Authored by the expert who managed and guided the team behind the Serbia Property Pack
Yes, the analysis of Belgrade's property market is included in our pack
Why is Belgrade emerging as a prime destination for property investment in 2025? Is it the attractive rental returns, the vibrant cultural scene, or the competitive pricing compared to other European capitals? What makes it a compelling choice for investors?
We often encounter these questions because we're actively engaged with local developers, real estate agents, and investors like you. Given the growing interest in this market, we've decided to compile our insights into a comprehensive article for everyone's benefit.
Our aim is to present a clear case for investing in Belgrade's real estate market, drawing from our firsthand experience and deep market knowledge.
If you feel we've overlooked an important aspect or want more information, please reach out (we respond very quickly). Your feedback enhances our content.
Finally, please remember that this is not financial or investment advice. Real estate investment involves inherent risks, and market conditions can change unexpectedly. We strongly recommend conducting thorough research and consulting with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.
How this content was created 🔎📝
1) Belgrade's riverfront projects are turning unused spaces into prime real estate opportunities
The city's riverfront development projects are turning once-overlooked areas into prime real estate.
Take the Belgrade Waterfront project, for example. In just one quarter of 2022, apartment prices jumped by 10-11%. Properties near the new metro stations are also expected to see an 11% increase in value. This shows the area's growing appeal and potential for investment.
Young professionals are flocking to urban centers like Belgrade for better job opportunities and a vibrant lifestyle. This influx has led to a surge in apartment sales. The new Belgrade metro system is a game-changer, making the area even more attractive by improving public transport and connectivity.
Government investment in infrastructure and public amenities is another key factor. The Belgrade metro project connects the riverside community to the rest of the city in just 15 minutes. Such initiatives make the area more appealing, attracting both residents and investors.
These developments are not just about convenience; they are transforming the city's landscape. The riverfront is becoming a hotspot for both residential and commercial spaces, drawing in a diverse crowd eager to be part of this urban renaissance.
With these changes, the area is quickly becoming a sought-after destination for those looking to invest in property. The combination of rising property values, improved infrastructure, and a vibrant community makes it a compelling choice.
Sources: Houserz, Move to Serbia
2) Belgrade's tech boom is drawing young professionals, boosting demand for modern homes
Belgrade's tech industry is booming, drawing in young professionals eager for new opportunities.
From 2018 to 2022, the number of IT companies in Serbia jumped from 2,300 to over 3,500, creating a wealth of job opportunities. This surge has naturally attracted a younger workforce, eager to tap into these new opportunities. The city's growing tech industry is attracting young professionals, increasing demand for modern housing.
IT exports hit around 3.5 billion euros in 2023, reflecting the sector's rapid growth. The number of employees in the tech industry soared from 40,000 to 125,000, fostering an entrepreneurial spirit. Tech startups are popping up at a rate of 20% annually, drawing even more young professionals to the city.
As these young professionals flock to Belgrade, the demand for modern housing has increased. The trend towards modern housing and co-living spaces is a direct response to the needs of the tech workforce, who often seek convenient and contemporary living arrangements. Construction activities are booming to meet the housing needs of this growing tech community.
Young professionals are not just looking for any place to live; they want spaces that match their lifestyle. Modern, convenient, and tech-friendly housing options are in high demand, driving a surge in new developments.
Belgrade's tech scene is not just about jobs; it's about creating a vibrant community. The influx of young talent is reshaping the city's housing market, making it an exciting time for property buyers.
Sources: Totalent, Welcome to Serbia
We have made this infographic to give you a quick and clear snapshot of the property market in Serbia. It highlights key facts like rental prices, yields, and property costs both in city centers and outside, so you can easily compare opportunities. We’ve done some research and also included useful insights about the country’s economy, like GDP, population, and interest rates, to help you understand the bigger picture.
3) Belgrade’s location as a bridge between East and West Europe makes it ideal for international investors
Belgrade is perfectly positioned as a gateway between Eastern and Western Europe, making it a hot spot for international investors.
