Living in Albania Pros and Cons (From a Local’s Perspective)

Considering a move to Albania? As a local, I’ve experienced the country’s benefits and challenges firsthand. Albania is a considerable destination for anyone looking for a fresh start, however, like any place, it comes with its own set of pros and cons.

In this blog post, I’ll provide an insider’s view of what it’s truly like to live in Albania to help you make the right decision if you’re questioning whether to move here or not.

Pros of Living in Albania

Here are the main pros of living in Albania you should consider.

Cheaper Compared to Western European Countries

One of the major draws of Albania is its relatively low cost of living. Even though inflation has caused prices to rise in recent years, Albania still remains affordable when it comes to everyday expenses like food, transportation, and entertainment.

Recent data shows that Albania’s inflation rate eased to 2.1% in the most recent month, down slightly from 2.2% in the previous month. This modest decrease indicates a slight improvement in price stability, at least for now.

In Albania, you can live comfortably and save money on the side, especially if you’re an expat or digital nomad working for an international company. Earning higher profits while residing in a country with low-to-medium costs makes a significant financial advantage.

While rent has increased in major cities, particularly in Tirana, it remains lower compared to Western European countries. On the other hand, buying property in Tirana can be quite expensive (check the paragraphs below).

Stunning Natural Beauty

I feel like Albania has been underestimated before it became popular in recent years. Even though it is a small country, its natural beauty is diverse. Mountains, lakes, and coastlines are perfect for hiking, beach trips, and exploring the countryside. There’s so much to see; even natives sometimes feel like foreigners in this country. And if you’re the adventurer type, you’ll find all these beautiful destinations and hidden spots waiting to be explored.

Interesting History and Culture

One of the things I like most about a new country is learning more about its history and culture. There’s something quite intriguing about discovering its past and how it has influenced the country to what it is today.

The same goes for Albania.

Albania is a treasure chest of history and culture. It’s shaped by many different civilizations over time. Ancient ruins and UNESCO World Heritage Sites are scattered across the country. Festivals and national holidays bring their traditions to life. It’s so cool to get the chance to explore all these components of Albania’s identity and get to know its history better, especially for those who don’t know a lot about the country.

Friendly and Helpful Locals

Albanians are known to be very friendly and kind people. If you’re a newcomer, they’ll make it easier for you to feel welcome. You can ask for suggestions, advice, or even about the country’s history, fun facts, and traditions. And don’t be surprised if you make new friends within the first weeks of being here.

In Northern Albania, the cultural concept of “Besa,” which highlights trust and hospitality, is especially valued, reflecting the deep-rooted warmth and generosity of the Albanian people.

Lively Lifestyle

Albania is always full of energy. Bigger cities like Tirana, the capital, are always lively, so there’s always something to do here. Whether an event, festival, activity or new spot, there are so many entertainment options to try. I know a lot of people like this lifestyle and if you’re one of them, you’ll love it here.

Pleasant Mediterranean Climate

Albania enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and warm, sunny summers. The coastal regions benefit from plenty of sunshine throughout the year. Winters are generally mild, with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing, which contributes to a comfortable living experience even during the colder months. Summers are warm and sunny (but sometimes they can be too hot), perfect for enjoying beautiful beaches.

Expat Community

Albania is home to a growing expat community that provides support and social opportunities for newcomers. People from different backgrounds gather to connect and welcome new members in the community. Expats in Albania often find it easier to adjust to their new surroundings thanks to social gatherings, informal meet-ups, and organized events that help build connections and friendships. The community also offers practical advice and resources for adjusting quickly to the new lifestyle.

Cons of Living in Albania

Moving to a new country is obviously not just sunshine and rainbows. Here are some of the pros of living in Albania to keep in mind.

Expensive Property Prices

Recently, Tirana has seen a surge in investments, leading to a significant increase in property prices. With these ongoing developments, the cost of real estate is expected to remain considerably high. This trend may make it challenging for prospective buyers to find affordable options, especially in the city’s most sought-after areas.

Lack of Infrastructure

Though Albania is steadily developing, its infrastructure still lags behind that of more developed European countries. Public transportation, particularly between cities, can be unreliable, and the healthcare system, though affordable, often lacks modern equipment. Bus systems remain traditional, with conductors handling fare collection manually. As a native, even though I don’t use public transportation often, I find this system to be very uncomfortable.

Chaotic Driving

You’ve probably heard of it before or even experienced it yourself. Driving in Albania is not for the weak. It can get chaotic out there, and the traffic sometimes is crazy. What I find particularly frustrating is how some drivers ignore the white lines, leaving you to second-guess whether it’s safe to cross the road or not in future situations.

Language Barrier in Less Popular Areas

While younger generations and people in tourist areas may speak English, it is less commonly spoken in rural regions. Expats considering living outside major cities may find day-to-day communication more challenging. Also, families should know that international schools are not popular, if not absent, in smaller cities.

Challenging to Find Job Opportunities

Albania’s economy is still developing, and job opportunities can be limited in certain sectors. Even where new positions are available, foreigners may face challenges in securing them, as some employers prioritize local candidates or require proficiency in Albanian. For expats working remotely, this may not be an issue, but if you’re looking to find a job within Albania, the process might not be smooth sailing.

Limited Healthcare

While Albania offers private healthcare options that are both available and affordable, the public healthcare system faces significant challenges. It is underfunded and lacks modern amenities. For more serious medical procedures, many expats choose to seek treatment abroad, which can be inconvenient.

Import Taxes and Limited Availability of Goods

High import taxes make international shipping to Albania expensive, and certain goods might not be as readily available compared to other European countries. This can sometimes make living in Albania feel isolated from global markets, especially for those used to easy access to international products. Also, the limited availability of popular brands means it can be more challenging to find your favourite new products in Albania.

Conclusion

Living in Albania has its pros and cons that you should weigh carefully. It also depends on what your plan is. For example, retirees are particularly drawn to the prospect of enjoying a relaxed lifestyle in coastal cities, while expats and digital nomads appreciate the opportunity to work while travelling.

If you’re contemplating a long-term move to Albania, your decision will depend on your priorities. While Albania is not the most developed country, ongoing investments are significantly improving and modernising the lifestyle. That being said, I think Albania is poised to become an even more attractive destination in the near future.