Living on rent in Tirana is becoming increasingly difficult. Rental prices have surged sharply — in some areas by up to 100% — turning the housing market into a daily struggle for residents. Tourism, high demand, and the rise of short-term rentals are pushing prices to unaffordable levels for many Albanian families.

The city center of Tirana has become almost inaccessible for local families. Most rental requests now come from young couples and students who cannot afford to buy an apartment and are seeking long-term rentals in decent — though not necessarily elite — neighborhoods.

Real estate agent Valeria Dushku said that some areas, such as Paskuqan and Fresku, have been less affected by the price hikes, while central zones now range from €600 to €1,500 per month.

“I would mention areas like Paskuqan, Babrru, Fresku, Linza, and Shkoza. These are still parts of Tirana where rent hasn’t increased drastically — prices remain around €300–€400. But in central areas, a one-bedroom apartment (1+1) costs between €600 and €800, while a two-bedroom (2+1) goes from €1,000 to €1,500, depending on demand,” she explained.

Foreigners are also driving demand, Dushku added, often looking for higher standards of housing.

“In the most sought-after areas, such as near the Air Albania Stadium, a 2+1 apartment can cost up to €1,800 per month,” she said.

Dushku noted that strong demand is pushing landlords to raise prices.

“There’s high demand in Tirana, and this has encouraged property owners to increase rents, especially since more foreigners are coming to work here and look for apartments that meet European standards. In the past five years, areas like Blloku and other central neighborhoods have become almost untouchable. Five years ago, you could rent a one-bedroom near the Dry Lake area for €350 — today, you can’t find anything below €600.”

In the capital, the supply of long-term rental apartments is shrinking. Many landlords are converting their properties into short-term tourist rentals, as the profits are higher. This trend has significantly reduced the number of available apartments for local residents, keeping the market under constant pressure.

Economist Romina Radonshiqi said tourism has also contributed to the sharp rise in housing prices.

“There are apartments whose prices have increased by 50% or even 100%. Tourism has played a major role, as many properties are being turned into businesses. The cost of living in Albania has become very high, and because of demand, landlords are charging much more,” she stated.

According to the 2023 Census, the number of Albanian families without a home of their own has risen by 87% over the past twelve years. Around 132,000 families — roughly one in six — now live in rented or borrowed homes, compared to 71,000 families in 2011.