Currently, around 9 million people live in Greece, and an estimated 7.2% of the population consists of immigrants. So, what makes living in Greece so appealing to expats? From its stunning islands and rich cultural heritage to its laid-back lifestyle, the country offers many expats a new beginning.
At the same time, relocating to a new country comes with its drawbacks. Therefore, it is essential to carefully examine both the advantages and disadvantages. To help you make an informed decision, we have gathered the top 7 key pros and cons of living in Greece.
What to Discover in This Guide?
Why Live in Greece?
Greece is the birthplace of philosophy, democracy, and Western civilization as we know it today. Located at the heart of the world, it has unfettered access to Asia, Africa, and Europe. There are many expats living in Greece, mostly moving there to enjoy the sunny weather and fantastic beaches.
You can find abundant natural beauty in Greece, whether in the mountains, forests, coasts, or the 6000 islands spread out in the Mediterranean. Life in Greece seems like living in a fairy tale.
Furthermore, it’s an enthralling mixture of history, sun-drenched islands, buzzing cities, and timeless traditions. So if you’re thinking of living in Greece, rest assured that whatever it is you’re looking for, you’ll be able to find it.
Greece has so much to offer that you can find your own secret “paradise spot” away from the crowds. Even in the summer, when the islands, beaches, and ancient ruins are teeming with excited visitors, you can always find a beach on an island or another away from all the hustle.
Is Greece a Good Place to Live For an Expat?
When you consider living abroad as an expat, you wish to consider your new home’s advantages and disadvantages.
Similarly, life in Greece can be good for many expats with its limitless possibilities. Nevertheless, it is always up to you and your preferences to make the final decision.
Here are some of the good and bad things about living in Greece for expats.
Top 7 Pros of Living in Greece in 2025
Life in Greece can offer you many advantages. Here are some of them.
1. Cost of living
Greece is not only known for its popular tourist destinations, amazing history, its feta cheese, and incredible weather; it also has a reputation as being very affordable. When moving to Greece, or anywhere, there are a few points that everyone has on their checklist, such as:
Rent and Utilities
The cost of living in Greece is quite low. According to Numbeo, in Athens, the most expensive city, you can find a one-bedroom apartment in the city center for 350-650€, and outside of the center for 250-600€ per month.
If you’re looking for something a bit larger, the rental prices are 500-1200€ for a three-bedroom apartment in the city and 450-1000€ a month outside the city center.
When it comes to utilities, living expenses will be about 120-311€, depending on the size of your house, the season, and your level of usage.
Food and Groceries
Of course, the price of food is on everyone’s checklist when thinking about moving somewhere new. You should expect to pay €8-25 in an inexpensive restaurant. For a meal for two people at a mid-range restaurant, expect to pay between €35 and €80.
Furthermore, Greece is famous for its agricultural products, such as olive oil, wine, cheese, and saffron. Recent studies show that Greece’s Mediterranean diet increases longevity and reduces heart disease and diabetes risk.
We have collected a price list of various grocery items and would like to present it to you in the table below to make your life easier:
| Grocery Prices (in Euros) | |
|---|---|
| Item | Price (€) |
| Milk (regular), (1 liter) | 1.50 |
| Rice (white), (1kg) | 2.26 |
| Chicken Fillets (1kg) | 9.22 |
| Apples (1kg) | 1.83 |
| Potato (1kg) | 1.12 |
| Water (1.5-liter bottle) | 0.77 |
| Bottle of Wine (Mid-Range) | 8.00 |
| Cigarettes 20 Pack (Marlboro) | 4.60 |
Transportation
Greece boasts many modes of transport between cities and within towns. Athens has a very well-known tram system that connects various neighborhoods. For a one-way ticket for local transport in Greece, you should expect to pay about €30 for a monthly pass.
2. Affordable Healthcare
The healthcare system in Greece is competitively developed despite the previous financial crisis. Citizens and residents in Greece can enjoy access to public healthcare for free or at very little cost. There is a unified healthcare system in Greece called EFKA, which provides free healthcare to all citizens.
There are two types of healthcare in Greece: Public and Private.
