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Property prices in Durrës are experiencing a significant upward trend as we reach mid-2025. The combination of foreign investment, tourism growth, and major infrastructure developments is driving this coastal city's real estate market to new heights, with some areas seeing increases of up to 20% annually.
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As of June 2025, property prices in Durrës have risen 15-20% in prime coastal areas over the past year, with beachfront apartments now commanding €1,800-€2,000 per square meter.
Foreign investment, tourism boom, and infrastructure upgrades like the Porto Romano port development are the main drivers, making Durrës one of Albania's hottest property markets alongside Sarandë.
| Property Type | Price Range (€/m²) | Annual Growth |
|---|---|---|
| Beachfront Apartments | €1,800 - €2,000 | 15-20% |
| City Center Apartments | €1,500 - €1,700 | 12-15% |
| Suburban Properties | €1,300 - €1,500 | 8-10% |
| Rental Yield Average | - | 6-8% |
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.
What are the current property prices in Durrës as of June 2025?
Property prices in Durrës have reached significant levels as we enter mid-2025.
The average price for apartments in Durrës now ranges from €1,300 to €2,000 per square meter, with the specific price depending heavily on location and property features. Prime beachfront apartments with sea views command the highest prices, typically reaching €1,800 to €2,000 per square meter. These premium properties are particularly concentrated in the Vollga district and along the first coastal line.
Properties located further from the coast or in older buildings are more affordable, generally priced between €1,300 and €1,500 per square meter. City center apartments fall in the middle range at €1,500 to €1,700 per square meter. The rental market also reflects these price variations, with one-bedroom apartments in the city center averaging €386 per month, while three-bedroom units command around €634 monthly.
These prices represent a substantial increase from previous years, with some segments having doubled since the 2019 earthquake. The market has shown remarkable resilience and growth, making Durrës one of Albania's most dynamic real estate markets.
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How much have property prices increased in Durrës over the past year?
Property prices in Durrës have shown remarkable growth over the past year.
In 2024, prices rose by 15-20% in prime coastal areas, and this upward trend has continued into 2025, though the rate of growth has moderated slightly. The most dramatic increases have been seen in beachfront properties and new developments with modern amenities. Some specific areas, particularly those on the first coastal line including Durrës Plazh, Golem, and Qerret, have experienced the steepest price increases.
Since the 2019 earthquake, property values in some segments have actually doubled, reflecting not just recovery but a complete transformation of the market. This represents one of the most significant property price increases in the Balkans region. The consistent year-over-year growth has been driven by multiple factors including foreign investment, tourism expansion, and limited new supply in prime locations.
The pace of increase has been particularly pronounced for sea-view apartments and newly built properties, which have seen annual appreciation rates consistently above 15%. Even properties in less prime locations have experienced solid growth of 8-10% annually.
This sustained price growth indicates strong market fundamentals and continued investor confidence in Durrës real estate.
Which neighborhoods in Durrës are seeing the fastest price increases?
Several neighborhoods in Durrës are experiencing exceptional price growth.
The Vollga district and beachfront areas remain the most desirable locations, with the most significant price hikes for apartments offering sea views. These prime coastal zones have seen increases of up to 20% annually, driven by both local and international buyer demand. Properties on the first coastal line, including areas like Shkëmbi i Kavajës and Plazh, have experienced the steepest increases due to high demand and limited new supply.
Lagja Nr. 1 and Lagja Nr. 4 are emerging as hotspots for younger buyers and families, leading to above-average price growth in these neighborhoods. These areas offer a good balance of accessibility, amenities, and relative affordability compared to beachfront properties. The influx of young professionals and families has transformed these neighborhoods into vibrant communities.
The areas near the planned Porto Romano port development are also seeing speculative price increases as investors anticipate future infrastructure improvements. Additionally, neighborhoods with good connectivity to Tirana via the improved highway system are experiencing steady appreciation.
