Living in Greece as an Expat: 7 Joys, 5 Hurdles to Know

Many people dream of sunny days, fresh Mediterranean cuisine, and the relaxed lifestyle that comes with living in Greece as an expat—but they aren’t sure if it’s right for them. The good news is that Greece’s cost of living runs about 12% below Europe’s average, making it easier to start a new life here without going broke.

In this post, I’ll show you exactly what joys and hurdles to expect when moving to Greece—from culture and weather, to tricky bureaucracy and learning Greek language skills. Keep reading for facts you’ll need before packing your bags.

Pros of Living in Greece as an Expat

Greece offers expats a dream life with seven major perks that make the move worthwhile. The mix of ancient ruins and blue waters creates a daily backdrop that never gets old.

Affordable cost of living

Your budget goes much farther in Greece compared to most Western nations. According to Eurostat’s 2022 data, living expenses there run about 12% lower than the EU average. I relocated to Greece last year, and it surprised me how quickly my money stretched further.

City-center rent for a one-bedroom apartment averages around €414 per month, far less than the US average of $1,558. Daily essentials are cheaper too—fresh bread usually costs around €1, compared to about $3 back in America, and a big bottle of water sets you back just €1 rather than $2.

Most expats easily live on $2,000 a month—and that covers everyday needs, plus plenty of little extras. Public transportation, dining out at restaurants, and regular grocery trips typically cost 70-80% less than US prices.

My friends here often tease me about feasting like royalty on what would barely pay the bills at home. Lower living costs make Greece especially appealing for retirees and digital nomads who want both financial flexibility and a comfortable lifestyle.

These favorable economics also make investing in properties for sale in Greece particularly attractive right now.

Beautiful scenery and natural landscapes

Greece isn’t just friendly on your wallet—it’s also amazing for your eyes. You’ll enjoy some of the most beautiful scenery in Europe. Besides epic beaches, Greece is home to 18 UNESCO World Heritage Sites dotted across mainland cities and islands.

You’ll see landscapes shift quickly from rocky mountains to rolling olive groves, stretching as far as you can see. Soft white beaches meet clear turquoise seas, perfect for swimming nearly year-round in Greece’s mild Mediterranean weather.

Guys who enjoy the outdoors will find endless opportunities for sailing, hiking, and scuba adventures. Natural beauty is everywhere, making it easy to relax or get active, whichever you prefer.

You could walk ancient trails through scenic pine forests in the morning, then chill by the Aegean Sea at sunset. Its variety of landscapes—mountains, forests, beaches—all within short distances, makes Greece uniquely attractive.

Even expats who’ve lived there a long time say Greece’s natural charm never wears off.

Warm weather and Mediterranean climate

The Greek sun beams bright around 250 days each year—perfect for anyone tired of gloomy skies. Average summer temperatures stay near a comfortable 24°C, ideal weather for hitting the beach or exploring outside without roasting in extreme heat.

Swimming season lasts from May to October in most coastal towns, giving you plenty of opportunities to splash and lounge by the sea. Wintertime remains gentle across much of the country, with snow usually showing up only in the northern mountain ranges.

This mild weather helps keep Greek food famously fresh and tasty all year, making outdoor meals a regular joy instead of just a special occasion. Fruits and veggies grow fresh throughout the seasons, feeding directly into the widely praised Mediterranean diet.

On top of delicious eating, the steady sunlight naturally lifts spirits and vitamin D levels—great news for expats moving here from cloudier climates. Many men who settle in Greece report feeling healthier, happier, and definitely more energized, all thanks to that perfect mix of warm weather and plenty of sunshine.

Rich history and culture

Greece isn’t just sunny beaches and great weather—it’s packed with history that shapes daily life today. Every time I stroll through Athens, ancient ruins stand casually alongside trendy coffee shops.

Greece has 18 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, like the stunning Acropolis, Delphi, and Meteora. These places aren’t mere tourist attractions—they’re a real part of daily Greek life.

Greek culture blends past traditions and modern habits seamlessly. Local men still meet up in cozy tavernas, sipping ouzo and debating politics, much like their ancestors did generations ago.

Museums proudly showcase objects from ancient peoples who influenced Western thinking. I’ve even celebrated Easter with locals, sharing in traditions passed down for hundreds of years.

And the language—Greek itself connects today’s speakers directly back to Homer and Plato. History isn’t stuck on library shelves; it’s right there in everyday experiences—in street signs, family recipes, and lively chats with people you meet.

