Sarajevo (and Bosnia and Herzegovina) is classified as a middle-expensive city compared to the rest of Europe. Although Bosnia and Herzegovina’s economy is growing yearly and the ex-pat community is thriving, costs are falling slowly but do not expect Western European costs. If you like going out and meeting friendly, welcoming locals, you will surely love Sarajevo.
The local currency is the convertible mark (BAM or KM).
1 € = 1,95 KM
1 $ = 1,80 KM
Average prices are presented below for different categories that students (and staff) are primarily interested (per month):
- Accommodation:
- 150 – 250 EUR depending on the position of the place of your place (the closer to the centre of Sarajevo, expensive it is). Make sure your accommodation is close to public transport.
- Utilities:
- Under this category, you can find electricity, water, internet, cable TV, phone and cleaning fees. Depending on the “way of living” and needs, the sum of all is around 100 EUR.
- Food & Drinks:
- 100 EUR – as in all countries, ingredients for cooking are cheaper than eating in restaurants. Still, food in restaurants is not expensive compared to many European capitals.
- Books (prices per book):
- 25 – 50 EUR – many books can be rented in UNSA unit’s libraries, so make sure you check this information before purchase
- Local transportation (month):
- 10 – 25 EUR depending on the type of transport. There is a student discount or coupon you purchase monthly (check public transport in Sarajevo).
Currency and Money
Official currency exchange is provided on the official website of the Central bank of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Bank notes:
The monetary unit of Bosnia and Herzegovina is the “convertible mark” (KM). The convertible mark is divided into hundred of „fenings“ (pf). In circulation are the following KM banknotes with five different denominations: KM 10, KM 20, KM 50, KM 100 and KM 200. Specimen of bank notes can be checked on the official website of the Central Bank of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Credit cards
Credit cards are generally accepted in top hotels and restaurants and some shops. ATMs are becoming increasingly common in bigger cities and even smaller towns. However, an emergency supply of cash is still advisable.