Urban regeneration projects and infrastructure improvements in specific districts are creating new investment opportunities and driving localized price increases throughout the city.
What property types are experiencing the sharpest price growth?
Certain property types in Durrës are outperforming others in terms of price appreciation.
Apartments with sea views and newly built beachfront properties are experiencing the sharpest price growth, driven primarily by tourism demand and foreign investment interest. These properties have seen price increases of 15-20% annually, with some premium developments achieving even higher appreciation rates. The combination of location, views, and modern amenities makes these properties particularly attractive to international buyers.
Tech-equipped, energy-efficient apartments are emerging as another high-growth segment. These modern properties appeal to environmentally conscious buyers and those seeking lower operating costs. Family-sized units in suburban areas are also in high demand, reflecting changing lifestyle preferences and the need for more space.
| Property Feature | Demand Level | Price Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Sea View | Very High | 25-30% |
| Energy Efficient | High | 15-20% |
| Smart Home Tech | Growing | 10-15% |
| Parking Included | High | 8-10% |
| New Construction | Very High | 20-25% |
While villas and luxury properties are seeing price growth, the apartment market dominates in terms of transaction volume and price appreciation. Commercial properties near the port and in tourist zones are also appreciating steadily, supported by business investments and tourism infrastructure development.
What's the current mortgage situation for property buyers in June 2025?
The mortgage market in Albania presents both opportunities and challenges for property buyers in Durrës.
As of June 2025, mortgage rates in Albania typically range from 4% to 6% for local currency loans (ALL), with rates varying based on the borrower's profile and down payment amount. Major Albanian banks like OTP Bank offer home loans with fixed rates starting at 4% for terms up to 15 years. For Euro-denominated loans, rates are generally lower, starting around 3.7% to 4%, linked to Euribor rates plus a margin.
Foreign buyers face more restrictive conditions, with maximum financing typically limited to 50% of the property value, compared to 75% for Albanian citizens. This means international investors need to prepare substantial down payments of at least 50%. Additionally, foreign buyers often face slightly higher interest rates and must open a local bank account to process the mortgage.
The mortgage application process for foreigners requires extensive documentation including proof of income for the last three years, bank statements, asset declarations, and all documents must be translated and notarized. Despite these requirements, the relatively low interest rates compared to many other countries make financing attractive for those who qualify.
Banks have dedicated departments for foreign clients, though not all branches offer these specialized services, making it advisable to work with a mortgage broker familiar with international transactions.
How do current Durrës property prices compare to 5 years ago?
The transformation of Durrës property prices over the past five years has been dramatic.
Property prices in Durrës have increased significantly, with some segments, especially coastal and new developments, seeing prices double since 2019. In 2020, prime apartments were selling for €1,150-€1,300 per square meter. Today in 2025, similar properties command €1,800-€2,000 per square meter, representing a growth of approximately 56-73%.
This remarkable appreciation can be attributed to several factors: post-earthquake reconstruction that modernized much of the housing stock, sustained tourism growth that has made Durrës a year-round destination, increased foreign investment particularly from Italian and Eastern European buyers, and significant infrastructure improvements including road networks and port facilities.
The compound annual growth rate over this five-year period averages between 10-15%, significantly outpacing inflation and making real estate one of the best-performing asset classes in Albania. Even accounting for the earthquake disruption in 2019, the market has shown remarkable resilience and growth potential.
This historical performance provides context for understanding current price levels and suggests that despite recent gains, there may still be room for continued appreciation given ongoing development and investment trends.
What are the property price forecasts for Durrës through 2025 and beyond?
Expert projections for Durrës property prices remain optimistic for the coming years.
For the remainder of 2025, property market analysts forecast a continued price increase of 3-7% annually, representing a moderation from the rapid growth of recent years but still healthy appreciation. This more sustainable growth rate is expected as the market matures and prices reach levels that begin to impact affordability for local buyers.
