Is Albania Safe? A 2025 Safety Comparison with the UK and the US

One of the most important factors to evaluate before moving to another country is safety. For whatever purpose you’re moving, whether to relocate permanently or temporarily, it’s important to do some research and see what to expect first.

But safety isn’t just about crime statistics. It’s about healthcare access, infrastructure reliability, political stability, and how secure people actually feel in their daily lives.

In this report, we look at how Albania compares to the United Kingdom and the United States across some key safety categories. We’ve drawn from publicly available data and real-life expat feedback to give a complete picture of Albania’s safety in 2025.

Albania is Safer Than Many Think

Although Albania wasn’t used to being discussed a lot alongside traditional destinations like Spain or Portugal, it performs surprisingly well in many safety metrics. Albania’s crime rates are lower than those in the US, and in some cases, even safer than large UK cities.

Intentional Homicide Rate

Intentional homicide is one of the clearest indicators of violent crime levels, so let’s have a look at the approximate rates (based on 2023 data).

• Albania’s intentional homicide rate stands at approximately 1.2 per 100,000 people
• The UK averages around 1.1 per 100,000.
• The US has a significantly higher rate, at around 5.8 per 100,000.

While Albania’s homicide rate is slightly above Western European standards, it is well below the global average and far safer than in the US. For context, Albania’s rate is roughly comparable to Poland.

Which Cities Feel Safer on the Streets?

Crime statistics and perceived safety can vary widely between countries and even more so between cities.

According to Numbeo mid-2025 data:

• Tirana’s crime index: 40.01
• London’s crime index: 55.51
• New York City’s crime index: 51

In practical terms, expats in Tirana report feeling safe walking in the city centre during the day and even at night. Petty theft, such as pickpocketing, can occur in crowded areas but is far less frequent than in major tourist cities. Violent crime against foreigners is extremely rare.

“I think it’s a quiet life. People take their time to enjoy coffee and friends. There is a lot of walking and safe walking on the streets. You see many groups of friends and families having a good time and not in too much of a hurry.” – Expat in Tirana

In the UK and US, crime rates in large cities have increased in recent years, particularly in the wake of post-COVID economic challenges. In contrast, crime in Albania remains stable or declining in many areas.

Sundhedsvæsen

Albania offers universal public healthcare, though the quality of service can vary. Most expats rely on private hospitals and clinics in Tirana, which are affordable by Western standards.

• Albania’s life expectancy: ~80 years
• UK: ~82 years
• US: ~80 years

While Albania does not have the infrastructure or funding levels of the UK or US, it offers good access to essential care at a fraction of the cost. English-speaking doctors are increasingly available in private clinics.

The main challenges in Albania are the lack of specialized care in rural areas and longer waiting times in the public system. However, for common issues, healthcare is accessible, especially in main cities.

Natural Disasters and Environmental Risks

Albania has a relatively low risk of natural disasters. Earthquakes occur from time to time, such as the 2019 Durrës earthquake, but large-scale disasters are rare.

Unlike the US, which faces hurricanes, tornadoes, and wildfires, or the UK, which sees frequent flooding, Albania’s main risk is seismic activity. Flooding in certain areas can happen during winter months but is generally manageable.

For most residents and visitors, environmental risks in Albania are not a major concern.

Infrastructure and Road Safety

Road safety is one area where Albania still lags behind the UK and the US.

In urban areas, roads are well-maintained, but rural areas may have poor lighting, limited signage, and infrastructure gaps. Drivers tend to be aggressive, and traffic rules are not always enforced strictly. Pedestrians should exercise caution, especially at crosswalks.

Public transportation within Tirana is affordable and improving, but options outside major cities are limited.

Political Stability and Governance

Albania has been politically stable in recent years, with a functioning parliamentary system and a clear path toward EU membership. Its anti-corruption agency SPAK has made high-profile arrests in 2023 and 2024, including a former president, demonstrating a shift toward transparency and accountability.

The UK has remained politically stable, though it has seen social fragmentation in the post-Brexit era. The US continues to deal with rising polarization and political tension, particularly during election cycles.

Though Albania’s political institutions are still maturing, the current climate is relatively calm and improving by regional standards.

Digital Security

Albania has made digital advancements in recent years, but cybersecurity remains a work in progress. Government websites and digital identity systems are not always secured to the level of EU standards. Phishing and online scams exist but primarily target locals.

In contrast, the UK and US have mature cybersecurity frameworks, with strong regulation around data protection and online safety.

That said, most expats report no significant issues with digital safety in daily life in Albania, especially when using international platforms or trusted local providers.

How Safe Do Communities Feel

Albanian society is family-oriented and community-based. Locals are known for being warm and protective, especially toward guests. Crime against women and tourists is uncommon, and expats often report feeling welcomed by their neighbors.

LGBTQ+ rights are protected by law, though social acceptance is higher in Tirana than in rural areas. English is spoken by many younger people and hospitality workers, but learning some Albanian can help deepen community ties.

In both the UK and US, large urban centers offer diverse communities but also greater anonymity and isolation. In Albania, many expats say they feel seen, included, and safe in their neighborhoods.

Economic Stability and Cost of Living

Albania is an upper-middle-income economy with low inflation and a stable currency (the Albanian lek).

• GDP per capita (PPP): ~$23,400 in 2025
• Inflation: ~1.9%
• Youth unemployment: ~19.1%

Despite lower wages, the cost of living is low. Expats and digital nomads often find they can live comfortably on less than €1,200 per month, including rent, utilities, healthcare, and food.

In the UK and US, the cost of living continues to rise, especially in housing, healthcare, and transport. Albania offers a high quality of life for a fraction of the price.

Relateret: Hvor mange penge skal du bruge for at leve komfortabelt i Tirana?

Conclusion: How Safe is Albania in 2025?

Albania is a safe and stable country to live in, especially for remote workers, retirees, and expats seeking a simpler and more affordable lifestyle. While healthcare and infrastructure still face limitations, crime levels are low, political stability is improving, and the country’s social fabric is strong.

Compared to the United States, Albania has a lower violent crime rate, far fewer gun-related deaths, and a more affordable healthcare and living environment. When compared to the United Kingdom, Albania holds up well in day-to-day safety but offers a much lower cost of living, with some trade-offs in healthcare access and legal efficiency.

If your idea of safety includes peace of mind, community trust, and financial breathing room, Albania is a destination worth serious consideration.