Is Living in Greece Expensive? A Comprehensive Analysis of the Cost of Living

Sunny Greece, with its beautiful islands and rich history, is a popular destination for both tourists and expats. But what about the cost of living? Is living in Greece expensive? In this blog, we dive deep into the cost of living in this Mediterranean paradise. From housing to groceries and healthcare, we provide a detailed overview so you can be well-prepared for your Greek adventure.

Housing in Greece

The cost of housing in Greece can vary significantly depending on the location. Below is an overview of rental and purchase prices in different regions:

Athens:

• Rent: In central Athens, you pay between €600 and €900 per month for a one-bedroom apartment. Outside the center, prices drop to €400 - €600.
• Purchase: Prices for apartments in the center start at around €2,000 per square meter, while outside the center, prices are about €1,500 per square meter.

Thessaloniki:

• Rent: In Thessaloniki, rental prices are slightly lower, averaging €500 - €800 in the center and €350 - €500 outside the center.
• Purchase: Apartments in the center cost an average of €1,800 per square meter, and around €1,200 per square meter outside the center.

Crete:

• Rent: In central Heraklion, you can rent an apartment for €450 per month, while prices in smaller towns and villages are lower.
• Purchase: Prices vary, but in central Heraklion, you pay an average of €1,500 per square meter.

Mykonos and Santorini:

• Rent: On popular islands like Mykonos and Santorini, prices are similar to those in Athens, with rental prices between €700 and €1,200 per month for a one-bedroom apartment.
• Purchase: Prices are significantly higher here, averaging €3,500 per square meter for an apartment.

Groceries and Daily Life

The cost of groceries in Greece is relatively low compared to other European countries. On average, you spend about €200 to €300 per person per month on groceries. This amount covers all basic needs such as milk, bread, rice, eggs, meat, and fresh vegetables and fruits. Additionally, dining out and drinking in local tavernas is affordable. A meal in an average restaurant costs around €10 - €15, while a cup of coffee in a café costs an average of €2.50.

Healthcare

Greece has both public and private hospitals. The costs for healthcare are relatively low, especially compared to other European countries. If you have an EHIC card, you are entitled to free or low-cost medical care in public institutions.

Public Healthcare: Free or very cheap for EU citizens.

Private Healthcare: Consultations with a specialist cost between €50 and €100. Hospital stays and surgeries can be significantly more expensive, depending on the procedure.

Utilities and Transportation

For an 85m² apartment, you pay an average of €150 per month for electricity, water, heating, and garbage collection. Unlimited internet costs about €30 per month, while mobile plans start at €10 per month. A monthly public transportation pass in Athens costs about €30, while single tickets are €1.40 per ride.

Lifestyle and Entertainment

The social life in Greece is lively and often connected to the outdoors. From beaches to cultural events, there's always something to do, often at low costs or even for free. A movie ticket costs an average of €8, and a gym membership is around €30 per month. Short vacations and trips are cheaper than in many other European countries, with affordable domestic flights and ferry services.

Education and Childcare

For families with children, it is important to know that the Greek education system includes both public and private schools. Public schools are free, but private schools can range from €4,000 to €10,000 per year, depending on the school and location. Childcare costs vary, but you can expect to pay around €200 to €400 per month for daycare.

Comparison of Greece with the Netherlands

To get a better picture of the cost of living in Greece, it is useful to compare it with the Netherlands. Here are some key differences:

Housing: Rental prices in Greece are generally lower than in the Netherlands. For example, an apartment in central Athens is significantly cheaper than in Amsterdam.

Groceries: The cost of basic groceries is lower in Greece. Fresh fruit, vegetables, and local products are cheaper and often of better quality.

Healthcare: Healthcare costs are lower in Greece, for both public and private care.

Utilities and Transportation: The cost of utilities is comparable, but public transportation is often cheaper in Greece.

Overview of the Costs in Greece

When you add up all the costs, you come to a reasonably affordable cost of living in Greece. Here is an overview of the main expenses:

1. Housing: Depending on the location, rental prices for a one-bedroom apartment range from €400 to €900 per month. Purchase prices range from €1,200 to €3,500 per square meter.
2. Groceries: On average €200 to €300 per person per month for all basic needs.
3. Healthcare: Free (public) to €100 per consultation with a specialist (private).
4. Utilities: About €150 per month for electricity, water, heating, and garbage collection.
5. Internet and Mobile: About €30 per month for unlimited internet and from €10 per month for mobile plans.
6. Public Transportation: About €30 per monthly pass, single tickets €1.40 per ride.
7. Entertainment: A movie ticket costs an average of €8 and a gym membership around €30 per month.
8. Education and Childcare: Childcare costs vary from €200 to €400 per month, while private schools can cost between €4,000 and €10,000 per year.

Conclusion

Is living in Greece expensive? The answer is no, especially compared to many other European countries. With careful planning, you can enjoy a high quality of life at relatively low costs. Whether you are looking for a permanent residence, a second home, or an investment, Greece offers an attractive option for everyone.

FAQ

1. What are the average rental prices in Athens? The average rental prices in central Athens range between €600 and €900 per month for a one-bedroom apartment.

2. Are groceries in Greece expensive? No, groceries in Greece are relatively cheap, with many fresh products locally produced.

3. What are the healthcare costs? Healthcare in Greece is affordable, especially for EU citizens who can use public healthcare with an EHIC card.

4. What are the transportation costs in Greece? Public transportation is affordable, with a monthly pass in Athens costing about €30 and single tickets costing €1.40 per ride.