Living in Athens: The Complete Expat Guide for 2025

Athens offers something increasingly rare in Europe: a major capital city with genuine Mediterranean character where you can still afford to live well. The Greek capital delivers over 2,800 hours of sunshine annually, a cost of living 30-40% below Western European cities, and a lifestyle that balances ancient history with modern convenience.

With 3.6 million people in the metropolitan area, Athens ranks as one of Europe's most dynamic cities for expats and digital nomads. The city scores 3.5/5 on nomad indexes, reflecting strong weather and affordability offset by moderate infrastructure challenges. But the numbers only tell part of the story — Athens rewards those who understand its rhythms, neighborhoods, and unwritten rules.

This guide covers everything you need to know before relocating: realistic costs, neighborhood breakdowns, visa pathways, and the practical details that expat forums rarely mention.

Key Takeaways

• Cost of living: €1,040-1,500 budget / €1,750-2,700 comfortable / €2,940-4,100 luxury
• Best neighborhoods: Koukaki (nomads), Kifisia (families), Pangrati (budget), Glyfada (beach)
• Digital Nomad Visa: €3,500/month income required, 12-month initial, renewable 2 years
• Golden Visa: €800,000 Athens/Thessaloniki, €400,000 other mainland areas
• Climate: 250+ sunny days, brutal summers (35-40°C), mild winters (8-15°C)

Why Do Expats Choose Athens?

Athens attracts a specific type of expat. If you want pristine efficiency and Northern European order, this isn't your city. If you want warmth, spontaneity, affordable coastal living, and a genuine connection to history, Athens delivers.

Climate stands as the primary draw. The city averages 250+ sunny days per year with over 2,800 hours of sunshine annually — more than almost any European capital. Mediterranean weather means mild winters (8-15°C), stunning spring and autumn seasons (15-28°C), and brutal summers (28-40°C, occasionally reaching 40°C+ during heatwaves in July-August).

Cost of living runs significantly below Paris, London, or Berlin. A comfortable middle-class lifestyle costs €1,750-2,700 monthly, while budget-conscious expats manage on €1,040-1,500. The gap between Athens and Western European capitals has widened since 2020, making it increasingly attractive for remote workers earning foreign salaries.

Digital nomad infrastructure has improved dramatically. The 2022 Digital Nomad Visa created a legal pathway for remote workers, coworking spaces have multiplied across central neighborhoods, and reliable fiber internet reaches most residential areas.

Cultural depth sets Athens apart from newer expat hubs. This isn't a city manufactured for tourists — it's a living capital with 3,400 years of continuous habitation. The Acropolis isn't a backdrop; it's part of daily life.

What Are the Best Neighborhoods in Athens?

Choosing the right neighborhood matters more in Athens than in most cities. The metro system connects major areas, but daily life happens locally. Each neighborhood has distinct character, demographics, and price points.

Neighborhood Comparison

• Kolonaki: €1,200-2,000/month • Upscale, boutiques, galleries • Best for professionals, luxury seekers
• Kifisia: €800-1,400/month • Leafy suburb, international • Best for families, long-term expats
• Glyfada: €1,000-1,600/month • Coastal, beaches, nightlife • Best for beach lovers, young professionals
• Koukaki: €800-1,400/month • Central, creative, walkable • Best for digital nomads, creatives
• Pangrati: €700-1,200/month • Local, authentic, affordable • Best for budget expats, culture seekers
• Piraeus: €500-900/month • Port town, working class • Best for budget maximizers, maritime workers
• Exarchia: €500-800/month • Alternative, edgy, student • Best for artists, young expats

Kolonaki: The Upscale Choice

Kolonaki sits at the base of Lycabettus Hill and functions as Athens' most affluent central neighborhood. Designer boutiques, high-end restaurants, and art galleries line the streets. The area attracts diplomats, business executives, and wealthy Greeks.

Pros: Safe, beautiful architecture, excellent restaurants, proximity to cultural institutions
Cons: Highest prices, limited nightlife diversity, can feel exclusive
Rent: €1,200-2,000 for a one-bedroom apartment

Kolonaki works best for professionals with substantial budgets who prioritize refinement over value.

Kifisia: The Family Suburb

Located 14km north of central Athens, Kifisia offers a dramatically different experience. Tree-lined streets, large properties, and a cooler microclimate attract families and long-term expats. International schools cluster nearby, and the neighborhood maintains a village-within-a-city feel.

