How much does it cost to live in Greece?
- See the data table below for detailed numbers
- Check the FAQ section for common expat questions
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Understanding the true cost of living before you move is essential for financial planning. This detailed breakdown covers every major expense category in Greece for 2026, using real data from official sources and cost surveys.
Monthly Cost Breakdown
| Category | Monthly Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rent (1BR, City Centre) | €520 | Largest expense |
| Rent (3BR, City Centre) | €750 | For families |
| Groceries | €180 | One person, home cooking |
| Public Transport | €30 | Monthly pass |
| Utilities (85m2) | €75 | Electricity, water, heating |
| Dining Out (per meal) | €8 | Inexpensive restaurant |
| Total (Single Person) | €869 | Comfortable lifestyle |
Income vs Expenses
| Income Metric | Amount |
|---|---|
| Average Salary (Gross) | €1,542/month |
| Minimum Wage | €1,027/month |
| Salary After Rent (1BR) | €1,022/month |
With an average salary of €1,542 and rent of €520, approximately 34% of income goes to housing.
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Cost Indices (vs New York City = 100)
| Index | Score | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living | 54.0 | Moderately cheaper NYC |
| Rent | 13.7 | Much cheaper NYC |
| Groceries | 51.0 | Cheaper NYC |
| Restaurant Prices | 59.2 | Cheaper NYC |
| Local Purchasing Power | 64.1 | Lower than NYC |
Money-Saving Tips
- Shop at local markets: Fresh produce is typically 20-40% cheaper than supermarkets
- Cook at home: Eating in saves 60-70% compared to dining out
- Use public transport: Monthly passes are much cheaper than car ownership
- Live outside the centre: Suburbs offer 20-40% lower rent with reasonable commutes
- Compare utilities: Switch providers for electricity and internet to get better deals
- Student discounts: Available for under-26s on transport, museums, and cultural events
Salary by Sector
| Sector | Entry Level | Median | Senior |
|---|---|---|---|
| It | €15,000 | €22,000 | €35,000 |
| Retail | €10,500 | €15,000 | €21,000 |
| Finance | €22,500 | €32,000 | €45,000 |
| Education | €13,500 | €19,000 | €26,500 |
| Healthcare | €12,000 | €18,000 | €28,000 |
| Engineering | €19,500 | €28,000 | €39,000 |
| Hospitality | €10,000 | €14,000 | €19,500 |
| Construction | €14,500 | €21,000 | €29,500 |
Figures are annual gross salaries in EUR.
Additional Practical Information
The following information is compiled from expat community sources and recent reports to complement the official data above.
Additional Data Points
Recent reports and expat sources provide these additional figures for Greece:
- In other big cities, like Thessaloniki, Volos and Patra, and some islands, the prices are slightly lower than in Athens. But beware, the same 40 m² apartment that would cost 450 euros in Thessaloniki, Volos, or Syros island could reach up to 1,300-2,000 euros in Mykonos or Santorini. That's because the market there caters to a different audience: affluent tourists who either want to prolong their vacations or retire.
- Important:
Additional data sourced from expat community reports. All information should be verified with official sources.
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Get Your Free VerdictFrequently Asked Questions
How much are utilities in Greece?
Monthly utilities (electricity, heating, water, garbage) for an 85m2 apartment cost approximately €75. Internet typically adds another €20-50/month. In colder climates, heating can significantly increase winter bills.
Can I live comfortably on a remote worker salary in Greece?
With a monthly budget of approximately €869, a remote salary of €2,000-3,000/month would provide a very comfortable lifestyle. Research specific cities for the most accurate picture.
What is the minimum wage in Greece?
The minimum wage in Greece is approximately €1,027/month. This compares to an average salary of €1,542. Note that minimum wage may not apply to all sectors or expat workers.
Is Greece expensive compared to other countries?
With a cost of living index of 54.0/100 (where NYC = 100), Greece is moderately cheaper than NYC. Use our assessment tool to compare with your current location.
How much does dining out cost in Greece?
A meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs approximately €8. The restaurant price index is 59.2/100 compared to New York City. Budget €240 per month if you eat out regularly.