What are the advantages of buying in Sardinia in 2026?
Contrasted region: coastal luxury and moderate prices inland
In 2026, Sardinia presents a dual-speed market. The north-eastern resorts (Costa Smeralda) concentrate a premium offer, while the inland remains affordable, with village houses and rural properties at moderate prices.
Result: very different price trends, varying sales rhythms, and purchasing strategies to adapt for each area.
2026 Price Benchmarks (second-home market)
According to Green Acres (specialized site), the requested prices confirm the gap between ultra-prime coastal areas and a more affordable inland.
- Houses for sale in Olbia (Costa Smeralda): approx. €4,291,000 for 157 m² on average, or ~€27,300/m² (ultra-prime segment).
- Houses for sale in Alghero: approx. €764,000 for 211 m², ~€3,620/m² (family-friendly and lively coastal town).
- Houses for sale in Santa Teresa Gallura: approx. €560,000 for 115 m², ~€4,870/m² (chic northern coast and turquoise coves).
- Houses for sale in Oristano: approx. €222,000 for 350 m², ~€634/m² (inland west, budget-friendly).
Note: these figures reflect asking prices for properties that are often of higher quality on the coast, while inland offers more space for the same budget.
Strong foreign demand, especially on the northern coast
International clients (France, Germany, Switzerland, UK, Nordic countries) favor the north for its beaches, marinas, and air connections. This demand supports property values along the coast, particularly around Olbia and Alghero.
Inland, demand is more local and opportunistic, driven by buyers seeking space, peace, and renovation projects. 🙂
Regarding the profiles of foreign buyers by area, we note: Sassari (northern coast, including Costa Smeralda) with strong demand from Poland and France, as well as the USA; Nuoro (inland) with a notable American and French presence; Oristano (west) with significant interest from Dutch buyers. Median budgets are lower here than in ultra-prime areas.
The most sought-after areas in Sardinia
Costa Smeralda, Alghero, Santa Teresa: upscale properties
These hotspots concentrate exceptional properties, premium services, and strong resale liquidity.
- Costa Smeralda (Porto Cervo, Porto Rotondo, Baia Sardinia): signature addresses, clubs, marinas, security, 5-star amenities.
- Santa Teresa Gallura and La Maddalena: granite landscapes, turquoise coves, a chic but relaxed atmosphere.
- Alghero: Catalan old town, airport, family beaches, coastal urban charm.
Looking for rental income? These areas have strong summer seasonality and sustained demand in peak season.
Villas and apartments with sea views
On the coast, the signature offer remains a villa or apartment with terrace and sea view: ideal for personal use and seasonal rental.
- Assets: view, beach access, swimming pools, concierge services, possible rental management.
- Points of vigilance: more expensive high-end condominiums, rental competition in summer, strict urban planning rules.
- Consider: proximity to Olbia/Alghero, orientation, privacy, noise, parking.
Affordable alternatives in Sardinia
Provinces of Nuoro and Oristano: rural houses from €1,000/m²
The inland offers stone houses, « casali, » and small farms starting around €1,000/m² depending on the condition, village, and accessibility. 🏡
- Nuoro (Barbagia, Supramonte): authenticity, mountains, lively villages.
- Oristano (Montiferru, Planargia, Sinis): beach and countryside, local terroir, peaceful pace.
- Interest: more space for the same budget, green lifestyle projects, hosting potential (B&B, workshops).
For reference, the price levels mentioned above around Oristano (~€634/m²) illustrate this favorable differential compared to northern resorts.
Renovated properties or restoration projects
Not sure whether to buy turnkey or renovate? Here’s a guide.
- Renovated: quick move-in, modern comfort, better liquidity, higher purchase price.
- To renovate: attractive purchase price, potential for customization and value increase, but anticipate timeframes, permits, and managing tradesmen.
- Check: structure, damp, connections, site access, energy costs, heritage constraints.
Plan for acquisition fees and taxes, and a renovation fund if you renovate.
Trends 2026-2030 in Sardinia
Development of four-season tourism
Sardinia is expanding its appeal beyond summer: hiking, cycling, wellness, wine tourism, gastronomy, cultural events. ☀️🚲
- Opportunity for properties close to trails, lively villages, and year-round services.
- Potential to extend the rental period and smooth income.
- Growing interest for well-connected small towns (Olbia, Alghero, Oristano, Nuoro).
Growth of eco-villages and sustainable living in inland areas
Sustainable housing initiatives are progressing: bioclimatic renovation, solar, water recovery, local materials. 🌿
- Use value: thermal comfort, controlled bills, quality of life.
- Property value: assets with better energy ratings, more desirable by 2030.
- Rural communities and coworking: new forms of hospitality and coliving to watch.
How to choose between the coast and inland?
Take stock of your project before buying.
- Use: second home, rental investment, remote work, retirement.
- Budget: coast = higher prices and charges; inland = more space and authenticity, but possible renovation costs.
- Access: proximity to Olbia, Alghero or Cagliari, airport times, ferries.
- Rental: seasonality, management, local regulations.
- Renovation: timeframes, permits, tradesmen, energy performance.
Green Acres tip: schedule several visits out of season and compare at least two micro-markets to make an informed decision. 🚤
