Authored by the expert who managed and guided the team behind the Albania Property Pack
Everything you need to know before buying real estate is included in our Albania Property Pack
Albania's property market has experienced dramatic price increases over the past five years, with some areas seeing prices nearly double.
Property prices vary significantly across the country, from affordable rural villages where houses sell for under €50,000 to premium beachfront developments on the Albanian Riviera commanding over €3,000 per square meter. As of September 2025, Tirana remains the most expensive market, with apartment prices ranging from €1,800 to €2,500 per square meter in most areas, while coastal cities like Vlorë and smaller towns like Shkodra offer more affordable alternatives for both investors and residents.If you want to go deeper, you can check our pack of documents related to the real estate market in Albania, based on reliable facts and data, not opinions or rumors.
As of September 2025, apartment prices in Tirana range from €1,800 to €2,500 per square meter, while smaller cities like Shkodra offer properties at around €500 per square meter. Beachfront properties along the Albanian Riviera command premium prices of €1,400 to €3,500 per square meter.
The Albanian property market has experienced substantial growth over the past five years, with prices nearly doubling in many areas due to increased foreign investment and tourism development.
| Location | Apartment Price (€/m²) | House Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Tirana (Center) | €1,800 - €2,500 | €200,000 - €400,000+ |
| Shkodra | €500 | €50,000 - €150,000 |
| Vlorë | €1,300 - €1,800 | €150,000 - €300,000 |
| Berat | €600 - €1,000 | €80,000 - €200,000 |
| Saranda/Himara | €1,400 - €3,500 | €200,000 - €500,000+ |
| Rural Villages | €300 - €700 | €30,000 - €100,000 |
| Albanian Riviera (Beachfront) | €2,000 - €4,000 | €300,000 - €800,000+ |
What's the average price per square meter for an apartment in Tirana right now?
As of September 2025, apartment prices in Tirana range from €1,800 to €2,500 per square meter for most properties.
The premium Blloku district commands the highest prices, with apartments exceeding €3,000 per square meter due to its central location and modern amenities. This upscale neighborhood attracts both local professionals and international buyers looking for luxury living in Albania's capital.
Older apartments and properties in secondary locations start around €1,200 per square meter, making them more accessible to first-time buyers and investors seeking entry-level opportunities. These properties often require renovation but offer potential for value appreciation through improvements.
New developments in desirable areas typically fall within the €2,000 to €2,500 range, offering modern construction standards, energy efficiency, and contemporary designs that appeal to quality-conscious buyers.
It's something we develop in our Albania property pack.
How much cheaper is it to buy a house in a smaller city like Shkodra, Vlore, or Berat compared to Tirana?
Properties in smaller Albanian cities are significantly more affordable than Tirana, with savings ranging from 40% to 80% depending on the location.
Shkodra offers the most affordable option, with average property prices around €500 per square meter—roughly 75% cheaper than Tirana's average. This northern city provides excellent value for buyers seeking traditional Albanian architecture and proximity to Montenegro and the Albanian Alps.
Vlorë, being a coastal city, commands higher prices at €1,300 to €1,800 per square meter for new builds, still representing savings of 30-40% compared to Tirana. The city's strategic port location and beach access make it attractive for both residents and investors.
Berat, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers properties between €600 to €1,000 per square meter, providing 60-70% savings over the capital while offering unique historical charm and cultural significance.
These price differences reflect varying infrastructure development, job opportunities, and amenities available in each city compared to Tirana's metropolitan advantages.
What's the going rate for beachfront houses along the Albanian Riviera, for example in Saranda or Himara?
Beachfront properties along the Albanian Riviera command premium prices ranging from €1,400 to €3,500 per square meter as of September 2025.
Saranda, the gateway to the Riviera, offers beachfront apartments and houses starting from €1,400 per square meter for standard properties, with luxury developments reaching €2,500 to €3,000 per square meter. The city's proximity to Greece and established tourism infrastructure support these price levels.
Himara presents a mix of traditional stone houses and modern developments, with beachfront properties ranging from €1,800 to €3,200 per square meter. The village's authentic charm and pristine beaches attract buyers seeking both investment potential and lifestyle benefits.
Ksamil commands the highest prices on the Riviera, with premium beachfront properties reaching €3,500 to €4,000 per square meter due to its stunning turquoise waters and proximity to Butrint National Park. Luxury villas in this area often exceed €400,000 total purchase price.
Dhërmi and other coastal villages typically price beachfront properties between €2,000 to €3,000 per square meter, offering a balance between accessibility and exclusivity for international buyers.
How much does land cost per square meter if I wanted to build a house instead of buying one?