Delicious Greek cuisine

Greek cuisine easily ranks among the tastiest in the world. Guys who relocate to Greece quickly appreciate the Mediterranean diet—simple, delicious, and full of fresh ingredients.

Olive oil generously seasons almost every dish, complementing plenty of plant-based staples on the daily menu. My first week in Athens, I tasted authentic moussaka… the layers of flavor completely amazed me.

A man cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if he has not dined well on Greek cuisine.

Poultry and fish dishes regularly show up on Greek tables too, but in sensible portions that create balance without indulgence. Your taste buds will definitely appreciate exploring this wholesome eating style, part of everyday Greek life for centuries.

Friendly and welcoming locals

Greeks are some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet. Hospitality is not just a custom there—it’s an approach to life called “filoxenia”, meaning the love of strangers. I moved to Athens three years ago and still feel amazed by neighbors dropping off home-cooked meals without expecting anything in return.

This generous spirit makes it simple for male expats to feel at home quickly. Even language is rarely an issue: more than half of Greeks speak English, especially in bigger cities and popular tourist spots.

Locals often gladly help with directions, recommend cozy restaurants off the beaten path, or sit for a relaxed chat over coffee.

Community bonds run deep in Greece, making friendships between locals and expats effortless and natural. Men frequently hang out at neighborhood tavernas watching soccer games, debating politics, or simply sharing good food and company.

Within weeks after getting settled, Greek friends invited me to their homes for family dinners, welcoming me warmly. This open-door approach can make apartment hunting easier or help you figure out which neighborhoods to choose.

Unlike many other countries where expat circles stay tight and closed-off, Greece warmly invites immigrants into daily life, especially if you respect traditions and show a willingness to learn a few simple Greek words.

Relaxed lifestyle and work-life balance

Life in Greece moves slower, shifting the way you see your daily routine. According to the OECD Better Life Index, only 5% of Greek workers spend long hours at their jobs. Moving from New York, I immediately felt a difference.

My Greek neighbors typically take leisurely two-hour lunches, savoring each bite without urgency. In Greece, family gatherings and personal pleasure come before endless workload demands.

Coffee breaks often become lengthy conversations lasting an hour or more—and weekends truly belong to relaxation. This gentle pace adds enjoyment and reduces stress throughout everyday life.

Before long, the Greek idea “siga-siga” (slowly-slowly) naturally becomes your own.

Life around the Mediterranean offers a welcome change from Western hustle culture. Greek people place great importance on leisure time, outdoor hangouts, and friendships. Local shops close every afternoon for resting, and dinners rarely begin earlier than 9 PM.

Even in business settings, the relaxed attitude stays the same. My friends visiting from America often comment on how much better they feel with this healthier rhythm. Greece’s focus on savoring life rather than rushing through each moment makes it an ideal choice for expats who want balance between work responsibilities and personal enjoyment.

Cons of Living in Greece as an Expat

Living in Greece brings challenges that might test your patience – from slow government offices to language barriers and fewer job options – but these hurdles make the journey more rewarding.

Read on to discover how to handle these issues while enjoying your Greek adventure!

Bureaucratic challenges

Greek bureaucracy can test your patience right from the start. Applying for tax incentives means you’ll visit several offices—in person. Last year, I spent three entire days just kicking off my residency paperwork.

Every permit and license requires piles of paperwork, all neatly translated, notarized, and filed in the correct order. Processing times drag on for months; getting my driver’s license took nearly half a year.

Greece has a special talent for turning simple tasks into Olympic events. Bring patience by the truckload.

The tax system adds another layer of difficulty for foreigners. Its complicated rules frequently shift without clear announcements. Most expats rely on local accountants to manage their tax status and dodge expensive errors.

The golden visa option provides a simpler way, but it also demands multiple steps and detailed paperwork. Public offices rarely provide service in English, so a Greek-speaking friend or translator becomes your lifeline during appointments.

Learning the Greek language

Learning Greek is often one of the toughest challenges for men moving to Greece. The language involves tricky grammar and uses an alphabet that’s very different from English. Mastering the language is essential if you plan on applying for permanent residency or citizenship later on.

Apps like Duolingo can give you a decent start—but most expats find local classes far more effective for real-world progress. Outside major cities, especially in small towns and villages, few locals speak English.

Knowing basic Greek phrases becomes essential for daily errands like shopping, finding your way around town, or asking for help. Locals typically appreciate even simple Greek conversations, and your efforts can earn you a friendlier welcome in the community.

Thankfully, larger cities such as Athens offer language schools with specialized courses that help foreigners adapt easily.

