Real Estate Market 2026 in Sardinia
Average price: ~€2,700/m², slight increase year-on-year (+1.9%)
The island market remains solid in 2026, driven by demand for second homes and the return of sustained tourism. The average price is around ~€2,700/m², with a moderate increase of +1.9% over the year.
However, differences remain significant depending on location, condition, and view. Turnkey properties with sea views continue to sell at a premium 📈.
- Access: proximity to the beach and marinas = higher value.
- Condition: recent renovation and energy performance are in demand.
- Scarcity: small, well-located units and sea view villas are highly sought after.
Gaps between North (Costa Smeralda) and South (Cagliari)
Sardinia is a multi-speed market. The tourist-oriented north commands the highest prices, while the south and inland areas remain more accessible.
- Costa Smeralda (Porto Cervo, Porto Rotondo): approx. €7,000–15,000/m² for premium properties, even more for exceptional villas.
- Cagliari and its metropolitan area: approx. €2,500–3,500/m² depending on neighborhoods and amenities.
- Inland (Nuoro, Oristano, villages): approx. €800–1,800/m², with opportunities for character houses.
These ranges reflect observed market prices and vary by micro-location, condition, and view. Think « location, condition, exterior » as the winning trio.
As recent examples, according to demand observed on Green-Acres (a site specializing in second homes):
- Houses for sale in Porto Cervo are around ~€14,333/m²,
- Houses for sale in Porto Rotondo ~€11,750/m²,
- Houses for sale in Palau ~€4,018/m²,
- Houses for sale in La Maddalena ~€5,248/m².
These differences confirm the “sea view + access” effect.
Northern Sardinia: luxury and exclusivity
Porto Cervo, Palau: villas above €10,000/m²
Between turquoise coves and iconic marinas, the Porto Cervo – Palau – La Maddalena triangle displays values comparable to the most sought-after resorts in Europe 🌊.
- What makes the difference: direct sea view, walking access to a beach, marina, pool, signature architecture.
- Budget: prestige villas often >€10,000/m²; renovated, well-located apartments also command a significant premium.
- To check: planning compliance, coastal easements, maintenance costs (pool, garden, co-ownership).
Supply is limited, the season is short but intense. Anticipating visit periods and banking timelines helps secure rare gems.
On this segment, the average budget for recent searches often exceeds €2M for a villa in Porto Cervo and is around €1.5M in Porto Rotondo, with generally family-sized spaces. It’s useful to frame your budget before scheduling viewings.
Strong presence of foreign investors
International clients (Germany, Switzerland, France, UK, Nordic countries) seek a high-standard pied-à-terre and seasonal income.
- Financing: local banks sometimes lend up to 60–70% for non-residents, with a strong application required.
- Management: seasonal concierge services, delegated check-ins, short-term rental contracts.
- Value enhancement: quality upgrades (kitchen, air conditioning, terraces) = better occupancy and nightly rates.
By nationality, according to foreign buyer requests recorded by Green-Acres, the Olbia-Tempio area mainly attracts the French (~17%), Germans (~13%), and Americans (~12%). In Nuoro, Americans lead (~23%), ahead of the French (~18%), while in Cagliari, the French remain first (~19%). Helpful insights for tailoring a rental strategy.
A realistic rental schedule (May–September, peaks in July-August) secures financial balance while keeping owner weeks 🐚.
The South and Inland: accessibility and authenticity
Cagliari: dynamic residential market
Cagliari combines employment, universities, and tourist appeal. The market is structured with good transaction volumes and strong rental demand.
- Neighborhoods to watch: Marina/Stampace for charm, Castello for heritage, Poetto–Quartu Sant’Elena for the beach, Pirri for value for money.
- Rental: long-term furnished lettings driven by students and employees; seasonal possible near the center and coast.
- Assets: airport 15 min away, services, soft mobility; energy upgrades appreciated.
For a smooth purchase, target well-maintained co-ownerships and check fees, elevator, facades, and roof. A balcony or terrace makes a difference ☀️..
Oristano and Nuoro: affordable village houses
In the heart of the island, life is gentler… and so are prices. Here you can find stone houses in Oristano, sometimes with patio or rooftop terrace, at very accessible prices.
- Reference prices: €800–1,500/m² depending on condition and location; renovation often needed.
- Renovation: estimate around €700–1,200/m² to bring up to standard (indicative depending on project).
- Quality of life: authenticity, nature, traditions; a car is advised for mobility.
Before buying, have a survey, structural inspection, and renovation estimate completed. Energy incentives exist but change: check locally.
Sardinia’s property market typology and trends
Second homes, stone houses, contemporary villas
The market revolves around three main property types, each with its strengths.
- Seaside second homes: small optimized spaces, terrace, parking; excellent liquidity if well located.
- Stone houses: charm, spaciousness, rural rental potential; be mindful of energy efficiency.
- Contemporary villas: modern comfort, pools and views; higher budgets but controlled upkeep.
Buyers look for light, outdoor spaces, and air conditioning. A good layout and unobstructed view resell better 🏡.
Growth in the seasonal holiday rental market
Summer demand remains very strong, with rising expectations for quality (standards, services, sustainability).
- Seasonality: high season July–August; shoulder seasons in May-June and September are also very strong.
- Yield: a well-located two-room apartment can achieve good occupancy rates; a sea view and proximity to the beach boost gross revenue.
- Regulation: in Sardinia, tourist registration using IUN code is required for short-term rentals; also check co-ownership rules and tax treatment.
- Management: factor in cleaning, linen, check-in, tourist tax; a local agency streamlines operations.
For a balanced project, build a prudent forecast (weekly rates, occupancy, expenses). Anticipate insurance and energy costs.