Pros: Green space, family-friendly, cooler temperatures, excellent schools nearby
Cons: Distance from center, requires car for some errands, less spontaneous
Rent: €800-1,400 for a one-bedroom apartment

Families with children enrolled at international schools often choose Kifisia for quality of life.

Glyfada: The Coastal Option

Glyfada stretches along the Saronic Gulf, 16km south of central Athens. This is Athens' beach community — palm-lined boulevards, seaside cafes, and summer nightlife that runs until dawn. The tram connects Glyfada to Syntagma Square in about 50 minutes.

Pros: Beach access, summer lifestyle, international community, good restaurants
Cons: Crowded in summer, long commute to center, higher prices than comparable distance inland
Rent: €1,000-1,600 for a one-bedroom apartment

Glyfada suits those who prioritize beach proximity and don't mind the commute.

Koukaki: The Digital Nomad Hub

South of the Acropolis, Koukaki has emerged as Athens' premier neighborhood for digital nomads and creative professionals. The area balances central location with residential character. Acropolis views from rooftop bars, independent cafes, and walkability to major sites define the area.

Pros: Central location, Acropolis proximity, creative community, walkable, good cafes
Cons: Tourism spill-over, some streets noisy, limited green space
Rent: €800-1,400 for a one-bedroom apartment

Koukaki delivers the best balance of location, community, and value for remote workers.

Pangrati: The Local Experience

East of the National Gardens, Pangrati retains authentic Athenian character that's increasingly rare in central neighborhoods. Local tavernas, neighborhood bakeries, and long-term Greek residents create a genuine community. The Panathenaic Stadium sits at the neighborhood's edge.

Pros: Authentic atmosphere, affordable for central location, local tavernas, friendly neighbors
Cons: Limited international community, fewer English-speaking services, older building stock
Rent: €700-1,200 for a one-bedroom apartment

Pangrati suits expats seeking immersion over expat bubble comfort.

Piraeus: The Budget Harbor

Greece's largest port city functions as its own municipality but connects to Athens via metro Line 1. Working-class character, ferry access to the islands, and significantly lower prices attract budget-conscious expats. The area lacks the charm of central Athens but offers practical advantages.

Pros: Lowest prices, ferry access, metro-connected, authentic Greek life
Cons: Industrial areas, less attractive, limited expat community
Rent: €500-900 for a one-bedroom apartment

Piraeus works for budget maximizers who don't need central Athens amenities daily.

Exarchia: The Alternative Zone

Athens' most controversial neighborhood combines student life, alternative culture, and political activism. Graffiti covers walls, anarchist squats operate openly, and riot police occasionally appear. Yet Exarchia also offers Athens' best live music venues, cheapest eats, and most authentic countercultural experience.

Pros: Cheapest central option, vibrant nightlife, intellectual atmosphere, authentic edge
Cons: Safety concerns at night, police presence, not family-friendly, polarizing
Rent: €500-800 for a one-bedroom apartment

Exarchia suits young, adaptable expats comfortable with edginess. Avoid if you have children or prefer stability.

Cost of Living in Athens

Athens costs significantly less than Western European capitals while offering comparable amenities. Your monthly budget depends primarily on neighborhood choice and lifestyle expectations.

Budget Breakdown by Lifestyle

Budget Lifestyle: €1,040-1,500/month

• Rent: €500-700 (Pangrati, Piraeus, or shared apartment)
• Utilities: €80-120
• Groceries: €200-300
• Transport: €30 (monthly pass)
• Dining out: €100-150
• Entertainment: €80-120
• Miscellaneous: €50-110

Mid-Range Lifestyle: €1,750-2,700/month

• Rent: €800-1,400 (Koukaki, Kifisia, or nice Pangrati)
• Utilities: €100-150
• Groceries: €250-350
• Transport: €50-80 (metro + occasional taxi)
• Dining out: €200-350
• Entertainment: €150-200
• Healthcare: €50-100
• Miscellaneous: €150-200

Comfortable Lifestyle: €2,940-4,100/month

• Rent: €1,200-2,000 (Kolonaki, premium Glyfada)
• Utilities: €120-180
• Groceries: €300-400
• Transport: €100-150 (including car costs)
• Dining out: €400-550
• Entertainment: €300-400
• Healthcare: €100-150
• Gym/wellness: €80-120
• Miscellaneous: €340-400

Key Cost Factors

Rent constitutes the largest variable. Prices increased 15-25% from 2022-2024, though they remain below pre-2010 peaks adjusted for inflation. Signing a longer lease (12+ months) often secures 5-10% discounts.