Learning Greek offers more than just legal advantages—it can significantly enhance your social life, too. It lets you build stronger relationships with neighbors and tackle paperwork yourself, without always relying on translators.

Most men find that after about six months of steady practice, they can comfortably handle routine conversations. Even just 30 minutes of daily practice can greatly speed up your learning process.

Don’t stress too much over grammar details initially; concentrate on common phrases helpful in real-life situations. Next, let’s explore another frequent hurdle you might face: the bureaucratic system in Greece.

Limited job market opportunities

Aside from language issues, expats in Greece face real hurdles in the local job market. Unemployment remains high nationwide, and the economy still shows scars from earlier financial struggles.

Without Greek language skills, finding a job here becomes even more challenging.

Many expats succeed in certain fields like technology, tourism, healthcare, or teaching English. Entry-level jobs, however, often pay extremely low wages. For example, cleaning houses or elderly care positions typically pay between €350 and €500 per month.

Most Westerners find this income too low to comfortably cover their usual living expenses. Job opportunities differ sharply compared to Portugal, where digital nomads usually have more choices.

Because of these obstacles, many expat men seek remote jobs or launch their own ventures in Greece. Some thrive with businesses in tourism—particularly on popular Greek islands during busy tourist months.

Others capitalize on tech or finance skills by working online, taking advantage of Greece’s laid-back lifestyle. The country’s digital nomad visa program helps make remote careers easier, especially for those already earning steady paychecks from outside Greece.

Tourist overcrowding in certain areas

Places like Santorini attract huge crowds during peak tourist seasons. Narrow island streets fill quickly, making simple things—like grabbing dinner or heading to the beach—a bit tricky.

Prices also rise sharply during busy months. Dinner for two might cost around €50, about 10% higher than you’d spend in Thessaloniki. Local housing, restaurants, and even small shops hike their prices due to higher demand.

Expats soon adjust their routines to match the tourism cycle in Greece. Summers bring crowded beaches and steep prices, while winters offer calm streets and lower living costs. Many seasoned expats prefer quieter locations—spots like Western Crete or small inland villages.

These areas offer fewer crowds, better prices, and a more genuine Greek lifestyle. The next section covers Greece’s job market and its unique hurdles for expats.

Infrastructure challenges

Greek roads urgently need improvement. The aging road system causes traffic delays that could test anyone’s patience—and raise safety issues on your daily drives. Many expats find this hassle especially annoying after living in places with smoother streets and modern highways.

Public transportation can be cheaper, sure, but routes don’t always cover everywhere you’d like to go. Major cities offer buses and trams, yet smaller towns often have limited or no service at all.

Greece’s railway system also lags behind other European nations. Many important locations aren’t linked by train, and existing routes frequently run late or have limited timetables.

Owning a car becomes almost mandatory if you plan on living outside major cities like Athens or Thessaloniki. Despite being an EU member, Greece struggles economically to pay for needed infrastructure upgrades, meaning these transportation troubles might continue for years.

Cost of Living in Greece

Greece offers a more wallet-friendly lifestyle than many Western European countries, with your euros stretching further on housing, fresh food, and daily needs – let’s break down what you’ll really spend as an expat in this Mediterranean paradise.

Housing and rent prices

Expats moving to Greece enjoy a big advantage in housing costs. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in the middle of the city costs around €414 per month, compared to roughly $1,840 monthly in the United States.

With such a large difference, you’ll keep extra cash to fully enjoy the Greek lifestyle. Even buying a rural property comes at a reasonable price—houses begin around €80,000, giving you an affordable way to own Mediterranean land.

I rented an apartment in Athens for just €450 a month, with a gorgeous sea view; a place like mine would easily cost three times more back home. Prices here vary greatly from place to place.

Popular islands and sought-after areas within Athens attract high-end buyers willing to pay even millions for luxury properties. Many newcomers choose renting before jumping into home ownership.

Your euro goes a long way in Greece, making both renting and owning property easier and cheaper than in many other Western nations.

Food and grocery expenses

Housing isn’t your only expense—food counts, too. In Greece, you’ll find local markets with great deals on fresh produce, but regular grocery store prices stay pretty close to American standards.

On average, couples in Greece spend around $345 per month on groceries. Expect dairy basics like milk to cost about €1.26 per liter, a loaf of bread around €0.95, and eggs about €3.15 per dozen.

Meat tends to be pricier, with chicken priced around €7.02 per kilogram.

