Living the Slow Life: Why Retirees Are Choosing Saranda Over Spain

I’ve been living and working in Saranda for over a decade now. In that time, I’ve watched the sleepy fishing town I grew up in transform into something that still surprises me—a real alternative to places like Costa del Sol, Mallorca, or the south of France.

But not in the flashy, overcrowded, overpriced way.

Saranda is changing. Quietly. Slowly. And retirees—especially from Northern Europe—are starting to notice.

Last week, I showed a couple from Sweden a seaview apartment near the Port. The second the wife stepped onto the balcony and saw the curve of the Ionian Sea wrapped around the town below, she turned to her husband and said, “Why would we ever go back to Spain?”

 Saranda Is Slower. And That’s the Point.

Let’s get one thing straight—Saranda is not trying to be Spain. You won’t find huge shopping malls or 6-lane highways buzzing with tourists year-round.

What you’ll find instead is a slower rhythm. Mornings that start with espresso and a walk on the promenade. Afternoons where time feels like it pauses—especially if you’re sitting under the fig tree at Taverna Pupi with a plate of grilled octopus. Evenings with the sky turning lavender, and the whole town gathering to watch it.

If you’re someone who’s spent years working nonstop—rushing, scheduling, moving—this place will feel like a deep breath.

 Let’s Talk About Money (Because Everyone Asks)

I’ve had retirees from Belgium, Norway, Germany, and even Canada ask me: “Is it really that cheap?”

In a word—yes. But not in a “you get what you pay for” kind of way. More like… you actually get more than you expected.

Property taxes? Extremely low.

Cost of living? You can live well here on €1,000/month.

Property prices? Still affordable—especially compared to Spain or Italy. Take this fully furnished 2-bedroom apartment, just 150m from the beach. You’d pay triple for something similar in Marbella.

And here’s the thing: Prices are rising slowly—but steadily. I always tell clients that now is the time. The early window is still open, but not for long.

 Homes with a View—For a Lot Less

One of the main reasons retirees love Saranda is because they can actually afford a home with a sea view.

That dream of waking up to sunlight dancing on the water? It’s real here. And it doesn’t require millions.

We recently listed a modern apartment at Residenca 12—elevator, sea view, 5 minutes from the promenade. Perfect for someone who wants to live without needing a car. Walk to the beach, walk to the bakery, walk to the pharmacy.

Or if you want something beachfront and turnkey, White Residence is one of the top picks. It’s right on the sand, peaceful even in summer, and feels like a small community of like-minded neighbors.

Honestly, I truly believe Saranda offers the best value on the entire Mediterranean coast.

 Community Feels Like Family

It’s a small town. You’ll see the same faces. The baker will remember your name. The woman who sells tomatoes in the market will give you a few extra if you try to speak Albanian.

There’s this one retiree from Poland who bought a villa in Borsh—beautiful spot with olive trees and a pool. You can see it here. He told me last summer, “I came here for the views, but I stayed for the people.”

That’s what no brochure or YouTube video can explain. The human connection here is different.Warmer. More personal.