Land prices for residential construction in Albania vary significantly by location, ranging from €500 to €1,200 per square meter in most areas.
| Location | Land Price (€/m²) | Construction Cost (€/m²) |
|---|---|---|
| Tirana Suburbs | €800 - €1,200 | €500 - €700 |
| Coastal Areas (near development) | €600 - €900 | €400 - €650 |
| Vlorë Outskirts | €400 - €700 | €400 - €600 |
| Shkodra Region | €200 - €500 | €350 - €550 |
| Rural Mountain Areas | €100 - €300 | €300 - €500 |
| Berat Surroundings | €300 - €600 | €350 - €550 |
| Albanian Riviera (buildable) | €500 - €1,000 | €450 - €700 |
Don't lose money on your property in Albania
100% of people who have lost money there have spent less than 1 hour researching the market. We have reviewed everything there is to know. Grab our guide now.
What are the price differences between old communist-era apartments and newly built developments?
Communist-era apartments typically sell for €1,200 to €1,600 per square meter, while new developments command €2,300 to €3,000 per square meter in prime Tirana locations.
The price difference reflects significant disparities in building quality, energy efficiency, and modern amenities. Communist-era buildings often feature concrete construction with minimal insulation, outdated electrical systems, and basic plumbing that may require substantial renovation.
New developments offer contemporary design, proper insulation, modern heating systems, underground parking, and elevators—amenities often absent in older buildings. These properties also comply with current building codes and earthquake safety standards.
However, communist-era apartments in central locations can offer excellent renovation potential, with buyers able to modernize properties while benefiting from established neighborhoods and transportation links.
The €700 to €1,400 per square meter price gap represents the cost of modern construction and amenities, making older apartments attractive for budget-conscious buyers willing to invest in improvements.
How much more do you usually pay for furnished versus unfurnished properties in Albania?
Furnished properties in Albania typically carry a 10% to 20% price premium over unfurnished ones, depending on the quality of furnishings and location.
In Tirana's premium areas, fully furnished apartments with high-quality furniture and appliances can command up to 20% more than unfurnished equivalents. This premium reflects the convenience and immediate move-in readiness that appeals to international buyers and expats.
Coastal properties often see similar premiums, particularly for vacation rentals where furniture quality directly impacts rental income potential. Well-furnished beachfront properties can justify higher asking prices due to their turnkey nature.
The furnishing premium varies based on included items—basic furniture packages may add only 10%, while luxury furnishings with premium appliances and designer pieces can increase prices by the full 20%.
For investment properties intended for short-term rentals, the furnished premium often pays for itself through higher rental rates and occupancy levels in Albania's growing tourism market.
What are the typical closing costs, taxes, and notary fees I should budget for when buying a house there?
Budget approximately 4% to 6% of the purchase price for all closing costs and transaction expenses when buying property in Albania.
- Property Transfer Tax: 3% of the transaction value, paid by the buyer and representing the largest closing cost component
- Notary Fees: 0.3% to 0.5% of property value for document preparation and legal verification services
- Registration Fee: €60 to €80 flat rate for property title registration with Albanian authorities
- Legal and Agent Fees: 1% to 2% if using full-service real estate agents or legal representation
- Translation Costs: €200 to €500 for document translation if required for foreign buyers
Additional costs may include property surveys, bank fees for international transfers, and insurance setup, which can add another €500 to €1,500 to the total transaction cost.
It's something we develop in our Albania property pack.
How much can I expect to spend annually on property taxes and maintenance for a house in Albania?
Annual property ownership costs in Albania are relatively modest, typically ranging from €500 to €2,500 per year depending on property size and type.
Property tax rates range from 0.05% to 0.15% of the property's reference value, which is usually set below market price. For a €200,000 property, annual taxes typically fall between €100 to €300, making Albania one of Europe's most tax-friendly property markets.
Maintenance costs vary significantly by property type. Apartment owners typically spend €250 to €600 annually on building fees, utilities, and minor repairs. These costs cover building maintenance, common area cleaning, and basic management services.
House owners face higher maintenance expenses, typically €1,000 to €2,000 annually for garden upkeep, exterior maintenance, heating system servicing, and general repairs. Coastal properties may require additional maintenance due to salt air exposure.
Insurance costs add approximately €200 to €500 annually for comprehensive coverage, while utility connections and basic services contribute another €300 to €800 yearly depending on usage and property size.
We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Albania versus those in neighboring countries. It provides a clear view of how this country positions itself as a real estate investment destination, which might interest you if you're planning to invest there.
What are the usual rental yields if I bought a property and rented it out short-term or long-term?
Albanian rental yields are attractive for investors, with gross returns ranging from 4% to 11% depending on location and rental strategy.
