Why long-term rentals are disappearing: the Airbnb effect in Tirana

If you're searching for long-term rentals in Tirana today, chances are you've noticed something: there are fewer listings than before, and prices keep rising. You're not imagining it. Recent data shows that the number of short-term rental units (Airbnb-style) listed in Tirana has quintupled in just four years — from around 1,000 units in 2021 to over 5,200 at the start of 2025.

This boom has a direct effect: the more apartments turn into tourist rentals, the fewer remain for families and professionals looking to stay here for a year or more. Let's look at why this is happening and what you can do about it.

Why landlords are choosing short-term rentals

The main reason is simple: higher income. The same 1+1 in the centre, which long-term brings one fixed monthly rent, can bring several times that per night on Airbnb. Even if it stays empty 10 nights a month, the profit can be double that of a traditional rental.

But there are other reasons too:

• Flexibility: The owner can use the property themselves, or close it for renovation whenever they want.
• Less risk: In many landlords' eyes, a tourist staying 3–5 days seems less problematic than a 12-month tenant who might delay payments or cause long-term damage.
• Easier process: Platforms like Airbnb manage payments, bookings, even communication — everything online.

The consequences for long-term renters

For those of you looking for a place to live, the effect is tangible:

• Fewer choices: When thousands of apartments are removed from the long-term market, the range of listings shrinks. Especially in areas like Blloku, Ish-Blloku, the Lake, or near the beach in Durrës.
• Rising prices: Less supply + steady demand = higher prices. Rents in Tirana have increased an average of 15–20% in the past two years, and this trend continues.
• Tougher competition: A good listing receives dozens of applications within hours. Landlords become more selective.

Are there solutions?

The market won't reverse quickly, but there are steps you can take:

1. Expand your search area. Neighborhoods like Kombinat, Selita, or Kashar still offer more reasonable rents and greater availability. With public transport or a car, distances are manageable.

2. React quickly. When you see a listing that interests you, don't wait. Contact immediately, request a viewing within the day, and be prepared with documents (ID, proof of employment or income).

3. Use platforms without hidden fees. On Zgjedhja Ime, landlords list 100% free — 0% commission, always. You as a tenant pay only once: 50% of the first month's rent when you move in — no subscriptions, no monthly fees. This allows you to compare more options without excessive costs.

4. Negotiate longer contracts. If you offer to sign an 18 or 24-month contract instead of 12, many landlords will appreciate the stability and may lower the price.

What other cities are doing

Tirana isn't the only one facing this challenge. Cities like Barcelona, Lisbon, or Prague have imposed restrictions: licenses for short-term rentals, quotas by neighborhood, or higher taxes. Some have seen market stabilization after years of experimentation.

In Albania there are still no clear regulations for short-term rentals. This means the market remains free, but also unpredictable. If you're a renter, you need to be more proactive than ever.

What comes next

Tourism in Albania continues to grow — and with it, short-term rentals. There's no sign the trend will slow down. But this doesn't mean long-term rentals will disappear entirely. There will always be landlords who prefer the stability of a good long-term tenant, especially in less touristy areas.

The key for you is to stay informed, move quickly, and use the right tools. The market has changed — but with the right strategy, you can always find your place.