Cost of living in Athens

Athens is the most expensive place to live in Greece. Rent will likely be your biggest expense in the city, but living further out from the city centre will reduce accommodation costs.

While the cost of living in Athens is high, it’s still significantly cheaper than in many other European capitals, including Paris, London, and Milan. Basic amenities on the mainland should be cheaper than on the Greek islands.

Cost of accommodation in Athens

Accommodation prices in Greece are on the rise, and Athens is no exception. Rental costs in Athens are, on average, significantly higher than in Greece’s next largest city, Thessaloniki. Accommodation on the Greek islands will be similarly priced to that of Athens.

Renting or buying a home is likely to be the highest cost for expats in the capital. That said, it’s worth knowing that foreigners who invest above a certain threshold in Greek property can apply for residency on that basis. Utilities are another expense long-term tenants in Athens will have to face in addition to monthly rental costs.

Finding Expat Accommodation in Greece

Cost of transport in Athens

Unlike the rest of the country, Athens boasts a metro and a tram network, both of which are reliable, convenient, and cost effective. Greece’s bus network is its primary form of public transport and is generally safe and affordable. There are, however, sporadic strikes in the major cities, and these can bring the bus network to a halt.

Greek drivers are notorious for disregarding road laws, and driving in Athens is neither easy nor risk free. If you’re considering driving in the city, you should absolutely invest in car insurance. Parking is limited and may be pricey.

Transport and Driving in Greece

Cost of entertainment and eating out in Athens

Athens’s restaurants, nightlife, flea markets, and boutiques are major draws. Whether shopping, visiting the capital’s attractions, or just taking in the city, there is always something to do in Athens.

That said, the lifestyle in Athens can get expensive. High-end clubs in Psirri command high prices for entry and drinks, and many tourist-focused restaurants can charge high prices for local fare. More affordable options abound for price-conscious expats. You can try avoiding tourist areas and eating at local establishments. Enjoying the city’s climate while frolicking in green spaces or tanning on the beach comes at no cost.

Lifestyle in Athens 
See and Do in Athens 
Shopping in Athens

Cost of groceries in Athens

Compared to many other European cities, grocery prices in Athens are largely affordable. Still, you should be aware that groceries elsewhere in the country are more reasonably priced. Buying locally produced products like wine, cheeses, and olive oil is a great option for those looking for quality groceries at a manageable cost.

You can visit the weekly farmers’ markets to source reasonably priced and fresh produce. Imported and branded products are pricier than you may be used to, but they are still largely affordable, at least compared to prices in other major European metropolises.

Cost of education in Athens

Public education in Athens is free, but the language of instruction is Greek. Expats who plan a long-term stay are usually happy to enrol their children, but many others prefer private or international schools – even if it means absorbing higher costs for tuition and extracurricular activities. Another point worth noting is that prices typically go up with the learner’s academic level.

Athens provides a wide range of private and international schools with various languages of instruction and a range of globally recognised curricula, and as an expat parent, you should not have trouble finding something to meet your budget and the educational needs of your children.

Education and Schools in Greece

Cost of healthcare in Athens

Athens is home to some of Greece’s best public and private hospitals. Expats can access tax-funded public healthcare in the city, but new arrivals should be prepared for long waiting lists. Those who can afford it typically secure comprehensive healthcare coverage to access private healthcare instead.

The cost of private health insurance will vary depending on how comprehensive the coverage is, your age, the number of dependents, and your lifestyle habits. Private hospitals will typically also have English-speaking staff, making them ideal for serving the unique needs of expats in the country.

Healthcare and Health Insurance in Greece

Cost of living in Athens chart

Prices are in euros (EUR) and may vary depending on the product and service provider. The list below shows average prices in Athens in April 2026.