Why More Families Are Choosing to Move to the Albanian Riviera

Why More Families Are Choosing to Move to the Albanian Riviera 

I’ve been living in Saranda for most of my adult life, and I’ve watched it grow and change in ways I never expected. What used to be a quiet coastal town is now one of the most desirable places to live in the entire region. Especially for families. 

And honestly, I get it. 

Last week, I showed a client a stunning seaview apartment in Ksamil —we stood on the balcony watching the sun dip below the Ionian Sea, and the client just stood there, silent for a while, then turned to me and said: 

“I can see my kids growing up here.” 

That moment? That’s why I love this job. 

But this trend? It’s not just a few cases here and there. More and more families—Albanian and international—are choosing to relocate permanently to the Albanian Riviera . And there are some very real reasons why. 

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It’s Not Just About the Beaches (Though, Let’s Be Honest…) 

Yes, the coastline is drop-dead gorgeous. The clear turquoise waters, the quiet coves, the dramatic mountain backdrops—it’s like living inside a travel postcard. 

But what most people don’t realize until they actually spend time here is how livable it is. 

Saranda , for example, has just the right balance. It’s not too big to feel overwhelming, but it’s big enough to have schools, cafes, markets, banks—all the essentials. And the vibe? Laid-back, but with a pulse. Especially in the spring and autumn, when the tourists aren’t flooding in but the weather’s still perfect for a coffee by the promenade. 

If you’re looking at Saranda apartments for sale , you’ll find options that work for families of all sizes. From new developments near Butrinti Street to older buildings closer to the heart of the city. And the best part? Prices are still incredibly affordable compared to anywhere else on the Mediterranean coast. I truly believe Saranda offers the best value in the region. Hands down. 

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Community Still Matters Here 

This is one of those things that doesn’t show up in the property listings, but it makes all the difference. 

In the south of Albania, neighborhoods feel like communities . People know each other. They help each other. If your child gets sick, your neighbor might show up at your door with herbal tea and an old family remedy before you even ask. 

We still take time for Sunday family lunches. We still greet each other with “Mirëmëngjes” at the bakery. There’s a kind of everyday kindness that hasn’t been lost to big city pace. 

And for families coming from abroad, especially those who feel tired of fast, crowded urban life, that’s something you feel immediately. The slower pace. The space to breathe. 

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Local Schools, Nature, and a Healthy Lifestyle 

One question I get a lot from relocating families is about education. 

Saranda now has several schools that are improving year after year. Some private, some public. And there are even bilingual options popping up, especially as more international families settle here. 

But beyond academics, I always point to what I call the “outdoor classroom” —the forests around the Blue Eye, the ancient olive groves in Lukovë, and the coastal trails that wind through the hills above Borsh. This is where kids get to live close to nature . 

Oh—and speaking of Borsh: 

If you ever find yourself near the beach around midday, skip the touristy spots and look for the small taverna hidden behind the fig trees . No sign. Just locals. I always bring clients there after viewings. Feels like stepping back in time. 

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Seaview Dreams Without the Crazy Price Tag

Let’s talk real estate for a second.

Whether you’re after a beachfront property, a cozy apartment with sea views, or a family villa tucked into the hillside, the Albanian Riviera gives you more bang for your buck than almost anywhere else in Europe.

For example, take a look at this villa we’re offering near Borsh. It’s got everything—privacy, pool, panoramic sea views, and it’s still under €500K. Try finding that in Greece or Italy!

Or if you’re looking for something more low-maintenance, the White Residence in Saranda has some beautiful modern apartments with sea views, just a short walk to the beach. Perfect for families who want to be close to both nature and city conveniences.

The key here is: you don’t have to compromise. You can get affordable properties without sacrificing quality, location, or lifestyle.

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A Quick Tangent on Figs and Family Stories

This might sound random, but stay with me.

Last summer, I had a French-Albanian family come down to Saranda looking for a summer apartment—but halfway through the trip, they decided to move here full-time. The moment that sealed it? Not the price. Not the beach.

It was a walk through a fig orchard.

The father told me it reminded him of his grandmother’s village in northern Albania. He turned to his wife and said, “I want our kids to grow up like this.”

That’s the thing about the Albanian Riviera—it awakens something in people. A memory. A dream. A version of life they forgot was possible.

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Final Thoughts (and an Open Invitation)

If you’re reading this and wondering whether moving to southern Albania is right for your family—come visit. Spend a week here. Drive the coastal road from Himara to Saranda. Take your shoes off and walk on the quiet beaches. Stop for a coffee in Qeparo. Chat with the locals. You’ll know by the end of the trip.

And if you’re already thinking about making the leap? I’d love to help you find the right place to call home.

Because whether it’s a modern apartment in the heart of Saranda or a quiet villa with a garden full of lemons, this coastline has something special. It’s not just a place to visit. It’s a place to belong.

Let’s talk when you’re ready.

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Looking for a home that fits your family’s vision?

Browse some of our favorite listings here:

Seaview apartments at White Residence

Private villas in Borsh

Or send me a message. I’ll tell you where to find the best coffee in Saranda while we talk real estate.