Economic trends in Croatia and Serbia show rising property costs and shifting labor markets

Economic indicators across Croatia and Serbia show significant shifts in employment, debt, and real estate markets.

In Croatia, employment rose by 1.2 percent in the second quarter of 2026, reaching 1.723 million people, while unemployment fell to 4.7 percent according to survey data. However, real estate costs continue to climb; the average price for new construction in Zagreb reached 3,518 euros per square meter, a nearly 19 percent annual increase. In Split, prices for new builds are reported to start at 5,000 euros per square meter.

In Serbia, the public debt increased by approximately 550 million euros in July 2026, reaching 41.8 billion euros, or 43.9 percent of the GDP. The labor market shows rising wages, with average net salaries in June 2026 reaching 120,401 dinars, a 12.3 percent nominal increase from the previous year.

Real estate in Serbia is also experiencing rapid growth. The average apartment price in Belgrade has exceeded 3,219 euros per square meter, with the most expensive areas like Savski Venac reaching 4,210 euros. Overall, average apartment prices in Serbia rose by 15.81 percent year-on-year in the first half of 2026.