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Living in Greece as a foreigner: What is it really like?
Want to get a better idea of what living in Greece is like in 2026? Here we’ll tell you all about it in detail and lay out the pros and cons.
Living in Greece can offer the chance to enjoy a high quality of life at a lower cost. However, there are some nuances to consider, which we’ll explore in this article to give you a clearer picture of life in this southern European country.
We want to give you a thorough look at Greece’s economic landscape and the current cost of living. We’ll also explore its education and healthcare systems, as well as examine how safe it is to move there compared to other European destinations. By the end, you’ll get a clear overview of the main pros and cons for foreigners considering a move to Greece.
Quality of life in Greece
We’ll walk you through the key factors that shape quality of life in Greece, including healthcare, education, safety, and the cost of living. This will give you a clearer picture of the country and help you compare it with other destinations you’re considering.
Public and private healthcare
Healthcare in Greece operates through a National Health System, which ensures that all citizens and residents have access to medical care. According to the OECD, the country also has more doctors per capita than recommended, which helps make the system more efficient.
However, one ongoing challenge is access to care. Limited infrastructure can lead to delays when trying to see a general practitioner or specialist, despite the high number of doctors available.
For foreigners, there is a clear tendency to rely on private health insurance to access higher-quality care in top-tier hospitals. These services often provide support in multiple languages, making it easier to handle treatments, appointments, and administrative procedures.
Reliable education system
Greece’s education system is highly regarded in Europe, combining a solid public sector with a growing private one that continues to strengthen the country’s overall standard of education. International schools and institutions with high academic standards have also contributed to progress in various fields and to improved language learning.
Public university education is free, even for European Union citizens, making Greece an attractive destination for academic and professional training. This also helps strengthen the availability of a skilled workforce.
Safety in Greece: Low crime rates
Crime rates in Greece are relatively low compared to other European countries with similar social profiles, contributing to a strong sense of safety, even at night. The most common issues tend to be minor thefts in tourist areas, which are usually non-violent.
Occasional political protests occur, but they rarely affect public safety. In general, Greece offers a safe and supportive environment for personal and professional life.
Moderate cost of living
Greece’s cost of living is relatively moderate compared to most European countries. Rent and many everyday expenses are affordable for locals and residents alike. This balance of lifestyle and cost is one reason why digital nomads and expats are drawn to the country.
It’s important to note that wages in Greece tend to be lower than in many other European countries. The minimum monthly pay for 2026 is around $980 to $1,120, which typically applies to young people starting their first job or those with little experience in certain fields.
To live comfortably in Greece, you’d need to earn around $1,520 per month after taxes. This is enough to cover basic expenses in major cities, and in smaller towns, it usually leaves room for some savings.
Fiber-optic internet and 5G technology
Internet in Greece reaches nearly the entire population, with fiber-optic coverage available for homes and businesses through providers like OTE and Nova. Mobile networks, such as Vodafone, also offer 5G connectivity in their plans.
Reliable internet in Greece makes it simple to handle monthly shopping, pay bills, and transfer money online. It also supports the use of smart home devices, letting you manage many daily tasks right from your phone.
To stay connected during your trip to Greece, we recommend Holafly’s monthly plans. You can choose between 25 GB or unlimited data, share it across multiple devices, and even use it in over 160 countries without changing your plan.
If you just need internet for a few days while getting settled in Greece, Holafly’s Greece eSIM is a great option, giving you unlimited data for as long as you need.
Important: If you are a frequent traveler and want to stay connected without worrying about expensive roaming or looking for a new SIM at every destination, Holafly’s subscription plans are for you. With a single eSIM, enjoy internet in more than 160 countries for a fixed price and no surprises on your bill. Travel without limits and connect easily and securely! 🚀🌍
Advantages of living in Greece
Life in Greece moves at a slower pace compared to other European cities. Beyond that, the country offers several unique qualities that make it a special place to live.
Low cost of living
You might assume that living in Europe is expensive, but Greece shows that it’s possible to settle in a country that blends history and modernity, both in lifestyle and in economic terms.
Although Greece’s minimum wage is around $1,115 per month, slightly higher average earnings and lower costs for housing and groceries make it possible to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle compared to countries like Spain or France.
This makes it easier to afford rent and other basic services, which are often a challenge for immigrants in other destinations.
Ideal climate
If you enjoy staying active, Greece lets you do so almost all year round, since the weather there is pleasant most of the time.
Residents often take advantage of the opportunity to stay active, enjoy recreational activities, or simply break their routine by visiting nearby beaches, mountains, and natural areas. This lifestyle helps support mental well-being and reduces stress levels.
The seasons are noticeable throughout the year, but autumn and spring usually bring mild temperatures that rarely drop below 15°C. Winters are moderate, especially along the coast, while inland and northern regions experience a mix of sunshine and snow. During the summer, which typically lasts from June to August, temperatures can reach up to 40°C.
Makes it easy to travel around Europe on a budget
Living in Greece as a legal resident gives you the freedom to travel across the Schengen area without extra paperwork or restrictions. It’s one of the easiest ways to access other European countries, all while enjoying a relatively moderate cost of living.
Greece has several budget airlines, making it easy to travel to different destinations without spending a lot. On top of that, its location makes it simple to reach Turkey, Egypt, or even Spain in just a few hours by plane.
Disadvantages of living in Greece as a foreigner
Living in Greece isn’t always smooth or simple. The country also presents some challenges that could be important for you to consider before deciding to settle there. Here are the most significant drawbacks.
Bureaucracy can be frustrating
Dealing with the paperwork to get officially settled in the country can be exhausting and frustrating. While some processes are online, the most important ones still require in-person visits, usually by appointment.
Setting up in Greece can take months, with multiple trips to offices for things like a bank account or residency documents. Compared to other European countries, the process is much slower.
The minimum wage is lower than in other European countries
The minimum wage in Greece is much lower than in other European countries, which can make saving, planning big purchases, or traveling abroad more difficult. Even though living costs are generally lower, average monthly earnings are not very competitive.
People who can live comfortably in Greece, save, invest, or travel often do so by working for foreign companies.
You’ll need to speak Greek
Knowing English is helpful for visiting Greece as a tourist, but if you plan to live there, speaking Greek is essential. To work with local employers, you’ll need to communicate in Greek.
Learning the language takes time and effort, as it can be challenging for most foreigners. This often becomes a barrier to settling in, limiting both job opportunities and social connections.
Frequently asked questions about what it’s like to live in Greece
A professional working for a local employer can earn between $1,300 and $2,000 a month, depending on experience and qualifications. With a foreign employer, however, salaries can be up to twice that.
You can get by in Greece using English for daily life, but learning Greek is still a good idea. It makes handling paperwork easier, helps you expand your social circle, and improves communication with local employers.
Greece offers several ways to get around. In cities, you can use Athens’ metro, buses, and trolleys, while ferries are the easiest way to travel between the mainland and the islands. In major cities, you’ll also find apps to book official taxis.
Where you choose to live in Greece makes a big difference. In major cities, traffic and limited parking can make owning a car inconvenient, while in rural areas and on the islands, having your own transportation is often essential.
If you’re not from an EU country, you’ll usually need an international driving permit. However, the rules can vary depending on your home country, so it’s important to check the specific requirements that apply to you.
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Hi! I'm a Spanish-English translator working with Holafly, helping bring travel content to life for curious travelers. As a digital nomad with a passion for exploring, I'm always adding new spots to my bucket list. If you love to travel like me, stick around because you're in the right place to find inspiration for your next trip! ✈️🌍