Utilities run lower than Northern Europe. Expect €80-150 monthly for electricity, water, gas, and internet combined. Summer air conditioning and winter heating represent peak usage periods.

Groceries cost 20-30% less than Germany or France. Local markets (laiki agora) offer produce at fraction of supermarket prices. Greek olive oil, cheese, and seasonal vegetables provide exceptional value.

Dining out remains remarkably affordable. Taverna meals cost €12-20 per person with wine. Coffee culture runs strong — expect €3-5 for Greek coffee or espresso.

Transportation offers excellent value. The Athens metro covers most areas expats frequent. Monthly passes cost €30, single rides €1.20, and airport express €9.

How Do You Get Around Athens?

Athens' public transport has improved dramatically since 2004 Olympic investments. The metro forms the backbone of the system, supplemented by buses, trams, and suburban rail.

Metro System

Three lines cover the metropolitan area:

• Line 1 (Green): Piraeus to Kifisia, serving central stations
• Line 2 (Red): Anthoupoli to Elliniko, crossing east-west through Syntagma
• Line 3 (Blue): Nikaia to Athens Airport, serving Syntagma and Monastiraki

Fares:

• Single ticket: €1.20
• 24-hour pass: €4.10
• Monthly pass: €30
• Airport express (Line 3): €9 single, €16 return

The metro runs 5:30am to midnight (until 2am Fridays and Saturdays). Trains arrive every 5-10 minutes during peak hours.

Other Transport Options

Buses fill gaps between metro lines but can be slow in traffic. The same tickets work across metro, bus, tram, and trolleybus.

Tram connects Syntagma to the southern coast (Glyfada, Voula) — scenic but slow.

Taxis cost €1.80 base fare plus €0.90/km (day rate) (€1.25/km at night). Ride-hailing apps (Beat, Uber) offer fixed pricing and avoid haggling.

Cycling is improving but limited. Bike lanes exist in some areas, though traffic aggression makes cycling stressful for many riders.

Car ownership isn't necessary for most expats living centrally. Those in suburbs like Kifisia often maintain vehicles for convenience.

What Visa Do You Need to Live in Athens?

Greece offers several pathways for non-EU nationals to establish legal residence.

Digital Nomad Visa

Launched in 2022, Greece's Digital Nomad Visa targets remote workers employed by non-Greek companies.

Requirements:

• Minimum monthly income: €3,500 (documented)
• Health insurance coverage
• Remote employment or freelance contract with non-Greek entity
• Clean criminal record
• Proof of accommodation in Greece

Duration: Initially 12 months, renewable for up to 2 additional years

Process: Apply through Greek consulate in home country. Processing takes 2-8 weeks depending on consulate.

The €3,500 income requirement is higher than many European nomad visas but ensures applicants can live comfortably.

Golden Visa (Investment)

Greece's Golden Visa grants residence through property investment.

Current thresholds (2026):

• €800,000 in Athens, Thessaloniki, and island properties
• €400,000 in other mainland areas
• €250,000 for listed building restoration

The 2024 increase from €250,000 to €800,000 for popular areas significantly reduced accessibility. However, the visa still grants Schengen travel rights without work restrictions.

Important restriction: Golden Visa properties cannot be used for short-term rentals (Airbnb, VRBO). Violations risk €50,000 fines and permit revocation.

Other Visa Categories

Student visas require enrollment in Greek educational institutions.

Employment visas require a Greek company sponsor — difficult to obtain without existing connections.

Financially Independent Person Visa requires demonstrating €2,000+ monthly passive income but doesn't permit employment.

Can You Work Remotely from Athens?

Employment options split between local jobs and remote work for international companies.

Remote Work Infrastructure

Athens has developed strong digital nomad infrastructure:

Coworking spaces cost €100-300/month depending on location and amenities. Popular options include:

• Impact Hub Athens (Karaiskaki 28, near Omonia)
• Stone Soup (Charilaou Trikoupi 18, Akadimia area)
• Romantso (Omonia) — creative hub with incubator space

Internet quality varies by building but fiber reaches most central neighborhoods. Expect 50-200 Mbps speeds in updated apartments. Always test internet before signing a lease.

