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The most popular cities for retirees

2026-02-08 08:42:00, Ekonomi CNA

Vlora and Saranda are the most sought-after cities for American, Italian and Swiss retirees to live in Albania. Lisa Spence lives in Vlora, and real estate agents report an increase in demand for long-term rentals from Americans.

For most, the initial period of stay ranges from 1 to 2 months, to test the possibility of life in Albania, and then they choose longer periods of 1-2 years. Real estate agents claim that American retirees chose rental properties from 350 to 400 USD per month, but in some cases rental properties above these values ????are also preferred.

Eron Çumani, from “Saranda Property”, says that this year the number of American citizens who are choosing to rent in the city of Saranda has increased. Mr. Çumani stated that the reasons for their arrival are numerous, ranging from the pro-American stance of the Albanian people, the lower cost of living and the low rents of apartments compared to prices in the US.

“This year there has been a 'wave' of arrivals of American citizens seeking long-term residence in Saranda, including retirees, but also citizens of various ages.

First, many of them are testing their stay in Albania, trying to live for a month or two, also taking advantage of the facility of not applying for a residence permit for a year.

After the testing period, it is noted that many of them then seek a longer-term stay. Most of them stay in rented apartments with prices ranging from 350 euros to 400 euros per month. Usually, the areas on the outskirts of Saranda are preferred, as rental prices are low.

The main reason why they choose to live in Albania is security, as they find a people friendly to American citizens.

Many of them see the one-year residence permit-free stay in Albania, which Albanian legislation allows for American citizens, as an advantage. This advantage is also being used by Ukrainian citizens.

Another, but quite important, reason is the low cost of living and rental prices compared to American states.

"We have seen how the lifestyle of many foreigners who have been living in Saranda for years has changed. Initially, they live in rented houses, then some of them buy apartments at affordable prices, buy cars and even hire housekeepers."

Eron Çumani, from the real estate agency “Saranda Property”, emphasizes that Americans prefer coastal cities that offer tranquility, good climate and sufficient infrastructure for living. The low cost of living, climate, sea and hospitality of local residents are factors that most influence their decision to live in Albania.

But, in addition to American citizens, Mr. Çumani says that retirees from Western European countries, such as Switzerland or Germany, are also coming to live in Saranda.

It is not only about pensioners with relatively low incomes, of 1,500 or 2,000 euros per month, but also about wealthy pensioners, who take advantage of the opportunity to withdraw funds from private pension schemes.

For example, a Swiss citizen has withdrawn an amount of about 350 thousand euros to live in Saranda”, says Mr. Çumani.

Albania is also attracting British pensioners due to non-payment of pensions and low rents

In addition to American citizens, Albania is increasingly becoming a preferred destination for British retirees. An article published earlier by “MailOnline”, the website of the famous British tabloid “Daily Mail”, emphasizes that the main reasons that attract retirees are the low cost of living, affordable apartment rents and the lack of taxation on pensions.

Experts explain that British retirees can apply for Albania's "dedicated retirement visa option for non-EU citizens".

William Cooper, marketing director at the British health insurance company, explains that the steps involve obtaining a 'D' visa, which allows for extended stay, and then applying for a residence permit through the e-Albania portal, providing accommodation, income and health insurance. To secure the visa, the minimum monthly income from a pension must be at least 120,000 lek (or about 1,011 pounds or 1,271 USD).

According to real estate agency experts, the article highlights that the most preferred cities for British retirees are Tirana, Vlora and Saranda.

"Tirana offers the best infrastructure, numerous investments and health and educational services, as well as an active lifestyle with cafes, bars and cultural activities. A 1+1 apartment in the center costs 400-700 euros per month, while outside the center 250-500 euros.

While property sales prices range from 1,500 to 3,000 euros per square meter.

Vlora along the Albanian Riviera, quieter than Tirana, is a city with a growing community and easy access to the most beautiful beaches.

Prices for beachfront properties range from 1,200-2,500 euros per square meter, while rents are 20-30% lower than in the capital. Saranda, the warmest of the three, remains a favorite destination for retirees for its coastal beauty.

The cost of living in Albania is around 11% lower than in Spain, another popular destination for British retirees.

"A meal at a restaurant can cost 8-15 euros per person, a coffee around 1 euro, and a couple can spend 250-400 euros per month on food, while electricity, water and internet are around 100 euros," the article notes.

The article further states that Albania has a universal health system, financed by mandatory and voluntary contributions, supplemented by the state budget. Private health care has seen significant improvement, ensuring high standards for residents and foreign pensioners.

Experts and foreign retirees estimate that Albania offers a unique combination: low costs, high quality of life, pleasant climate and welcoming communities, making it an attractive option for living after retirement./ Monitor Magazine