What is Neum?
Neum is Bosnia and Herzegovina's only coastal town — a narrow 24-kilometre strip of Adriatic coastline that gives the country its sole access to the sea. Situated between two sections of Croatian territory, Neum is a unique geographical quirk and a growing tourist destination in its own right.
The town has a population of around 4,500 but swells dramatically in summer as visitors from Bosnia and neighbouring countries arrive for beach holidays. It sits roughly halfway between Split and Dubrovnik — two of Croatia's most visited cities — making it an accessible stop for international travellers.
Why are Foreigners Interested in Neum Property?
Neum attracts interest from international buyers for several reasons:
- Adriatic sea access at Bosnian prices — property on the Croatian coast costs €3,000–€6,000/m² in comparable locations. In Neum, prices are a fraction of that.
- Only Adriatic property in BiH — there is simply nowhere else in Bosnia to buy property with sea views and beach access.
- Growing tourism — the Pelješac Bridge (opened 2022) connects Croatia across the Neum corridor and has significantly increased traffic through the area.
- No foreign buyer restrictions — foreign nationals can purchase in Neum on the same terms as anywhere else in BiH.
How Much Does Property Cost in Neum?
Neum property prices vary considerably depending on the proximity to the sea, views and condition of the property:
| Property type | Price range |
|---|---|
| Studio / 1-bed apartment (sea view) | €60,000 – €110,000 |
| 2–3 bed apartment (sea view) | €100,000 – €180,000 |
| House with sea view | €150,000 – €300,000 |
| Building plot (sea proximity) | €80,000 – €200,000 |
Prices are significantly lower than comparable properties on the Croatian coast (Makarska, Dubrovnik area), while offering similar views and Adriatic access.
What to Know Before Buying in Neum
Legal status of properties — as with much of Bosnia, some older properties in Neum were built without proper permits or have incomplete land registry entries. This is not unusual and can usually be resolved, but it must be checked carefully before purchase. A legal check of the land registry (ZK izvadak) is essential.
Infrastructure — Neum is a small town. It has hotels, restaurants and a supermarket, but it is not a major urban centre. If you are considering year-round living, factor in the limited amenities outside the tourist season.
Short-term rental potential — Neum sees strong demand in July and August. Short-term rental yields can be attractive in peak season, though the season is shorter than the Croatian coast further north.
Access — the Pelješac Bridge has removed the need to cross through Neum to travel between Split and Dubrovnik, which has changed the volume of transit traffic. However, this has also made Neum itself a more deliberate destination for visitors who choose to stay.
Can Americans and Other Non-EU Citizens Buy in Neum?
Yes. Bosnia and Herzegovina imposes no significant restrictions on foreign nationals purchasing property, including citizens of the United States, Canada, UK, Australia and most other countries. You will need a valid passport, a local tax identification number (which we help you obtain), and to be present for the notary signing — or to grant power of attorney to a representative.
How Arimes Can Help
Arimes is a licensed real estate agency based in Mostar, with experience supporting international buyers across Bosnia and Herzegovina — including the Neum area. We provide:
- Property search and sourcing across Neum and the broader Herzegovina coast region
- Full legal checks on ownership, encumbrances and planning status
- Price negotiation on your behalf
- Coordination of notary signing and land registry registration
- Full English-language communication throughout
Contact us about Neum property — we will discuss your requirements and advise on current availability and market conditions.
Is Neum a Good Investment?
Neum's appeal is its uniqueness — there is only one coastal town in BiH and there will never be another. This scarcity, combined with low prices relative to the Croatian coast and growing regional tourism, makes it an interesting market for buyers looking for Adriatic exposure at Balkan prices.
That said, buyers should go in with realistic expectations: Neum is a small town, the tourist season is concentrated in two months, and infrastructure is limited compared to Croatian resort towns. It suits buyers looking for a holiday home or modest rental income more than those seeking a major investment property.