Public Healthcare
ESY is the public healthcare system, and it provides free healthcare to citizens and residents alike. Furthermore, you are eligible for the ESY even if you’re unemployed, an EU citizen, or an expat. If you’re employed in Greece, your contribution rate for public health is about 30% percent of your salary, and arranging it is your employer’s responsibility.
The public healthcare system in Greece offers various services, such as:
- Surveillance of public health
- Control of infectious diseases
- Environmental health control
- Health promotion
- General and specialist care
- Hospitalization
- Laboratory services
- Discounted drugs and medicines
- Maternity care
- Medical appliances
- Transportation
Finally, it is essential to mention that, unlike most countries, you don’t need a referral from a GP to make an appointment with a specialist. However, there might be long waiting periods to meet with a specialist.
Keep in mind that in most big cities, such as Athens, you’ll probably run across English-speaking healthcare professionals in public health centers. Though it’s unlikely that you’ll find the same in the smaller cities or islands.
Private Healthcare
Needless to say, private healthcare tends to have newer facilities and equipment than public facilities. Additionally, Greek doctors are more likely to speak English in private hospitals.
Moreover, some private hospitals have partnerships with some American hospitals or with other hospitals in various countries.
Many citizens and expats choose private health care over the public system due to better facilities, more coverage, and shorter waiting periods.
You can choose to have complimentary private health insurance, which covers what the public one doesn’t, or go for an all-inclusive one, which covers everything.
What is covered by private health insurance?
Other than a full range of primary health care, here’s what is covered:
- Treatment in Greece’s most advanced hospitals
- Advanced dental treatment
- Cosmetic surgeries
- Fees when visiting a specialist
In some cases, you may be able to extend your private insurance in your country of origin to cover you in Greece.
3. Tax Incentives in Greece
Non-residents in Greece get many tax benefits, which is yet another appealing quality about Greece. If you’re a non-resident in Greece, you only have to pay taxes on your income there.
In other words, you are exempt from taxes on any income from outside of Greece. Furthermore, Greece has Double Taxation Treaties with various countries to prevent double taxation.
Taxpayer Identification Number
After moving to Greece and finding a job there, you should apply for a taxpayer identification number known as AFM, as you need this number to open a bank account and set up your utilities.
To apply for your identification number, you need to visit your local tax office. Usually, filling out the M1 Form and bringing your passport with you should be enough, but always consult your local tax office to see if additional documents are required.
You must pay taxes in Greece if you meet at least one of the following conditions:
- Having a permanent residence in Greece
- Having spent more than 183 days during any calendar year in Greece
- Being employed or carrying out a professional activity in Greece
- Having an investment or business in Greece
- Receiving an annual income of more than €3,000 (from self-employment, salaries, pensions, alimony, or agricultural activities)
Types of taxes in Greece
In Greece, there are four different types of taxes, which are:
- Income Tax
- Social Security Tax
- Capital Gains Tax (taxes on lottery gains, inheritance, and on real estate property transfer)
- VAT (Value Added Tax) on the prices of services and products in the country.
The rates on various income and capital gains taxes vary dramatically. It can vary from 9% on employment income up to €10,000 to 44% on income over €40,000. Below, you may find detailed tables of income and capital gains taxes in Greece:
| Income Tax Rates (Greece) | |
|---|---|
| Taxable Income (Euro) | Tax Rate |
| Up to €10,000 | 9% |
| €10,000 – €20,000 | 22% |
| €20,001 – €30,000 | 29% |
| €30,001 – €40,000 | 37% |
| Over €40,000 | 45% |
| Income Tax on Real Estate (2025) | |
|---|---|
| Taxable Income (Euro) | Tax Rate |
| Up to €12,000 | 15% |
| €12,001 – €35,000 | 35% |
| Over €35,001 | 45% |
| Income From Capital (Dividends, interest, royalties, real estate) | |
|---|---|
| Capital Income | Tax Rate |
| Dividends | 5% |
| Interest | 15% |
| Royalties | 20% |
4. High Quality of Education
Education in Greece is compulsory from the ges 6 to 16. The school system is made up of a six-year primary school (Diomotiko), a three-year lower secondary school (Gymnasio), and a non-compulsory upper secondary school. The upper school can be either technical or academic.
