Cost of Living in Albania vs Greece and Italy

If you’re coming from Greece or Italy and thinking about living in Albania — whether for work, remote life, or just a change of pace — one of the biggest questions is cost.

How much cheaper is Albania?
Is it worth moving for the savings alone?
And what kind of lifestyle can you actually afford?

Let’s take a clear look at what you’ll spend in Albania compared to its neighbors — not with vague impressions, but with real numbers and honest insights.

Rent and Housing: Huge Savings Every Month

Housing is where Albania really stands out. Whether you’re living in Tirana, Durrës, or a smaller city, rent is significantly lower than in Athens, Rome, or even Thessaloniki.

Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment (city center):

• Tirana: €300–€450

• Athens: €600–€800

• Rome: €700–€900

Even in popular coastal towns like Vlorë or Saranda, you can find modern, furnished apartments for half of what you’d pay in Greece or Italy.

If you’re moving alone or as a couple, the difference in rent alone can save you thousands per year.

Food and Groceries: Fresh and Affordable

Albania has a strong local food culture. Markets are full of seasonal produce, and prices are very fair — especially if you cook at home.

Here’s what you might expect to pay for common items:

Restaurants are also cheaper. You can get a full lunch with drinks for under €10, or enjoy a dinner for two at a nice place for €30 total.

Transport: Small Country, Smaller Costs

Public transportation in Albania is simple and affordable. In Tirana, a bus ride costs around €0.40, and a monthly pass is less than €15.

Taxis are much cheaper than in Greece or Italy. A short city ride might cost €3–€5, and longer rides to nearby towns are very reasonable.

For those who drive, fuel is slightly cheaper than in Italy, and parking is rarely an issue outside the capital.

Utilities and Internet: Steady and Inexpensive

Monthly costs for a small apartment in Tirana are typically:

• Electricity, heating, water: €40–€80

• High-speed internet (100mbs – 2Gbs): €8–€25

• Mobile phone with data: €10–€15

Compared to Italy or Greece, that’s about 30–50% lower for the same services.

And yes — internet speeds are fast enough for remote work, video calls, and streaming.

Lifestyle and Entertainment

Even with a modest income, you can enjoy life here. Gym memberships are around €25–€35 per month. Cinema tickets cost €4–€6. Local excursions, weekend getaways, and coastal trips are easy to do on a budget.

If you’re earning a foreign salary, the difference is even more dramatic. Many remote workers say they live better in Albania on €1,000/month than they could in Athens on €2,000.

What About Salaries?

This is the one place where Albania is lower. Local salaries range between €500 and €900/month for most support or office roles.

However, if you’re working for a European company or earning remotely, the cost advantage becomes a major benefit. You keep your income, but reduce your spending — which gives you more freedom.

Albania is not just affordable — it’s livable.

You get good food, a friendly culture, and a relaxed pace of life, without the pressure of big-city expenses. If you’re moving from Greece or Italy, you’ll find things feel familiar but lighter — on your wallet and your lifestyle.

Interested in relocating to Albania for work or remote life?

Contact Us — and we’ll help you explore your options.