How Safe is Southern Albania for Expats and Investors?

This is a question I get all the time—sometimes even before clients ask about the price or the view.

And honestly? I get it.

If you’re thinking about buying a beachfront property or one of the gorgeous Saranda apartments for sale, especially if you’re not from here, safety has to be top of mind. So let’s talk about it, no fluff—just local, on-the-ground experience.

I’ve lived in Saranda for years now. Walked almost every street. Watched this place grow from a quiet coastal town to a true gem of the Albanian Riviera—with travelers, investors, and even young families from abroad choosing to settle here. And yet, the character of the place hasn’t changed. It’s still deeply Albanian. Still warm, welcoming, and yes—very safe.

First, a Little Personal Insight

Last week, I showed a client a stunning seaview apartment in Ksamil. You should’ve seen her face when we stepped onto the balcony—eyes wide, mouth open. “How is this not swarming with buyers already?” she asked.

And that’s the thing. Southern Albania still surprises people. Not just with beauty and affordability, but with how safe and stable life feels here.

I’ve walked back from client meetings at 10 PM in the summer, down the promenade in Saranda with my phone in hand and sandals in the other—never once felt unsafe. People are out, kids are playing, street vendors still selling corn or byrek. There’s a sense of calm here you don’t always find in touristy Mediterranean spots.

So, Is Southern Albania Safe?

In a word: Yes.

But let’s break that down a bit—because “safe” can mean a lot of things.

Crime? In Saranda and Ksamil, it’s low. Petty theft is rare, and violent crime is almost unheard of, especially in the coastal towns where everyone knows each other. And believe me, in Saranda—everyone knows each other. Your local fruit seller probably went to school with your plumber. That kind of community keeps people accountable.

Cultural safety? Albanians are known for besa—a deep-rooted cultural concept of hospitality and loyalty. If you’re a guest here, especially a foreigner, people go out of their way to look after you. I’ve had clients invited into local homes for coffee after a viewing. One German couple told me they felt safer walking around in Saranda than in their hometown.

Of course, you’ll still want to use common sense. Don’t leave your wallet on the beach chair and wander off for an hour. But that’s just basic stuff you’d follow anywhere.