Living in Greece: Cost of Living, Healthcare and What to Know About Living in Greece

Living in Greece

Last updated on Mar 09, 2024

Summary: People often describe life in Greece as relaxed and laid-back. Expats love the warm climate, stunning beaches, and the friendly locals. The cost of living for an expat in Greece is relatively low compared to other European countries. The average cost of living for an expat is around $1,500 per month. The population of Greece is approximately 10.7 million people. The largest cities in Greece are Athens (3.2 million people), Thessaloniki (1 million people), Patras (213,000 people), and Heraklion (174,000 people). The cons of living in Greece include the high unemployment rate, the lack of job opportunities, and the slow bureaucracy. Additionally, the cost of living in Greece is increasing, making it difficult for expats to find affordable housing.

What do I need to know about living in Greece?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Greece, they said:

"Learn some Greek before you arrive..although, more & more people speak English, it will be appreciated by your new neighbors.... The other thing I'd suggest is.. network.. find, join, meet, make friends,with people already here .. have some type of support network in place before arriving.. You may need it, when whatever your trying to get done.. is being handled in only the way that Greeks know how..! Good Luck.," said one expat in Thessaloniki.

"Learn Greek before you come! Make sure you bring your sense of humour with you and plenty of patience. Die your hair dark brown and get a good tan so you blend in. But come, it's a cool country and the weather is perfect," said one expat who made the move to Drama.

Answer Question & View More Answers

GeoBlue
Get Quote

GeoBlue is a trusted leader in international health insurance. Wherever your destination, GeoBlue can keep you and your family covered with the right health insurance. Get a GeoBlue Quote Today!

GeoBlue

GeoBlue is a trusted leader in international health insurance. Wherever your destination, GeoBlue can keep you and your family covered with the right health insurance. Get a GeoBlue Quote Today!
Get Quote

How do I meet people 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.