×
Interested in our Partner Program for businesses or our Local Guide Program for experienced expats and digital nomads? Click here to learn more.
Expat Exchange - Cost of Living in Saranda
Expat Exchange
Free MembershipSign In


Cost of Living in Saranda

By Joshua Wood, LPC

SJB Global
SJB Global

Summary: Understanding the the cost of living in Saranda helps a newcomer what to expect when it comes to apartment or house hunting, grocery shopping, transportation, dining out, utilities and more.

Category Cost
Apartment Rentals
  • 1-bedroom apartment in city center: $200 - $350 per month
  • 1-bedroom apartment outside city center: $150 - $250 per month
  • 3-bedroom apartment in city center: $400 - $700 per month
  • 3-bedroom apartment outside city center: $300 - $500 per month
Apartment Purchases
  • Price per square meter in city center: $800 - $1,200
  • Price per square meter outside city center: $600 - $900
Transportation
  • One-way local transport ticket: $0.40
  • Monthly local transport pass: $15 - $25
  • Taxi starting tariff: $1.50
  • Taxi 1 km (normal tariff): $0.70
  • Gasoline (1 liter): $1.30 - $1.50
Groceries
  • Milk (1 liter): $0.80 - $1.20
  • Bread (500g): $0.50 - $0.80
  • Rice (1 kg): $1.00 - $1.50
  • Eggs (12): $1.50 - $2.00
  • Local cheese (1 kg): $4.00 - $6.00
  • Chicken breast (1 kg): $3.50 - $5.00
  • Beef round (1 kg): $5.00 - $7.00
  • Apples (1 kg): $0.80 - $1.20
  • Bananas (1 kg): $1.00 - $1.50
  • Oranges (1 kg): $0.80 - $1.20
  • Tomatoes (1 kg): $0.80 - $1.20
  • Potatoes (1 kg): $0.50 - $0.80
  • Onions (1 kg): $0.50 - $0.80
  • Water (1.5-liter bottle): $0.50 - $0.80
  • Bottle of wine (mid-range): $4.00 - $6.00
  • Domestic beer (0.5-liter bottle): $1.00 - $1.50
  • Imported beer (0.33-liter bottle): $1.50 - $2.00
Restaurants
  • Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: $4.00 - $6.00
  • Meal for two people at a mid-range restaurant (three courses): $20.00 - $30.00
  • Domestic beer (0.5-liter draught): $1.00 - $1.50
  • Imported beer (0.33-liter bottle): $1.50 - $2.00
  • Cappuccino: $1.00 - $1.50
  • Soft drink (0.33-liter bottle): $0.50 - $1.00
  • Water (0.33-liter bottle): $0.30 - $0.50
Utilities
  • Basic utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage) for an 85m2 apartment: $50 - $100 per month
  • Internet (60 Mbps or more, unlimited data, cable/ADSL): $15 - $25 per month
Private School Tuition
  • Preschool: $150 - $300 per month
  • Elementary School: $200 - $400 per month
  • Middle School: $300 - $500 per month
  • High School: $400 - $700 per month
Please note that these costs are approximate and can vary depending on various factors such as location, time of year, and individual preferences. It is always a good idea to research and compare prices before making any decisions.

Can I live in Saranda on $1,500 a month?

"I've been living in Saranda for a while now, and I can tell you that it's definitely possible to live comfortably on $1,500 a month, even if you're used to modern amenities. However, you might have to make some sacrifices to make it work. For example, you might need to live in a smaller apartment or share a place with roommates to save on rent. In terms of neighborhoods, I'd recommend looking for a place in the central part of the city, as it's more affordable and still offers easy access to shops, restaurants, and other amenities. Some of the more expensive neighborhoods to avoid would be those closer to the beach, like the area around Mango Beach or Santa Quaranta, as these tend to be more touristy and have higher prices.When it comes to utilities and other expenses, you'll find that they're generally quite affordable in Saranda. However, you might need to cut back on some non-essential expenses, like eating out at fancy restaurants or going out for drinks every weekend. Instead, try cooking at home more often and exploring the local markets for fresh produce and other ingredients.Transportation is also quite affordable in Saranda, with local buses and taxis being relatively cheap. However, if you're looking to save even more money, consider walking or biking around the city, as it's quite small and easy to navigate.Overall, living in Saranda on $1,500 a month is definitely doable, but you'll need to be mindful of your spending and make some sacrifices in terms of housing and non-essential expenses. But in exchange, you'll get to enjoy the beautiful beaches, friendly locals, and rich culture that this charming Albanian town has to offer," commented an expat living in Saranda.

