Greece offers a diverse range of living experiences, from the bustling capital city of Athens , to the vibrant northern city of Thessaloniki , and the picturesque islands scattered across the Aegean and Ionian Seas. Each location has its own unique charm, but the cost of living can vary significantly depending on where you choose to settle. Whether you’re considering relocating, retiring, or simply planning an extended stay, understanding the cost of living in these areas is crucial for budgeting and planning.
In this guide, we’ll compare the cost of living in Athens , Thessaloniki , and the Greek Islands across key categories such as housing, food, transportation, and entertainment.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is typically the largest expense when living in Greece, and prices vary widely depending on the location and type of accommodation.
A. Athens
- Rent:
- 1-bedroom apartment in the city center: €500–€800/month
- 1-bedroom apartment outside the city center: €350–€500/month
- Buying Property:
- Price per square meter in the city center: €2,500–€4,000
- Price per square meter outside the city center: €1,500–€2,500
Note: Athens is the most expensive city in Greece for housing, especially in central neighborhoods like Kolonaki, Plaka, and Exarchia.
B. Thessaloniki
- Rent:
- 1-bedroom apartment in the city center: €350–€500/month
- 1-bedroom apartment outside the city center: €250–€400/month
- Buying Property:
- Price per square meter in the city center: €1,500–€2,500
- Price per square meter outside the city center: €1,000–€1,800
Note: Thessaloniki is generally more affordable than Athens, with lower rents and property prices, making it a popular choice for students and young professionals.
C. Greek Islands
- Rent:
- 1-bedroom apartment in popular tourist islands (e.g., Mykonos, Santorini): €700–€1,500/month
- 1-bedroom apartment in less touristy islands (e.g., Crete, Rhodes): €300–€600/month
- Buying Property:
- Price per square meter in tourist hotspots: €3,000–€6,000+
- Price per square meter in quieter islands: €1,500–€3,000
Note: Housing costs on the islands vary dramatically. Popular islands like Mykonos and Santorini are among the most expensive places to live in Greece, while quieter islands like Corfu or Crete offer more affordable options.
2. Food and Groceries
Food costs in Greece are relatively affordable compared to other European countries, but prices can differ based on location and lifestyle.
A. Athens
- Groceries: €200–€300/month for a single person
- Dining Out:
- Budget meal at an inexpensive restaurant: €10–€15
- Three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant: €40–€60
Note: Athens offers a wide variety of dining options, from street food to high-end restaurants, catering to all budgets.
B. Thessaloniki
- Groceries: €180–€250/month for a single person
- Dining Out:
- Budget meal at an inexpensive restaurant: €8–€12
- Three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant: €30–€50
Note: Thessaloniki is known for its vibrant food scene and slightly lower dining costs compared to Athens.
C. Greek Islands
- Groceries: €200–€400/month for a single person (higher on remote islands due to transportation costs)
- Dining Out:
- Budget meal at an inexpensive restaurant: €10–€20 (higher on tourist-heavy islands)
- Three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant: €40–€80
Note: Grocery prices can be higher on smaller or more remote islands due to shipping costs. Dining out on popular islands like Mykonos or Santorini can be significantly more expensive.
3. Transportation
Transportation costs in Greece are relatively low, especially if you rely on public transport or walk/bike in smaller cities and islands.
A. Athens
- Public Transport (Monthly Pass): €30–€40
- Gasoline: €1.70–€1.90/liter
- Taxis: Starting fare around €3.50, with additional charges per kilometer
Note: Athens has an extensive metro, bus, and tram network, making public transport convenient and affordable.
B. Thessaloniki
- Public Transport (Monthly Pass): €25–€35
- Gasoline: €1.70–€1.90/liter
- Taxis: Starting fare around €2.60, with additional charges per kilometer
Note: Thessaloniki’s public transport system is smaller but efficient, with buses being the primary mode of transit.
C. Greek Islands
- Public Transport: Limited bus services on larger islands; monthly passes range from €20–€40.
- Ferry Tickets: Prices vary depending on the island and season, ranging from €10 (short trips) to €100+ (longer journeys).
- Car Rentals: €30–€60/day (higher during peak tourist season)
Note: On smaller islands, walking or renting a scooter/moped is often the most practical way to get around.
4. Utilities
Utility costs in Greece are moderate, with slight variations depending on location and season.
A. Athens
- Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage): €120–€180/month for an 85m² apartment
- Internet (60 Mbps or More): €25–€35/month
B. Thessaloniki
- Utilities: €100–€150/month for an 85m² apartment
- Internet: €20–€30/month
C. Greek Islands
- Utilities: €150–€250/month for an 85m² apartment (higher due to reliance on generators or imported energy)
- Internet: €25–€40/month (slower speeds on remote islands)
Note: Utility costs can be higher on islands, particularly those that rely on imported energy or have limited infrastructure.
5. Entertainment and Lifestyle
Entertainment costs vary depending on your preferences and location.
A. Athens
- Fitness Club Membership: €30–€50/month
- Cinema Ticket: €8–€12
- Beer at a Bar: €4–€6
- Cappuccino in a Café: €3–€4
Note: Athens offers a wide range of cultural activities, nightlife, and events, making it ideal for those who enjoy urban living.
B. Thessaloniki
- Fitness Club Membership: €25–€45/month
- Cinema Ticket: €7–€10
- Beer at a Bar: €3–€5
- Cappuccino in a Café: €2.50–€3.50
Note: Thessaloniki is known for its laid-back vibe, vibrant student population, and affordable entertainment options.
C. Greek Islands
- Fitness Club Membership: €30–€60/month (limited availability on smaller islands)
- Cinema Ticket: Not widely available on most islands
- Beer at a Bar: €5–€10 (higher on tourist-heavy islands)
- Cappuccino in a Café: €3–€6
Note: Entertainment options on islands are often centered around outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, and beach lounging.
6. Healthcare
Greece has a public healthcare system, and residents can access medical services through social security contributions. Private healthcare is also available and relatively affordable.
- Health Insurance (Private): €50–€100/month
- Doctor’s Visit (Private): €50–€100
- Prescription Medications: Generally affordable, with discounts for insured individuals
Note: Healthcare costs are similar across Athens, Thessaloniki, and the islands, though remote islands may have limited medical facilities.
7. Overall Cost of Living Summary
| Category | Athens | Thessaloniki | Greek Islands |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (1-Bedroom) | €500–€800 | €350–€500 | €300–€1,500 |
| Groceries/Month | €200–€300 | €180–€250 | €200–€400 |
| Dining Out (Meal) | €10–€15 | €8–€12 | €10–€20 |
| Transport (Monthly) | €30–€40 | €25–€35 | €20–€40 |
| Utilities | €120–€180 | €100–€150 | €150–€250 |
| Entertainment | Moderate | Affordable | Varies by Island |
8. Which Location is Right for You?
- Athens: Best for those who enjoy urban living, cultural attractions, and a vibrant job market. However, it’s the most expensive option.
- Thessaloniki: Ideal for students, young professionals, and families seeking a more affordable and relaxed lifestyle with access to amenities.
- Greek Islands: Perfect for retirees, remote workers, or anyone looking for a slower pace of life and stunning natural beauty. Costs vary widely, so choose an island that fits your budget.
