With its stunning beaches, sunny climate, ancient history, and laidback lifestyle, it’s no wonder Greece has always captivated visitors from across the globe. If you’ve considered making the move to this Mediterranean paradise, read on to learn all about what it’s really like to live in Greece.
Why Move to Greece?
So what inspires people to relocate to Greece and make it their new home? Here are some of the biggest draws:
- Mediterranean climate : Greece enjoys hot, sunny summers perfect for beach-going and sailing. Winters are mild with some rainfall. The climate is ideal for enjoying outdoor living.
- Breathtaking scenery : From Athens and the Greek Islands to the mountain villages, Greece’s landscapes are simply spectacular and picturesque. Outdoor activities abound.
- Laidback lifestyle : Greeks know how to relax and enjoy life. With long lunches, late dinners, and plenty of time spent with family, life moves at a slower pace.
- Delicious cuisine : Greek food including fresh seafood, grilled meats, olive oil, feta cheese, and more makes for incredible dining. The Mediterranean diet is one of the world’s healthiest.
- Ancient history : As the birthplace of Western civilization, Greece has archaeological marvels like the Acropolis and Parthenon. Walking in the footsteps of ancient Greeks is humbling.
- Vibrant culture : From lively festivals to beautiful orthodox churches, energetic nightlife to family traditions, experiencing real Greek culture is a dream.
- Island living : Picturesque islands like Santorini, Mykonos, and Corfu offer stunning beaches and charming villages. Island life moves at an even slower speed.
- Low cost of living : While not the absolute cheapest country, Greece offers very affordable costs for housing, dining, and more compared to most of Europe.
For so many reasons, Greece stands out as a top destination for expats seeking Mediterranean beauty, history, culture, cuisine, and charm. Καλώς ήρθατε (welcome)!
Living in Greece: Pros and Cons
Prior to packing your bags, weigh the following key advantages and challenges of living in Greece:
Pros of Living in Greece
- Year-round sunshine and warm climate : Winters average 55°F even in the north so outdoor living is possible almost any time.
- Laidback work culture : Greece has among the shortest average work weeks in the EU. Weekends and time off are valued.
- Tight-knit communities : Most Greeks maintain very close family and community bonds. Expect to be welcomed into the neighborhood.
- Amazing fresh cuisine : Excellent quality Mediterranean ingredients like seafood, olive oil, and produce are affordable and delicious.
- Slower pace and lower stress : Greeks work to live rather than live to work. Expect a calmer lifestyle with time for long meals and afternoon naps.
- Lower cost of living : Real estate and dining out are very reasonably priced, especially on the islands or in smaller towns.
- Outdoor living : Life revolves around community parks, pedestrian streets, cafe-lined plazas, and beautiful beaches.
Cons of Living in Greece
- Bureaucracy : Overregulation, red tape, and some government corruption exists. Getting everyday tasks done can require patience.
- High unemployment : Greece’s economy has struggled, resulting in youth unemployment rates around 30-40%. Jobs tend to be low-paying.
- Opaque business culture : Navigating real estate transactions and business agreements can be tricky due to legacy of patronage and favors.
- Tax evasion : Greece has a sizeable informal economy. Ensure proper financial records and full tax payments.
- Public transit gaps : Outside Athens, public transportation is minimal. Many rely on cars, motorbikes, or walking. Traffic in cities is chaotic.
- Unreliable services : Issues like power outages, slow internet, and business closures without notice can happen. Flexibility is key.
Overall, Greece offers an enviable Mediterranean lifestyle at a reasonable cost. But issues like high unemployment, red tape, and spotty infrastructure take some adjustment.
The Cost of Living in Greece: A Comprehensive Guide
One major factor to weigh when relocating abroad is the cost of everyday living. How affordable is Greece compared to other parts of Europe? Here’s a realistic breakdown of average costs:
Housing
- Housing is quite affordable, especially on the islands or smaller cities.
- In Athens, expect to pay €500–800 for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center. Options under €400 are available further out.
- Buying an apartment starts around €800 per sq. meter.
Utilities
- Expect to pay around €150 per month total in utilities including electricity, heating oil, water, internet, etc.
- Internet speeds can be slower outside cities.
- Electricity costs €0.11 per kWh. Greece still relies heavily on oil for home heating in winter.
Groceries
- Grocery costs are lower than much of Europe at around €200-300 per month for one person.
- Fresh local produce like fruit, vegetables, eggs, feta cheese, yogurt, and olive oil are budget-friendly.