Tirana apartments generate 5% to 7% gross yields for long-term rentals, with short-term Airbnb properties achieving 9% to 11% due to strong business travel and tourism demand. The capital's growing economy and international presence support consistent rental demand.
Coastal and Albanian Riviera properties offer some of the highest returns, with short-term vacation rentals during peak season generating 6% to 10% gross yields. Year-round average yields typically settle at 4% to 6% due to seasonal fluctuations in tourism.
Location within each city significantly impacts yields—properties near beaches, city centers, or major attractions command premium rents and higher occupancy rates. Well-maintained and furnished properties consistently outperform basic accommodations.
Short-term rental success depends heavily on management quality, marketing effectiveness, and seasonal timing, while long-term rentals provide more stable but generally lower returns with less hands-on management required.
How much do houses in rural villages actually sell for compared to urban centers?
Rural village houses in Albania sell for dramatically lower prices than urban properties, typically ranging from €30,000 to €100,000 total purchase price.
Per square meter pricing in rural areas averages €300 to €600, representing savings of 70% to 85% compared to urban centers like Tirana or Vlorë. These properties often include substantial land plots and traditional stone construction.
Mountain villages near tourist areas like the Albanian Alps may command slightly higher prices, reaching €80,000 to €150,000 for restored traditional houses with mountain views and tourism potential.
Rural coastal villages away from major resort areas offer houses for €50,000 to €120,000, providing opportunities for buyers seeking renovation projects or authentic Albanian living experiences.
The significant price difference reflects limited infrastructure, fewer amenities, and reduced job opportunities in rural areas, but also presents opportunities for lifestyle buyers and those seeking authentic cultural experiences in traditional Albanian communities.
What's the average mortgage interest rate in Albania, and how much down payment is normally required?
As of September 2025, mortgage interest rates in Albania average 4.5% to 6.5% for EUR-denominated loans, with banks typically requiring 20% to 30% down payments.
Albanian banks prefer EUR-denominated mortgages for property purchases, offering more stable rates than local currency loans. Interest rates vary based on borrower creditworthiness, loan term, and relationship with the lending institution.
Foreign buyers and non-residents often face higher down payment requirements, sometimes reaching 30% to 40% of the property value. EU nationals typically receive more favorable terms than non-EU buyers due to established banking relationships and legal frameworks.
Loan terms typically extend 15 to 25 years, with some banks offering longer terms for qualified borrowers. Monthly income requirements usually stipulate that mortgage payments shouldn't exceed 30% to 40% of gross monthly income.
Additional mortgage costs include loan origination fees (1% to 2% of loan amount), property appraisal fees (€300 to €500), and mandatory property insurance throughout the loan term.
How much have house prices in Albania increased over the last five years, and what's the trend for the next few years?
Albanian property prices have nearly doubled over the past five years, with increases of 100% to 195% in many areas, particularly in Tirana and coastal regions.
Tirana has experienced the most dramatic price appreciation, with central area properties increasing from around €1,000 per square meter in 2020 to current levels of €2,000 to €2,500 per square meter. This growth reflects Albania's economic development and increased foreign investment.
The Albanian Riviera has seen similar dramatic increases, driven by tourism growth, infrastructure improvements, and international buyer interest. Coastal properties that sold for €800 to €1,200 per square meter five years ago now command €1,400 to €3,500 per square meter.
Market trends suggest continued upward price movement through 2026-2027, though at a more moderate pace as supply increases to meet demand. New construction projects and infrastructure developments should help balance market dynamics.
Potential market deceleration factors include increased supply from ongoing construction projects and possible regulatory changes, but overall economic growth and EU accession prospects continue supporting positive price trends for Albanian real estate.
It's something we develop in our Albania property pack.
Conclusion
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. We do not assume any liability for actions taken based on the information provided.
Albania's property market offers diverse opportunities from affordable rural villages to premium coastal developments, with prices varying dramatically by location and property type.
While the market has experienced substantial growth over recent years, current prices still represent good value compared to many European destinations, particularly for investors seeking rental income or lifestyle buyers looking for Mediterranean coastal living.
Sources
- GlobiHome - Investing in Tirana Real Estate Market Trends
- InvestRopa - Average House Price Albania
- International Investment - Albanian Real Estate Market Study 2025
- Properstar - Albania Vlore County House Prices
- VivaView - Property Prices Himara Saranda Ksamil
- InvestRopa - Albania Price Forecasts
- GlobiHome - Vlora Real Estate Guide
- VivaView - Albanian Riviera Property Prices
- Brevitas - Albania Real Estate Market Overview
- Global Property Guide - Albania Square Meter Prices