Extra charges you should know about

Posted on by Alba

Moving to Tirana, Albania, or even just visiting for an extended stay, can be an exciting experience. But like any city, there are certain extra charges you should know about to avoid unpleasant surprises. Whether you’re renting an apartment in Blloku, using dry cleaning services in Komuna e Parisit, or shopping at the Pazari i Ri, understanding these hidden costs will help you budget more effectively and feel more at ease.

Understanding extra charges in everyday life

Foreigners often find that some expenses in Tirana are not clearly advertised upfront. These small, additional costs can add up if you’re not prepared. Let’s explore the most common areas where these charges appear, with practical advice on how to anticipate and handle them.

Utility and maintenance fees

When renting an apartment, the rent you agree to isn’t always the full amount you’ll pay each month. Many landlords require tenants to handle utilities separately. Here’s what you can expect:

  • Electricity: Bills can range from 3,000–8,000 ALL per month depending on the season and your usage. Air conditioning in summer or heating in winter can significantly increase your bill.
  • Water: Usually between 500–1,500 ALL per month, though higher in larger apartments.
  • Building maintenance: Some apartments, especially in newer complexes, charge maintenance fees ranging from 1,000–4,000 ALL per month for elevator upkeep, security, and cleaning of common spaces.

Tip: Always ask your landlord for an estimate of these costs before signing the lease, so you can plan your monthly budget accurately.

Service fees at restaurants and cafes

In Tirana, prices at restaurants are often affordable, but foreigners may be surprised by service charges that appear on the bill.

  • Some higher-end restaurants, particularly in areas like Blloku or Pazari i Ri, add a 10% service fee automatically.
  • In casual cafes or bakeries, tipping isn’t mandatory, but it’s polite to leave a few coins or round up the bill.

Tip: Check your bill before adding a tip to avoid paying twice for the same service.

Extra costs in dry cleaning and laundry

Dry cleaning services are common in Tirana, especially for business travelers or families. While the advertised price for a shirt might be 200 ALL, extra charges can include:

  • Special fabric care: Silk or wool items often cost more.
  • Express service: Same-day cleaning can add 30–50% to the price.
  • Stain removal: Deep cleaning for stubborn stains may cost extra.

For expats living near Komuna e Parisit or Myslym Shyri, dry cleaners tend to be slightly more expensive but also offer better quality and faster service.

Tip: Ask for a full price list before dropping off your clothes to avoid unexpected fees when picking them up.

Delivery and convenience charges

With the rise of delivery apps like Bli.al or Baboon, food delivery is easier than ever in Tirana. However, there are hidden fees that can catch you off guard:

  • Delivery charges: Often 150–300 ALL per order.
  • Service fees: Some apps add a small percentage fee that isn’t visible until checkout.
  • Peak time surcharges: Ordering during rainy evenings or weekends may cost extra.

Tip: Combine orders with friends or neighbors to split delivery fees and save money.

Banking and payment extras

Foreigners using international cards often face bank-related charges:

  • ATM withdrawal fees: Albanian banks may charge 500–700 ALL per transaction.
  • Currency conversion fees: Your home bank might add 2–3% for foreign transactions.
  • Account maintenance fees: If you open a local bank account, expect monthly fees of around 200–400 ALL.

Tip: Use ATMs that belong to major banks like Credins Bank or BKT for reliable exchange rates and clear fee structures.

If you’re renting an apartment for the first time, there are some upfront charges to plan for:

  • Agency fees: Many real estate agents charge 50% of one month’s rent as a finder’s fee.
  • Security deposits: Usually one month’s rent.
  • Key or parking fees: Some gated complexes charge extra for parking or key replacements.

Tip: Always request a written breakdown of these costs before committing to a lease.

Neighborhood-specific considerations

The area you choose to live in can also impact the extra charges you encounter:

  • Blloku: Trendy cafes and high-end services often come with higher service fees and delivery charges.
  • Kombinat or Yzberisht: Lower overall costs but fewer amenities, meaning you might spend extra on transportation.
  • Komuna e Parisit: A mix of affordable and premium services, but parking fees can add up quickly.

Understanding these differences can help you balance convenience and budget when selecting a neighborhood.

Practical strategies to avoid surprises

Being aware of potential extras is the first step. Here are some practical ways to manage and even reduce these costs:

  • Ask upfront: Whether it’s for dry cleaning, apartment rentals, or delivery services, clarify all potential charges in advance.
  • Use cash when possible: Some shops or cafes offer discounts for cash payments, saving you from card processing fees.
  • Compare providers: Different internet or utility companies may have varying fee structures. Taking time to compare can save you money over the long term.
  • Track your expenses: Using a simple app or spreadsheet helps you see where these small charges add up over time.

Staying financially prepared in Tirana

Living in Tirana can be affordable, but the extra charges you should know about can affect your budget if you’re unprepared. By learning where and why these costs arise—whether in your apartment, at your favorite cafe, or during a quick delivery—you’ll find it easier to plan and avoid unpleasant surprises.

Keeping a small buffer in your monthly budget for unexpected fees is always a smart move. Over time, you’ll get better at spotting where costs can creep in, helping you enjoy the city without the stress of surprise bills.