Living in Greece in 2025: A Complete Guide for Expats and Investors

Cost of Living in Greece

Dreaming of living under the Mediterranean sun with a glass of wine and no worries? Greece is your perfect place. But let’s talk numbers here before packing your bags. Greece’s overall cost of living is lower than that of Central and Western European countries and the USA. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect based on data from Numbeo and A Brother Abroad:

Housing

• Renting: A one-bedroom apartment in the city center, such as Athens or Thessaloniki, typically costs €300-€600 monthly. Opting for a quieter town or island? Prices drop to around €250-€400.
• Buying: If you want to own property, expect to pay an average of €1,000 per square meter in less tourist-heavy areas. Coastal properties or those in “Instagrammable” locations like Santorini will require higher prices.

Groceries

• Market Fresh: Weekly groceries cost between €40-€60, depending on your preferences. Local markets are perfect for fresh, affordable fruits, vegetables, and seafood.
• Dining Out: A meal at a local taverna is a must. A meal for two typically ranges from €20-€30, while a coffee at a beautiful seaside café costs around. According to Numbeo, eating out in Greece is 37.5% cheaper than in the United States.

Utilities and Essentials

• Utilities for a small apartment (electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage) average €120-€150 monthly. High-speed internet adds around €25-€35 per month.

Transportation

• Public transport is affordable, with monthly passes costing around €30. If you drive, gasoline prices are near €2 per liter. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are also reasonably priced for shorter trips.

Healthcare

• Greece offers accessible public healthcare to residents who contribute to the social security system. However, private health insurance, often preferred by expats for quicker access and English-speaking doctors, ranges from €50-€200 per month, depending on coverage.

In this graph, we visualized the cost of different aspects of life in Greece based on the data from Numbeo.

Greece offers a more affordable lifestyle, particularly in housing, dining, and transportation, making it a cost-effective choice for expats compared to the U.S.

How It Is to Live in Greece as an American

Many Americans choose Greece for its relaxed lifestyle and strategic location in Europe. English is common in tourist areas, but learning basic Greek can make all the difference. Living in Greece as an American can be a unique experience. For many U.S. citizens, the attractiveness of Greece lies in its relaxed lifestyle, lower cost of living, and proximity to the rest of Europe. Whether relocating for work, adventure, or retirement, Americans often find Greece a welcoming and accessible destination.

A Relaxed Mediterranean Lifestyle

One of the most attractive aspects for Americans about life in Greece is the slower pace of life. In contrast to the fast-moving, high-stress style of life in many parts of the United States, Greece offers a very laid-back approach. Americans who emigrate here often appreciate open space, peace, and quiet. The lifestyle promotes a better balance between work, life, and mental well-being. According to a report by Expat Insider 2023, expats ranked Greece highly in terms of quality of life, mainly regarding social relationships and leisure activities. Americans often feel they can relate better with others, enjoying an increased sense of belonging in Greek communities.

Strategic Location for Travel 

Greece's location makes it a hub for exploring Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. Athens and Thessaloniki are well-connected by air, with frequent flights to major European capitals like London, Paris, and Rome. For those who enjoy a quieter life, ferries link Greece's mainland to its many islands, making weekend getaways convenient and affordable.

Language and Communication

English is widely spoken, especially in urban centers such as Athens and Thessaloniki and tourist-heavy areas like Mykonos and Santorini. In fact, according to a study by the EF English Proficiency Index, Greece is ranked as a country with moderate English proficiency, making it easier for Americans to get through day-to-day interactions. In addition, U.S.-based companies and remote workers significantly benefit from Greece's favorable digital nomad visa regime. In 2021, it allowed remote workers from outside the EU, including the United States, to live and work for up to one year, with possible renewal, in Greece.

Greece's Housing and Real Estate Market

Greece’s real estate market is attractive for expats and investors, with steady growth in property values. Greek property prices have steadily risen in recent years, primarily driven by strong demand from foreign buyers and economic development. In 2024, urban property prices increased by 10.76%. While property values have been rising, they remain competitive compared to other European countries, making Greece an attractive destination for investment. Urban areas, especially Athens, are leading the price recovery due to increasing construction activity and international interest.

Market Overview

According to the Official Website of the International Trade Administration, Greece has a growing economy with opportunities in areas like tourism, shipping, technology, healthcare, and energy. Its tourism sector, a significant part of the economy, continues to expand, creating demand for better facilities and digital services. Greece also has a strong shipping industry and is one of the world leaders in maritime trade. The country is modernizing its infrastructure and investing in green energy, making it an attractive market for foreign businesses. U.S. companies, in particular, are encouraged to explore export and investment opportunities in these sectors​.

Buying Property in Greece

Foreigners, including non-EU citizens, can buy property in Greece. However, restrictions apply in certain border areas for national security reasons, and buyers may need approval from local authorities to purchase in these zones. Most transactions involve straightforward legal procedures, and Greece offers a wide range of property types, from holiday homes to urban apartments.

If you invest at least €500.000 in property, you may qualify for Greece’s Golden Visa program, granting you and your family residency. Taxes and fees include property transfer tax (3.09%), agency fees (2-2.5%), and notary fees (0.65-1%).

Popular areas to buy include islands like Crete and Rhodes or mainland destinations like Athens. The process typically involves obtaining a tax number (AFM), working with a lawyer, and registering the property.