Cost of living rises for young people in Tirana

Independent living in Tirana is becoming increasingly expensive for young people, particularly students and early-career professionals. Monthly costs for a modest lifestyle, including rent, food, and utilities, are estimated to range between 76,000 and 112,000 lekë.

Rent remains the most significant financial burden. While studio apartments or 1+1 units outside the city center cost between 200 and 300 euro monthly before the pandemic, current market estimates place these in secondary areas or near the center between 350 and 500 euro. In areas near universities and employment hubs, prices can exceed 600 euro.

Data from Century 21 indicates that for the period of January–June 2026, the average monthly rent across 13 zones in Tirana reached 590 euro, up from 565 euro during the same period in 2025. For larger apartments, the reported average reached 954 euro per month. Additionally, food prices have seen a sharper increase than the general price index.