Best Cities in Greece to Live

What Makes a City “Best to Live In”?

Choosing where to live in Greece — or anywhere — requires more than picking a place that “feels nice.” A city earns the title of “best to live in” based on a blend of objective quality-of-life metrics and personal lifestyle preferences. Here are the core factors we used in our evaluation — supported by research, statistics, and legal frameworks relevant to Greece.

Cost of Living

Greece is known for its relatively low living costs compared to Western Europe, but there is regional variation.

• In Athens (2024), average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is €510, while in smaller cities like Patras or Kalamata it can be €280–€350 (Numbeo, 2024).

• Average monthly expenses for a single person (excluding rent):

  • Athens: €800–€950

  • Thessaloniki: €700–€850

  • Chania: €600–€750

Tip: Coastal towns are more expensive during tourist seasons, especially on islands like Santorini or Mykonos.

Healthcare Access

Greece offers both public and private healthcare systems. The National Organization for the Provision of Health Services (EOPYY) is the main public provider.

• Greece ranked 18th globally in healthcare system performance according to the World Health Organization (latest report).

• Digital Nomad Visa and long-term residents can access IKA/EOPYY services after registration and contribution.

• Private insurance options range from €50–€150/month depending on age and coverage (Euraxess Greece).

Safety and Crime Rates

• Greece consistently ranks among the safest countries in Europe.

• According to Eurostat (2023), Greece had one of the lowest homicide rates in the EU: 0.9 per 100,000 population.

• Petty crime (e.g., pickpocketing) is more common in central Athens but rare in smaller cities and islands.

Climate and Environment

Greece’s Mediterranean climate is a major draw.

• 300+ sunny days per year in southern regions (e.g., Crete, Rhodes).

• Northern cities (e.g., Thessaloniki) have more seasonal variation with cold winters and hot summers.

• Air quality index (AQI) in Athens: average 40–50 (moderate), better in coastal towns like Nafplio or Chania (source: IQAir, 2024).

Connectivity and Infrastructure

• High-speed internet is now widely available due to fiber rollout. Median download speed:

  • Athens: 88 Mbps

  • Thessaloniki: 75 Mbps

  • Crete (Chania): 52 Mbps (Speedtest Global Index, Q1 2024).

• Most cities have reliable public transport (buses, metro in Athens), though smaller towns rely on cars.

Education and Schools

For families or long-term expats, education quality is key.

• Greece offers public and private schools, including international English-speaking options in Athens and Thessaloniki.

• University of Athens and Aristotle University (Thessaloniki) rank in the top 600 worldwide (QS World Rankings, 2024).

Culture, Community & Expat Support

• Vibrant cultural life in major cities with theaters, music, arts, and UNESCO heritage sites.

• Cities like Athens, Thessaloniki, and Chania have active expat communities, with regular meetups, local guides, and online groups (e.g., InterNations, Expat.com).

Summary: Evaluation Criteria Used in This Guide

We rated each city using the following framework:

This comprehensive scoring system helps you identify which Greek city truly fits your lifestyle needs — whether you're a digital nomad, a retiree, or relocating with family.

Quick Comparison Table: Top 10 Cities in Greece

Choosing the right Greek city depends on what you value most — affordability, nature, infrastructure, or community. Below is a side-by-side comparison of the top 10 cities in Greece to live in, based on up-to-date metrics.

Data sources:

• Numbeo – cost of living & crime

• Speedtest Global Index – internet speed

• Statista – quality of life indexes

• gov.gr – public service access

• OECD & Eurostat – healthcare and safety

Comparison Table (2024 Data)

Legend:

• Safety Index: Higher = safer (Numbeo scale)

• Healthcare Access: 1 (poor) to 5 (excellent) — based on hospital availability & doctor-to-patient ratio

• International Schools: Whether the city has one or more accredited international schools

Insights from the Table

• Athens and Thessaloniki offer the best internet and international schools, ideal for digital nomads and international families.

• Chania, Kalamata, and Ioannina stand out for safety and relaxed pace of life, popular with retirees.

• Larissa and Volos provide great value for money for long-term living on a budget.

Best Cities in Greece by Lifestyle Category

There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to choosing the best city to live in. A digital nomad, a family with school-aged children, and a retiree will all prioritize different aspects of life: internet speed vs. schools vs. healthcare access.

This section breaks down the best Greek cities to live in by lifestyle, based on practical needs, community presence, and real-life expat experiences.

For Digital Nomads

Top Priorities: Fast and reliable internet, coworking spaces, vibrant culture, international community.

Recommended Cities:

• Athens – Capital city with world-class coworking hubs (e.g., Impact Hub, Stone Soup), average speed: 88 Mbps.

