Is Albania Affordable for Expats?

In recent years, Albania has become an appealing destination for expats and retirees seeking a reasonable yet rewarding lifestyle. But is Albania truly affordable?

Let’s break down the cost of living, housing, healthcare, and daily expenses to provide a comprehensive answer. (For this analysis, I will be referring to prices in Tirana, which is the capital of Albania and is generally more expensive than other cities.)

Cost of Living

Albania is known for its relatively low cost of living compared to Western Europe and North America. According to Numbeo, the cost of living in Albania is approximately 40.3% lower than in the United States (without rent). Major cities like Tirana, the capital, are more expensive than rural areas but still affordable by Western standards.

Monthly Expenses

Renting in the City Centre Vs. in Rural Areas

In Tirana, a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre costs around €500-€700 per month. Outside the city centre, prices drop to around €250-€300. In smaller cities or rural areas rent can be lower.

Utilities

Basic utilities, including electricity (heating, cooling), water, and garbage (which is included within the water payment), typically cost around €50-€80 per month.

Internet and Mobile

Home internet plans in Albania range from €13 to €48 per month, depending on the provider. Some well-known brands offering these services include Vodafone, Digicom, One, Tring, and Abissnet. Mobile plans are reasonably priced, typically costing around €10 to €20 per month. Signing up for a contract can reduce this cost to as little as €7 per month, with potential discounts on home internet plans. For instance, at Vodafone, I pay €7 per month for my home internet plan due to having a contract.

Groceries

Monthly grocery bills for a single person can range from €150-€250. This includes the essential needs. Popular supermarkets in Albania include Spar, Big Market, One Stop, Conad, and ProNatura.

Housing

We’ve covered a dedicated article on buying property in Albania that you might find helpful.

Healthcare

Albania’s healthcare system is another factor contributing to its affordability for expats. While the public healthcare system is under-resourced compared to Western standards, it provides basic medical services at very low costs. Many expats opt for private healthcare, which is still significantly cheaper than in many Western countries.

Public Healthcare

Public healthcare services are available to residents at minimal costs. However, the quality and availability of services can vary, particularly in rural areas.

Private Healthcare

Private clinics and hospitals offer better quality care and shorter waiting times. A visit to a private doctor typically costs between €20-€50, and health insurance plans are available for around €500-€1000 annually.

Daily Expenses

Daily expenses in Albania are manageable, making it an attractive destination for expats on a budget.

Dining Out

Eating out is affordable, with a meal at an inexpensive restaurant costing around €5-€10. A three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant is typically €30-€50 for two people. Some more luxurious restaurants are more expensive.

Transportation

Public transportation is inexpensive, with a monthly pass costing around €16. A bus ticket to move within the city costs 40 cents. Short taxi rides within cities usually cost around €5. To get from the city centre to the airport costs around €12.

Entertainment

Leisure activities such as cinema tickets cost around €8, and gym memberships range from €30-€45 per month, per 3x per week plan. This depends on the type of plan and the gym you choose to join. Some gyms are more expensive than others because they have more modern facilities.

Conclusion

As a native Albanian, I would say that the prices are more affordable than those in Western European countries. However, the rates have slightly increased recently, making the lifestyle not always very cheap for locals but considerably affordable for many expats who find the country inexpensive. Based on expats, and tourists’ perspectives, Albania is an attractive destination for those looking to live comfortably without breaking the bank.