For the best deals, head to neighborhood markets. Many locals frequently visit weekly farmers’ markets, known as “laiki”, where produce costs fall well below supermarket prices. The Mediterranean lifestyle highlights foods like olive oil, fresh veggies, and seafood—ingredients you can easily buy at good prices if you’re careful about how you shop.

By following the local diet and buying habits, your daily costs can stay comfortably low.

Transportation costs

Traveling around Greece is much cheaper compared to the US. A monthly pass for buses and metro lines costs roughly €30—that’s barely half the $80 you’d spend back home. Since moving here, I’ve cut my transit expenses by over 60%!

But gas prices…well, they come with a catch. Greeks pay around €2.14 per liter, more than double what Americans pay at about $1 per liter. To handle this, most expats stick to buses and trains within the cities and rent cars only during special island trips.

Athens has an efficient metro system, perfect for everyday trips. Honestly, I’ve hardly ever missed owning my own vehicle. Many Greek cities also provide convenient bike-sharing services, making getting around even cheaper and easier.

With the money I save on transportation, I get to enjoy other amazing Greek experiences instead—like dining out or spending weekends exploring new beaches.

Healthcare expenses

Besides figuring out how to get around Greece, you’ll also need to think about health costs if you’re an expat. Thankfully, Greece has a good mix of public and private medical services that won’t empty your wallet.

The public healthcare system is free for Greek citizens and expats with jobs—a big advantage if you’re watching your budget. Friends living there often tell me it’s a top reason they decide to stay.

If shorter waits or English-speaking doctors matter most to you, private healthcare visits generally run between €60 and €100 per consultation. For monthly budgeting, plan to spend roughly $145 per person on healthcare—or around $290 if you’re covering two people.

These amounts usually include basic insurance fees and occasional doctor visits needing direct payment. This affordability is a major upside compared to healthcare expenses back in the United States.

Still, plenty of expats opt for international health insurance just to feel extra secure.

Visa Options for Expats

Greece offers several visa options for those who want to call this Mediterranean paradise home. You need to know the right visa path based on your goals, financial status, and how long you plan to stay.

Greece Golden Visa program

The Golden Visa program makes residency simple through property investment. You’ll need at least €250,000 to start, but that minimum goes up to €500,000 or even €800,000 in major cities like Athens or well-known islands.

Last year, I purchased an apartment in Athens for €300,000, and in less than six months, my residency card arrived. Hiring an experienced lawyer who knows the local system really helped smooth things out.

Once issued, your visa remains valid for five years, and it’s easy to renew if your property investment stays in place.

Many people find this path appealing because it offers easy access to the entire Schengen Area. After you’ve lived in Greece for seven years, you can apply to become a full citizen.

Several expat friends of mine went this route to avoid steep taxes back home. Here, taxes are straightforward thanks to a simple flat-rate structure. And even better—you don’t have to reside full-time in Greece to keep your residency active, great if you’re still involved in businesses or activities someplace else.

Digital Nomad Visa

Greece now provides a special Digital Nomad Visa, perfect for remote workers who dream of Greek life while maintaining foreign employment. The visa stays valid for up to two years, with a straightforward requirement—earning around €3,500 per month.

I moved here last year using this option, and honestly, the process felt easy enough. You just send in your work agreement, health insurance details, plus proof of a clean criminal history.

My application took roughly 30 days to get approved.

Plenty of men prefer this type of visa because it offers total freedom—you can work comfortably at beachside cafes in Santorini or quiet mountain towns in Crete. Keep in mind you’ll have to show proof of private healthcare coverage, since that’s a core requirement.

Greece’s simple flat tax system makes handling money far easier compared to countries where tax rules feel more complicated. Instead of morning commutes to an office, now I sip coffee on my balcony, enjoying ocean views—a lifestyle boost completely worth that monthly income rule.

Financially Independent Person Visa

The Financially Independent Person Visa lets you live in Greece if you’ve got a steady income. To qualify, all you need is proof of monthly earnings of at least €2,000—or savings of €48,000 sitting in your bank account.

The visa is valid for one year, but renewing it is simple, as long as you still meet these financial requirements.

This residency option was set up by the Greek government specifically for people who support themselves without working locally. After holding this visa and staying legally in Greece for five years, you can apply for permanent residency.

And after seven years, you’re eligible to apply for Greek citizenship.

Many expats from America and Arab countries like this visa because Greece has pleasant Mediterranean weather and lower living costs. Plus, it’s a good option if you’re retired, a remote worker, or an investor earning passive income abroad.

