Moving to Greece
Last updated on Feb 07, 2024
Summary: Many expats and digital nomads move to Greece for its beautiful scenery, mild climate, and relaxed lifestyle. Additionally, the cost of living in Greece is relatively low compared to other European countries, making it an attractive destination for those looking to stretch their budget. People looking for a place to live in Greece can search online for rental properties, or contact a local real estate agent for assistance. The most popular cities for expats and digital nomads in Greece are Athens, Thessaloniki, and Chania. These cities offer a variety of amenities, including access to beaches, cultural attractions, and vibrant nightlife.
What do I need to know before moving to Greece?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Greece, they said:
"There are no real estate agents on the smaller islands, so be prepared to do the foot work yourself, looking for signs posted. Ask around about what is for sale in each village and don't be shy. Good contacts might be architects, expats already here, lawyers. Be prepared for climate differences - extreme heat, gale-force winds. We never reach the freezing point here, so have flowers (and bugs) all year round. But we also have roaming goats and sheep and dogs and cats run free. So having a successful garden is a major challenge, even with a fence. Learn a fair amount of the new language before moving abroad to any country! It's your best bet and opens all sorts of doors for you," said one expat in Agean Island.
"1. Greece is a beautiful country with a rich culture and history. 2. The official language is Greek, so it is important to learn some basic phrases before moving. 3. The climate in Greece is Mediterranean, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. 4. Greece is a member of the European Union, so expats should familiarize themselves with the regulations and laws of the EU. 5. Expats should also be aware of the cost of living in Greece, which is generally lower than in other European countries. 6. Healthcare in Greece is of a high standard, but expats should ensure they have adequate health insurance coverage. 7. Expats should also research the job market in Greece before moving, as the unemployment rate is currently quite high. 8. It is also important to be aware of the cultural norms and etiquette in Greece, as these can vary from other countries," remarked one expat who made the move to Greece.
How do I find a place to live in Greece?
Please login to continue reading this article.
Not a member? Join Today (it's free).
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.
Other Questions:
- How do I meet people in Greece?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- Is there a lot of crime in Greece?
- What do I need to know before retiring in Greece?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Greece accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Greece like?
- Is the cost of living in Greece high?
- What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Greece?
- What are healthcare services like in Greece?
- Is the cost of living in Greece high?
- What type of recreational facilities are in Greece?
- What is the weather like in Greece?
- Are there good restaurants in Greece?
- Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Greece?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Greece?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Greece?
- What do I need to know when buying property in Greece?
- Are foreigners allowed to own property in Greece?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?