I get this question almost every week.
Sometimes from investors. Sometimes from couples who just came back from a beach walk in Ksamil and are suddenly imagining a different life.
“Is there property tax in Albania?”
It sounds simple. But like most things here, the real answer depends on context.
Let me explain it the way I usually do — sitting across the table, coffee in hand, not rushing.
Why Everyone Asks About Property Tax First
A few days ago, I was showing a client a brand-new apartment in Ksamil. We had just stepped out onto the balcony — the kind where the air smells like salt and pine at the same time — and before asking about furniture or rental income, they asked:
“So… what do we pay every year to keep this place?”
That moment always makes me smile.
Because compared to most of Europe, Albania surprises people. In a good way.
The Short Answer (Before We Go Deeper)
Yes, there is property tax in Albania.
But it’s low. Very low.
So low, in fact, that many foreign buyers think there must be a catch.
There isn’t.
Now let’s slow down and talk details — the practical ones you actually care about.
How Property Tax Really Works in Albania
Property tax here is calculated annually and is based on the value and type of the property. But unlike many countries, it doesn’t feel like a penalty for owning real estate.
For most residential properties — especially Saranda apartments for sale, seaview apartments, and even beachfront property — the annual cost is modest. Often closer to what you’d pay for a few dinners out rather than a financial burden.
I’ve had clients from Italy, Germany, even Scandinavia, laugh out loud when they hear the number.
Then they double-check.
Then they ask again.
It’s one of the reasons Albania is still considered a land of affordable properties, especially along the Albanian Riviera.
Local Reality: What Owners Actually Experience
Here’s something only locals really notice.
In Saranda, property tax doesn’t dominate conversations. What people talk about instead is:
– Where to park in August
– Which bakery opens earliest
– Whether the sea is calmer on the east side or west side of the bay
That tells you a lot.
Property ownership here doesn’t come with that constant feeling of “the meter is running.” It feels lighter. More relaxed. Very Albanian, honestly.
Apartments vs Villas: Does It Change?
Yes, slightly. But not dramatically.
A modern apartment in a new residence — especially something like a quiet, well-built 1-bedroom in Ksamil — will usually have a lower tax footprint than a large private villa. That’s normal anywhere.
For example, I recently discussed costs with a buyer looking at a brand-new 1-bedroom apartment in Ksamil, finished in summer 2025, located in a calm new neighborhood. The building has a shared swimming pool for residents, tasteful finishes, and it’s just a short walk — about seven minutes — from the beach.
We went over everything calmly. Property tax barely moved the needle in their decision-making.
If you’re curious, this was the apartment:
https://www.vivaview.al/en/properties/1-bedroom-apartment-for-sale-in-ksamil-65m2
It felt like quiet luxury. And the yearly obligations reflected that same feeling — understated.
A Small Tangent (Because This Always Comes Up)
At some point, someone usually asks me:
“Why is it so low?”
The answer is partly historical, partly cultural.
Albania has always encouraged ownership. Property here isn’t seen as a luxury item reserved for a few — it’s something families pass down, take care of, improve slowly over time. That mindset still shapes how taxes are structured today.
Anyway. Back to business.
What About Seaview and Prime Locations?
Another common fear:
“If it has a sea view, the tax must be higher.”
Not really.
Yes, prime locations like Skënderbeu Street in Saranda or the first lines near the coast are valued higher — but again, the tax remains very reasonable.
Take something like this 1+1 seaview apartment in Saranda, in a new, secure residence, with a private swimming pool and completely open sea views — no buildings blocking the horizon. High-end work, calm neighborhood, perfect for living or renting.
https://www.vivaview.al/en/properties/seaview-1-bedroom-apartment-for-sale-in-saranda-skenderbeu-street-fully-furnished
For many buyers, especially investors, the property tax is almost symbolic compared to rental returns.
Ksamil Duplexes and Higher-End Properties
Now, let’s talk about something a bit more premium.
Ksamil has changed fast. Too fast, some would say. But the newer developments — the good ones — are doing something right. They focus on privacy, space, and security.
I’m thinking of a duplex I showed not long ago.
New 2025 building.
Two swimming pools — one private, one shared.
Underground parking only for residents.
A few minutes from the beach and the center.
It’s the kind of place that works for a family, but also makes sense purely as an investment. The numbers are strong. ROI can go up to 16% per year if managed properly.
Property tax? Again — not a dealbreaker. Not even close.
Here’s that property, if you want to see what I mean:
https://www.vivaview.al/en/properties/luxury-duplex-for-sale-in-ksamil-new-building-pool-near-beach-139m2
Villas in Saranda: Privacy Comes First
Villas are different emotionally.
People who buy them usually value privacy more than anything else.
There’s a new development I often think about — tucked into a very quiet, green neighborhood in Saranda. No traffic noise. No crowds. Just space, light, and a private swimming pool. The layout is generous, ideal for families or for someone who wants a long-term base here.
It’s rare to find something like that inside Saranda itself.
And yes, property tax exists. But compared to the level of privacy and comfort, it feels almost irrelevant.
This is the kind of opportunity I’m talking about:
https://www.vivaview.al/en/properties/private-villa-for-sale-in-saranda-albania-with-swimming-pool-surra
Another Local Detail You Won’t Find Online
When I explain taxes to clients, it’s often while walking — not sitting.
Sometimes we stop near the old harbor. Sometimes near a small café above Mango Beach where locals still argue about football results like it’s life or death. These conversations feel grounded. Real.
Owning property here isn’t about spreadsheets alone. It’s about lifestyle. And the tax system, for better or worse, reflects that simplicity.
So… Is Albania Still Worth It?
I’ll say this clearly.
I truly believe Saranda offers the best value on the entire Mediterranean coast right now.
Between low ownership costs, manageable property tax, strong rental demand, and a lifestyle that still feels human — not over-commercialized — it’s hard to find a real comparison.
But timing matters.
And the people who ask smart questions early — like about property tax — are usually the ones who end up making the best decisions.
Final Thoughts
Property tax in Albania exists.
But it doesn’t scare people away. It doesn’t drain returns. And it certainly doesn’t overshadow the joy of owning something by the sea.
If anything, it’s one of the quiet reasons so many buyers end up saying:
“Why didn’t we look here sooner?”
And honestly?
I understand exactly why they say that.
