Ukrainian Yulia Shulha has lived in Albania for about a year and pays 450 euros a month for an apartment with a sea view. She spoke about everyday expenses, and a comparison of housing prices with local salaries shows what share of the budget rent can take up. She reports this in her blog on Instagram.
Housing rent in Albania: how much is left after paying for an apartment in 2026
Shulha likes Albania's sunny climate. Among the everyday expenses that pleasantly surprised her, she singled out food prices.
“Coffee with local food can cost you three euros,” Shulha said.
According to a Numbeo estimate cited by 24 Kanal, the average salary in Albania after taxes is about 692 euros a month. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center costs about 500 euros. At that ratio, rent would take about 72% of income, leaving 192 euros for other expenses.
At the same salary, rent at Shulha's price would take about 65% of income. After paying for the apartment, 242 euros would remain. Shulha did not state her income or the amount of utility bills.
When comparing the cost of living in Europe, it is useful to calculate housing expenses for a year. If the rate of 450 euros applies for all 12 months, rent will cost 5400 euros. For an apartment by the sea, it is worth checking in advance whether the price remains the same in summer and whether utilities are included.
Work and residence in Albania: what Ukrainians need to know in 2026
In everyday communication, English is enough for Shulha. She shared her impressions as follows:
“I live in Albania and don't know Albanian because 99% of the population knows English,” the blogger said.
This is how Shulha described her experience communicating with locals. Other residents of Albania noted in comments that the ability to communicate in English depends on the place and the person.
According to Shulha's observations, many Ukrainians in Albania work remotely or get jobs at local companies opened by Ukrainians. In her opinion, it is difficult to find a job with a high salary with a local employer.
According to the decision of the Albanian government of April 10, 2026, Ukrainian citizens can enter without a visa and stay in the country without a residence permit until March 30, 2027. This also applies to Ukrainians who are already in the country.
When budgeting for a move, moving-in costs should be set aside separately. If the owner asks for a deposit equal to one month's rent, moving into an apartment at 450 euros will require 900 euros. When comparing living costs in different countries, the deposit should be counted separately from the usual monthly budget.