipment Costs in Montenegro
Electronics, computers, and accessories are expensive and limited in availability. If you're moving, bring your own laptop, phone, and accessories. Imported goods over €70 are taxed at customs, and delivery delays can be long.
Computer & Phone Repairs in Montenegro
Repairs can be costly:
Basic computer repairs: from €100
Component replacement: from €100
Processor replacement: from €250
Cooling system cleaning: from €200
Urgent service surcharge: +€30
Ways to Save Money in Montenegro
✔ Buy second-hand items through Facebook groups & local markets
✔ Exercise outdoors instead of paying €40/month for a gym membership
✔ Rent a car long-term (€300/month vs. €50/day for short-term rentals)
✔ Cook at home instead of eating out frequentlyIT Job Market in Montenegro
Finding a full-time IT job in Montenegro can be challenging, but there are options:
Game development industry salaries: from €3,000+
Outsourcing companies: from €2,500+
Freelancing & remote jobs are the most viable option for expats
Digital Nomad Visa in Montenegro (2024)
Montenegro offers a digital nomad visa for remote workers, with conditions:
Minimum salary requirement: €3,600/month
Official employment contract
Police clearance certificate
Health insurance
Healthcare Costs in Montenegro
Medical services are affordable but can be limited for tourists.
Dentist visit: from €30
General practitioner visit: €30 - €40
Blood test package: €5+
Hormone tests: from €10
Veterinary appointment: €10 (excluding medications)
Tourist Season & Cost Fluctuations
During peak tourist season, prices increase for groceries, dining, transportation, and rent. This makes winter a more affordable time to live in Montenegro.
Expectations vs. Reality
Not everything aligns with expectations. Some surprises include:
People not cleaning up after pets
High number of stray animals
Cultural differences in daily life
However, the pros outweigh the cons, especially for those who love the sea, mountains, and Mediterranean lifestyle.
Tips for Moving to Montenegro as a Programmer
✔ Save money beforehand to cover rent and legal expenses
✔ Learn Serbian or improve your English to communicate effectively
✔ Research expat experiences and join IT communities
✔ Network & attend meetups – great for social and work opportunities
✔ Embrace the local lifestyle – explore, travel, and connect with peopleConclusion: Is €1,500 Enough?
A programmer can survive on €1,500/month, but for a comfortable life, additional income or passive revenue streams are recommended.
Explore affordable real estate options in Montenegro
Contact us for assistance: +38266195383
