Pale, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Capital City

Pale is a small, homogenous town in the Republika Srpska entity of Bosnia and Herzegovina. With a population of just 3 in 2013, it’s one of the tiniest places you’ll find in the Balkans. Everyone here is ethnically Serb, so expect a tight-knit, culturally specific community. The cost of living is dirt cheap—$283 a month for a one-bedroom in the center—but don’t expect much in terms of amenities or expat infrastructure.

Daily life here is quiet, almost rural, with limited services and few English speakers. If you’re looking for a low-cost, isolated spot to stretch your retirement savings, Pale might work. But for digital nomads or those craving diversity, it’s a hard pass.