- by croatiaweek
- May 17, 2026
- in
Vir
The Croatian island of Vir has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past 25 years, evolving from a seasonal holiday destination into one of the country’s fastest-growing family communities.
According to local authorities, the island had fewer than 900 permanent residents in 2000. Today, that number has risen to more than 4,000, marking a population increase of more than four and a half times, RTL Danas reported.
Officials attribute the growth largely to long-term demographic and family support policies introduced over the past two decades.
The municipality says the measures have helped attract young families from inland parts of Croatia while encouraging residents to remain on the island year-round.
Local schools have seen a significant rise in enrolment. Municipal leaders say that generations which once counted only a handful of pupils now regularly include between 20 and 30 children.
A wide range of family-focused benefits has been introduced in recent years. Kindergarten is free for all children, while pupils receive financial support for school materials.
Secondary school students are offered subsidised transport, and university students can apply for monthly scholarships. Internship opportunities are also available through municipal companies.
The island is particularly known for its newborn child support payments. Families currently receive €2,000 for a first child, €3,500 for a second, €6,500 for a third and €13,000 for a fourth child.
Vir
Payments rise to €26,000 for a fifth and each additional child.
Municipal authorities are now preparing a proposal that would increase support for every newborn child to €8,500, with the stated aim of creating the most generous demographic incentives in Croatia.
Vir was once largely associated with holiday homes and seasonal tourism, with many local residents leaving the island permanently. Today, however, it has increasingly become a place where families choose to settle full time.
Many new residents have relocated from larger Croatian cities and inland regions, attracted by the combination of coastal living, proximity to Zadar and lower everyday pressures compared with urban centres.
Residents interviewed for local media highlighted several reasons for moving to the island, including improved quality of life, family-friendly services, easier access to childcare and education, and a safer environment for raising children.
Some families initially arrived for health reasons or seasonal work before deciding to stay permanently. Others cited the balance between island living and access to nearby urban amenities as a key advantage.
Tourism remains an important part of the local economy during the summer months, but many residents say the island has developed into a stronger year-round community, with growing numbers of children and young families helping reshape daily life on Vir.