ZAGREB, 30 April (Hina) - Data from the Ministry of Physical Planning, Construction and State Assets show that the number of real estate transactions in 2025 fell by 21.7% compared to 2024, totalling 88,395 sales. The overall value of sold properties reached €7.67 billion, or 8% of GDP, down nearly 17% year-on-year.

Flats accounted for 45% of total transaction value, followed by building land (17.1%) and family houses (16.3%).

Zagreb recorded the highest number of transactions (13,126), followed by Zadar, Rijeka, Osijek, and Split.

Most activity involved apartments and flats, with 60% of all transactions (without Zagreb) concentrated in just 20% of towns, reflecting regional economic disparities.

Prices remained highest on the coast. The median price per square metre was €4,068 in Split, €3,921 in Dubrovnik, and €3,830 in Opatija, while Zagreb averaged €2,229.

The lowest prices were recorded in inland towns such as Vrbovsko (€715) and Ogulin (€745).

Rental activity also remained strong, with Zagreb dominating both rental and lease contracts. Median rents were highest in Zagreb (€12.8/m²), Dubrovnik-Neretva County (€12.2), and Split-Dalmatia County (€12.1), while the lowest were in Gospić (€5.1) and Čakovec (€6.5).

Affordability remains a major issue on the coast, where housing costs consume 60–80% of household income in many areas. Inland regions like Lika and Slavonia are significantly more affordable.

Land and commercial property prices also show sharp regional contrasts. The most expensive building land was in Dubrovnik (€258/m²), while Rovinj recorded the highest commercial property prices (€3,942/m²). Much lower prices were found in inland towns such as Vinkovci and Metković.

The Ministry will present a detailed real estate market review for 2024 and 2025 on Friday.