In a recent analysis published by Euronews, it has been revealed that Split, a major city on the Dalmatian coast of Croatia, holds the unenviable top spot as one of the most expensive cities in Europe for purchasing real estate. This revelation comes amid growing concerns about housing affordability across the continent, where owning a home has become increasingly difficult for many citizens. According to the data, the average price per square meter for residential property in Split reached 5,660 euros in May 2026, marking nearly a 12 percent increase compared to the same period last year. The situation in Split reflects broader trends seen in several European cities, where rising property prices have made homeownership an elusive dream for many families.
The primary metric used to assess housing affordability is the ratio of property prices to household income. Experts consider this ratio a crucial indicator of how long it would take for an average family to save enough money to buy a house, assuming all their earnings go toward that goal. In Split, this ratio stands at 18.7, meaning that the average household would need almost 19 years of combined income to afford a home. This figure is mirrored in Lisbon, Portugal, which shares the first place with Split. Other cities such as Prague, Milan, and Tirana follow closely behind with similar ratios, indicating a widespread challenge in housing affordability throughout Europe.
The data highlights a troubling pattern of increasing property prices in Split over the past few years. The highest demand prices were recorded in the southern part of the city, reaching 6,276 euros per square meter, while the lowest prices were found in the northeast area, at 4,782 euros per square meter. Prices in the central district amounted to 5,680 euros per square meter, and in the western part of the city, they stood at 5,711 euros per square meter. Alongside rising property prices, rental costs have also increased significantly. The average rent per square meter in May 2026 was 18.74 euros, representing a near 12 percent rise compared to the previous year.
Lisbon has emerged as a prominent example of the European housing crisis, particularly due to the dramatic surge in property prices over the past decade. Real estate values in Portugal have risen by approximately 240 percent since the beginning of the 2010s, while wages have grown by around 59 percent during the same period. This disparity between wage growth and property price increases has left many residents unable to afford homes. The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has warned in its annual report that Portugal's housing system ranks among the least accessible in developed countries. Factors contributing to this issue include insufficient construction of new homes, underdeveloped rental markets, and regulatory barriers that hinder housing availability.
The situation has sparked mass protests by citizens demanding more affordable housing options, stricter rent controls, and the activation of vacant properties. Despite these alarming indicators, economists do not anticipate an immediate collapse of the real estate market. The Portuguese Central Bank has noted that limited supply continues to strongly support price increases, although stricter regulations regarding mortgage approvals currently reduce the risk of forming a classic real estate bubble. As the housing crisis persists, the challenge remains to find sustainable solutions that can address the growing gap between property prices and household incomes across Europe.
3 reports
N1 HrvatskaIndependentLeftyesterdayA discussion on property prices in Croatia resurfaced on Reddit after a user compared housing offers in Zagreb and Graz, Austria. The user questioned the sense of taking out a loan for an apartment in Zagreb when similar properties in Graz cost significantly less. The post sparked comparisons between Croatia and other European countries, with users noting that Croatian cities like Rijeka are more expensive than Italian cities such as Bari or Turin. Some commenters suggested that higher prices in Croatia are due to demand and lower wages, while others expressed interest in moving to Graz. The conversation highlighted concerns over affordability and living standards in Croatian urban areas.
Bias read (Left): The article frames the issue by highlighting economic disparities and suggesting that Croatian property prices are disproportionately high relative to income levels and quality of life. It emphasizes the contrast with other European countries, implying systemic issues within Croatia’s economy and住房（
Večernji listIndependentLeftyesterdayThe article discusses a Reddit user's complaint about the high cost of housing in Zagreb compared to other European cities. The user compares the price per square meter in Zagreb to cities like Graz, Italy, and Switzerland, arguing that Croatian property prices are disproportionately high relative to income levels and living standards. Comments highlight dissatisfaction with Zagreb’s housing market, suggesting that similar properties are available at lower prices in Austria and Italy. Some users suggest that Croatian salaries do not justify the high costs, while others note that Zagreb offers better opportunities for well-educated individuals. The discussion reflects broader concerns about affordability and economic disparity.
Bias read (Left): The article frames the housing crisis in Zagreb through a lens of economic inequality and social mobility, emphasizing the disconnect between wages and property prices. It highlights criticism of the current system, implying systemic issues rather than individual choices. While not overtly political
Večernji listIndependentCenter4 days ago The latest list reveals where it's hardest to buy a flat in Europe: Croatian city shares infamous first placeThe article reports on the rising cost of housing in Split, Croatia, highlighting that it ranks among the least affordable cities in Europe. According to an analysis by Euronews, the price-to-income ratio in Split is 18.7, meaning the average household would need nearly 19 years of income to afford a home. This places Split alongside Lisbon as one of the most unaffordable cities for purchasing property. The article notes that property prices in Split have increased by almost 12% compared to the previous year, with some areas reaching over €6,200 per square meter. It also discusses broader European trends, including Portugal’s housing crisis, where property prices have risen by over 240% while wages have only increased by around 59%, leading to widespread affordability issues.
Bias read (Center): The article presents data and analysis from Euronews without overtly favoring any political stance. While it highlights concerns about housing affordability, which is a politically sensitive issue, the framing remains neutral, focusing on economic indicators rather than advocating for specific poliс
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