In 2023, Serbia attracted over €4.5 billion in foreign investments, outpacing all other Western Balkan countries combined. This impressive figure shows how Serbia is becoming a magnet for global investors.
The upcoming EXPO 2027 is a big deal for Belgrade, with €17.8 billion earmarked for new infrastructure. This includes roads, bridges, and building renovations, which will make Belgrade even more connected to major European cities.
Serbia's ongoing talks to join the European Union are another reason investors are interested. The Stabilisation and Association Agreement (SAA) with the EU boosts trade and economic ties, making Serbia a more attractive place for international business.
On top of that, Serbia offers a corporate tax rate of just 10% for qualifying investments, the lowest in Europe. This makes it a great place for foreign investors looking to get the most bang for their buck.
Belgrade isn't just about business; its rich history and lively cultural scene also draw international attention. This cultural appeal adds to the city's growing global presence.
Sources: Doing Business In.. 2024 - Serbia, Serbia 2024: Between a 'special war' and 'global 'launch'
4) Belgrade’s lively cultural scene attracts tourists, making it easy to find short-term renters
Belgrade's cultural scene is a magnet for tourists and short-term renters, thanks to its lively festivals and events.
Every year, the city hosts the Belgrade Tourism Fair, the largest tourist event in Southeast Europe, drawing in over 42,000 visitors. This fair has been a cornerstone for four decades, highlighting Belgrade's dedication to high standards and strong partnerships. The city's commitment to culture is evident in its ability to attract such a large number of international visitors.
Short-term rentals are thriving in Belgrade, with a typical Airbnb listing booked for 234 nights annually. This impressive occupancy rate is largely due to the city's bustling cultural calendar, which offers tourists a plethora of events to enjoy. For hosts, this means an average annual revenue of $12,000, with September being the most lucrative month, coinciding with the peak of the festival season.
Belgrade's festivals, like the Belgrade Summer Festival (BELEF) and the Belgrade Music Festivities (BEMUS), showcase a rich mix of theatre, dance, visual arts, and music. These events not only captivate local audiences but also draw international visitors, solidifying Belgrade's status as a cultural hub. The influx of international artists and performers adds to the city's allure, making it a top destination for culture lovers.
Insider tip: If you're considering investing in property here, the vibrant cultural scene ensures a steady stream of tourists, especially during festival seasons. This means a reliable demand for short-term rentals, offering a promising return on investment.
Belgrade's ability to attract both local and international talent and visitors is a testament to its dynamic cultural landscape. The city's festivals and events are not just entertainment; they are a significant economic driver, benefiting property owners and the local economy alike.
Sources: Airbtics, Belgrade Tourism Fair, Discover Belgrade
5) Belgrade’s famous nightlife makes it easy to rent out your property short-term
Belgrade's nightlife is a magnet for tourists, boosting the short-term rental market.
In 2023 and 2024, tourism earnings hit $2.71 billion, with nearly 2 million tourists visiting Serbia, and Belgrade drawing in almost half of them. This influx has created a high demand for short-term rentals, where a typical listing is booked for 234 nights a year and enjoys a median occupancy rate of 64%.
Belgrade's nightlife is globally recognized for its unmatched energy and diversity, with many venues receiving high ratings on travel platforms. This has attracted a large number of international tourists, with 88.56% of Airbnb guests being from abroad, indicating a high level of satisfaction with the city's entertainment options.
The city has seen a boom in trendy locales and innovative clubs, especially along the Sava River, catering to all tastes. Belgrade also hosts various international festivals and events, like the New Year's Eve celebrations, which draw visitors from around the world, further enhancing its reputation as a vibrant nightlife destination.
One of the key factors contributing to this trend is the positive reviews and high ratings of Belgrade's nightlife on travel platforms. The city's nightlife is globally recognized for its unmatched energy and diversity, with many venues receiving high ratings.
Moreover, the growth in the number of entertainment venues and events has played a significant role. In recent years, there has been a boom in trendy locales and innovative clubs, such as those along the Sava River, which cater to all tastes.
