Living in Albania vs. Living in Greece: Cost of Living and Lifestyle Comparison

If you’ve been thinking about moving to the Mediterranean, you’ve probably considered both Albania and Greece. After all, who can resist the crystal-clear waters, amazing food, and a slower pace of life in these coastal paradises? As someone who’s lived in Saranda for years and works in the local real estate market, I can tell you that there are some important differences—especially when it comes to cost of living and lifestyle—between these two countries.

Last week, I showed a client a stunning property in Ksamil. Their reaction reminded me why I love this job. They couldn’t stop marveling at the views of the Ionian Sea—something I see almost every day but never get tired of. It got me thinking about how living in Albania offers some truly unbeatable advantages compared to its more famous neighbor, Greece.

So, let’s break it down.

Cost of Living: Albania vs. Greece

When it comes to cost of living, Albania is the clear winner. Saranda, Ksamil, Borsh—these areas are known for their natural beauty, but what really stands out is how much more affordable they are compared to the Greek islands. I’ve had clients who were originally looking for beachfront property in Greece but ended up falling in love with Albania because the same property—sometimes even better quality—was half the price.

For example, you could get a seaview apartment in Saranda for a fraction of what you’d pay for a similar property in a place like Santorini. Take a look at this luxury penthouse with a spectacular view in Saranda; it’s priced so reasonably, especially considering the breathtaking panoramic sea views (trust me, I’ve been to many places in the Mediterranean, and these views are hard to beat).

In comparison, living in Greece is definitely pricier. While Greece does offer a wide range of properties, especially in popular spots like Mykonos, Crete, and the Ionian Islands, most of the tourist hotspots come with a hefty price tag. You’ll pay a premium for that picture-perfect sunset over the Aegean, but you may not get much change from your wallet.

And let’s talk about everyday expenses. Groceries, dining out, and utilities are all generally more affordable in Albania. I’ll take the little fish taverna near Borsh Beach over an overpriced restaurant in Santorini any day. It’s a hidden gem that most tourists overlook—perfect for property viewings, too, if you ask me.

Lifestyle: The Vibe of the Albanian Riviera vs. the Greek Islands

Now, let’s talk lifestyle. Greece, of course, is well-known for its tourism-driven lifestyle. While it’s beautiful and culturally rich, it’s hard to escape the crowds in some of the more famous locations. In places like Santorini or Mykonos, you’ll find tourists everywhere, and that means prices can be sky-high, especially in high season.

Albania, on the other hand, feels more like a well-kept secret—at least for now. The Albanian Riviera offers stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and charming coastal villages. But the vibe here is far less touristy than in Greece. Sure, places like Ksamil and Saranda are becoming more popular, but it’s still easy to find peace and solitude. The locals are warm and welcoming, and you’ll experience an authentic Albanian lifestyle that’s hard to find in more tourist-centric Greek locations.

I’ve had expats tell me they love the slower pace of life here in Albania. It’s less rushed, more relaxed, and—because of the lower cost of living—you can actually enjoy more of it. I’ll admit, I’ve grown accustomed to the rhythm of life here. Whether it’s enjoying a morning coffee at one of the seaside cafés in Ksamil or watching the sunset over the Ionian from a seaview apartment in Saranda, every day feels like a gift.

The Local Community: The Heartbeat of Albania

One thing that stands out in Albania is the strong sense of community. As a local real estate agent, I’m lucky enough to interact with both locals and expats daily. Many of my clients are amazed by how tight-knit the community feels, especially in small towns like Borsh and Ksamil. When you live here, you’re not just another tourist—people get to know you, and you feel like part of the fabric of the town.

Greece has a similar charm in its smaller islands, but in larger tourist-heavy destinations, you can feel a bit like a stranger. I remember when I first moved to Saranda, the locals treated me like family. That warmth is one of the things I cherish most about this region.

Property Availability: Affordable Options in Saranda, Ksamil, and Beyond

So, you’ve probably guessed by now that property prices in Albania are significantly more affordable. The market here is booming, and there’s a range of properties available, from small apartments in the heart of Saranda to sprawling beachfront villas in Ksamil. If you’re looking for an investment opportunity, there’s no better time than now.

You won’t find many places in Greece where you can buy a modern seaview apartment for such a reasonable price. In fact, one of the most exciting properties I’ve seen recently is this hotel for sale in Ksamil, which can also be used for Airbnbs. It’s a fantastic opportunity for anyone looking to get into the vacation rental market.

When I first got into real estate in Albania, I remember how different the market was compared to Greece. Back then, the options in Albania were much more limited, but that’s all changed. There’s a variety of affordable properties now, and we’re seeing more developments with the highest European standards. One thing I’ll always say—Saranda truly offers the best value on the entire Mediterranean coast.

Culture and Heritage: A Blend of Ancient and Modern

Both Albania and Greece boast rich histories, but there’s something special about how Albania blends its ancient heritage with modern life. Walking through the streets of Saranda, you can’t help but feel the weight of history—whether it’s the ruins of Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or the ancient castle overlooking the town. But you also see the modern touch, with sleek new buildings and cafés that bring together the past and the present.

Greek islands have their own ancient sites, of course, but sometimes the focus is more on tourism than preservation. The tourist crowds, while part of the charm, can often overshadow the deeper cultural experiences.

Wrapping Up: Why Albania Might Be Your Best Bet

So, which one should you choose: Albania or Greece? If you’re looking for a Mediterranean lifestyle without the hefty price tag and tourist overload, Albania is where you’ll find true value. From affordable beachfront property to the authentic local culture, there’s so much to love about life on the Albanian Riviera.

Whether you’re dreaming of a quiet life in a seaview apartment or thinking of investing in a luxury penthouse in Saranda, Albania offers so many options—many of them that are just waiting for the right buyer. Take a look at the luxury penthouse I mentioned earlier and see for yourself how incredible the views and the price are. Trust me, it’s hard to find a deal like that in Greece.

And remember, when you’re looking to buy property here, there’s no commission fee, thanks to Viva View Real Estate. If you’re ready to make the move or invest in one of the most beautiful corners of the world, let’s talk.

Feel free to get in touch—I’ll be here, showing properties and enjoying this beautiful corner of the Mediterranean.