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.   

Investing in Property—Is That Safe? 

From a legal and financial standpoint, Albania has come a long way. Especially in the south. 

Over the past decade, the property market has become much more transparent. Titles are more regulated, and if you work with a reputable agency ( hi, that’s us! ), we guide you through everything—clean titles, due diligence, even helping you open a local bank account. 

Some older properties might still have paperwork issues, especially inherited land, so it’s important not to go it alone. I always tell my clients: “Cheap property with messy documents is the most expensive mistake you can make.” Stick with verified listings like the ones we have here: 

https://projects.vivaview.al/ 

Also, let’s talk returns. 

Because this isn’t just about safety—it’s about opportunity. Right now, I truly believe Saranda offers the best value on the entire Mediterranean coast . That’s not just hype. Where else can you find modern, fully furnished seaview apartments for under €150,000? Try that in Greece or Italy. 

Rental income is solid too. Especially in Ksamil during peak season. One client from the UK bought a one-bedroom unit near the beach and had it fully booked from June to September— in their first year . And this wasn’t even listed on the big platforms yet. 

A Quick (But Important) Tangent… 

There’s a small taverna tucked away near Borsh beach —you probably wouldn’t find it unless someone local took you. The chairs don’t match, and the owner still uses paper menus from five years ago. But it’s perfect. I’ve taken investors there after a long day of viewings, and over grilled fish and a glass of raki, you can feel how real this place is. 

That’s the Albania I want my clients to experience. Not just the shiny finishes and glossy photos—but the soul of it. 

What About Healthcare, Banking, All That Stuff? 

Good question. 

Healthcare is improving every year. Saranda has a regional hospital and several private clinics—more than enough for everyday needs. And for anything more serious, Tirana is just a 4-5 hour drive or 30-minute flight away. 

Banking has also become foreigner-friendly. Most of my clients open a local bank account with no issues. Euro is widely accepted, and the process for transferring funds for property purchases is surprisingly smooth if you’ve got the right support. 

And yes, foreigners can own property outright in Albania . No need for a local partner or anything complicated. 

One Last Thing: The Feeling of Safety Goes Beyond Crime Stats

It’s the way the man at the bakery remembers your name after two visits. The way your neighbors will bring you figs from their garden without being asked. The way kids play outside until late, and no one’s worried.

That’s not something you can put in a brochure. But it matters.

And I think, more than anything, that’s what draws people here—not just the affordable properties, but the life that comes with them.

Want to See It For Yourself?

If you’re curious, just start browsing. Some of our most in-demand listings—like the White Residence in Saranda—are already attracting buyers from all over Europe.

Take a look here: https://projects.vivaview.al/white-residence/

Or better yet—come visit. I’ll show you around personally. We’ll look at some seaview villas, grab a coffee by the promenade, and if you’re lucky, maybe I’ll take you to that secret taverna in Borsh.

Because once you see it, you’ll understand.

This place isn’t just beautiful.

It’s safe, it’s full of opportunity, and it just might be the smartest move you ever make.