If I had a euro for every time someone asked me, “What can I actually buy for 100,000 euros in Albania?” — well, I’d probably have enough to buy another apartment myself.
Truth is, 100,000 euros used to stretch a lot further even just 4–5 years ago. But even now, if you know where to look (and who to ask), that budget still gets you something really good. Especially here in the south.
I’ve lived in Saranda for years — worked with buyers from all over — and this question comes up more than any other. So, let’s break it down, honestly, city by city. And I’ll tell you where I’d put my own money, too.
Saranda – Still the Sweet Spot of the Albanian Riviera
Let’s start at home. I might be biased — okay, I am — but Saranda offers the best value on the entire Mediterranean coast right now. No exaggeration. With 100,000 euros in Saranda, you’re looking at a furnished 1+1 apartment, often with partial or even full sea view, depending on location and floor.
Last month, I helped a couple from Poland close on a second-floor studio, 3 minutes from the beach, fully new construction. Clean lines, modern finishes, and surprisingly quiet even in July. They paid under budget — take a look here if you’re curious: Spacious Studio Apartment – New Build, Close to Beach
What makes Saranda special isn’t just the beach — it’s the lifestyle. Morning coffee on the promenade. Kids playing at sunset. The local fruit vendor who remembers your name. You’re not buying just a place to sleep — you’re buying rhythm, routine, something grounded. And if you’re lucky enough to get something with even a glimpse of the sea? That view alone is worth thousands over time.
Borsh – Quiet, Untouched, and a Little Wild
Now Borsh… that’s a different story. In a good way. It’s quieter. More remote. No high-rises. No cruise ships docking. Just long beaches, olive groves, and goats occasionally blocking the road.
With 100K here? You could potentially snag a small plot of land near the beach — or even a rustic house ready to renovate. Apartments are rare, but when they pop up, they’re often spacious and affordable, and you’re just 5–10 minutes from the sea, depending on how steep the hill is.
And here’s a little local tip: there’s this small taverna near the far end of Borsh Beach — it’s not on Google Maps, but their grilled octopus is unreal. I always stop there with clients after a property visit. It kind of sells the dream for me.
Borsh isn’t for everyone — there’s not much nightlife, and WiFi can be spotty depending on where you are — but for the right buyer, it’s a gem. Perfect for peace, nature, and long-term value.
Ksamil – Albania’s Santorini… With a Price Tag to Match
Okay. Let’s talk Ksamil — the darling of the Albanian Riviera, especially in the last 3 years. Prices here have skyrocketed. I mean, five years ago, 100K could get you a penthouse. Now? You’re looking at smaller 1+1s, often in mid-rise buildings, no guaranteed seaview unless you’re really lucky.
But here’s the thing — if you find something under 100K with a view and access to amenities like a pool, you grab it fast. Like this 1+1 seaview apartment with pool access . It’s tight on space — just under 60m² — but perfect for rentals, summer escapes, or even passive income if you list it on Airbnb.
Last week, I showed this exact unit to a woman from Switzerland who was planning to buy something in Corfu. She walked into the balcony, saw the pool, the sea, the quiet — and said, “Why pay double across the water?” I had no answer. She bought it on the spot.
Tirana – City Vibes, Rising Prices, Less Space
Now let’s move north to Tirana, the capital. Very different energy — fast, busy, ambitious. You’ll find more options in terms of buildings, but space comes at a cost. For 100K, you’re usually getting a studio or small 1-bedroom, sometimes in the suburbs, sometimes closer in if you’re okay with an older building.
You might be near the Lake Park, or in Komuna e Parisit — and those are nice areas. But you won’t get a sea breeze. You will get traffic. And you probably won’t hear birds in the morning unless you count car alarms.
To be fair, Tirana has its perks. It’s where the jobs are. The nightlife. The international schools. If you’re buying for long-term rental or want a city lifestyle, it’s a smart option. But if you’re chasing calm, sunlight, and that Ionian glow… this isn’t it.
So Where’s the Best Deal?
Depends on what you want. Want rental income and guaranteed tourism appeal? Go with Ksamil. Want long-term peace and hidden beauty? Consider Borsh. Want balance between life and value? Saranda is the sweet spot. Want urban living and resale potential? Tirana is your play.
If I had to choose for myself? Honestly, I’d go with Saranda. Not just because I live here, but because I see the growth. New builds going up with thought-out design, more digital nomads arriving each season, more shops staying open year-round. And the prices? Still very reasonable for a beachfront property in the Mediterranean.
Every time I do this price comparison, I’m reminded how lucky we are here in the south. For the cost of a parking space in Paris, you can get a full apartment with sea view, sunshine, and a front-row seat to the most beautiful sunsets you’ve ever seen.
And I get it — deciding where to buy is big. It’s emotional. But sometimes, all it takes is walking into the right apartment and seeing the light hit the water just right. That’s usually when my clients say, “Okay. This is the one.”
If you’re curious what’s available right now, shoot me a message or stop by our office in Saranda. We can talk, explore, maybe even head down to the beach after. Because hey — if you’re going to talk real estate, might as well do it with your feet in the sand.
Discover why Ksamil is becoming the hidden gem of the Albanian Riviera for property buyers and investors. Real insights, local tips, and listings you won’t find anywhere else.
Discover why Saranda is one of the best places to invest and live on the Albanian Riviera—insider tips, local stories, and real estate insights from a local expert.