Thinking about moving to Greece? You’re not alone.
Every year, thousands of French-speaking professionals, families, and digital nomads choose Greece for its Mediterranean climate, relaxed lifestyle, and growing international job market.
From historic cities to stunning islands, Greece offers a unique mix of culture, affordability, and quality of life. Whether you’re relocating for work, retirement, or remote opportunities, this guide covers everything you need to know before making the move.
Why move to Greece?
Here are the main reasons expats choose Greece:
☀️ Sunny climate – Over 300 days of sunshine per year
🏛 Rich cultural heritage – Ancient sites, museums, and traditions
🌊 Mediterranean lifestyle – Slower pace, strong social life, work–life balance
💶 Affordable cost of living – Lower than most Western European countries
🌍 Strategic location – Between Europe, Asia, and Africa
Greece currently has around 10.4 million residents and hosts a growing foreign population, mainly from Europe. French speakers are concentrated in Athens, Thessaloniki, and popular island regions.
Best places to live in Greece
Your choice depends on career goals, family needs, and lifestyle.
Athens
The capital is Greece’s economic center, offering the widest range of jobs, especially in:
- Customer service & BPO
- Tourism & hospitality
- Tech & digital roles
- International companies
Popular expat areas include Glyfada, Kifissia, and Kolonaki.
Thessaloniki
More affordable than Athens, with a vibrant student atmosphere and good quality of life. Ideal for young professionals and families.
Greek Islands (Crete, Rhodes, Corfu, Cyclades)
Perfect for those seeking nature and tranquility. Very popular among retirees and remote workers, but employment is mostly seasonal and tourism-focused.
💡 Tip: visit several regions before relocating and evaluate schools, healthcare, and commute times.
Visas and residency in Greece
EU citizens
You can enter Greece with an ID or passport and stay up to 90 days. For longer stays:
- Register locally
- Obtain a Greek tax number (AFM)
The AFM is essential for renting, opening a bank account, and working.
Non-EU citizens
You’ll need a national long-stay visa (Type D) before arrival. Greece also offers a Digital Nomad Visa for remote workers.
Practical advice
- Start paperwork early
- Prepare translated documents
- Apply for AFM as soon as possible
Working in Greece
Greece’s economy is recovering, and international hiring is increasing.
In-demand profiles:
- Customer support (especially multilingual)
- Tourism & hospitality
- Construction & engineering
- Digital specialists
- Healthcare professionals
English is common in international environments, but Greek remains a major advantage.
Minimum wage is around €880 gross, and competition exists for skilled roles.
Remote work and relocation packages are increasingly available through international employers.
👉 If you’re looking for job opportunities in Greece or Europe, ExpatArea helps candidates connect with international employers — with relocation support when available.
Cost of living in Greece
Average monthly budget:
- Single person: €1,100–€2,200
- Family of four: €2,700–€5,200
Athens is the most expensive city, while Crete and smaller towns remain affordable.
Recent inflation has increased food and energy costs, but Greece is still cheaper than most Western European countries.
Housing in Greece
Most expats start by renting.
Typical prices in Athens:
- One-bedroom apartment: €450–€800
- Three-bedroom apartment: €800–€1,700
Contracts usually last 3 years, with deposits of 1–2 months.
Foreigners can buy property freely, but legal checks are essential.
Healthcare system
Greece combines public and private healthcare.
Public sector
Low-cost care but long waiting times.
Private sector
Modern facilities, fast access, higher prices.
Many expats choose private insurance.
Emergency numbers:
- 112 (European emergency)
- 166 (ambulance)
Schools and education
Options include:
- Public Greek schools (free, Greek language)
- Private local schools
- French schools
- International schools (British, American, IB)
International schools offer continuity but higher tuition.
Enroll early — waiting lists are common.
Banking and taxes
You’ll need your AFM to open a Greek bank account.
Taxes are progressive (up to 44%), but special regimes exist for:
- New residents
- Retirees
- Digital nomads
Many expats keep their home-country bank account during transition.
Retiring in Greece
Greece offers a special tax regime for retirees: 7% flat tax on foreign income for up to 15 years (under certain conditions).
Combined with affordable living and mild climate, Greece is becoming a popular retirement destination.
Daily life in Greece
Living in Greece means adapting to Mediterranean rhythms:
- Lunch: 2–3:30 PM
- Dinner: after 9 PM
- Afternoon closures are common
- WhatsApp is widely used professionally
- Strong focus on family and social connections
Island life is highly seasonal: lively summers, quiet winters.
Moving to Greece: practical tips
- Compare international movers
- Prepare translated documents
- EU citizens benefit from simplified customs
- Pets need microchip + rabies vaccination
Leisure and lifestyle
Greece offers:
- Beaches and sailing
- Hiking and cycling
- Vibrant nightlife in Athens and Thessaloniki
- Traditional tavernas
- Archaeological sites
- Outdoor activities year-round
Final thoughts
Greece offers an exceptional balance of lifestyle, affordability, and international career opportunities.
Whether you’re relocating for work, remote life, or retirement, preparation is key — but the reward is living in one of Europe’s most culturally rich and welcoming countries.
Looking for jobs in Greece or Europe?
At ExpatArea, we help multilingual candidates connect with international employers and relocation-friendly opportunities.
📩 hello@expatarea.eu
🌍 https://expatarea.eu
FAQ – Living in Greece
Is Greece good for expats?
Yes. Affordable living, strong community culture, and growing international jobs make Greece attractive for expats.
Can foreigners work in Greece?
EU citizens can work freely. Non-EU citizens need a visa.
Is Greece cheap to live?
Compared to Western Europe, yes — especially outside Athens.
Can I move to Greece without speaking Greek?
Yes for international roles, but learning Greek increases opportunities.