• Thessaloniki – Cheaper than Athens, strong café culture, growing tech/startup scene.

• Chania (Crete) – Fast internet for an island (52 Mbps), scenic, quiet, very active expat nomad scene.

Tools & Perks:

• Eligible for Greece’s Digital Nomad Visa (Law 4825/2021) – for non-EU freelancers or remote workers earning over €3,500/month (migration.gov.gr).

• 50% income tax break for new foreign residents for up to 7 years (Gov Gazette, A’ 241/2020).

For Families with Children

Top Priorities: Education, healthcare, parks, safe neighborhoods, affordable housing.

Recommended Cities:

• Patras – Third-largest city, more relaxed than Athens, excellent public hospitals and nearby nature.

• Larissa – Low cost of living, good local schools, strong family culture.

• Thessaloniki – Has multiple international schools, including Pinewood American International School.

Schooling Info:

• Greece has a mix of public (tuition-free) and private/international schools.

• International options mostly located in Athens and Thessaloniki (Ministry of Education).

Healthcare:

• Access to EOPYY (public) or private coverage. Pediatric services are available in all regional hospitals.

• Patras University Hospital ranks among the top 3 in the country (2023 Health Ministry Report).

For Retirees

Top Priorities: Peaceful environment, good weather, accessible healthcare, affordability, community.

Recommended Cities:

• Kalamata – Beautiful Peloponnesian seaside city with long promenades and top-quality olive oil.

• Chania – Safe, scenic, large English-speaking community.

• Rhodes Town – Historical surroundings, excellent hospital, year-round warm climate.

Residency Info:

• EU citizens can reside without a visa; non-EU retirees may apply for financially independent visa (Type D) (Gov.gr).

• Private health insurance is mandatory for non-EU residents.

Costs:

• In Chania and Kalamata, a couple can comfortably live on €1,500–€2,000/month.

• Medical services are 30–40% cheaper than the EU average (OECD, 2023).

Summary Table by Lifestyle

Legal & Practical Aspects of Moving to Greece

Whether you're a digital nomad, a retiree, or a family relocating long-term, understanding Greece’s legal framework is essential before making the move. This section outlines key visa types, tax incentives, registration steps, healthcare access, and links to official sources for smooth relocation.

Visa Types & Residency Options

For EU/EEA Citizens:

• No visa required. Free to live, work, and move freely.

• Must register with the local police station (Aliens Bureau) within 3 months and obtain a Certificate of Registration (Βεβα?ωση Εγγραφ?ς).

• Proof of address, health insurance, and sufficient funds are required.

For Non-EU Citizens:

Here are the most relevant residence permit options:

As of Q1 2024, the Golden Visa threshold increased to €500,000 in certain areas (e.g. central Athens, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, Santorini) — per Law 5007/2022.

Taxation for Expats

Greece has become increasingly attractive for expats due to favorable tax schemes.

Tax Incentives:

• 50% income tax exemption for new foreign residents for up to 7 years (Law 4758/2020, Art. 5C).

• Retirees from countries with tax treaties (e.g. U.S., UK, Germany) can transfer pension income under a flat 7% tax rate (Law 4714/2020).

• Digital nomads must not have tax residency in Greece if staying under 183 days/year to remain exempt.

Tax registration (AFM number) is required for:

• Renting or buying property

• Getting a phone contract or utilities

• Paying taxes or receiving income

Apply for an AFM (ΑΦΜ) at the local Tax Office (ΔΟΥ) with your passport, lease agreement, and visa.

Healthcare Access

Public System (EOPYY):

• Available to legal residents who contribute to IKA or OAEE (social security funds).

• Offers access to public hospitals, general practitioners, prescriptions.

• Digital Nomads typically use private insurance unless they switch to full-time residence.

Private Insurance:

• Required for all visa applications.

• Monthly plans range from €50–€150, depending on age and coverage (e.g., Interamerican, Ethniki, Bupa, Allianz).

• Accepted widely in major cities and private clinics.

Resource: EOPYY Official Portal

Residence Registration & Bureaucracy

Upon arrival, all expats must:

1. Register address at the nearest Citizen Service Center (KEP).

2. Get a residence certificate or permit depending on visa.

3. Apply for AMKA (Social Security Number) if working or needing access to healthcare.

Useful digital services via: gov.gr
→ Offers online tax, banking, ID services in Greek (some available in English).

Required Documents Checklist

Here’s what most visa/residency applications will require:

• Passport valid for 12+ months

• Visa application form (via consulate or online)

• Proof of income (bank statements, contracts)

• Health insurance (valid in Greece)

• Rental agreement or property title

• Background check (certified and translated)

• Passport-sized photos (as per ICAO specs)

Translations must be official or via a certified translator (Ministry of Foreign Affairs translators list).

