Can You Really Afford to Live in Greece? A Realistic Cost of Living Breakdown
A Realistic Cost of Living Breakdown (Athens, Thessaloniki & Crete)
One of the most common questions Americans ask when considering a move abroad is whether life overseas is actually affordable. When it comes to Greece, the short answer is: often, yes, especially when compared to major U.S. cities.
Below is a realistic look at everyday living costs in three of Greece’s most popular and expat-friendly locations: Athens, Thessaloniki, and Crete. Costs vary by neighborhood and lifestyle, but these ranges reflect what many individuals, couples, and families actually spend.
Athens: Urban Life With Flexibility
Athens offers the energy of a capital city with a surprisingly flexible cost of living. Many expats choose neighborhoods just outside the historic center for better value while staying well-connected by metro.
Estimated monthly costs (single person):
Rent (1-bedroom, outside city center): €600–€900
Utilities & internet: €120–€180
Groceries: €250–€350
Transportation (metro/bus): €30–€40
Dining out & cafés: €150–€250
Why expats choose Athens
Strong infrastructure and public transport
International schools and healthcare access
Year-round cultural life, beaches nearby
Athens is ideal for remote workers, families, and anyone who wants access to services without paying big-city U.S. prices.
Thessaloniki: Affordable, Walkable & Youthful
Thessaloniki is often described as Greece’s most underrated city. With a strong university presence and vibrant food scene, it offers a relaxed, walkable lifestyle at lower costs than Athens.
Estimated monthly costs (single person):
Rent (1-bedroom): €500–€800
Utilities & internet: €120–€160
Groceries: €230–€330
Transportation: €25–€35
Dining out: €120–€200
Why expats choose Thessaloniki
Lower rent than Athens
Strong sense of community
Coastal living with fewer tourists
For those seeking affordability without sacrificing city life, Thessaloniki is a standout option.
Crete: Island Living With Real-World Prices
Crete offers something rare: island life that’s actually livable year-round. Costs depend heavily on location, cities like Chania, Rethymno, and Heraklion are popular with expats.
Estimated monthly costs (single person):
Rent (1-bedroom): €550–€900
Utilities & internet: €130–€180
Groceries: €250–€350
Transportation (car or bus): €60–€120
Dining out: €150–€250
Why expats choose Crete
Slower pace of life
Access to nature, beaches, and fresh food
Strong healthcare facilities for an island
Crete is especially attractive for families, retirees, and anyone craving space, sunshine, and community.
Everyday Expenses That Surprise Americans
Many Americans are pleasantly surprised by:
Healthcare: Private care is high quality and affordable compared to U.S. prices
Food: Local markets and bakeries keep grocery bills reasonable
Transportation: Public transit and walkable cities reduce car dependence
Dining out: Regular café culture without premium pricing
While inflation has affected Europe like everywhere else, Greece remains one of the more affordable Western European countries for long-term living.
So… Can You Really Afford It?
For many Americans, the answer is yes, often with a higher quality of life than they had before. While Greece isn’t “cheap” everywhere, thoughtful location choices and realistic expectations can make living here both comfortable and sustainable.
The key is planning: understanding where you want to live, how you’ll spend day to day, and which residency path fits your situation.
Thinking About Making the Move?
At Olive Branch Relocation, we help individuals, couples, and families understand the real cost of living in Greece and choose locations that align with their lifestyle and budget.
If you’re curious about what life in Greece could look like for you, we’re here to help you explore your options. Simply fill out the intake form below, and a member of our team will be in touch with more information about our relocation services.