Can I live in Saranda on $3,500 a month?

"I've been living in Saranda for a while now, and I can tell you that it's definitely possible to live comfortably on $3,000 a month, even if you're used to modern amenities. However, there are some sacrifices you might have to make to ensure you stay within your budget.Firstly, you'll need to be mindful of the neighborhood you choose to live in. Some of the more expensive neighborhoods, like the city center or those with beachfront properties, might be out of your budget. Instead, consider looking for apartments in more affordable areas like Kodrra or Mëllëganë. These neighborhoods are still close to the city center and have access to all the necessary amenities, but the cost of living is significantly lower.When it comes to transportation, owning a car can be quite expensive due to high import taxes and fuel costs. Instead, consider using public transportation or even walking, as Saranda is a relatively small city and most places are easily accessible on foot. This will not only save you money but also give you a chance to explore the city and its beautiful surroundings.Eating out can also be a significant expense, especially if you're used to dining at high-end restaurants. While there are some great restaurants in Saranda, you might want to consider cooking at home more often to save money. Local markets offer fresh produce at affordable prices, and you can find a variety of delicious Albanian recipes to try out.As for entertainment, there are plenty of affordable options in Saranda. You can enjoy the beautiful beaches, go hiking in the nearby mountains, or explore the ancient ruins of Butrint. There are also numerous bars and clubs where you can enjoy a night out without breaking the bank.In terms of sacrifices, you might have to give up some of the luxuries you're used to, like having a large, modern apartment or eating out at fancy restaurants every night. However, I've found that the lower cost of living and the beautiful surroundings more than make up for these sacrifices. Overall, I think you'll find that living in Saranda on $3,000 a month is not only possible but also quite enjoyable," said one expat living in Saranda.

Can I live in Saranda on $5,000 a month?

"I've been living in Saranda for a while now, and I can tell you that it's definitely possible to live comfortably on $5,000 a month, even if you're used to modern amenities. In fact, you might not have to make too many sacrifices at all. Saranda is a beautiful coastal city with a relatively low cost of living compared to other European cities. When it comes to housing, you can find a nice apartment in a good neighborhood for around $300 to $500 a month. Some of the more affordable neighborhoods to consider are the areas around Rruga Butrinti and Rruga Skenderbeu. These areas are close to the city center and have plenty of shops, restaurants, and other amenities nearby. If you're looking for something a bit more upscale, you might want to check out the neighborhoods around Rruga Mitat Hoxha and Rruga Ismail Qemali. These areas are a bit more expensive, but they offer more luxurious apartments and are closer to the beach.As for other expenses, groceries and dining out are quite affordable in Saranda. You can expect to spend around $200 to $300 a month on groceries, and eating out at local restaurants will usually cost you around $5 to $10 per meal. If you're a fan of seafood, you're in luck, as Saranda is known for its fresh and delicious seafood dishes.Transportation is also quite affordable in Saranda. Most places within the city are easily walkable, and if you need to take a taxi, it usually won't cost you more than a few dollars. If you're planning on exploring other parts of Albania or traveling to nearby countries, you can find affordable bus and ferry options as well.In terms of entertainment and leisure activities, there's plenty to do in Saranda without breaking the bank. You can spend your days relaxing on the beautiful beaches, exploring the nearby ruins of Butrint, or taking a boat trip to the nearby islands of Ksamil. There are also plenty of bars and clubs in the city where you can enjoy a night out without spending too much.Overall, I think you'll find that living in Saranda on $5,000 a month is not only possible but quite comfortable. You might have to make a few small sacrifices, like choosing a slightly less luxurious apartment or cooking at home more often, but you'll still be able to enjoy a high quality of life and take advantage of all the amazing experiences that Saranda has to offer," commented an expat living in Saranda.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.


SJB Global
SJB Global

SJB Global
SJB Global

Cigna Global Health
Cigna Global Health

Award winning International Health Insurance for Individuals and families living abroad
Get Quote

Cigna Global HealthCigna Global Health

Award winning International Health Insurance for Individuals and families living abroad
Get Quote

SJB Global
SJB Global

Copyright 1997-2025 Burlingame Interactive, Inc.

Privacy Policy Legal Partners & Local Guides