Real Experiences: What Expats Say

Facts and stats tell part of the story. But when it comes to actually living in Greece, it’s often the real-life details — the landlord who brings you olives, the slow bureaucracy, or the sea view that never gets old — that shape the experience.

We’ve gathered first-hand insights from expats who now call Greece home. From digital nomads in Athens to retirees on Crete, here’s what they love, what surprised them, and what they wish they knew sooner.

Athens – “Chaotic but Full of Life”

“Athens is not the prettiest European capital, but it’s alive — 24/7. I can work from a rooftop café with 90 Mbps internet and walk to ruins older than Rome after lunch. I don’t love the traffic or strikes, but I’d still choose it again.”
— Leo W., UK, remote software developer (via NomadList, 2023)

Pros: Excellent coworking spaces, startup culture, historic atmosphere
Cons: Congestion, summer heat, occasional protests

Chania (Crete) – “The Perfect Pace of Life”

“I left Berlin for Chania two years ago. I work remotely, pay less rent, eat better food, and swim almost daily. The winters are mild, and the expat community here is solid — lots of Germans, Dutch, and Brits.”
— Anna L., Germany, UX designer (via Expat.com, 2023)

Pros: Relaxed island vibe, safety, nature, friendly locals
Cons: Slower admin services, limited winter flights

Thessaloniki – “The Best Balance”

“Thessaloniki has all the perks of a city — bars, culture, universities — without the chaos of Athens. People are more laid-back. You can walk almost anywhere. Rents are lower, and there are proper bakeries on every corner.”
— Jonathan B., USA, university lecturer (via InterNations, 2024)

Pros: Walkable, vibrant, affordable, culturally rich
Cons: Less English spoken than Athens, bureaucratic offices can be inconsistent

Rhodes – “Feels Like a Year-Round Holiday”

“Retiring in Rhodes was the best decision I ever made. My apartment has a view of the sea, and I walk the medieval streets daily. Healthcare is decent, and my neighbors treat me like family.”
— Carla M., Canada, retired teacher (via Facebook Expat Group, 2023)

Pros: Great weather, low cost of living, relaxed pace
Cons: Limited hospital specialties, slower service in off-season

Lessons from Expats: What They Wish They Knew

• Paperwork takes time. From AFM tax numbers to residence permits, Greek bureaucracy is notoriously slow — plan for delays.

• Learning Greek helps a lot. While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, speaking even basic Greek builds trust with locals.

• Island life isn’t always paradise. Off-season can feel isolated; mainland cities may suit year-round residents better.

• Cultural integration takes time. Greek society is warm but close-knit. Patience, respect, and a bit of humor go a long way.

Honorable Mentions: Small Towns & Islands Worth Considering

Not everyone wants city life. For those seeking peace, authenticity, or seaside simplicity, Greece offers hundreds of charming small towns and islands that combine beauty with livability.

Here are some of the best lesser-known places where expats and locals alike have found a home — whether for a few months or forever.

Naxos – The Livable Cycladic Island

Ideal for: Families, long-stay digital nomads, remote retirees

• The largest island in the Cyclades, but quieter and more affordable than Santorini or Mykonos.

• Offers fiber internet, good healthcare center, and a year-round local community.

• You can rent a sea-view home for €500–€700/month off-season.

Pros: Balanced lifestyle, local produce, kid-friendly
Cons: Ferry-only access in winter (no airport)

Nafplio – The Elegant Peloponnesian Gem

Ideal for: Couples, remote workers, weekend commuters from Athens

• Greece’s first modern capital — a blend of Venetian architecture, sea views, and boutique culture.

• Only 2 hours from Athens by car or bus, making it perfect for hybrid workers or Athenian escapees.

• Popular with French, German, and Belgian expats.

Pros: Culture, walkability, charm
Cons: Tourist-heavy in summer, pricey center

Local info: argolida.gr

Metsovo – Mountain Living with Tradition

Ideal for: Nature lovers, low-cost seekers, Greek culture enthusiasts

• A historic town in Epirus, surrounded by forests and ski slopes.

• Known for its local cheeses, wine, and architecture.

• Cost of living is 20–30% lower than the national average.

Pros: Authentic, cool summers, very affordable
Cons: Remote, cold winters, no airport nearby

Access: 4 hrs from Thessaloniki; 1.5 hrs from Ioannina (nearest airport)

Syros – The Quiet Capital of the Cyclades

Ideal for: Professionals, remote workers, older expats

• Administrative center of the Cyclades, with a working economy, hospital, courts, and year-round ferry and air access.

