Moving to Santorini, Greece
Last updated on Jul 10, 2023
Summary: Moving to Santorini, Greece: Expats, retirees and digital nomads talk about everything you need to know before moving to Santorini.
What do I need to know before moving to Santorini?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Santorini, they said:
"Before moving to Santorini, expats should know that the official language is Greek, and while many locals speak English, especially in tourist areas, it is beneficial to learn some basic Greek phrases. The cost of living can be high, particularly in popular areas and during the tourist season. The island's economy is heavily reliant on tourism, which means it can be crowded in the summer but very quiet in the winter. Santorini has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. The island is known for its unique architecture, with white-washed houses and blue-domed churches, which are part of a strict building code to maintain the island's aesthetic. The healthcare system in Greece is a mix of public and private providers. While the quality of care can be good, facilities on the islands may not be as advanced as those in larger cities. Therefore, comprehensive health insurance is recommended. Public transportation on the island is limited, so many residents choose to rent or buy a car, motorbike, or ATV. However, driving can be challenging due to narrow, winding roads and heavy traffic in peak season. The cuisine in Santorini is based on the Mediterranean diet, with a lot of seafood, fresh fruits and vegetables, and local wines. The island is also known for its unique products like cherry tomatoes, fava beans, and white eggplants. Expats should also be aware of the siesta culture in Greece, where many businesses close in the afternoon for a few hours. Lastly, it's important to note that Greece has a different pace of life, often slower than what many expats may be used to, which can take some adjustment," explained one expat living in Santorini, Greece.
How do I find a place to live in Santorini?
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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.
Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before moving to Santorini?
- What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Santorini?
- What is the average cost of housing in Santorini?
- How do I meet people in Santorini?
- What do I need to know before retiring in Santorini?
- What should I pack when moving to Santorini?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Santorini?
- Will I be able to find a job in Santorini?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do people like (and dislike) about Santorini?
- What type of social life can someone expect in Santorini?
- What is the social scene like in Santorini?
- What advice to expats in Santorini have about housing?
- What are medical services in Santorini like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Santorini?
- Is the cost of living in Santorini high?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Santorini?
- Why do people move to Santorini?