Relocation to Greece

Accommodation

Understanding the housing market in Greece is key to a smooth relocation. Options range from shared living to private apartments, with big variations depending on the city or island.

Share-living (co-living):

• Popular among young professionals and expats

• Usually includes utilities and common area cleaning

• Monthly costs range between €250–€400

Private flat rentals:

• Studios start around €300–€500/month depending on location

• One-bedroom apartments: €400–€700/month

• Internet, electricity, and water: typically €60–€140/month

Prices

Living in Greece is generally more affordable than in many Western European countries, especially when it comes to everyday expenses such as groceries, dining, and services. Below is a breakdown to help you better plan your monthly budget.

Groceries (Monthly for One Person):

• Average monthly grocery cost: €180–€250

• Examples of basic grocery prices:

• Milk (1L): €1.20

• Bread (500g): €0.90–€1.50

• Eggs (12): €2.80–€4.00

• Chicken breast (1kg): €6.00–€8.50

• Rice (1kg): €1.30–€2.00

• Apples (1kg): €1.20–€2.00

• Local cheese (1kg): €7.00–€10.00

• Bottled water (1.5L): €0.40–€0.60

Dining Out and Cafés:

• Coffee (espresso or cappuccino): €2–€3

• Soft drink (in a café or restaurant): €1.50–€2.50

• Beer (500ml, local brand): €3–€4.50

• Meal at a casual taverna or local eatery: €10–€15

• Fast food combo (McDonald's or local chain): €6–€8

• Mid-range restaurant (3-course meal for 2): €30–€50

Common Monthly Services:

• Mobile phone plans: €10–€25 (depending on data and provider)

• Home internet (50–100 Mbps): €25–€35/month

• Gym membership: €25–€40/month

• Laundry service (wash & fold): €8–€12 per load

• Fitness or yoga classes: €8–€15 per session

Transportation

Getting around in Greece is relatively simple, especially with public transport available in most urban areas.

Urban transportation:

• Athens: Metro, trams, buses – tickets cost around €1.20 for 90 minutes

• Thessaloniki: Primarily buses, newly opened metro

Intercity travel:

• Long-distance buses (KTEL) connect all regions affordably

• Trains available on major mainland routes (e.g., Athens–Thessaloniki)

Island transportation:

• Extensive ferry network to islands (especially from Athens' port – Piraeus)

• Domestic flights between major cities and islands

Taxis and ridesharing:

• Taxis start at €1.80 base fare, plus ~€0.90/km

Almost No Language Barrier

One of the biggest advantages of relocating to Greece is how English-friendly the country is especially in cities with large expat populations and tourism hubs.

• English is widely spoken, especially among younger people

• In many companies, English is often the primary working language

• Local Greeks are usually eager to help and communicate even with limited English

• Signs in cities and public transport are bilingual (Greek and English)

Specifics of the Country

While Greece is part of the EU and culturally European, there are some country-specific norms that might feel different to newcomers.

• Pace of life: Slower, more relaxed, especially outside Athens

• Bureaucracy: In some cases paper-based and "slower" than in Northern EU countries

• Siesta hours: Many shops and offices close between 2pm–5pm, especially in smaller towns

• Cultural norms: Direct communication, expressive behavior, and a strong sense of community