Cost Of Living In Greece: A Complete Overview

How expensive is it to live in Greece?

Greece offers a relatively low cost of living compared to other EU countries. It’s approximately 23% cheaper than the US and 45% cheaper than the UK, particularly when it comes to housing, transportation, and daily essentials.

In Athens, renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city center typically costs between €700–€1,200, while outside the center, prices range from €500–€900. On the Greek islands, prices for goods like fuel and imported groceries are often higher due to transport costs, while mainland cities such as Thessaloniki or Patras tend to be more affordable overall.

Service costs, such as dining out, internet, and public transportation, remain low across the country. Utilities for an 85m² apartment average between €150–€300 per month, and a monthly public transport pass costs around €30.

Although salaries in Greece are lower than the European average, the overall affordability of goods and services allows for a good standard of living.

Monthly cost breakdown:

• Single person: €800–€1,200
• Family of four: €2,700–€3,500
• International students (excluding rent): ~€600

Cost of Accommodation in Greece

Housing in Greece remains affordable compared to much of Western Europe, making it a top choice for expats, digital nomads, and retirees. The average purchase price for residential property is:

• City center apartment: ~€2,700 per m²
• Outside city center: ~€2,200 per m²

Rental prices are moderate, even in major cities:

• 1-bedroom (city center): €700–€900/month
• 1-bedroom (outside center): €500–€700/month
• 3-bedroom (city center): €1,000–€1,200/month
• 3-bedroom (outside center): €800–€1,000/month

Compared to cities in the US and Northern Europe, rent in Greece is up to 70% lower, even in its largest urban areas. Athens and Thessaloniki remain the top urban choices due to their infrastructure and job access, while smaller cities like Patras and Kalamata offer lower rents and a quieter pace of life.

For those interested in homeownership, the Greek real estate market continues to grow steadily post-pandemic, driven by increasing interest from international buyers and favorable investment conditions.

Cost of Internet and Utility Monthly Fees in Greece

Monthly utility costs in Greece are relatively affordable when compared to most Western European countries. For an average-sized apartment (85m²), total monthly expenses typically range from €150 to €300, depending on usage, location, and season.
Breakdown of costs:

• Electricity, water, heating, cooling, garbage: €100–€200/month
• Internet (60+ Mbps, unlimited data, cable/ADSL): ~€30/month
• Mobile plan with calls + 10GB data: ~€22/month

Utility prices can fluctuate seasonally, especially for heating in winter, where gas or oil may add €50 to €150/month to your bill. Water is inexpensive, usually €20 to €30/month, and most urban homes are equipped with reliable services.

Overall, internet and utilities are reliable and cost-effective, contributing to the overall affordability of living in Greece.

Cost of Food in Greece

Food prices in Greece are generally low, partly due to reduced VAT on basic goods. A single person can expect to spend between €150 and €300 per month on groceries, depending on dietary preferences and shopping habits.

Dining out in Greece

Dining out in Greece is affordable and culturally rich, offering a range of options from street food to traditional tavernas.

• Meal at a mid-range restaurant: €12–€20
• Three-course dinner for two: €35–€60
• Casual lunch or café meal: ~€10–€15
• Fast food combo (e.g., McDonald’s): ~€7–€9
• Daily dining (3 meals out): ~€30–€50 per person

Breakfast is the least expensive meal of the day, often available at local bakeries or cafés for just a few euros. For budget-conscious diners, fast food chains and souvlaki stands offer inexpensive and quick meals across cities and towns.

Traditional Greek cuisine is widely available and features fresh, seasonal ingredients — such as olive oil, yogurt, vegetables, seafood, and herbs.

Buying groceries in Greece

Grocery shopping in Greece is affordable and convenient. There is a wide selection of local and imported products. Prices for essential food items remain lower than in many Western countries, especially when shopping at local markets.
Estimated prices (2025):

Monthly grocery costs for a single person typically range from €150 to €300, depending on eating habits and product preferences. Shopping at outdoor markets, especially in smaller towns and villages, can offer fresher and more affordable produce.