Most Greek children go to public school. Furthermore, there are plenty of non-compulsory public and private preschools and kindergartens in Greece. Children can start attending preschool at the age of two years and six months, and then attend kindergarten before starting the compulsory primary school.
International Schools
Greece has a good number of international schools. About 15 schools in Greece offer an “International Baccalaureate Degree”, which paves the way to study at universities outside of Greece after graduation.
Keep in mind when living in Greece with a family, that most international schools tend to be in Athens or Thessaloniki. Additionally, you can find various languages of instruction, such as English, French, German, and Japanese.
Here are a few international schools in Athens that offer an English Curriculum:
- International School Athens
- Saint Catherine’s British School
- Campion School
- American Community School Athens
5. Safety in Greece
With a 53.64 safety index in 2025, Greece is among the moderately safest countries in the world. Although petty crimes can happen, the violent crime rates are among the lowest crime rates in European countries. By taking basic precautions, you can safely live in Greece.
Solo female expats can feel a sense of freedom as well as safety. You can dress as you want without the fear of being stared at. However, you should always take safety precautions, too. You can walk alone at night, but be sure you do not walk in isolated places. You can carry cash, but do not carry large amounts of cash or fancy jewelry.
Accordingly, Greece is one of the most LGBTQ friendly countries in Europe. Homosexuality was legalized in 1971, and same-sex marriage in 2024. In cities like Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini, you can hang around with your partner without fear.
Besides, Gay Pride events are happening every year. Therefore, you can easily benefit from the LGBTQ expat community in Greece.
6. Warm Weather and Greek Culture
When someone speaks of Greece, one of the few words you hear is its warm weather. The Mediterranean climate offers you hot and dry summers along with mild winters.
When it is combined with the laid-back Greek lifestyle and a healthy diet, you can witness that people are enjoying the beaches and stunning Greek Islands. Plus, you can also opt for retirement life in Greece thanks to its peaceful atmosphere.
7. Real Estate Investment
With a high annual growth rate, the real estate market in Greece is estimated to reach US$1.34 billion in 2025. Besides, it is expected to grow 3.95% from 2025-2029, which will bring the market value to $1.56 by 2029. Therefore, investing in real estate is becoming a strategic asset day by day.
As an expat, you can prefer to rent or buy a property in Greece. At this point, it is better to remind you of Greece’s Golden Visa program. Within the framework of it, you can buy a property costing at least €250,000 in a specific project and get your residence permit for up to 5 years.
You can renew it, and if you reside in the country for 7 years (183 days per year), you can be eligible for Greek citizenship.
7 Cons of Living in Greece
Now that we have covered the advantages of living in Greece, it is time to move on to its drawbacks.
1. The Limited Job Market
It is no secret that Greece suffered a painful economic setback during the global financial crisis back in 2008. Unemployment rates were at an all-time high, and real estate prices dropped to unprecedented levels.
The job market is a bit tricky for expats living in Greece since large international companies are not abundant. Many expats in Greece tend to work as English teachers, as it is a very sought-after profession there, especially in suburban areas and some of the Islands.
The minimum wage in Greece is fixed at €880 in 2025. The wages mostly change and are considerably low. For instance, as a professional English teacher, you should expect a salary between €1,500 – 2,500, which is comparatively low.
2. Language Barrier
Although people know how to speak English in many tourist destinations and expat-located areas, you are less likely to come across English-speaking people as you move to the rural locations.
Therefore, if you aim to settle down, you must learn some Greek to join the local life.
3. Slow Bureaucracy
As Greek people are known for their laid-back lifestyle and their “siesta times”, the bureaucracy here can be time-consuming, especially when you want to get your Greek visa or residence permit.
One of the main reasons behind this problem is that there is no digitised system where you can upload your documents or necessary forms online. This rejection of technology causes many expats in Greece to deal with lots of paperwork.
4. Tourist Overload
Many expats in Greece face several long-standing issues related to urban planning. Initially, many Greek cities developed rapidly without consistent urban planning regulation. This resulted in densely packed buildings, narrow streets, and limited green spaces.
Plus, illegal and unlicensed constructions are also common, especially in rural areas.