Cafes frequently accommodate laptop workers, though buying food/drinks is expected. Greek coffee culture means lingering is acceptable.

Local Employment

Finding local employment proves challenging for non-Greek speakers. The job market remains tight, with unemployment still above EU averages. English-teaching positions exist but pay poorly (€800-1,200/month).

Tech startups offer the best opportunities for English-speaking professionals. Athens' startup scene has grown, though salaries run 30-50% below Northern European equivalents.

How Is Healthcare in Athens?

Greece operates a two-tier healthcare system: public and private.

Public Healthcare

EU citizens access public healthcare via the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). UK citizens post-Brexit should use the UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) instead. Non-EU residents with legal status can register for AMKA (social security number) to access public services.

Public hospitals provide competent emergency care but suffer from underfunding. Long waits and crowded facilities are common. English-speaking staff availability varies.

Private Healthcare

Most expats use private healthcare for non-emergency needs. Private clinics offer:

• English-speaking doctors
• Shorter wait times
• Modern facilities
• Direct appointment booking

Private consultations cost €50-100. Comprehensive health insurance runs €100-300/month depending on coverage level.

Recommended hospitals for English speakers:

• Hygeia Hospital
• Metropolitan Hospital
• Athens Medical Center

Pharmacies (farmakeio) dispense many medications without prescription that would require one elsewhere. Pharmacists often speak English and provide basic medical advice.

What Are the School Options for Expat Families?

Families relocating to Athens have several schooling options.

International Schools

Athens hosts several internationally accredited schools:

American Community Schools (ACS Athens)

• Curriculum: American with IB option
• Fees: €9,000-16,000/year
• Location: Halandri

Campion School

• Curriculum: British (IGCSE, IB Diploma)
• Fees: €10,000-16,000/year
• Location: Pallini

St. Catherine's British School

• Curriculum: British
• Fees: €8,000-14,000/year
• Location: Lykovrissi (Lower School), Kifisia (Upper School)

Costeas-Geitonas School (CGS)

• Curriculum: Greek with IB
• Fees: €8,000-12,000/year
• Location: Pallini

International school fees range from €6,000-18,000 annually depending on grade level and institution. Waitlists exist for popular schools — apply early.

Greek Public Schools

Free Greek public education is available to all residents. However, instruction occurs entirely in Greek, making integration challenging for non-Greek-speaking children. Some families use public schools successfully with supplementary Greek lessons.

Family-Friendly Neighborhoods

Kifisia remains the top choice for families with children. Green space, international schools within driving distance, and family-oriented amenities make daily life manageable. Glyfada offers a more urban alternative with beach access.

Is Athens Safe for Expats?

Athens is generally safe for expats, ranking better than many European capitals for violent crime.

Day-to-Day Safety

Petty crime (pickpocketing, bag snatching) occurs in tourist areas and on crowded metro cars. Standard urban awareness suffices:

• Secure bags in crowded areas
• Avoid displaying expensive electronics
• Use inside pockets for wallets

Areas requiring extra caution:

• Omonia Square: Improved but still edgy, especially at night
• Exarchia: Safe during day, exercise judgment at night
• Metaxourgeio: Gentrifying but pockets remain rough

Women's Safety

Athens rates well for women's safety compared to many Mediterranean cities. Solo women can walk most neighborhoods during evening hours without unusual concern. Standard precautions apply to late-night situations.

Political Protests

Demonstrations occur regularly, particularly around Syntagma Square and Exarchia. Most are peaceful, but occasional confrontations between protesters and police happen. Avoid protest areas if you see riot police gathering.

What Is the Climate Like in Athens?

Athens' Mediterranean climate divides into distinct seasons.

Seasonal Breakdown

Spring (March-May): 15-25°C
Ideal conditions. Mild temperatures, blooming flowers, manageable tourist crowds. April and May offer the best balance of weather and value.

Summer (June-August): 28-40°C
Challenging heat, especially July-August. Temperatures regularly exceed 35°C, sometimes reaching 43°C+. Air conditioning becomes essential. Many locals flee to islands. Tourism peaks.

Autumn (September-November): 15-28°C
Excellent conditions return. September remains warm enough for beaches. October offers pleasant temperatures and reduced crowds. November turns cooler with occasional rain.

