For the Serb diaspora: All roads lead to Serbia.
Introduction
As an ethnic Serb in the diaspora, moving to Serbia might be one of the best decisions you ever make. Of course, it’s a big step. You have to weigh the pros and cons. But we’re here to give you our positive take on it.
So, why even consider moving to Serbia?
What’s the problem? When most of our parents arrived in the diaspora, times were different. Generations arriving in the 60s struggled. At the same time, they were able to build strong Serbian Orthodox communities and thrive.
Today, raising a family in the diaspora is a challenge, for surprising reasons. Many of these ‘prosperous’ countries are no longer recognizable. Costs are high. Values are shifting. The sense of belonging is fading.
What’s the solution? Serbia offers what many families are missing: a grounded lifestyle, shared values, and a deep cultural connection.
Below are 20 benefits to consider.
Benefits of moving to Serbia.
→ The lifestyle
Live big on a budget.
Sure, incomes in Serbia are lower, but the cost of living is much more manageable. Housing, food, and living costs are low, leaving more money for fun. Education is affordable. Healthcare, too. A diaspora nest egg can go a long way. Retirement can be a dream. More travel. More adventure. More life.
Prime location. Travel haven.
Think of Serbia as your hub or launch pad. Easy access to the rest of Europe makes it an ideal base for business and travel. Cheap flights and short drives make it ideal for work or play. Feel like a weekend trip to Montenegro’s beaches? An hour by plane, and you’re there.
The Social Life? Unmatched.
Opportunities for socializing are everywhere. From outdoor cafés to clubs to corner bars, people gather, talk, flirt, and debate. The nightlife hums — cafés, clubs, and street corners buzz with energy. Serbs are sharp, warm, and wired for connection. A random chat can turn into a lasting friendship.
Coffee anyone?
In Serbia, coffee isn’t a hot beverage; it’s a ritual savoured with friends, family and neighbours. Cafés are on every corner, each one buzzing with conversation. The pace is slower. The moments, richer.
An entrepreneur’s (or investor’s) playground.
Start a business, find support, and grow. The startup scene is buzzing, and it’s waiting for you. Low taxes, government perks, and a thriving community. For freelancers and digital nomads, it’s a dream. And the real estate market? Growing fast. Prices are still low, especially in smaller towns — a great time to buy or invest.
Nature + wellness, built in.
Serbian athletes inspire a culture of fitness. Tennis, basketball, running — it’s all part of daily life. Cities are walkable, with pedestrian zones and parks. The wellness scene is booming, with spas and gyms everywhere.
→ The values.
Serbian Orthodoxy.
Many Serbs aspire to live by values rooted in Serbian Orthodoxy — faith, family, and tradition. Moving to Serbia immerses you in a culture where these ideals are central. Of course, it’s not a magic bullet — staying true to them still takes effort.
Family values.
Family still matters in Serbia. Kids are cherished. Elders are respected. Multi-generational households are common. Roles are clear. Support runs deep. You’ll find a culture where old-school values still work — and feel right. Family comes first, but there’s also respect for individual duty and community contribution.
Patriotism, justice, + freedom.
Living in Serbia means being part of a patriotic society that stands up for freedom and isn’t afraid to challenge authority. It’s in the DNA.
→ The belonging.
Join your tribe.
Living in the diaspora is tough. Staying connected to your Serbian identity will take effort for generations. Cultural loss can lead to feelings of isolation and depression. Without community, people feel adrift, disconnected, and lonely. In Serbia, full immersion makes it easier. You’ll reconnect with your immediate and extended Serbian family. They’re waiting for you!
Serbia needs you.
Demographic issues are real. More Serbs may soon live in the diaspora than in Serbia itself. The hard truth: Serbs face threats to their existence — apathy, assimilation, and emigration. What can you do? First, work to preserve your Serbian faith + identity — wherever you live. Next, consider making the move homeward. Returning Serbs bring new perspectives, skills, and ideas to enrich Serbian society. We can work together to improve our Serbia from within. And, safeguard it for future generations.
Conclusion
For Serbs everywhere, it’s natural that all roads lead to Serbia. And, living in Serbia comes with plenty of perks.
With full immersion in Serbia, we get the lifestyle, the values and the belonging.
Of course, that doesn’t mean Serbia has it all figured out.
Even in the homeland, many drift from Serbian values, faith, + tradition.
So, there’s still work to do to protect our nation and identity.
In the meantime, Serbia’s calling — and she wants you back!