Moving to Greece: Everything You Need to Know 🇬🇷
Dreaming of a life in Greece? Whether you’re drawn by the Mediterranean lifestyle, stunning islands, or rich cultural heritage, relocating to Greece can be an exciting and rewarding experience. However, moving to a new country requires preparation and understanding of legal, financial, and social aspects.
This guide covers everything you need to know about moving to Greece in 2025, from visa requirements and cost of living to healthcare, real estate, and cultural adaptation.
Why Move to Greece?
Greece is a top destination for expats, retirees, and digital nomads due to its affordable cost of living, friendly locals, and beautiful landscapes. Here are some reasons why Greece is a great place to live:
✅ Affordable Cost of Living: Compared to Western Europe and North America, Greece offers lower rent, food, and utility costs.
✅ Golden Visa Program: Non-EU citizens can gain residency by investing in Greek real estate.
✅ Mediterranean Climate: Enjoy warm summers, mild winters, and plenty of sunshine year-round.
✅ Laid-back Lifestyle: Greeks prioritize family, food, and social life, making for a relaxed living environment.
✅ Rich History & Culture: From ancient ruins to world-famous cuisine, Greece offers a unique blend of old and new.
1. Visa and Residency Requirements
For EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens
If you’re from the EU, EEA, or Switzerland, you can live and work in Greece without a visa. However, after three months, you must register with local authorities and obtain a registration certificate.
For Non-EU Citizens
Non-EU citizens need a visa and residence permit to live in Greece long-term. Here are the most common options:
- Work Visa (Type D): Required if you have a job offer from a Greek employer.
- Golden Visa: Grants residency to non-EU investors who buy property worth at least €250,000.
- Digital Nomad Visa: Ideal for remote workers with a minimum income of €3,500 per month.
- Retirement Visa: Available for retirees with sufficient passive income or savings.
After arriving in Greece, you must apply for a residence permit within 30 days at the local Aliens and Immigration Department.
2. Cost of Living in Greece 💶
One of Greece’s biggest draws is its affordability. While prices vary by city and island, Greece remains one of the cheapest places to live in Europe.
| Expense | Athens (€) | Thessaloniki (€) | Smaller Cities (€) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (1-bedroom) | 500 – 900 | 400 – 750 | 300 – 600 |
| Utilities | 100 – 180 | 90 – 160 | 80 – 140 |
| Internet | 25 – 40 | 25 – 40 | 25 – 40 |
| Public Transport | 30 – 50 | 25 – 40 | 20 – 35 |
| Groceries | 200 – 350 | 180 – 300 | 150 – 250 |
| Dining Out | 10 – 20 (meal) | 8 – 18 (meal) | 7 – 15 (meal) |
💡 Tip: The cost of living is significantly lower on less touristy islands and in rural towns.
3. Best Places to Live in Greece 🏡
Where you choose to live in Greece depends on your lifestyle and budget. Here are the best locations for expats:
🏙 Athens – Best for professionals and expats who want a vibrant city life with modern amenities.
🏞 Thessaloniki – Greece’s second-largest city with a lower cost of living and a rich cultural scene.
🏝 Crete – A large island offering affordable homes, great beaches, and a relaxed lifestyle.
⛵ Rhodes & Corfu – Perfect for retirees and those seeking a quiet island retreat.
🌊 Peloponnese (Nafplio, Kalamata) – Great for families and those looking for nature and history.
4. Buying vs. Renting Property in Greece 🏠
Renting in Greece
Renting is the best option for newcomers who want flexibility before committing to a purchase. Rental prices vary by location:
- Athens: €500 – €900 for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center.
- Smaller towns: €300 – €600 for a similar apartment.
- Islands: Prices depend on seasonality, with short-term vacation rentals costing more in summer.
💡 Tip: Long-term leases (12 months+) are cheaper than short-term rentals.
Buying Property in Greece
If you’re staying long-term or investing, buying a property is a great option. Property prices are still lower than in other European countries, and the Golden Visa offers residency benefits.
- Athens apartments: Start from €150,000 in decent neighborhoods.
- Luxury island villas: Range from €500,000+ in Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete.
- Smaller towns: Homes can be as low as €100,000 in non-touristy areas.
5. Healthcare System in Greece 🏥
Greece offers both public and private healthcare options.
- Public Healthcare (EOPYY): Free or low-cost services for residents, but waiting times can be long.
- Private Healthcare: Better quality service with shorter wait times. Many expats choose private insurance (€50 – €200/month).
- Pharmacies: Widely available, with affordable medications.
6. Work and Business Opportunities
The Greek job market is competitive, but opportunities exist in sectors like:
✔ Tourism & Hospitality (hotels, restaurants, travel agencies)
✔ Teaching English (language schools, private tutoring)
✔ Tech & Remote Work (startups, digital nomads)
✔ Agriculture & Winemaking (expanding markets)
💡 Tip: Learning basic Greek improves job prospects.
7. Culture and Daily Life in Greece 🇬🇷
Greece is welcoming to foreigners, but adapting to its unique culture takes time. Here’s what to expect:
🎭 Social Life: Greeks are friendly, family-oriented, and love socializing over long meals.
⏳ Pace of Life: The Greek lifestyle is laid-back, but bureaucracy can be slow.
📅 Siesta Time: Many businesses close from 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM, especially in summer.
🥗 Food & Drink: Enjoy fresh Mediterranean cuisine, with staples like olive oil, feta cheese, seafood, and grilled meats.
8. Transportation in Greece 🚇
🚋 Public Transport: Athens has an efficient metro, tram, and bus system. Monthly passes cost around €30.
🚗 Driving: Non-EU citizens need an International Driving Permit.
🚢 Island Travel: Ferries connect the islands, with flights available to popular destinations like Crete, Mykonos, and Rhodes.
Final Thoughts: Is Moving to Greece Right for You?
✅ Great for: Those who love history, nature, and a relaxed lifestyle.
✅ Affordable Living: Lower cost of living than Western Europe & the U.S.
✅ Residency Benefits: Golden Visa, digital nomad programs, and retiree visas.
❌ Challenges: Bureaucracy, learning Greek, and seasonal tourism fluctuations.
With the right preparation, moving to Greece can be an amazing experience. Whether you’re looking for a fresh start, investment opportunities, or a place to retire, Greece has something for everyone. 🌊🏛
Thinking of moving to Greece in 2025? Start planning today! 🇬🇷