The paperwork and process involved here are simpler than Greece’s Golden Visa program—making it much easier for you to get started.

Popular Cities for Expats in Greece

Greece offers a range of stunning cities for expats to call home, from the bustling capital of Athens to the coastal charm of Thessaloniki and the island beauty of Crete – let’s explore where you might plant your roots in this Mediterranean paradise.

Athens

Athens is the lively hub for Greek expat life, home to around 4 million people. Men relocating to this historic city discover a charming mix of ancient traditions and convenient modern comforts.

Compared to other cities in Greece, Athens has a wider variety of job opportunities, making it simpler to find steady work and enjoy the warm Mediterranean weather. Popular neighborhoods for newcomers include upscale Kolonaki, while Koukaki and Pangrati offer budget-friendly housing close to the Acropolis area.

Male expats often gravitate toward Thissio and Plaka for their lively social scenes, where open-air cafés and restaurants buzz with people throughout the year. It’s good to check local income and capital gains taxes ahead of time, so you know what to expect.

Public healthcare covers basic medical needs, yet many expats choose private clinics to cut down on wait times. While infrastructure can be uneven at times, Athens’ public transportation network helps newcomers easily get around town without needing an immediate driver’s license.

Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki provides expat men a comfortable mix of vibrant city life and fascinating history. With around 800,000 people, this northern Greek city has a solid industrial base and plenty of job opportunities for foreigners with technical expertise.

The city also shines because of its delicious food—seafood here ranks among Greece’s finest, and fresh markets offer local fruit and veggies every day. Expats commonly find lower living expenses here versus those in Athens, yet still benefit from quality private healthcare.

Many foreign men often highlight Thessaloniki’s easygoing pace, appreciating the balance between work and personal life. Tourists here are fewer compared to other popular Greek cities, so you experience a genuine Greek lifestyle.

English commonly appears in business settings, but learning basic Greek words and phrases can help boost friendships with locals. Your home country’s driver’s license might work initially, but plan on getting a Greek license if staying longer.

Up next, let’s check out Chania in Crete—a city popular among expats for entirely different reasons.

Chania, Crete

Leaving behind bustling Thessaloniki for the sunny shores of southern Crete reveals a whole new side of Greece. Chania, a charming coastal city, draws visitors in with its beautiful Venetian harbor and historic old town—strolling along its narrow streets feels like stepping into the past.

Men who move here enjoy warmer winters compared to northern Greece, ideal for those who prefer avoiding cold weather. The gentle Mediterranean climate makes outdoor adventures and relaxing beach days possible all year round.

Transportation in Chania can pose some minor issues, since public transit isn’t very extensive—you’ll likely need your own car or scooter to fully explore the region. Living costs here remain affordable compared with other coastal cities in Europe, and residents can count on a reliable local healthcare system.

Expats often pick Chania for its historic charm, lovely scenery, and easygoing Greek pace of life. Local food highlights fresh seafood and specialties from Crete that make up part of the delicious—and famously healthy—Mediterranean diet.

Navigating Healthcare in Greece

The Greek healthcare system offers expats both public and private options to meet their medical needs. You’ll need to learn about health insurance plans that cover your stay, whether you choose state-run hospitals or private clinics.

Public healthcare system

Greece provides expats with a dependable public healthcare system known as ESY, which won’t empty your wallet. Once you start contributing through the EFKA social security system, you’ll gain access to quality medical care that’s either free or low-cost.

For most expats, this setup is convenient and covers basic healthcare needs or unexpected emergencies. Emergency medical services cost nothing, giving you peace of mind as you adjust to life abroad.

Public ambulance services are available in major cities, ensuring prompt attention in urgent situations.

For men considering relocation to Greece, public healthcare creates a reliable safety net covering essential treatments. Standard doctor visits or hospital stays won’t leave you facing huge medical bills.

Many local doctors have trained overseas and speak fluent English, making consultations easier and more comfortable. Still, some expats choose to add private insurance to their public healthcare coverage, for shorter wait times and added provider choices.

Healthcare quality can differ between city and country areas—location matters for your medical care experience.

Private healthcare options

Public healthcare covers basic needs, but many expats in Greece opt for private services instead. Private clinics usually have shorter wait times and doctors who speak English, making appointments easier and quicker.

A standard doctor’s appointment typically runs from €60 to €100, which is pretty reasonable compared with other places in Europe. Most expats I know prefer spending a bit extra for convenience and quicker care.

