Have you ever fantasized about packing a bag, hopping on a plane, and building a life in a far-off land? For one 35-year-old American, that dream is now a reality in the heart of Belgrade, Serbia. With a budget of less than $2,000 a month, she’s crafted a life filled with adventure, community, and professional growth. Her story isn’t just about escaping the daily grind—it’s about embracing a new way of living that feels authentic, affordable, and deeply fulfilling.
From Dream to Reality: The Expat Journey
The pull of living abroad often starts with a spark—an image from a book, a movie, or a fleeting moment during travel. For this woman, it began in her childhood home in Massachusetts, surrounded by novels that painted vivid pictures of distant places. Those stories planted a seed: a vision of a life beyond the borders of the U.S., one that was big, bold, and entirely her own.
Her first taste of the world came during a high school study abroad trip to Europe, where Greece, Italy, and France showed her that her dreams were within reach. That experience set her on a path of global exploration, from studying in Canada and Israel to working in Asia and beyond. By 2022, she found herself in Paris, a city that dazzled but didn’t quite fit her entrepreneurial ambitions. So, she turned her gaze to Belgrade, a city she’d never visited but felt could be home.
“I wanted a life that felt like the stories I read as a kid—full of wonder and possibility. Belgrade gave me that.”
– American expat in Serbia
Why Belgrade? A City That Checks Every Box
When choosing a place to call home, this expat had a clear checklist: the city had to be walkable, business-friendly, welcoming to English speakers, and home to a supportive community. Belgrade, with its vibrant streets, affordable living, and open-minded locals, ticked every box. Within a week of arriving, she knew this was where she’d stay.
Belgrade’s charm lies in its blend of history and modernity. The city’s historic Republic Square, where she first set foot, buzzes with energy, from cozy cafés to lively nightlife. It’s a place where you can stroll at 3 a.m. without a second thought, a rarity that makes her feel safe and free. For someone who’s lived in eight countries, that sense of security is priceless.
- Walkability: Belgrade’s compact layout makes cars optional, with most necessities within a short stroll.
- Business-friendly: A growing hub for entrepreneurs and digital nomads, perfect for her relocation and networking ventures.
- Welcoming vibe: Locals are curious and friendly, often striking up conversations with newcomers.
- Safety: A city where she feels unharassed and at ease, even late at night.
Living Large on a Small Budget
Living abroad doesn’t have to break the bank, and Belgrade proves it. With basic expenses totaling around $930 a month, including $583 for a spacious two-bedroom apartment, this expat’s budget leaves room for the things that make life sparkle. Groceries cost her about $58 a week, and free public transportation means she’s not shelling out for commutes.
| Expense | Monthly Cost (USD) |
| Rent (2-bedroom apartment) | $583 |
| Groceries | $232 |
| Utilities | $115 |
| Transportation | $0 (free public transit) |
| Total | $930 |
This affordability gives her the freedom to indulge in Belgrade’s nightlife, which she calls the best in Europe. From chic bars to underground clubs, there’s something for every mood and budget. I’ve always thought there’s something magical about cities that come alive at night, and Belgrade seems to embody that spirit.
Building a Career as a Global Citizen
Her income, ranging from $1,000 to $2,000 a month, comes from multiple streams, a testament to her entrepreneurial hustle. Her primary gig is a relocation service, guiding Americans and Brits through the process of settling in Serbia. It’s a role born from her own journey, a way to share the joy of expat life with others.
Beyond relocation, she creates digital content, consults for businesses, and earns referral fees from landlords. Her longest-running passion project is a women’s networking group, hosting elegant tea events that connect local and expat women. These ventures, while demanding—often requiring 50-hour workweeks—fuel her sense of purpose.
“Helping others find their place in the world is incredibly rewarding. It’s like passing on a little piece of my dream.”
– American expat in Serbia
Finding Belonging in a New Home
As a Black and Jewish woman, finding a place where she feels seen and safe hasn’t always been easy. In Belgrade, she’s found a community that embraces her as an American and a woman first. Locals often approach her with curiosity, asking, “Where are you from?”—a question that sparks connection rather than judgment.
This sense of belonging extends to her social life. She’s built a tight-knit circle of friends, both local and expat, and fills her days with ballet, Pilates, and even patel, a tennis-squash hybrid gaining traction in Serbia. These activities aren’t just hobbies—they’re threads that weave her into the fabric of the city.
The Power of Community in Expat Life
One of the most striking aspects of her story is how quickly she found her people. Perhaps it’s Belgrade’s open-hearted culture, or maybe it’s her knack for building bridges, but her social circle feels like family. I’ve always believed that community is the heartbeat of any great adventure, and her experience proves it.
- Join local activities: From sports to cultural events, engaging in hobbies opens doors to new friendships.
- Network intentionally: Her tea events show the power of creating spaces for connection.
- Stay open: Approaching locals with curiosity fosters mutual respect and understanding.
Navigating Challenges as an Expat
No journey is without its bumps, and living abroad comes with its share of challenges. Rising costs in Belgrade have pushed her to rely on occasional financial help from family, especially between mid-2024 and early 2025. Yet, her resourcefulness—through multiple income streams and a frugal mindset—keeps her afloat.
Language barriers can also be tricky, though Belgrade’s English-friendly environment eases the transition. She’s learned enough Serbian to get by, but locals’ willingness to communicate in English has been a game-changer. It’s a reminder that adaptability is key when building a life abroad.
Tips for Aspiring Expats
For those dreaming of their own expat adventure, her story offers a roadmap. It’s not just about picking a destination—it’s about aligning your lifestyle with your values. Here’s how she did it, and how you can too:
- Research thoroughly: Understand the cost of living, visa requirements, and job opportunities before you go.
- Test the waters: She gave herself a month to decide if Belgrade was right—a smart move for any expat.
- Build multiple income streams: Diversifying income provides stability in unpredictable markets.
- Embrace the culture: Engaging with locals and their traditions creates a richer experience.
What’s Next for This Global Trailblazer?
Looking ahead, she’s not slowing down. Her businesses are growing, and she’s eyeing new markets, from Thailand to Africa. Yet, Belgrade remains her anchor—a place where she’s found the balance of adventure and stability she craved as a child.
“The future is wide open, but Belgrade feels like home. It’s where I’ve found my rhythm.”
– American expat in Serbia
Her story is a testament to the power of dreaming big and taking bold steps. Whether you’re yearning for a new chapter or just curious about life abroad, her journey shows that with a little courage and a lot of hustle, the world can be your home.
What’s stopping you from chasing your own expat dream? Maybe it’s time to start planning your next move.