6. Frequent Strikes and Protests
Considering Greece’s political and social landscape, it can be inferred that strikes and protests are deeply rooted in Greek culture. Therefore, when such an occasion happens, you can see the traces of it in life.
For instance, you can witness the halt of essential services when public transport workers, teachers, or civil servants strike.
7. Limited Public Transportation Outside Major Cities
Public transportation is relatively efficient in major cities of Greece; however, when you move outside of these urban areas, you will for sure face significant limitations.
You can realize that they often lack reliable transportation services. Even if they have, transportation infrastructure can be outdated with its older buses and train lines. This can cause you to be dependent on your private cars.
How to Live in Greece
If you’re an EU citizen or a citizen of Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein, or Switzerland, you don’t need a visa. You need to present your passport or identity card when entering the country.
If you are a US citizen, you can stay in Greece for up to 90 days without a visa. However, if your stay is longer than that period, you need a temporary residence permit.
If you’re a citizen of any other foreign country, then you must apply for a three-month entry visa known as the “D” type visa.
Entry Visas for Greece
You can obtain an entry visa by visiting the local Greek consulate and providing the following documents:
- Your passport (valid for at least three months after the expiration of the visa)
- A biometric passport Photo
- The Application form, filled in English or Greek
- A medical certificate filled out by a licensed doctor
- Proof of medical insurance valid in Greece
- An excerpt from the penal register issued by your country of origin or current residence
You’ll need to be present in person at the Greek consulate or embassy when applying, and you might be invited for an interview. The authorities will take biometric data from you during your visit. Furthermore, the visa is valid for three months from the date of entry.
Residence Permits for Employment Purposes
EU citizens moving to Greece for employment purposes need to apply for a residence permit upon arrival, which is a simple procedure.
For non-EU citizens, the process is slightly more elaborate. The Greek government issues different residence permits depending on whether one is classed as “executive” or “regular staff”.
The following documents are needed to obtain a residence permit at the Ministry of Interior after you move to Greece:
- Two completed application forms (you can obtain those at the Ministry of Interior office)
- A Passport and a copy of each page
- Three biometric passport photos
- A health certificate that is filled out by a hospital in Greece
- Proof of health insurance
- Proof of sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay
- Employment contract (if applicable)
Residence permits for employment purposes are initially issued for one year after moving to Greece. They need to be renewed within two months of expiration, and the renewed permit must be renewed every two years.
The Greece Golden Visa
The Greece Golden Visa is an RBI (Residency by Investment Program) launched in 2013. The program allows any investor, provided they are not an EU or Swiss citizen, to obtain permanent residence in exchange for an investment in Greek real estate.
This program has been extremely popular amongst investors because it boasts the lowest minimum investment in any Golden Visa program in Europe at just €250,000.
This program grants the investor a permanent residence in Greece valid for five years and renewable every five years indefinitely, as long as the investment is maintained. Remember that if you live in Greece for seven years, you can qualify for citizenship, provided that you spend a minimum of 183 days a year.
Besides, there is a Greek Non-Dom Regime for retirees. According to this, you can benefit from a reduced 7% tax rate on condition that you meet the eligibility requirements.
Contact Form
Greece Digital Nomad Visa
If you are a remote worker, you can apply for a Greece Digital Nomad Visa, which is valid for a year and renewable. To be eligible for this program, you need to show at least €3,500 per month, and you must work for a company not located in Greece.
You can include your family, including your spouse and children. However, be aware that you have to show an extra 20% for a spouse and 15% for each child.
Americans Living in Greece
Around 20,000 Americans prefer living in Greece as they prefer to move out of the USA. The main reasons behind this immigration to Greece are its affordability, work-life balance, and tax benefits. Plus, generally speaking, Greeks are friendly to Americans.
If Americans want to live in Greece, they can stay up to 90 days visa-free. However, they need a residence permit. So, how can you move to Greece from the USA? You can opt for options like the Greek Golden Visa to extend your stay.
Living or retiring in Greece as an American can be a great experience if you enjoy a laid-back lifestyle, long siestas, traditional Greek cuisine, and warm weather. Plus, you can benefit from the low cost of living in Greece per month.