Over the next decade, several factors are expected to support steady appreciation. The ongoing infrastructure projects, including the Tirana-Durrës highway expansion and the Porto Romano port development, will enhance accessibility and economic activity. Albania's potential EU accession talks are creating positive sentiment among international investors who see long-term value in establishing positions before membership.
The planned Durrës Yachts & Marina project, a major waterfront development, is expected to significantly boost high-end property values in surrounding areas. This €100+ million investment will create a new luxury district that could redefine the city's premium property market.
| Time Period | Expected Annual Growth | Key Drivers |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 (H2) | 3-5% | Tourism recovery, foreign investment |
| 2026-2027 | 5-7% | Infrastructure completion, EU talks |
| 2028-2030 | 4-6% | Market maturation, Marina project |
| 2030-2035 | 3-4% | Stable growth, EU integration |
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How is foreign investment affecting Durrës property prices?
Foreign investment has become a dominant force in Durrës real estate market.
In early 2024, foreign investment in Albanian real estate surged by 71%, with Durrës being one of the major beneficiaries of this capital inflow. International buyers from Italy, Poland, Czech Republic, Russia, Ukraine, and the Albanian diaspora are the key drivers of demand, particularly for beachfront and investment properties. This foreign interest has fundamentally changed market dynamics.
The influx of international capital has pushed prices higher, particularly in tourist-favored areas, creating a two-tier market where prime properties are increasingly priced for international rather than local buyers. While this has created wealth for existing property owners, it has reduced the supply of affordable homes for local residents, leading to some market displacement.
Foreign buyers are attracted by several factors: property prices that remain competitive compared to other Mediterranean destinations, no restrictions on foreign property ownership, potential for strong rental yields from tourism, and Albania's improving economic and political stability. Many view Albanian property as an undervalued asset with significant appreciation potential.
This international demand shows no signs of slowing, with real estate agencies reporting that 60-70% of inquiries for premium properties come from foreign buyers.
What's the current supply and demand situation in Durrës?
The supply-demand dynamics in Durrës strongly favor sellers in 2025.
Demand remains robust, especially for prime and investment properties, though there has been a slight drop of 5-10% in local demand due to rising prices that have pushed some Albanian buyers out of the market. However, this softening in domestic demand has been more than offset by international interest, keeping overall market activity high.
On the supply side, new construction isn't keeping pace with demand due to regulatory hurdles, financing constraints for developers, and limited prime coastal land available for development. The issuance of building permits has been at record lows in recent years, creating a structural supply shortage that supports continued price appreciation.
The most acute supply shortage is in the beachfront and sea-view segment, where geographical constraints limit new development possibilities. This scarcity is driving the steepest price increases and creating bidding situations for the best properties. In contrast, there's better availability in suburban areas and for properties without sea views.
Market indicators suggest this supply-demand imbalance will persist through 2025 and beyond, maintaining upward pressure on prices even as the rate of increase moderates from recent peaks.
How does Durrës compare to other Albanian coastal cities?
Durrës occupies a middle ground in Albania's coastal property market hierarchy.
When compared to other major coastal cities, Durrës offers a compelling value proposition. Average apartment prices of €1,300-€2,000 per square meter position it as more affordable than Sarandë, where prices range from €1,800-€2,500 per square meter for standard properties and up to €3,500 for luxury units. However, Durrës is more expensive than Vlorë, where apartments typically sell for €1,000-€1,800 per square meter.
| City | Avg. Price (€/m²) | 2024 Growth | Rental Yield | Key Market |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Durrës | €1,300-€2,000 | 15-20% | 6-8% | Balanced mix |
| Sarandë | €1,800-€3,500 | 40% | Up to 15.7% | Luxury/Tourism |
| Vlorë | €1,000-€1,800 | Gradual | 2.5-5% | Local/Emerging |
| Tirana (comparison) | €1,500-€2,200 | 10-12% | 4-6% | Urban/Business |
Sarandë has experienced the sharpest recent price increases at 40% growth, driven by its position as Albania's premium coastal destination. Durrës offers better value for money while still providing strong growth potential and good rental yields of 6-8%, making it attractive for both lifestyle buyers and investors seeking balanced returns.
