Split, Croatia’s second-largest city and the heart of the Dalmatian coast, has grown into a hotspot for international property buyers. With its Mediterranean climate, rich history, and stunning Adriatic Sea views, Split offers both a vibrant urban atmosphere and tranquil coastal living. Whether you’re looking for a second home, an investment property, or a primary residence, Split has a wide variety of neighborhoods, each with its own unique charm and advantages. If you are looking to buy a property in Split, this guide is for you!
Why Buy Property in Split?
Key Attractions:
- Cultural Richness: Split is home to the UNESCO-listed Diocletian’s Palace and countless historical sites.
- High Rental Yields: Tourism in Split is booming, making short-term rentals a lucrative investment, particularly during the summer season.
- Accessibility: Split is well-connected, with an international airport and ferry links to surrounding islands like Brač, Hvar, and Šolta.
- Lifestyle: With its combination of historical beauty, natural landscapes, excellent dining, and a growing expat community, Split offers an excellent quality of life.
Overview of Property Market in Split
Prices in Split vary significantly depending on the location, property type, and proximity to the sea. As of 2024:
- City Center (Diocletian’s Palace area): €4,000 to €6,000 per square meter
- Marjan Hill: €4,000 to €5,500 per square meter
- Bačvice: €3,800 to €5,500 per square meter
- Firule and Zenta: €3,500 to €5,000 per square meter
- Meje: €3,700 to €5,200 per square meter
- Veli Varoš: €3,000 to €4,500 per square meter
- Žnjan: €3,000 to €4,000 per square meter
- Kman and Kocunar: €2,000 to €3,000 per square meter
Key Neighborhoods to Buy Property in Split
1. Buy Property in Split, Old Town (Diocletian’s Palace)
The historical core of Split is defined by its cobblestone streets, Roman ruins, and vibrant atmosphere. The area inside and around Diocletian’s Palace is the most desirable for those looking to immerse themselves in history and culture.
- Why Buy Here?: This area offers great opportunities for those interested in vacation rentals due to its tourist traffic. Properties here tend to be apartments in restored historic buildings.
- Price Range: Expect to pay between €4,000 and €6,000 per square meter, with some luxury apartments exceeding this range.
2. Buy Property in Split, Bačvice
Bačvice is known for its sandy beach, a rarity in Split, and its lively nightlife scene. It’s popular with both tourists and locals for swimming and sunbathing during the day and entertainment in the evening.
- Why Buy Here?: If you’re looking for a beachfront property with high rental demand during the tourist season, Bačvice is ideal. The area is filled with apartments, many offering sea views.
- Price Range: Properties in Bačvice typically sell for €3,800 to €5,500 per square meter.
3. Buy Property in Split, Meje
Located on the slopes of Marjan Hill, Meje is one of the most exclusive neighborhoods in Split. Known for its large villas, stunning sea views, and proximity to nature, this area is perfect for those seeking luxury and tranquility.
- Why Buy Here?: Meje offers a prestigious location with a mix of modern and older luxury homes, many with private gardens and pools. It’s quieter and more residential than the city center.
- Price Range: Properties in Meje can range from €3,700 to €5,200 per square meter.
4. Buy Property in Split, Marjan Hill Area
Bordering the green lung of Split, Marjan Hill is an idyllic location with parks, walking trails, and panoramic views of the city and the sea. This area includes both luxury homes and more affordable apartments.
- Why Buy Here?: Perfect for nature lovers, the area around Marjan Hill offers a balance of greenery and proximity to the city center. It’s also a great area for those interested in long-term living rather than short-term rentals.
- Price Range: Prices typically range from €4,000 to €5,500 per square meter.
5. Buy Property in Split, Žnjan
Žnjan has seen significant development in recent years and is now home to modern apartment complexes along its pebble beach. This is a popular choice for families and expats due to the availability of new builds and proximity to amenities.
- Why Buy Here?: If you prefer newer buildings with modern amenities, Žnjan is an excellent choice. Many apartments come with sea views and easy access to Split’s largest beach.
- Price Range: Prices in Žnjan are more affordable compared to the city center, ranging from €3,000 to €4,000 per square meter.
6. Buy Property in Split, Firule and Zenta
Firule and Zenta are residential areas located just east of Bačvice. These neighborhoods are popular with families and retirees, offering a quieter atmosphere while still being close to the city center.
- Why Buy Here?: Firule and Zenta are ideal if you’re looking for a peaceful neighborhood close to the sea. The areas feature a mix of older apartments and newer developments.
- Price Range: Expect to pay between €3,500 and €5,000 per square meter.
7. Buy Property in Split, Veli Varoš
Veli Varoš, located on the western side of the old town, is a traditional neighborhood with narrow streets and historic stone houses. It’s popular with both locals and foreigners who are looking for a more authentic Dalmatian experience.
- Why Buy Here?: Veli Varoš is ideal if you’re looking for a more traditional and picturesque setting, with the potential to restore or renovate a historical property.
- Price Range: Prices range from €3,000 to €4,500 per square meter, with some properties offering excellent renovation potential.
8. Buy Property in Split, Kman and Kocunar
Located inland, Kman and Kocunar are more affordable areas popular with locals. They are mostly residential, with good connections to the city center and other amenities.
- Why Buy Here?: These neighborhoods are perfect for those looking for a more budget-friendly option, whether for personal use or long-term rental income.
- Price Range: Properties in these areas range from €2,000 to €3,000 per square meter.
Property Types in Split
- Apartments: Most properties for sale in Split are apartments, ranging from historical buildings in the Old Town to modern units in areas like Žnjan and Bačvice.
- Villas: Exclusive neighborhoods like Meje and Marjan offer luxury villas with sea views, often with private gardens and pools.
- Renovation Projects: For those interested in investing in a renovation project, neighborhoods like Veli Varoš and the Old Town offer properties with excellent potential.
Buying Process in Croatia
Legal Requirements: Foreigners, especially from the EU, can purchase property in Croatia with relative ease. However, non-EU citizens may need to obtain consent from the Ministry of Justice, except if their home country has a reciprocity agreement with Croatia.
Taxes and Fees: Buyers are subject to a 3% property transfer tax in Croatia, and it’s advisable to hire a lawyer to help navigate the legal process. Agency fees are usually 3-6%, depending on the property.
Financing: Mortgages are available to foreigners, but down payments tend to be higher (30-40%) compared to local buyers.
Conclusion: Is Split a Good Investment?
The property market in Split offers diverse opportunities, from luxury seafront villas to budget-friendly apartments. The city’s popularity as a tourist destination ensures strong rental demand, while its stunning coastline, cultural heritage, and high quality of life make it a desirable place to live. Whether you’re looking for a summer home, rental investment, or permanent residence, Split’s real estate market has something to offer every buyer.
When you’re ready to buy property in Split, it’s essential to carefully choose the neighborhood that fits your budget and lifestyle goals.
Note: Please be aware that the information from Croatia Real Estate Insight is intended solely as a general guide. It is not a substitute for legal or financial advice. Croatian laws and administrative regulations frequently change, and individual circumstances can vary, meaning specific rules may apply differently to each situation.
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Resources:
Official Tourist Board: https://visitsplit.com/en/1/welcome-to-split
Split Info & Services: https://split.hr
Public Transport (Bus): https://www.ak-split.hr/en
Split Airport: https://www.split-airport.hr/index.php?lang=en
Other Useful Websites:
https://visitsplit.croatia.hr/en-gb
https://kalendar.infozona.hr/en
https://www.lonelyplanet.com/croatia/dalmatia/split
