Is Living in Serbia Worth It? A Cuban Shares Insights on Earnings and Housing Costs

What are the earnings and living expenses in Serbia? A Cuban woman residing in this Balkan nation has taken to TikTok to shed light on salaries, rental costs, and everyday expenses, along with how she manages her finances.

Roxana Reyes, who is based in Serbia, responded to a follower curious about the cost of living in the country. In a video on her TikTok account @roxienserbiaugc, she detailed the labor market and her housing expenses.

She highlighted that the official currency is the Serbian dinar, and the minimum wage is approximately 550 euros per month net, meaning after deductions.

“That is the net salary, which is what you have left after deductions,” she clarified in her video.

This figure aligns with the Serbian government's projection for 2026, which set a minimum hourly wage of 371 net dinars, translating to around 551 euros monthly as a reference average. The exact amount fluctuates depending on the number of working hours each month.

Roxana noted that depending on the job, one could earn between 700 and 900 euros per month. She mentioned positions such as kitchen helper, dishwasher, and carpentry amongst her Cuban acquaintances, adding that there are other job opportunities as well.

Understanding Housing Costs in Serbia

For those considering a move to Serbia, housing prices are a critical factor. According to her experience, rent can vary from 200 to 400 euros per month or more, influenced by factors like location, size, and condition of the property.

In her situation, she pays 250 euros monthly for a 30-square-meter apartment, offering a glimpse into accommodation expenses, though prices can differ significantly between cities and areas.

Despite financial constraints, Roxana assured that a peaceful life is attainable with good financial management and spending control.

“If you know how to organize yourself, you can live quite peacefully,” she stated, sharing her personal journey.

The Reality for Cuban Migrants in Serbia

Serbia has become a notable destination for Cuban migrants aiming to settle in Europe or continue their journey to European Union countries. However, since April 2023, Cuban citizens with ordinary passports need a visa to enter Serbia, following changes in the country's immigration policy.

For some Cubans already residing in Serbia, challenges extend beyond daily expenses. Recently, over 70 Cubans reported delays in receiving their passports from the Cuban Embassy in Belgrade, raising concerns about potential impacts on their residency permits, employment, and banking processes.