Cost of Living Overview in Greece
Understanding the financial requirements for relocating to Greece is essential for effective planning. As of 2025 and moving into 2026, Greece remains one of the more affordable European Union member states, though inflationary pressures have impacted the prices of energy, housing, and imported goods. The cost of living varies significantly depending on the region, with Athens and popular tourist islands like Santorini or Mykonos maintaining higher price points compared to mainland cities or rural villages.
Financial planning should account for a mix of fixed monthly expenses and variable lifestyle costs. Residents typically find that while local produce and public services are reasonably priced, specialized imported items and private healthcare services require a higher budget.
Housing and Accommodation Costs
Housing represents the largest monthly expense for most expatriates in Greece. Rental prices in urban centers have seen a steady increase due to high demand and the prevalence of short-term holiday rentals. Rental agreements are typically signed for a minimum of three years according to Greek law, though shorter durations can be negotiated.
Monthly Rent Estimates
- One-bedroom apartment (City Center, Athens/Thessaloniki): 550 EUR - 850 EUR ($594 - $918 USD, Jan 2026).
- One-bedroom apartment (Outside City Center): 400 EUR - 650 EUR ($432 - $702 USD, Jan 2026).
- Three-bedroom family apartment (City Center): 900 EUR - 1,500 EUR ($972 - $1,620 USD, Jan 2026).
Utilities and Communication
Utility costs in Greece fluctuate based on seasonal energy needs, particularly for heating in winter and air conditioning in summer. The "Koinochrista" (building maintenance fees) is a unique monthly cost for apartment dwellers covering shared expenses like elevator maintenance and cleaning.
- Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Water, Garbage): 180 EUR - 300 EUR ($194 - $324 USD, Jan 2026).
- High-speed Internet (Fiber): 30 EUR - 50 EUR ($32 - $54 USD, Jan 2026).
- Mobile Phone Plan (Unlimited Data): 25 EUR - 40 EUR ($27 - $43 USD, Jan 2026).
Food, Groceries, and Dining
Greece offers a high quality of fresh produce at competitive prices, especially when shopping at local street markets known as Laiki Agora. Supermarket prices for processed goods are comparable to the EU average.
Standard Grocery Prices
- Milk (1 Liter): 1.50 EUR ($1.62 USD, Jan 2026).
- Loaf of Fresh Bread: 1.10 EUR ($1.19 USD, Jan 2026).
- Eggs (12 Pack): 4.50 EUR ($4.86 USD, Jan 2026).
- Local Cheese (Feta, 1kg): 12 EUR - 15 EUR ($13 - $16 USD, Jan 2026).
Dining Out
The cost of dining out remains a core part of Greek social life and is generally accessible. A meal at an inexpensive local Taverna costs approximately 15 EUR - 25 EUR ($16 - $27 USD, Jan 2026) per person, including a drink.
Transportation and Healthcare
Public transportation is highly efficient in Athens, featuring a comprehensive metro, tram, and bus network. In other regions, reliance on buses (KTEL) or private vehicles is more common.
Travel Costs
- Monthly Public Transport Pass (Athens): 27 EUR ($29 USD, Jan 2026).
- Gasoline (1 Liter): 1.85 EUR - 2.10 EUR ($2.00 - $2.27 USD, Jan 2026).
- Taxi Start (Standard Tariff): 4 EUR ($4.32 USD, Jan 2026).
Healthcare Services
Foreigners working in Greece contribute to the National Health System (EFKA). However, many expatriates opt for private health insurance to bypass waiting times in public hospitals. You can find more details on official social security through the Electronic National Social Security Fund (e-EFKA).
- Private Health Insurance (Basic): 50 EUR - 120 EUR per month ($54 - $130 USD, Jan 2026).
- Private GP Consultation: 40 EUR - 70 EUR ($43 - $76 USD, Jan 2026).
Practical Steps and Regional Exceptions
When calculating a budget for Greece, it is important to note that certain islands carry a "tourist premium" during the high season (June–September), where prices for groceries and services can increase by 20-30%. Conversely, northern cities like Ioannina or Kastoria offer significantly lower rent but higher heating costs in winter months.
Factual Note: Foreign nationals moving to Greece on a Digital Nomad Visa or a Golden Visa must prove specific minimum income levels that are independent of the average local cost of living.
For official economic data and consumer price indices, refer to the Hellenic Statistical Authority (ELSTAT).
Summary Table of Estimated Monthly Expenses
- Single Person (Athens): 1,200 EUR - 1,600 EUR ($1,296 - $1,728 USD, Jan 2026).
- Family of Four (Athens): 2,800 EUR - 4,000 EUR ($3,024 - $4,320 USD, Jan 2026).
- Lifestyle/Regional variance: Depends on individual situation.