Cost of Living in Greece

The cost of living in Greece is fairly low, but it varies significantly depending on location. The mainland is generally cheaper than the Greek islands for fuel and certain basic goods. The countryside is cheaper than cities, but there is a much narrower range of products and services available.

Those looking to live in the capital should know it is the most expensive region of Greece. Although pricey compared to other Greek cities, Athens is still cheaper than other European capitals such as London in the UK, Paris in France, and Milan in Italy.

Cost of accommodation in Greece

When looking for a place to stay in Greece, the cost of accommodation is likely to be your most significant expense, especially if you rent in the capital or on one of the country’s charming islands. That said, accommodation prices in Greece remain fairly low compared to other European destinations.

For those who have funds available, it’s worth mentioning that foreigners who invest a certain amount of money in Greek property are eligible to apply for residency. With rising energy prices, you should budget carefully for utilities, which are typically not included in the rental price.

Accommodation for Expats in Greece

Cost of transport in Greece

Driving in Greece can be challenging and perilous. Insurance is a must if you intend to drive and buy a car. When hiring a car in Greece, it is important to check what insurance is offered, as the costs of hiring a vehicle can be steep.

The alternative is public transport. Most people who take public transport in Greece take a bus, or, in Athens, the metro. Prices are reasonable, but buses can be a slow means of travel.

Transport and Driving in Greece

Cost of groceries in Greece

Groceries in Greece are relatively affordable compared to many European countries. Locally produced wine, cheeses and olive oil are reasonably priced, and quality is generally good. Laiki, weekly farmer’s markets, are a great source of fresh and affordable fruits and vegetables. Imported and branded products go for more than you might expect, but costs are fairly reasonable when compared to other European countries.

Cost of entertainment and eating out in Greece

Outside of Athens, the cost of eating out at restaurants is quite reasonable as long as you avoid tourist areas. For an authentic and affordable experience, you can try delicious Greek street food like stuffed savoury pita gyros or souvlaki, or sweet loukoumades, a kind of Greek doughnut ball.

Greece offers plenty of entertainment options, whether you’re an art lover, a theatre buff, or a nature enthusiast. Museum and art gallery entry fees are largely affordable, while theatre tickets can be pricey. Greece is a sports-loving country, so those who want to spectate will have many opportunities at a reasonable cost. Hiking, swimming, and visiting the gorgeous Greek beaches are some low-cost or free activities available to expats.

Cost of education in Greece

Public education in Greece is conducted in Greek. In light of this, expats who are not staying for the long term often send their children to private English-speaking international schools. That said, local Greek schools can be ideal for expats intending to remain in the country.

Private and international schools in Greece cost more than public schools, but some provide English education and may offer better facilities and elevated teaching standards. Prices differ between individual schools but are generally high. Costs also go up as children progress, a key point to remember when structuring your budget.

Education and Schools in Greece

Cost of healthcare in Greece

While public healthcare in Greece is generally considered adequate and affordable, the system is plagued by long waiting lists and corruption issues, making the quality of care lower than that found in the private sector. Private healthcare is of a high standard, but comes at a cost, necessitating private health insurance.

If you’re working in Greece, you’ll likely contribute to healthcare through tax contributions and can freely access the public system. Most expats who can afford it will usually opt to take out a health insurance policy to access the country’s private health system.

Healthcare and Medical Insurance in Greece

Cost of living in Greece 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.