In recent years, Albania has transformed from a “hidden beach destination” into one of the most dynamic real estate markets in the Mediterranean. In 2024, foreigners invested around €380 million in Albanian real estate — 17% more than in 2023. This is the third consecutive year that real estate has ranked first in terms of attracting foreign investment, accounting for around 24% of total FDI inflows.
According to a study by the Experts Club information and analytical center, in recent years, foreigners have accounted for about a quarter of all home purchase and sale transactions in Albania. Most of the interest is concentrated on the coast — Saranda, Ksamil, Vlora, Durres, and the vicinity of Tirana. Below is an informal top 10 list of countries whose citizens are most actively investing in real estate in Albania: Italians — their “own” Riviera at half the price. Italians were among the first to discover Saranda and Ksamil. Demand from Italy has doubled in recent years, especially for apartments by the sea.
Poles, Czechs, and Slovaks — investors focused on profitability. These buyers account for up to 90% of demand in some resort areas, investing in small apartments for daily rent with an expected ROI of 10-16%.
Germans and Swiss are looking for stability and quality. They prefer the “quiet” segment on the coast and in Tirana, with good infrastructure and stable rental income.
Scandinavians appreciate Albania’s climate and nature.
Norway, Sweden, and Finland are also actively buying real estate, choosing high standards of living at moderate prices.
The French and British are “latecomers” but active. Interest in Albania from these countries is growing, attracting them with relatively low prices compared to southern France and Spain.
Americans are betting on “early entry.” Albania remains a “new” destination for Americans, with growing interest in villas and large apartments.
Ukrainians are a growing but niche segment. After 2022, interest from Ukraine has grown significantly, and Ukrainians prefer the coast for relocation and obtaining a residence permit.
Russians and other post-Soviet investors — due to sanctions pressure, their share has decreased, but interest still remains, especially through companies and relatives.
Citizens of Kazakhstan and Belarus continue to invest actively, especially on the coast and in large cities.
Other EU countries are actively buying on the south coast, especially during the high tourist season.
Why Albania attracts foreign investors:
Free access to housing. Foreigners can freely buy apartments, houses, and commercial real estate, with the exception of agricultural land.
High profitability and price growth. Annual rental yields on the coast can reach 7% and above, and in peak tourist locations — up to double digits.
Strong investment flow. In 2024, foreign investment in real estate amounted to approximately €380 million, and in the second quarter of 2025, this figure reached a record €149 million.
Residence permit and “life package.” Laws on foreigners allow you to obtain a residence permit based on investment in housing.
Risks and prospects: The sharp influx of foreign investors is already leading to higher housing prices for the local population. However, Albania remains an EU candidate country with large-scale infrastructure projects (a new airport in Vlora, reconstruction of the port in Durres), which supports long-term demand for housing.
Despite growing competition in the market, Albania retains its potential as “Europe’s last affordable Riviera,” making it attractive to investors, but professional legal due diligence and an understanding of real returns are required to enter the market.
