Living in Belgrade, Serbia in 2025

Belgrade has a way of teaching you who you are, especially when you choose to live here, not just visit.

Living in Belgrade, Serbia has been one of the most grounding and transformative experiences of my adult life.

As an American expat, this city challenged my assumptions about success, lifestyle, and belonging, while quietly offering lessons that only reveal themselves with time.

When I first moved to Serbia in 2022, I didn’t come with a perfect plan or a neatly packaged vision of expat life. I came curious, open, and honestly a little tired of living life on autopilot. 3 years later, after navigating seasons, systems, relationships, and my own personal evolution, I can say this clearly: living in Belgrade has changed me, not just professionally, but deeply on a personal level.

Expat Life in Serbia: What Living in Belgrade Is Really Like

Living in Serbia as an expat in 2025 is very different from visiting as a tourist. On the surface, Belgrade is affordable, social, and rich in history. But once you settle in, you quickly realize that adaptability is your most valuable currency.

I’ve learned that Serbia rewards patience. Processes take time. Communication styles are direct. Cultural expectations are unspoken but powerful. As a foreigner, you’re constantly learning how to read between the lines — in bureaucracy, in friendships, and in professional spaces.

One of the biggest lessons has been understanding that integration doesn’t mean assimilation. You don’t have to become Serbian to live well here, but you do need respect, curiosity, and humility. Showing up with entitlement will isolate you. Showing up with openness will surprise you.

Community also looks different here. Relationships can feel intense and deeply personal, even early on. At the same time, boundaries matter. Living abroad taught me how important it is to choose who has access to you, emotionally, socially, and digitally.

The Realities of Living in Belgrade No One Talks About

Belgrade isn’t always easy as a business owner, but it definitely rewarding. Language barriers can be frustrating. But you can make genuine friends, build a community, and eat and drink at new Michelin star restaurants, new restaurants, such as The Beatrice or Elizabeth, or stay at boutique and world class hotels, such as The Bristol Belgrade or St. Regis Hotel.

But those moments are also clarifying. They force reflection. They build resilience. Living in another country strips away who you think you’re supposed to be and leaves you face-to-face with who you actually are.

I’ve learned to slow down here. To walk more. To observe more. To stop measuring success solely by productivity and start valuing quality of life — conversations, health, creativity, and peace of mind.

Lessons From Living in Belgrade 2025

In my latest YouTube video, I reflect openly on the lessons I’ve learned living in Serbia this year and my accomplishments. I talk about navigating expat expectations versus reality, redefining success abroad, and how living in Belgrade pushed me to grow beyond surface-level experiences.

This video isn’t about glamorizing expat life. It’s about honesty. About acknowledging that living abroad is both empowering and confronting. Serbia has been a mirror — reflecting my strengths, my blind spots, and my capacity to adapt.

If you’re considering moving abroad, or you’re already on your expat journey, I hope the video offers perspective and reassurance that growth often feels uncomfortable before it feels rewarding.

From Blair in Belgrade to Blair and Beyond: A Natural Evolution

This year also marked an important shift: the evolution from Blair in Belgrade to Blair And Beyond.

What started as a platform focused on documenting life in Serbia has expanded into something more intentional. While Belgrade remains a central chapter, my story — and my work — is about global living, cross-cultural experiences, and helping others navigate life beyond borders.

Blair and Beyond reflects where I am now: grounded, experienced, and focused on storytelling that goes deeper than location. It’s about lessons, lifestyle, and perspective — whether you’re living in Europe, considering a move abroad, or simply re-imagining your life on your own terms.

Living in Belgrade, Serbia: Looking Ahead

Living in Belgrade feels like standing at a crossroads — between what I’ve learned and what’s next. Serbia has given me clarity, strength, and a deeper understanding of myself. It challenged me to grow up, slow down, and trust my instincts.

As I continue this journey, I’m grateful for this city — not because it was easy, but because it was real. And sometimes, that’s exactly what we need.

If you’re curious about expat life, global living, or the lessons that come from stepping outside your comfort zone, welcome to Blair and Beyond. This is just the beginning.

Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Belgrade, Serbia

Is Belgrade a good city for expats?

Yes, especially for those who value culture, affordability, and authenticity. Belgrade is ideal for expats who are adaptable, curious, and comfortable navigating cultural differences. While it may not offer the polished ease of Western Europe, it makes up for it with depth, character, and a strong sense of community.

What is expat life like in Serbia?

Expat life in Serbia is social, relationship-driven, and often intense in a positive way. People value honesty and connection. However, bureaucracy, language barriers, and cultural differences require patience and flexibility.

Is it easy to move to Serbia?

Serbia is relatively accessible compared to many European countries, especially for long-term stays. Still, navigating visas, residency, and paperwork takes persistence. Living in Belgrade teaches you to slow down and work within systems rather than against them.

What are the challenges of living in Belgrade?

Some challenges include winter isolation, limited English in official settings, and being far from family. These challenges often lead to personal growth and a stronger sense of independence.

Watch: Lessons I’ve Learned Living in Serbia

I share a deeper, more personal reflection on expat life in Serbia in my latest YouTube video.

👉 Watch here: https://www.youtube.com/@blairinbelgrade

About Blair And Beyond

Blair AndBeyond is a platform dedicated to global living, cultural storytelling, and helping others navigate life beyond borders.

Learn more about my journey here: 👉 https://www.blairandbeyond.com/about

Stay Connected

📩 Newsletter: Thoughtful reflections on expat life, global culture, and personal growth 👉 https://substack.com/@blairandbeyond?

📧 Business & collaborations: blair@blairandbeyond.com