How much does it really cost to live, work, or travel in ? Here's what to expect for daily expenses and expat living.
Currency Guide for Albania (ISO Code AL)
Travelers planning a one-week mid-range stay in Albania can expect to budget approximately 600 to 800 Albanian Lek (ALL) per day, bringing your total to around 4,200 to 5,600 ALL for the week. Daily expenses can vary, but here’s a rough idea of what you can expect:
- 🍽️ Meal at a local restaurant: 1,000 - 1,500 ALL
- 🚌 Public transport fare: 40 - 100 ALL
- 📱 Prepaid SIM card: 1,500 ALL
- 🏨 Budget hotel or Airbnb: 3,000 - 5,000 ALL
Overall, Albania is considered a reasonably cheap destination compared to many Western nations. In comparison to the United States, where the average meal can run upwards of $15, Albania provides significant savings on daily expenses. Compared to the UK, where a similarly priced meal may set you back £12, Albania's lower costs are a delightful surprise for visitors looking to stretch their dollar, pound, or euro.
Expat Living in Albania
For expats in Albania, typical monthly living costs can range from 70,000 to 100,000 ALL, depending on lifestyle choices. This includes rent, groceries, utilities, and leisure activities. Here’s a breakdown of expenses:
- Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Tirana: 25,000 - 35,000 ALL
- Groceries for one person: approximately 20,000 ALL
- Utilities: about 10,000 ALL
When it comes to banking, local services usually charge higher fees for currency exchange. It’s wise to use international debit or credit cards whenever possible, as they offer better exchange rates. Additionally, using online transfer services like Wise or OFX can save you on transaction fees and provide a more favorable exchange rate than local money changers. Overall, online services can be more economical than exchanging cash locally, especially for expats regularly interacting with their home country's currency.