Sources: Chasing the Donkey, Wikipedia, Airbtics, Still in Belgrade
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6) Belgrade's growing retail scene boosts the value of mixed-use properties
The city's retail sector is boosting the value of mixed-use developments.
In Belgrade, foot traffic in prime trade areas is bouncing back. By the end of 2023, it had already reached 81% of 2019’s levels. This means more people are visiting these areas, making them attractive for businesses. The expectation is that by 2025, foot traffic will not only recover but surpass pre-pandemic levels.
Mixed-use developments are seeing higher occupancy rates. Take the Sirius Offices in Belgrade, for example. This large Class A office complex has achieved full occupancy, showing strong demand for commercial space. Businesses are eager to be part of these vibrant environments that mix retail, office, and sometimes residential spaces.
Property values are rising in areas with a strong retail presence. Belgrade boasts a low office vacancy rate of around 6%, one of the lowest in Central and Eastern Europe. This makes these areas attractive for both investors and businesses, driven by solid macroeconomic growth and foreign direct investment in Serbia.
Sources: CBRE, Erste Group
7) With better healthcare facilities, Belgrade is becoming more appealing for families and retirees
Belgrade is becoming a more attractive place for families and retirees due to improvements in its healthcare facilities.
One major development is the €35 million EU grant for the new Children's Hospital Tiršova 2. This project will not only boost patient capacity by 30% but also create over 450 non-medical jobs, which will enhance the local economy and healthcare services.
Serbia's government is also stepping up, with plans to allocate €2.68 billion for infrastructure projects in 2025. This includes new healthcare facilities, aiming to boost the country's infrastructure and support economic growth, which in turn benefits the healthcare sector.
The new Tiršova 2 hospital will feature modern diagnostic imaging equipment and advanced surgical technologies. These upgrades ensure better healthcare for patients and contribute to Serbia's growing reputation in medical tourism.
Serbia's healthcare system is gaining international recognition, thanks to its sophisticated facilities and highly qualified medical professionals. This has led to higher rankings in global healthcare quality assessments.
With these advancements, Belgrade is positioning itself as a city with improved healthcare options, making it more appealing for those considering a move.
Sources: WBIF, IntelliNews, Medical Tourism
8) Belgrade’s rise as a startup hub boosts demand for co-living and co-working spaces
Belgrade is quickly becoming a hotspot for startups, especially since 2023.
Thanks to a surge in new businesses, the city is buzzing with entrepreneurial energy. The tech scene in Belgrade and Novi Sad has been particularly impressive, generating $911 million in Ecosystem Value from mid-2021 to the end of 2023. This growth is a testament to the city's thriving startup culture.
The Serbian government is also playing its part by rolling out a Startup Ecosystem Development Strategy. This initiative is all about creating a supportive environment for innovation, with educational programs, better infrastructure, and financial support. It's a big reason why the startup scene is flourishing here.
With this vibrant ecosystem, there's a noticeable uptick in the demand for co-working spaces. Belgrade is now home to many such spaces, like Belgrade Hub and Impact Hub Belgrade, which offer flexible membership options and modern amenities. These spaces are perfect for professionals who crave a collaborative and adaptable work setting.
The influx of entrepreneurs and digital nomads is also driving up the need for co-living spaces. These folks often look for short-term rentals that provide both flexibility and a sense of community, which fits perfectly with the dynamic lifestyle of startup enthusiasts.
Belgrade's growing reputation as a startup hub is clearly fueling the demand for both co-living and co-working spaces, making it an exciting time for property investors. The city's transformation is not just about business; it's about creating a vibrant community where innovation thrives.
Sources: Belgrade and Novi Sad’s Tech Ecosystem By the Numbers, Coworking Spaces in Belgrade, Coworking Spaces Market Growth, Startup Ecosystem Development Strategy
We made this infographic to show you how property prices in Serbia compare to other big cities across the region. It breaks down the average price per square meter in city centers, so you can see how cities stack up. It’s an easy way to spot where you might get the best value for your money. We hope you like it.