Cost of Living in Greece vs the US
| Greece | The USA | |
|---|---|---|
| Meal at an inexpensive restaurant | 17.42 $ | 26.25 $ |
| Meal at a mid-restaurant | 10.45 $ | 12 $ |
| Monthly Pass | 75 $ | 34.84 $ |
| Taxi per kilometer | 1.16 $ | 1.73 $ |
| Basic utilities | 215.89 $ | 208.70 $ |
| Rent per month in the city center | 648.21 $ | 2,557.95 $ |
| Rent per month outside of city center | 573.53 $ | 2,085.83 $ |
| Average monthly salary | 6,068.82 $ | 1,167.45 $ |
Jobs in Greece for Americans
Before moving to Greece as an American, you must take a look at the available sectors unless you retire in Greece from the USA. Here are the top 6 sectors you can consider for employment opportunities:
- Tourism
- Education
- Finance
- Customer Service
- IT
- Agriculture
Opening a Bank Account
After moving to Greece, foreign residents will need to open a Greek bank account. If you get a job with a Greek employer, your salary will be paid into a Greek account. Even if you are self-employed, you’ll need a Greek bank account to apply for residency, plus it’ll make living in Greece easier.
Opening a bank account is a straightforward process; you just need to go to the bank with your passport and your taxpayer identification number. Additionally, each bank usually has a list of documents that you need to take with you. So we recommend that you check the specific bank.
There are a few international and Greek banks there, the most well-known being:
- Piraeus Bank
- Alpha Bank
- National Bank of Greece
- Eurobank
Best Places to Live in Greece
1. Athens
Most expats living in Greece choose to reside in Athens. Athens is one of the oldest cities in the world, stretching all the way back to the Neolithic Age. It has a population of nearly four million and is located near the Bay of Phaleron on the Aegean Sea, the site of Athens’s port, Piraeus.
Moreover, Athens accounts for over half the jobs in Greece, especially in handicrafts and industry, due to its proximity to the bustling hub.
Finally, average salaries tend to be higher than anywhere else in Greece. Even though Athens was definitely affected by the economic crisis, it has been recovering at a steady rate, especially the real estate sector.
So if you’re moving to Greece, Athens should be at the top of your consideration list.
2. Thessaloniki
Thessaloniki is no stranger to expats living in Greece either. It is the second-largest city in Greece, with a population of about 800,000. The city was named after Alexander the Great’s sister and was founded in 315 BCE.
Furthermore, Thessaloniki emerged as a major industrial center in the 1960s, with the opening of oil refineries, petrochemical plants, and steel mills. Additionally, it’s a major exporter of agricultural products, manganese, and chrome.
Unfortunately, much of the city was destroyed by a horrific earthquake in 1978 and suffered a painful economic hit during the economic crisis. On a happier note, it has shown solid growth, and investor confidence has risen again in the past couple of years.
So, if you prefer a slightly smaller city with a rich history and a strong industrial economy, then Thessaloniki might just be for you when moving to Greece.
Frequently Asked Questions on Living in Greece as an Expat
How many years should I live in Greece to become a citizen?
To be a Greek citizen, you have to check out in which way you can get citizenship. If you are married to a Greek citizen or have a Greek child, you have to reside in Greece for at least 3 years. For naturalization, you have to stay at least 7 years in Greece (by following the 183 days rule per year).
How long can I live in Greece without residency as an American?
With your American passport, you can stay up to 90 days without a tourist visa. If your stay exceeds, you need to apply for an available residency option.
Is it difficult to move to Greece?
For EU citizens, it’s very easy; however, for other citizens, you might need to go through some bureaucratic processes.
How much money do you need to live in Greece?
You should be able to live comfortably in Greece with a monthly income of about $2000.
Which countries have a double taxation treaty with Greece?
Greece has DTTs) With 57 countries on income and capital. These countries are namely Albania, Armenia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Belgium, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Canada, China, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Egypt, Estonia, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Hungary, Iceland, India, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Korea, Kuwait, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Morocco, Mexico, Malta, Moldavia, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Romania, Russia, Saudi Arabia, San Marino, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, Sweden, Spain, Switzerland, Turkey, Tunisia, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States, and Uzbekistan.
It has agreements on estates and inheritances, and on gifts with the following countries: Germany, Italy, Spain, and the United States.
