44 cities covered · Currency: ALL (L) · Capital: Tirana
| Expense | Estimated cost | Basis |
|---|---|---|
| Meal at an inexpensive restaurant | L473 ($5.09) | per meal |
| Three-course meal for two, mid-range | L1,893 ($20.35) | per meal |
| Cappuccino | L142 ($1.53) | each |
| Monthly groceries (single person) | L10,726 ($115) | per month |
| Monthly public transport pass | L1,735 ($18.66) | per month |
| Basic utilities for an 85m² apartment | L4,574 ($49.18) | per month |
| Internet (60 Mbps, unlimited) | L1,325 ($14.25) | per month |
| Fitness club membership | L1,325 ($14.25) | per month |
| Cinema ticket | L347 ($3.73) | each |
| One-bedroom apartment in city centre | L18,405 ($198) | per month |
| One-bedroom apartment outside centre | L12,803 ($138) | per month |
| Three-bedroom apartment in city centre | L38,410 ($413) | per month |
Tiranë · pop. 526,017
Durrës · pop. 153,614
Elbasan · pop. 66,834
Vlorë · pop. 66,320
Tiranë · pop. 61,739
Shkodër · pop. 61,633
Fier · pop. 52,926
Korçë · pop. 43,254
Berat · pop. 40,665
Vlorë · pop. 22,613
Fier · pop. 22,400
Korçë · pop. 20,848
Tiranë · pop. 20,192
Gjirokastër · pop. 19,836
Durrës · pop. 18,477
Lezhë · pop. 17,086
Durrës · pop. 15,966
Korçë · pop. 15,687
Kukës · pop. 15,643
Lezhë · pop. 15,510
Fier · pop. 15,397
Durrës · pop. 14,138
Dibër · pop. 13,251
Elbasan · pop. 12,691
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Albania
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Albania
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Albania
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Albania
Living costs in Albania vary significantly depending on city size. Large metropolitan areas with populations over one million typically see housing costs 15–30% above the national average, while smaller towns can be 10–20% below it. The national baseline of L44,349 ($477) per month represents a mid-sized city estimate.
Capital cities and major economic hubs command the highest rents and overall expenses. For budget-conscious residents, mid-sized cities offer a balance of amenities and affordability. Rural and small-town living remains the most economical option, though transport and service access may be limited.