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Moving to Tirana, Albania | Digital Nomad Exchange
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Moving to Tirana, Albania

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By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Nov 07, 2024

Summary: Expats move to Tirana, Albania for a variety of reasons, including its vibrant culture, affordable cost of living, and its growing economy. The city is known for its lively nightlife, diverse cuisine, and friendly locals. Additionally, Tirana is a great base for exploring the rest of the country, with its close proximity to the Adriatic Sea and the Albanian Alps. With its growing infrastructure and increasing number of international businesses, Tirana is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for expats looking for a new home.

What do I need to know before moving to Tirana?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Tirana, they said:

"Before moving to Tirana, expats should be aware that the city is rapidly developing and the cost of living is relatively low. It is important to research the local culture and customs, as well as the language, as English is not widely spoken. Expats should also be aware that the city is quite polluted and the public transportation system is not well developed. Additionally, it is important to research the local healthcare system and ensure that you have adequate health insurance coverage. Finally, expats should be aware that the crime rate in Tirana is relatively high, so it is important to take necessary precautions to stay safe," replied a member in Tirana.

How do I find a place to live in Tirana?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Tirana is to search online for rental listings. There are many websites that offer listings of apartments, houses, and other types of rental properties in Tirana. Additionally, you can search for rental listings on social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram. You can also contact local real estate agents who specialize in rental properties in Tirana. Finally, you can ask friends and family who live in Tirana for recommendations on rental properties," remarked one expat in Tirana, Albania.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Tirana?

"Expat homes and apartments in Tirana are typically modern and comfortable. Many expats choose to live in the city center, where they can enjoy easy access to amenities such as restaurants, shops, and entertainment. Apartments tend to be spacious and well-equipped, with modern appliances and air conditioning. Many expats also choose to live in gated communities, which offer additional security and privacy," said one expat who made the move to Tirana.

What is the average cost of housing in Tirana?

If you are thinking about moving to Tirana, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The cost of housing in Tirana varies depending on the location and type of property. Generally, the average cost of renting an apartment in Tirana is around €400-€600 per month, while the average cost of buying a property is around €1,000-€1,500 per square meter," said one expat who made the move to Tirana.

Should I buy or rent a home in Tirana?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Tirana, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"Buying a home in Tirana can be a great investment, as the city is growing rapidly and property values are increasing. However, it is important to consider the cost of living in Tirana, as well as the availability of rental properties. Renting a home in Tirana can be a great option for those who are not ready to commit to buying a home, as it allows for more flexibility and can be more cost-effective in the short-term. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Tirana should be based on individual needs and preferences," said one expat in Tirana.

What should I pack when moving to Tirana?

We asked people living in Tirana to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:

"When moving to Tirana, it is important to pack items that will help you adjust to the climate and culture. Pack clothing that is appropriate for the warm summers and cold winters, such as light layers for the summer and heavier coats and sweaters for the winter. Bring comfortable shoes for walking around the city, as well as a raincoat and umbrella for the frequent rain showers. Additionally, it is important to bring items that will help you adjust to the culture, such as a phrasebook to help you learn the language and a guidebook to help you navigate the city. Finally, don't forget to bring any necessary documents, such as your passport and visa," remarked one expat in Tirana, Albania.

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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Tirana?

We asked people in Tirana if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:

"It is important to be mindful of local customs and traditions when visiting Tirana. It is considered rude to show up late to social gatherings, so it is important to arrive on time. It is also important to dress modestly, as revealing clothing is considered inappropriate. Additionally, it is important to be respectful of religious sites and to avoid taking photographs without permission. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local language and to avoid speaking loudly in public," said one expat in Tirana.

Why do people move to Tirana?

When we asked people why foreigners move to Tirana, they responded:

"Tirana is an attractive destination for expats due to its low cost of living, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty. The city is home to a diverse population, with a mix of cultures and religions, making it a great place to meet people from all walks of life. The city also offers a wide range of activities and attractions, from its bustling nightlife to its historical sites and monuments. Additionally, Tirana is well-connected to the rest of Europe, making it easy to travel to other countries. With its low cost of living, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty, Tirana is an ideal destination for expats looking for a new home," remarked one expat in Tirana.

How are healthcare services Tirana?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Tirana, they replied:

"Healthcare services in Tirana, consist of a mix of public and private healthcare providers. The public healthcare system is managed by the Ministry of Health and Social Protection, which oversees hospitals, clinics, and primary care centers. These facilities offer a range of services, including general medicine, emergency care, specialist consultations, and diagnostic services. However, public healthcare in Tirana faces challenges such as outdated equipment, limited resources, and long waiting times. In response to these challenges, private healthcare facilities have emerged in the city, offering a higher standard of care and more specialized services. These private clinics and hospitals often have modern equipment, well-trained staff, and shorter waiting times. However, the cost of private healthcare can be significantly higher than public services, making it less accessible for some residents. Pharmacies are widely available throughout Tirana, with both prescription and over-the-counter medications accessible. However, the availability of certain medications may be limited, and it is recommended for visitors to bring a sufficient supply of any necessary medications. Overall, healthcare services in Tirana are improving, with ongoing efforts to modernize and expand the public healthcare system. However, challenges remain, and many residents and visitors opt for private healthcare services when possible," commented one expat who moved to Tirana.

What are medical services in Tirana like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Tirana, they replied:

"Medical services in Tirana, are a mix of public and private healthcare facilities. The public healthcare system is generally considered to be underfunded and understaffed, with outdated equipment and infrastructure. However, there are several private hospitals and clinics in the city that offer higher quality care, often with more modern facilities and equipment. These private facilities tend to be more expensive but are preferred by those who can afford them. Pharmacies are widely available throughout the city, and most medications can be obtained without a prescription. It is recommended for visitors to have travel health insurance and to seek medical care at private facilities for better quality treatment," replied one expat when asked about moving to Tirana.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad 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.

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