Cost of Healthcare in Greece

The healthcare system in Greece offers both public and private options. The public healthcare system, known as ESY, provides free or low-cost medical services to citizens and residents, funded through taxes and social security contributions.

Public healthcare in Greece

Greece provides free to low-cost healthcare to all Greek citizens and residents. You have access to healthcare services whether you are a foreigner, an EU citizen, or even unemployed. Furthermore, you do not need a GP referral to see a specialist. However, there may be a wait duration before you get an appointment. Having public healthcare will help you have a lower cost of living.

Private healthcare in Greece

A general doctor’s visit in a private clinic costs around €50 without insurance. Basic prescriptions, such as antibiotics, typically range from €5 to €15, and common over-the-counter medications (e.g., cold relief) cost about €4.

Private health insurance in Greece ranges from €50 to €150 per month, depending on age, coverage level, and medical history. Most expats and residents opt for private plans due to shorter wait times and broader coverage.

Private clinics are also more likely to have English-speaking staff, especially in urban centers.

Foreign residents with a Greek Social Security Number (AMKA) can access the public healthcare system at little to no cost. However, many still supplement it with private insurance for convenience and speed.

Cost of Transportation in Greece

Public transportation in Greece is reliable and affordable, especially in major cities like Athens and Thessaloniki.

• Monthly public transport pass (bus, metro, tram): €30–€50
• Single metro or bus ticket: €1.20–€1.60
• Taxi start fare: ~€3.50, plus €0.90/km

Athens features an extensive metro, bus, and tram network, while other cities operate buses and intercity coaches. For longer distances, intercity buses (KTEL) and domestic flights connect major urban centers and islands.

If you plan to drive:

• Fuel costs: ~€2.10/liter (as of 2025)
• Car insurance: Required and cost varies by provider
• Car rental: Starts from €30/day, with additional fees for insurance

Cost of Education in Greece

Public education in Greece is free for all residents, including Greek and EU citizens. However, public schools teach primarily in Greek, which may be a challenge for international families.

Private and international schools in Greece are available in major cities for those seeking instruction in English or other foreign languages.

Average costs (per academic year):

• International schools: €7,000–€13,000
• Private Greek schools: €3,000–€7,000
• Public universities (EU citizens): Free
• Public universities (non-EU students): ~€1,500/year

How to Move to Greece in 2025

If you’re considering moving to Greece, you’ll be happy to know that there are several attractive visa programs available. One of the most sought-after is the Greek Golden Visa Program, which grants non-EU nationals legal residence in the country in exchange for a significant investment. After seven years of legal residence, you can become eligible for Greek citizenship.

Greek citizens can enjoy visa-free access to 171 destinations worldwide. Greece also ranks 45th in the Global Citizen Solutions Global Passport Index, 12th in the Enhanced Mobility Index, 116th in the Investment Index, and 45th in the Quality of Living Index.

How Can Global Citizen Solutions Help You?

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Frequently Asked Questions About the Average Cost of Living in Greece

Is Greece more affordable than the U.S. or U.K.?

Yes. On average, living in Greece is about 30% cheaper than in the U.S. and 20% more affordable than in the U.K., particularly in terms of housing and daily expenses.

How much does a single person need per month in Greece?

A single person typically spends between €800 and €1,200 per month, excluding rent.

What is the average rent in Athens?

In Athens, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center ranges from €700 to €1,200 per month.

What is the minimum wage in Greece in 2025?

The minimum wage in Greece as of 2025 is €830 per month, with plans to increase it to €950 by 2027.

Can you live in Greece on €1,000 a month?

Yes, many expats and students live comfortably in Greece on a €1,000/month budget, especially in smaller cities or rural areas where rent is lower.

Is it cheaper to buy or rent property in Greece long-term?

For long-term stays, buying can be more cost-effective due to low property prices, especially outside of major cities.

Are there property taxes or maintenance fees in Greece?

Yes, homeowners must pay the annual ENFIA tax and, in some cases, building maintenance fees for shared properties.