9) Belgrade offers great incentives for foreign investors, boosting real estate purchases
Serbia's real estate market is booming with foreign investments.
In 2023, Serbia attracted a whopping $4.5 billion in foreign direct investment, much of which flowed into real estate. This surge shows how foreign investors are increasingly eyeing Serbia as a hot spot for property purchases.
The Serbian government is rolling out the red carpet for these investors by offering tax incentives and simplifying property acquisition. These efforts are making it easier and more attractive for foreigners to dive into the Serbian real estate market.
Belgrade, the capital, is buzzing with real estate activity. There's a noticeable uptick in transactions involving foreign buyers, driven by a growing demand for modern, stylish homes. Investors are eager to tap into this trend.
Local government incentives are clearly working, as they are encouraging more real estate purchases from abroad. The streamlined processes and tax breaks are making Serbia a prime destination for property investment.
Sources: Statista, Serbia.com
10) Belgrade’s sports scene is attracting tourists, increasing demand for rentals
Belgrade is becoming a hotspot for international sports events.
In 2025, the city will host major championships like the Division II B Ice Hockey U20 World Championship, the World Women's Boxing Championships, and the FIBA U18 EuroBasket. These events are not just for sports fans; they are putting Belgrade on the global sports map. Belgrade's sports scene is gaining international recognition, drawing attention from all corners of the world.
The Belgrade Arena is a key player in this rise. Known for its large capacity and versatility, it has hosted record-breaking events, like the Eurocup quarterfinal game in 2014. The arena's history of high attendance figures shows Belgrade's knack for attracting large crowds, enhancing its reputation as a prime location for major sports events.
International tourists are flocking to Belgrade for these events. In August 2024, there was an 11.6% rise in foreign tourist arrivals, partly due to the city's sports events. This influx of visitors is boosting the local economy, especially in the rental market.
Short-term rentals in Belgrade are seeing higher occupancy rates, with properties being booked for an average of 234 nights a year. This consistent demand highlights the economic benefits that sports tourism brings to the city, making it an attractive option for property investors.
Belgrade's growing reputation in the sports world is not just about the events themselves but also about the city's ability to host them successfully. The city's infrastructure and facilities are drawing international attention, boosting tourism and rental demand.
Sources: All Sport DB, Wikipedia, Trade.gov
11) With upgrades to public transport, more areas in Belgrade are becoming accessible and desirable
Belgrade is making its public transportation system better, making more areas accessible and desirable.
By 2025, all buses will be less than two years old, thanks to the city's focus on modernizing its fleet in 2023 and 2024. This is part of a bigger plan to improve public transport quality and efficiency, which is great news for anyone considering buying property here.
As the transport network gets better, property values in areas with improved transit access are rising. Urban planning documents show future transit expansion plans, attracting both residential and commercial projects. Real estate investors are taking note, making these locations even more appealing.
Free public transport is a game-changer, reducing traffic congestion significantly. With more cars on the road over the past decade, easing traffic through better public transport is crucial. The media highlights how these upgrades can enhance residents' quality of life, making Belgrade more livable and attractive.
Imagine living in a city where public transport is not only efficient but also free. This initiative is not just about convenience; it's about transforming the urban landscape and making Belgrade a more desirable place to live.
These changes are not just about getting from point A to B; they are about creating a more connected and vibrant city. As Belgrade continues to upgrade its public transport, more areas become accessible, opening up new opportunities for property buyers.
Sources: Be in Belgrade, France 24, DW
While this article provides thoughtful analysis and insights based on credible and carefully selected sources, it is not, and should never be considered, financial advice. We put significant effort into researching, aggregating, and analyzing data to present you with an informed perspective. However, every analysis reflects subjective choices, such as the selection of sources and methodologies, and no single piece can encompass the full complexity of the market. Always conduct your own research, seek professional advice, and make decisions based on your own judgment. Any financial risks or losses remain your responsibility. Finally, please note that we are not affiliated to any of the sources provided. Our analysis remains then 100% impartial.