Athens, Greece
Last updated on Apr 22, 2023
Summary: People describe Athens, Greece as a vibrant city with a rich history, culture, and nightlife. Expats love the city's Mediterranean climate, its vibrant culture, and its friendly people. The weather in Athens is typically mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit. The average cost of living for an expat is estimated to be around $1,500 to $2,000 per month. The cost of a one bedroom apartment in Athens is typically around $600 to $800 per month, while a two bedroom apartment can cost around $800 to $1,200 per month. The approximate population of Athens is 3.2 million people.
What are the pros and cons of living in Athens?
Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Athens responded:
"Expats and digital nomads generally like the rich history and culture of Athens, with its numerous archaeological sites, museums, and ancient monuments. They appreciate the relatively low cost of living, which allows for a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank. The Mediterranean climate, with its warm summers and mild winters, is also a big draw for many. The food scene in Athens is diverse and delicious, with an abundance of fresh produce, local cuisine, and international options. The city's vibrant nightlife, with its lively bars, clubs, and music venues, is another attractive feature. Additionally, the friendly and hospitable nature of the Greek people makes it easy for expats and digital nomads to feel welcome and at home. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads may dislike the bureaucracy and inefficiency that can be encountered when dealing with government offices and paperwork. The Greek economy has faced significant challenges in recent years, which can lead to job insecurity and limited opportunities for career advancement. The public transportation system in Athens, while extensive, can be crowded and unreliable at times. Air pollution and traffic congestion are also common issues in the city. Finally, the language barrier can be a challenge for some, as not everyone in Athens speaks English fluently, making it necessary for expats and digital nomads to learn some Greek to navigate daily life more easily," remarked one expat in Athens.
"I love the area where I live and honestly I wish there was more incentives for homeowners / landlords to rent out their place to locals rather than use them for Airbnb. It is nearly impossible to find a nice modern place for a decent rate in the area. and I understand why they do it because owners pay a much lower tax rate to rent out to tourists vs locals. They should do something about that because it's a big problem," explained one expat in Athens.
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What type of social life can someone expect in Athens?
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Expats interested in International Health Insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA.
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About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
- Expat Guide to Athens
- 7 Tips for Living in Athens
- Pros & Cons of Living in Athens
- Driving in Athens
- Cost of Living in Athens
- Health Care in Athens
- The Insider's Guide to Athens
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Greece
- Best Places to Live in Greece
- Real Estate in Greece
- Pros & Cons of Living in Greece
- Getting a Driver's License in Greece
- Pros and Cons of Living in Greece 2024