Having international health coverage, like Cigna Global, adds an extra layer of comfort and security. These plans offer thorough protection in Greece and other countries, covering important areas local plans might skip—particularly major medical treatments.

Private hospitals in big cities like Athens and Thessaloniki have advanced medical gear and doctors who trained internationally. Budget worries shouldn’t get in the way of your healthcare needs, especially if you’re living abroad.

Tips for Moving to Greece as an Expat

Moving to Greece needs smart planning and clear goals. Your success as an expat depends on good research and setting up proper support systems before you arrive.

Preparing your budget

Smart budget planning can totally transform your experience living in Greece. First, break down your monthly costs based on real-life prices. Renting a one-bedroom apartment right in Athens’s city center runs about €414—which beats the $1,840 you’d spend in the US by a long shot.

Groceries also stay really affordable; milk usually goes for around €1.26 per liter and bread less than a euro each. For my own first month settling in Athens, I set aside about €300 just for surprise expenses—and I absolutely needed it.

Healthcare requires some extra thought, too—expect to budget close to $145 per month for one person, or about $290 if you’re moving there as a couple. Greece’s tax system might catch you off guard since things work differently there, so check out their income and value-added taxes carefully before you go.

Life in Greece costs a lot less compared to the US, but managing your finances smartly is still essential. Create a simple spreadsheet and track every expense carefully for six months before your big move.

This approach helps you see exactly where your money is going, making it easier to cut out any unnecessary spending. As an extra cushion, I personally saved another €2,000 before leaving, and this safety net ended up saving me multiple times that first year.

Monthly groceries run around €200-250 per person if you stick mostly to the local markets. Public transit costs just about €30 monthly for a pass—way cheaper and easier on your wallet than paying fuel and car costs at today’s prices.

Researching local customs and lifestyle

Once your budget is settled, take time to explore Greek customs and daily life. Greeks treasure a relaxed lifestyle, far different from what most Westerners are used to. I found this out myself during my early days in Athens.

My neighbors invited me for coffee at 10 PM on a Tuesday—strange at first, until it dawned on me that late dinners and evening get-togethers are typical parts of Mediterranean living.

Greece’s warm community spirit makes adjusting easy for expats. Greeks value family time and relaxed social events over tight schedules. UNESCO heritage spots are everywhere around the country, each offering a glimpse of Greece’s rich cultural heritage.

Spend a little time learning some basic Greek words and simple local customs. Small gestures, like greeting shop owners or taking part in neighborhood celebrations, quickly help you feel at home and make new friends.

Choosing the right location

Your ideal Greek home depends on your personal priorities. Athens delivers a lively city lifestyle, with expat-friendly neighborhoods like Thissio, Plaka, and Kolonaki. These areas combine modern comforts with nearby historical landmarks, creating a perfect blend of past and present.

For milder winters, Chania on the island of Crete may match your needs better than northern locations. Crete offers year-round warmth and sunshine—great news if you’re a fan of sunny weather.

Food lovers often choose Thessaloniki for its delicious dining scene and vibrant fresh markets. The city is famous for tasty dishes and quality ingredients, making it a popular choice for foodies.

Tax rates and everyday costs vary from city to city, providing ways to stretch your budget and maximize your money. Healthcare should factor into your plans, too, as larger cities usually offer higher-quality medical care and more doctors who speak English.

Exploring healthcare choices is important; Greece has both public healthcare services and private medical options to consider.

How Will Expat Life in Greece Evolve in 2025?

Expat life in Greece looks promising for 2025, thanks largely to the Golden Visa program. With a €250,000 investment in local real estate, the Golden Visa continues to attract many foreigners.

Men relocating to Greece can also benefit from attractive tax advantages, specifically aimed at international workers and retirees.

Life in Greece remains more affordable than in most European Union nations. Daily expenses like groceries and rent cost noticeably less, leaving you with extra cash in your wallet.

The country’s mild Mediterranean climate also adds appeal—offering warm, sunny summers and mild winters, perfect for spending time outdoors any month of the year.

Investment opportunities in Greece remain attractive as well, particularly in Athens and Crete. Properties in these areas typically generate returns between 2% and 10%, depending on neighborhood and property type.

Yet, two significant challenges await new residents: coping with local administrative procedures and grasping the Greek language.

Many men prefer to become a digital nomad, taking advantage of Greece’s digital nomad visa while soaking up the laid-back lifestyle.

The Greek healthcare system offers both public and private healthcare facilities, giving expats plenty of flexibility for their medical care needs. Approaching these practical details thoughtfully will help you settle comfortably into life abroad.

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