• Home to Ermoupoli, a neoclassical town with strong arts and music scene.

• Good public services and local schools.

Pros: Reliable infrastructure, less seasonal economy
Cons: Fewer beaches, windy winters

Ferry info: openseas.gr

Edessa – Waterfalls and Green Spaces

Ideal for: Nature-oriented families, remote workers, retirees

• Located in Northern Greece, famous for its cascading waterfalls and cool climate.

• Close to hot springs, hiking trails, and ski areas.

• Quiet but connected — 1.5 hrs from Thessaloniki airport.

Pros: Fresh air, slow pace, low rent
Cons: Smaller community, colder winters

Avg. rent: €250–€400 for 2BR apartment (2024 listings via Spitogatos.gr)

Quick Comparison Table

Tips for Living in Smaller Greek Places

• Check transport access (flights/ferries/buses) — some islands are cut off in winter.

• Learn basic Greek — fewer locals speak English outside big cities.

• Many towns offer local incentives for remote workers or entrepreneurs — inquire with the local Δ?μος (municipality).

• Use Spitogatos.gr or Xe.gr for checking rental properties in small towns.

Common Myths About Living in Greece

Moving to Greece might sound like a dream — sun, sea, souvlaki — but there are persistent myths that can distort expectations. Let’s break down the most common misconceptions about living in Greece and clarify what’s really true in 2024–2025.

Myth #1: “It’s Always Warm and Sunny”

Reality: Greece does have over 250 sunny days a year, but winters can be cold and damp, especially in the north and in the mountains.

• Athens: Mild winters (~8–15°C), occasional rain

• Thessaloniki: Snow is not unusual

• Metsovo, Kastoria, Florina: Ski resorts exist for a reason!

Source: Hellenic National Meteorological Service

Myth #2: “Living on an Island Is Cheaper and Better”

Reality: While some islands like Naxos or Syros are affordable, popular destinations (Santorini, Mykonos, Corfu) can be more expensive than Athens, especially in summer.
Also:

• Off-season = limited transport, fewer services, and even store closures.

• Property on famous islands now exceeds €3,500/m² in many areas (2024 – Bank of Greece data).

Myth #3: “Everyone Speaks English”

Reality: English is widely spoken in tourist areas and younger generations, but:

• In small towns, government offices, hospitals, and rural areas, expect little to no English.

• Learning basic Greek is vital for banking, bureaucracy, and long-term integration.

???? Tip: Try Duolingo, Mondly, or local language schools like Hellenic American Union (Athens).

Myth #4: “Bureaucracy Isn’t That Bad”

Reality: Greek bureaucracy is infamous — even among locals.
Common challenges:

• In-person appointments required for many processes

• Some documents need to be translated, notarized, apostilled

• Multiple visits to different departments are typical

AFM (Tax ID), AMKA (Social Security), and Residence Permits are mandatory and take time.

Resource: gov.gr offers digital services, but mostly in Greek.

Myth #5: “You Can Work Remotely from Any Beach”

Reality: Mobile signal and 4G/5G coverage are strong nationally, but:

• Remote islands or rural areas often have unstable Wi-Fi.

• Power outages are not rare during storms or in high-summer usage peaks.

• You may need mobile hotspot backup (e.g. Cosmote, Vodafone Greece SIMs).

Average internet speed:

• Urban areas (Athens, Thessaloniki): 50–100 Mbps

• Remote villages: 10–30 Mbps, sometimes lower
  (Source: Ookla Speedtest, 2024)

Myth #6: “It’s Easy to Buy Property as a Foreigner”

Reality: Yes, non-EU citizens can buy property, but:

• The process is complex and slow, often requiring military zone clearance (especially near borders/islands).

• You’ll need:

  • Greek AFM (tax number)

  • A local lawyer and notary

  • Possibly a Greek bank account (harder post-2022 banking reforms)

Reference: Hellenic Cadastre and Enterprise Greece

Myth #7: “Healthcare Is Free and Universal”

Reality: Public healthcare exists, but:

• Only legal residents contributing to social security (EFKA) can access it.

• Private insurance is mandatory for most visa types and recommended for expats.

• In rural areas or islands, hospital access may be limited or far away.

Public system: EOPYY
Private options: Interamerican, Ethniki, Bupa, Allianz

Bonus: What’s Actually Underrated

• Greek hospitality is real — locals often help with language, housing, and integration.

• Train travel is limited, but intercity buses (KTEL) are fast, cheap, and reliable.

• Public education is free — and some public universities offer English-taught master’s degrees (since 2022).