- Greek wine is also very affordable.
Dining Out
- You can find plenty of tasty gyros, souvlaki, mezedes small plates, and other Greek fare for €10-15 per person.
- At a nice restaurant, expect a three-course meal with wine to run €25-40 per person.
- Alcohol and coffee are quite cheap.
Transportation
- Public transportation like buses and metro in Athens only costs €1.40-2 per ride.
- Taxis start at €3.50 plus €0.68 per km.
- Gasoline is around €1.60 per liter.
- Leasing an economy car starts around €170 per month.
Healthcare
- Public healthcare in Greece can require some cash payments for treatment.
- Many Greeks choose affordable private insurance at around €1200 annually.
Childcare
- Public preschool and primary school is free in Greece.
- Private Greek schools cost €4000-8000 per year.
- Universities have minimal fees, even for international students.
In general, Greece offers a very affordable cost of living compared to other European and Mediterranean nations. Frugal living is easy on less than €1,500 per month.
Quality of Life in Greece
Here are some key facts and statistics highlighting Greece’s quality of life:
- Life expectancy averages 81 years, on par with other developed European nations. Healthcare is high quality and affordable.
- Education is free through university with literacy rate over 97%. Public schools score well globally for math, science, and reading skills.
- Political freedoms and civil liberties protections rate very high. Greece has robust democratic governance and progressive social policies.
- Standard of living is decent overall considering Greece’s economic challenges. Unemployment remains problematic but poverty rates are lower than EU average.
- Greek culture prizes close family and community connections, which enhance social support and quality of life. People look out for one another.
- Mild sunny climate and healthy Mediterranean cuisine boost mood and well-being. Obesity rates are quite low compared to other European nations.
- Pollution, crime, violence, and income inequality rates are all lower than average across Europe. Greece is very safe with little petty crime.
- The Greek islands offer an exceptionally high quality of life with beauty, charm, community, tranquility, and affordable living costs.
Overall, Greece provides a great quality of life enhanced by climate, culture, cuisine, safety, and its laidback lifestyle. Challenges with unemployment and economy are balanced out by many benefits.
A Beginner’s Guide to Greek Culture
Stepping into the Greek culture as a foreigner can bring surprises. Here are some key aspects of local etiquette, values, and lifestyle to be aware of:
- Filoxenia – Greeks pride themselves on their hospitality and welcome of foreign visitors. Expect incredible generosity and openness.
- Mealtimes – Dining is central in Greek life. Meals are not rushed and can last hours with conversation and drinks. Say “Kali orexi” before eating.
- Family comes first – Greeks maintain very close family relationships across generations. Loyalty and respect for relatives is paramount.
- Physical affection – Hugs, kisses and warm touch during greetings with friends or relatives are customary. Personal space is smaller.
- Elders are honored – Older Greeks command great respect. Allow them to enter rooms and be seated first. Care for aging parents is expected.
- Patience and presence – Greeks focus on living in the moment, not rushing. Plans often change. Going with the flow gracefully is valued.
- Generous hospitality – Greek hosts take pride in showering guests with food, drinks and gifts. Learn to accept graciously. Offer compliments.
- Dress elegantly – Greeks dress smartly to go out, even just for coffee. Quality over quantity in wardrobe. Enjoy some statement jewelry.
Immerse yourself in the Greek way of life and you are sure to experience incredible warmth, joy, and beauty. Take time to build community connections and you’ll soon feel right at home.
Best Places to Live in Greece
With so much geographic diversity across hundreds of inhabited islands and the mainland, choosing where to settle down in Greece takes some careful consideration. Each region offers its own unique blend of history, culture, climate, and lifestyle. Popular options include:
- Athens: The capital city offers a mix of ancient history and modern amenities, with excellent job opportunities and cultural attractions.
- Thessaloniki: Known for its vibrant food scene, nightlife, and more affordable living costs compared to Athens.
- Crete: Greece’s largest island boasts beautiful beaches, charming villages, and a relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle.
- Corfu: An Ionian island with stunning scenery, rich history, and a large expat community.
- Nafplio: A picturesque coastal town in the Peloponnese, known for its romantic atmosphere and proximity to ancient sites.
- Santorini: Famous for its dramatic landscapes and sunsets, though it can be crowded and expensive.
- Rhodes: Offers a blend of history, beaches, and a warm climate, with a well-developed tourism infrastructure.
- Paros: A Cycladic island with beautiful beaches, traditional villages, and a growing expat population.
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