The Cost of Living Index is 42.0, indicating affordability compared to NYC. Groceries (39.3) and restaurants (41.5) are also relatively inexpensive.

The Property Price to Income Ratio is 14.0 years, suggesting an expensive housing market. The Rent Index is 11.5, indicating relatively low rental costs.

The Purchasing Power Index is 70.4, indicating below-average buying power compared to NYC.

Serbia has a progressive annual personal income tax (exempt up to 3x average salary, then 10%, then 15%) and a flat 10% income tax for most earnings. Corporate income tax is a flat 15%. The standard VAT rate is 20%, with a reduced rate of 10% for essential goods and services.

Serbia was ranked 44th in the World Bank's 2020 Ease of Doing Business report and 56th in the 2025 StartupBlink Global Startup Ecosystem Index. The country's startup ecosystem is growing, particularly in gaming and blockchain, supported by government initiatives and tax incentives. Challenges include bureaucracy and attracting certain international venture capital due to non-EU status.

Serbia operates a comprehensive mandatory social security system covering pension, disability, health, and unemployment insurance. Social assistance programs, including cash transfers and family benefits, target vulnerable populations, significantly reducing the at-risk-of-poverty rate. Employers and employees contribute to these schemes.

Deposits in Serbia are protected up to €50,000 (approximately USD 58,500) per depositor per bank under the Deposit Guarantee Scheme, which is guaranteed by the Republic of Serbia. The banking sector is stable, highly liquid, and profitable, with strong oversight from the National Bank of Serbia (NBS). Recent reforms align the regulatory framework with EU standards and Basel III, and new laws enhance consumer protection.