Why Croatians build homes for multiple generations

Croatia

Owning a home in Croatia has become an increasingly difficult goal for young people. With rising property prices, many are left wondering if they will ever afford their own place.

According to the Croatian Bureau of Statistics, the average price of a new apartment in 2024 reached €2,504 per square metre, with prices in Zagreb significantly higher.

Renting is not much better. A small, outdated 25-square-metre basement flat in the city centre can cost €500 per month, while larger and more modern apartments start from €600 – and that’s before utilities.

Why Are Croats Holding Onto Their Homes?

Faced with these challenges, many Croats are choosing to extend existing family homes rather than buy new properties. It’s a common sight to see extra floors added to houses, providing a place for children to live without taking on crippling debt.

As Večernji list reports, a discussion on Reddit recently highlighted this trend. One user questioned why Croats build such large homes, often designed to house multiple generations.

The responses revealed several key reasons:

Financial security: Many young people live in their family home while they save or until they can afford to move out.

Stability: Parents want to ensure their children have a place to live, especially in uncertain times.

Cultural tradition: Multigenerational homes have been common in Croatia for centuries.

One Reddit user shared how their father’s solid-built home withstood war damage, making them appreciate the security it provided. Others pointed out that having parents nearby helps with childcare and household expenses.

Is Renting the Solution?

Critics of large family homes argue that the trend delays independence and contributes to a culture where young people stay with their parents for longer. In contrast, in many Western countries, renting is more common – but that comes with its own problems.

Many Croats choose to extend existing family homes

Some Reddit users pointed out that in countries like the US, where renting is widespread, millions are homeless or live in cars if they lose their jobs. They argue that owning a home, even if shared with family, provides long-term stability.

The Future of Housing in Croatia

While modular homes are gaining popularity in Western Europe, Croats remain sceptical.

Many see them as short-term solutions that won’t last for generations. However, others who have lived in modular homes for decades disagree, arguing that they can be just as comfortable and durable.

In the end, the debate comes down to security. Whether through traditional homes or modular alternatives, Croats want to ensure future generations have a place to live.

In uncertain times, having a home to pass down is one of the greatest forms of security – and that’s not likely to change anytime soon.