What factors are driving continued price increases in Durrës?
Multiple converging factors are sustaining the upward trajectory of Durrës property prices.
Infrastructure development stands as a primary driver, with the Albanian government investing €1.6 billion in projects that directly benefit Durrës. The expansion of the Tirana-Durrës highway and development of the new Porto Romano port are transforming the city's connectivity and economic prospects. These improvements are making Durrës more accessible and attractive for both residents and businesses.
Tourism growth continues to fuel demand, with visitor numbers reaching record levels. The surge in short-term rental demand has created an investment opportunity that attracts both domestic and international buyers. Many properties are being purchased specifically for Airbnb and vacation rental purposes, removing them from the long-term housing supply.
Limited new housing supply, particularly in prime zones, creates persistent upward pressure on prices. Geographic constraints along the coast, combined with planning restrictions and slower permit approvals, mean supply cannot easily expand to meet demand. This structural imbalance favors continued appreciation.
Government policies remain supportive, with no restrictions on foreign ownership and relatively low transaction costs. The anticipation of EU membership creates additional positive sentiment, as investors expect Albanian property values to converge with higher European levels over time.
Are there any recent policy changes affecting the property market?
The policy environment in 2025 remains largely favorable for property investment in Durrës.
No major new taxes or macroprudential measures specifically targeting real estate were introduced in 2025. The government has maintained its pro-investment stance, recognizing real estate as a key economic driver. The 2025 Economic Reform Programme focuses on macroeconomic stability and promoting domestic currency lending, which indirectly supports the property market by maintaining financial system stability.
Ongoing reforms continue to promote lending in domestic currency and aim to maintain financial stability without imposing restrictive measures on property transactions. Local fees for property transactions remain low by European standards, and foreigners continue to face no restrictions on buying property in Albania, maintaining the market's attractiveness to international investors.
The government's infrastructure spending program of €1.6 billion represents a significant policy commitment that directly benefits property values in Durrës. This investment in roads, ports, and urban infrastructure demonstrates continued state support for real estate development and appreciation.
While no new restrictive policies have been implemented, buyers should stay informed about potential future changes as the market continues to heat up and affordability concerns grow among local residents.
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.
Property prices in Durrës are definitively rising, with prime coastal areas seeing increases of 15-20% annually as of June 2025. The market is being driven by strong foreign investment, booming tourism, and major infrastructure projects that are transforming this coastal city into one of Albania's most dynamic real estate markets.
Looking ahead, while the explosive growth rates may moderate to a more sustainable 3-7% annually, the fundamental drivers remain strong. With limited supply, continued foreign interest, and ongoing development projects like the Durrës Yachts & Marina, property values in Durrës are expected to continue their upward trajectory. For investors and buyers, the answer is clear: Yes, a lot - property prices in Durrës are going up significantly.
We made this infographic to show you how property prices in Albania compare to other big cities across the region. It breaks down the average price per square meter in city centers, so you can see how cities stack up. It's an easy way to spot where you might get the best value for your money. We hope you like it.
Sources
- Gazeta Tema - Durrës property prices rise despite lower demand
- Albanian Daily News - Property prices increase by 20% in Durrës, Saranda
- Brevitas - Albania's real estate market overview
- Investropa - Albania real estate forecasts
- Statista - Real Estate Albania Market Forecast
- Expatax - Albania's Property Market in 2025
- Albania Invest - Real Estate Market Trends 2025
- OTP Bank Albania - Mortgage Loan Rates
- Investropa - Albania Real Estate Market Statistics
- Realting - Realtor on the real estate market in Albania
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