Can You Live for Less than $1000 in the City of Durres?

If you’re thinking about moving to Albania, you might wonder how much it costs to live in the city of Durres. It’s a beautiful coastal city and the second-largest city in Albania. A place with amazing waterfront views and lots of history. Moreover, the city boasts of being one of the oldest in the Balkans, which also makes it a unique place to live in. Now, the question is, can you live there for less than $1000 a month?

Cost of Living in Durres, Albania

Before we dive into answering this question, it’s essential to establish what the cost of living in Durres looks like. Albania is an inexpensive country, and Durres is relatively cheaper than Tirana, the capital city.

The average monthly salary in Durres is about $400 per month. With this, an individual can take care of basic needs like food, rent, and transport. However, it might not allow for any luxuries.

The Cost of Accommodation in Durres

The cost of accommodation in Durres is a significant part of the overall cost of living. Depending on the type of accommodation you would like to rent, the cost can vary. If you decide to rent a one-bedroom apartment near the city center, it would cost you about $200-$300 per month. On the other hand, if you decide to rent outside the city center, the cost of rent may drop to $150-$250 per month.

Although it is relatively cheap, it is essential to ensure that the rental property is of good quality and meets your standard. Before renting a property, ensure to check if there is a stable water supply, electricity, and dependable internet access.

The Cost of Food in Durres

The cost of food in Durres is relatively low. An individual can buy a meal at a cheap restaurant for about $3-$5 or cook at home with groceries that cost about $100-$150 monthly. Also, the city has a farmers’ market that offers fresh fruits and vegetables at an affordable price.

The Cost of Transportation in Durres

Transportation in Durres is relatively cheap. An individual can use the bus or a minibus (known locally as furgons) to get around the city for about $0.50-$1.50 per ride. If you want to use a taxi, the starting fare is about $1, and the price per kilometer is approximately $0.50.

The Cost of Utilities in Durres

The cost of utilities in Durres, Albania, is relatively cheap. The cost of electricity, water, and gas for an 85m2 apartment would cost about $50-$100 per month, depending on your consumption. Internet access would cost about $20-$30 monthly.

Total Monthly Budget for Living in Durres

Adding up these costs, an individual could comfortably live in Durres with a monthly budget of $500-$700. This would cover shelter, food, transportation, utilities, and a few luxuries as well.

To answer the question Can You Live for Less than $1000 in the City of Durres?

Yes, Yes you can! Living in Durres for less than $1000 a month is not only possible but also achievable. The cost of living in the city is relatively low compared to most European countries, providing you with the opportunity to live affordably with minimal sacrifice.

In conclusion

If you’re thinking of living in Durres, the second-largest city in Albania, knowing the cost of living in the city is crucial to plan and budget your expenses. Durres city offers numerous benefits that make it a desirable place to live, such as the beautiful beach, nice restaurants, and different cultural activities. Living in the city is worth it, especially since you can do so affordably.

In summary, the cost of living in Durres, Albania, is relatively low, and it’s possible to live a comfortable life for less than $1000 a month.

A Local’s Guide to Exploring the Hidden Gems of Durres

Durres might not be as well-known as other cities in Albania, but it has so much to offer to curious travelers. Whether you’re a backpacker on a tight budget or a luxury traveler, Durres will surprise you with its vibrant culture, delicious food, and charming attractions. Here is a local’s guide to exploring the hidden gems of Durres.

Explore Durres off the Beaten Path

When in Durres, don’t limit yourself to its tourist spots. Take a walk through the narrow streets of the Old Town and discover hidden squares, colorful buildings, and ancient walls. Visit the old Hammam, an Ottoman-era bathhouse that was recently converted into an art gallery. Take a hike to the hills behind the city for stunning views of the Adriatic Sea and the countryside.

Indulge in Local Cuisine

Durres is a paradise for food lovers, and its cuisine reflects the diverse influences of various cultures. Try the local seafood dishes, such as grilled octopus or shrimp cooked in garlic sauce. Don’t miss out on byrek, a savory pastry with cheese, spinach, or meat filling. Try also the qifqi, a ball made of rice and herbs. For a sweet treat, go for baklava, a rich dessert with layers of phyllo pastry, nuts, and honey.

Experience the Authentic Culture of Durres

If you want to experience the cultural fabric of Durres, visit the Ethnographic Museum, where you can learn about traditional clothing, tools, and customs. Attend the Durresi Summer Festival, a one-week celebration of music, theater, and dance, that takes place in August. Visit the ancient amphitheater, the largest in the Balkans, that is sometimes used for cultural events, such as concerts and operas.

Discover the Fascinating History of Durres

Durres has a rich and eventful history, which dates back to the Illyrian times. Discover the secrets of the fortress and the ancient city walls that used to protect Durres from the invaders. Visit the Archaeological Museum, which houses artifacts from prehistoric, Hellenistic, and Roman times. Also, check out the Venetian Tower, a symbol of the city’s resistance against the Ottoman Empire.

Get Adventurous in Durres

If you want to get the adrenaline pumping, Durres has some exciting activities to offer. Go parasailing or jet skiing on the crystal clear waters of the Adriatic Sea. Take a hot air balloon ride over the coastline and the countryside. Go cliff jumping on the deserted beaches north of Durres. Or, take a bike tour and explore the wild nature of the nearby hills.

In conclusion, Durres might be a small city, but it has everything a traveler needs to create unforgettable memories. By exploring its hidden gems, indulging in its delicious cuisine, experiencing its authentic culture, discovering its fascinating history, and getting adventurous, you will fall in love with Durres and make memories that last a lifetime.