Tunisia is an increasingly popular destination for expats looking for affordable real estate, a Mediterranean lifestyle, and a welcoming culture. Whether you’re retiring, investing, or relocating, this guide covers the best places to buy property in Tunisia, legal considerations, costs, and essential tips for expats.
Why Buy Property in Tunisia?
Before diving into the best locations, let’s explore why Tunisia is an attractive option for expat property buyers:
✅ Affordable Prices – Compared to Europe, property in Tunisia is significantly cheaper.
✅ Mediterranean Climate – Warm summers, mild winters, and beautiful coastlines.
✅ Low Cost of Living – Daily expenses are much lower than in Western countries.
✅ Stable Legal Framework – Foreigners can buy property with certain restrictions.
✅ Growing Tourism & Investment Potential – Coastal areas offer rental income opportunities.
Now, let’s explore the best cities and regions for expat property buyers.
1. Tunis (The Capital City)
Why Buy Here?
- Economic & Cultural Hub – Best for business, healthcare, and international schools.
- Modern & Traditional Mix – Upscale neighborhoods like La Marsa and Gammarth offer luxury villas.
- Strong Rental Market – High demand from expats and diplomats.
Average Property Prices
- Apartment (city center): $800 – $1,500 per m²
- Villa (coastal areas): $1,500 – $3,000 per m²
Best Neighborhoods for Expats
- La Marsa – Upscale, near the beach, popular with expats.
- Gammarth – Luxury villas, golf courses, and resorts.
- Lac de Tunis – Modern apartments with lake views.
📌 Best for: Expats who want city life with coastal access.
2. Sousse (Coastal Gem)
Why Buy Here?
- Tourist Hotspot – Strong rental demand for vacation homes.
- Affordable Beachfront Property – Cheaper than Tunis but still vibrant.
- Rich History & Nightlife – Medina, resorts, and a lively expat community.
Average Property Prices
- Apartment (beachfront): $600 – $1,200 per m²
- Villa (suburbs): $1,000 – $2,000 per m²
Best Neighborhoods for Expats
- Port El Kantaoui – Marina, golf courses, luxury resorts.
- Sahloul – Modern apartments near hospitals and universities.
- Boujaafar – Central location with a mix of old and new.
📌 Best for: Retirees and investors looking for a mix of tourism and affordability.
3. Hammamet (Luxury & Relaxation)
Why Buy Here?
- Top Tourist Destination – High-end resorts and golf courses.
- Strong Expat Community – Many Europeans own holiday homes here.
- Beautiful Beaches – Some of Tunisia’s best coastline.
Average Property Prices
- Apartment (near beach): $700 – $1,500 per m²
- Villa (gated community): $1,200 – $3,000 per m²
Best Neighborhoods for Expats
- Yasmine Hammamet – Marina, nightlife, and luxury villas.
- Hammamet Nord – Quiet, upscale residential area.
📌 Best for: Luxury buyers and retirees seeking a resort-style lifestyle.
4. Djerba (Island Paradise)
Why Buy Here?
- Unique Island Culture – Blend of Berber, Arab, and Jewish heritage.
- Low Cost of Living – Cheaper than mainland coastal cities.
- Growing Expat Interest – Popular for long-term stays.
Average Property Prices
- Apartment (near beach): $500 – $1,000 per m²
- Traditional House (Medina): $400 – $900 per m²
Best Neighborhoods for Expats
- Houmt Souk – Lively town with markets and cafes.
- Midoun – Quieter, near beaches and golf courses.
📌 Best for: Expats who want a relaxed, culturally rich island life.
5. Bizerte (Hidden Gem)
Why Buy Here?
- Less Touristy – Authentic Tunisian lifestyle.
- Cheaper Property – Great value for coastal homes.
- Close to Europe – Just a short ferry ride from Sicily.
Average Property Prices
- Apartment (city center): $400 – $900 per m²
- Villa (beachfront): $800 – $1,500 per m²
📌 Best for: Expats seeking affordability and authenticity.
Legal Considerations for Expats Buying Property in Tunisia
Can Foreigners Buy Property?
✅ Yes, but with restrictions:
- Non-residents need government approval.
- Agricultural land is restricted.
- Foreigners can buy apartments, villas, and commercial property.
Steps to Buy Property in Tunisia
- Find a Property – Work with a local real estate agent.
- Reservation Contract – Pay a deposit (usually 10%).
- Due Diligence – Check land registry (Conservation Foncière).
- Final Sale Contract – Signed before a notary.
- Registration & Taxes – Pay transfer tax (1-2.5%) and notary fees.
Taxes & Fees
- Transfer Tax: 1% to 2.5% of property value.
- Notary Fees: ~1% of purchase price.
- Annual Property Tax: 0.1% to 0.5% of rental value.
Final Tips for Expats Buying Property in Tunisia
🔹 Use a Local Lawyer – Ensure legal compliance.
🔹 Visit Before Buying – Avoid scams by inspecting properties.
🔹 Consider Resale Potential – Coastal areas have better liquidity.
🔹 Rental Income Potential – Tourist zones like Hammamet and Sousse offer good returns.
Conclusion: Where Should You Buy?
| City | Best For | Avg. Price (m²) |
|---|---|---|
| Tunis | Expats, business, luxury | $800 – $3,000 |
| Sousse | Investors, retirees | $600 – $2,000 |
| Hammamet | Luxury, tourism | $700 – $3,000 |
| Djerba | Island lifestyle | $400 – $1,000 |
| Bizerte | Budget-friendly | $400 – $1,500 |
Tunisia offers diverse options for expat property buyers, from bustling cities to tranquil islands. By choosing the right location and following legal procedures, you can secure a dream home at an affordable price.
Would you like help finding a real estate agent in Tunisia? Let us know in the comments!
