Why Sardinia Remains Fascinating in 2026
An Island with 300 Days of Sunshine and Exceptional Quality of Life
Between azure sea and gentle mountains, Sardinia offers a generous climate and remarkably pure air. The population density remains low, which means less stress and more space day to day. 🌊
The cost of living is overall comparable to northern Italy and southern France, with affordable local groceries but sometimes pricier energy and transport. Property prices vary significantly between the coast and inland.
- Desirable coast (south-east, Gallura, Alghero): houses/villas often above €350,000.
- Urban outskirts (Cagliari, Sassari): 2-3 room apartments around €140,000–260,000 depending on the neighbourhood.
- Inland and villages: stone houses or ones to renovate from €50,000–120,000, expect renovation costs (on average €800–1,500/m² depending on condition).
These ranges are indicative and change seasonally. Green Acres helps you refine a realistic budget for your project.
2026 Benchmarks, based on requests published on Green-Acres (second homes):
- Property in Sassari: around €120,000 for 84 m² (≈€1,430/m²).
- Alghero: about €764,000 for 211 m² (≈€3,620/m²), a premium coastal market.
- Quartu Sant’Elena: nearly €362,000 for 131 m² (≈€2,760/m²), an alternative to downtown Cagliari.
- Stintino: ultra-prime segment, average of €6.65M for 533 m² (≈€12,470/m²).
Wild Nature, Gastronomy, and Authenticity
Sardinia is made up of clear-water coves, the Gennargentu massif, and rural landscapes that remain untouched. The island has managed to preserve its soul, its traditions, and a calm pace of life. 🌿
- Unique heritage: nuraghes, historic villages, local festivals, and polyphonic singing.
- Iconic beaches: Chia, Villasimius, La Pelosa, Cala Goloritzé.
- Local products: pecorino, maquis honey, carasau bread, bottarga, Cannonau wines.
Cagliari and Sassari: Two Distinct Lifestyle Hubs
Cagliari, A Dynamic and University City
Cagliari attracts with its lively port, well-connected airport, and entrepreneurial spirit. The city is vibrant year-round thanks to its university and services.
- Key districts: Castello and Villanova (historic), Marina (shops), Poetto (city beach).
- Mobility: buses, light metro, expanding bike lanes, Elmas airport 10–15 minutes away.
- Property market: strong demand, renovated properties are rare in the city center.
For a pied-à-terre, targeting well-connected outskirts (Monserrato, Quartu Sant’Elena) can optimize your budget without sacrificing quality of life. 🏙️
Who’s interested in Cagliari? Among foreign inquiries recorded on Green-Acres: French 19%, Germans 12%, Americans 10%, then Poland and the Netherlands each about one in ten on the family and high-end segment.
Sassari, More Traditional and Deeply Rooted in Sardinian Culture
The island’s second city, Sassari, offers cheaper prices and a strong cultural identity. The pace is more relaxed, while still being close to the north-western beaches.
- Nearby: Alghero, Stintino, and Asinara peninsula for seaside outings.
- Local life: historic university, cultural events, crafts.
- Real estate: spacious apartments and townhouses at attractive values.
Profile of foreign buyers in Sassari: Poland 17%, France 16%, United States 9%; a mix reflecting varied budgets between the historic center, coast, and villages.
Sardinian Lifestyles
Coastal Villages, Mountain Shepherds, and Tight-knit Communities
From fishing villages to mountain hamlets, life is organized around family, markets, and mutual help. Communities are welcoming, especially if you make an effort to integrate locally.
- Learning a few words of Sardinian or Italian opens doors.
- Taking part in festivals and markets enhances integration.
- Shopping locally boosts the local economy. 🤝
For long-term settlement, anticipate the seasons: lively summer, quieter winter, ideal for remote work and village life.
Local Gastronomy: Pecorino, Honey, Cannonau Wines
The Sardinian table celebrates simplicity and clear flavors. On the menu: sun-kissed vegetables, fresh pasta, aged cheeses, and grilled meats.
- Essentials: pecorino sardo, strawberry tree honey, culurgiones, porceddu.
- Wines: Cannonau, Vermentino, Carignano del Sulcis, perfect with local cuisine. 🍷
- Where to buy: covered markets, farm producers, wine cooperatives.
A healthy, gourmet lifestyle to enjoy al fresco at sunset. 🌅
Island Challenges
Transport, Insularity, and Seasonal Employment
Living on an island means maritime and air distances. Flights and ferries are frequent in summer, more limited in winter, with variable prices.
- Car is essential outside city centers; carpooling is growing.
- Internet: fiber is expanding, but checking eligibility by address remains crucial.
- Jobs: tourism and services dominate, pronounced seasonality; remote working helps stabilize income.
When buying, factor in transport costs, energy consumption, and the maintenance of a property in a salty environment (suitable materials and fittings). 🔧
New Regional Policies to Attract Young Professionals
The region supports the revival of small towns and out-of-season activity. Several schemes exist, varying by year and public budgets.
- Incentives to settle in villages with declining populations (grants for buying/renovating a main residence, under certain criteria).
- Digital support: coworking spaces, training, and incubators for freelancers and micro-businesses.
- National framework: “digital nomad” visa for qualified non-EU citizens, and favorable tax regimes for some retirees moving to towns in the South (requirements apply).
Before deciding, check eligibility, timescales, and residency obligations. Green Acres can guide you to the right government contacts. ✅
Sardinia, Between Authenticity and Controlled Modernity
Measured Development That Protects the Island
Urban development on the coast is strictly regulated, with stringent landscape rules. This ensures preservation, but can lengthen construction timeframes.
- Permits and renovations: anticipate diagnostics, plans, and qualified artisans.
- Energy: solar is on the rise, insulation requirements vary by altitude.
- Seasonal rentals: zoning and quotas may apply depending on the municipality, check before investing. 🏡
The result: controlled modernity that keeps the Sardinian spirit alive while offering comfort and connectivity to newcomers.