Winter (December-February): 8-15°C
Mild by Northern European standards. Rain increases, occasional cold snaps. Rarely drops below freezing. This is Athens' low season — quieter, cheaper, and still livable for those accustomed to Mediterranean winters.

Best Time to Move

September-October offers ideal conditions for apartment hunting and settling in. Summer heat has broken, landlords are motivated, and you'll acclimate before winter.

March-April works as a secondary window. You'll enjoy spring weather while establishing routines before summer heat arrives.

What Should You Do When You First Arrive?

First Week Priorities

1. Secure accommodation — Airbnb for first 2-4 weeks while apartment hunting
2. Get a Greek SIM card — Cosmote, Vodafone, and Wind offer prepaid options
3. Open a bank account — Requires residence permit; Revolut/Wise work initially
4. Register AMKA (if applicable) — Social security number for healthcare access
5. Learn basic Greek phrases — Appreciated even if English suffices daily

Finding an Apartment

Online platforms:

• Spitogatos.gr (most comprehensive)
• XE.gr (classifieds)
• Facebook groups ("Athens Apartments for Rent")

Tips:

• Visit apartments in person — photos mislead
• Check water pressure, air conditioning, internet speed
• Verify utility costs with previous bills
• Negotiate on longer leases (12+ months)
• Avoid August apartment hunting — Greeks vacation

Cost-Saving Strategies

• Shop at laiki agora (farmers markets) for produce — 50% cheaper than supermarkets
• Eat where Greeks eat — Tourist-facing restaurants charge 30-50% premiums
• Use monthly metro pass — Pays for itself within 25 rides
• Learn to cook Greek basics — Ingredients are cheap and excellent
• Time major purchases — Sales seasons (January, July) offer significant discounts

Sources

• Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs
• Numbeo: Cost of Living in Athens
• Enterprise Greece: Golden Visa

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Athens safe for expats?

Athens is generally safe for expats, with violent crime rates below many European capitals. Petty crime like pickpocketing occurs in tourist areas and on crowded metro cars. Exercise normal urban awareness: secure bags, avoid displaying expensive items, and stay alert in crowded spaces. Areas requiring extra caution at night include Omonia Square and parts of Exarchia, though both have improved in recent years.

How much money do I need to live in Athens?

A comfortable lifestyle in Athens costs €1,750-2,700 monthly, including rent in a decent neighborhood, regular dining out, and entertainment. Budget-conscious expats manage on €1,040-1,500 by choosing cheaper neighborhoods like Pangrati or Piraeus and cooking at home. Those seeking premium neighborhoods like Kolonaki should budget €2,940-4,100 monthly.

Can I live in Athens without speaking Greek?

Yes, you can live in Athens without speaking Greek, especially in central and expat-friendly neighborhoods. English is widely spoken in restaurants, shops, and among younger Greeks. However, learning basic Greek phrases significantly improves daily interactions and shows respect for local culture. Official paperwork and dealings with government offices may require Greek or a translator.

What is the Digital Nomad Visa income requirement for Greece?

Greece's Digital Nomad Visa requires a minimum monthly income of €3,500 from non-Greek sources. You must provide documentation proving remote employment or freelance income, along with health insurance, clean criminal record, and proof of accommodation in Greece. The visa is initially valid for 12 months and renewable for up to 2 additional years.

Which neighborhood is best for digital nomads in Athens?

Koukaki is widely considered the best neighborhood for digital nomads in Athens. It offers central location near the Acropolis, strong cafe culture, walkability, and a creative community — all at moderate prices (€800-1,400/month for a one-bedroom). Alternatives include Pangrati for budget-conscious nomads seeking authenticity, or Glyfada for those prioritizing beach access.

How hot does Athens get in summer?

Athens experiences extreme summer heat, with temperatures regularly reaching 35-40°C (95-104°F) in July and August. Heatwaves pushing above 40°C (104°F) occur most summers. Air conditioning is essential during these months. Many expats escape to the islands or mountains during peak heat, and scheduling outdoor activities for early morning or evening becomes necessary.

Is healthcare good in Athens?

Athens offers quality healthcare through both public and private systems. Private healthcare provides English-speaking doctors, modern facilities, and short wait times at reasonable costs (€50-100 per consultation). Public healthcare is competent for emergencies but suffers from underfunding and crowding. Most expats maintain private health insurance (€100-300/month) for non-emergency care while using public hospitals for serious emergencies.

What are the best international schools in Athens?

The top international schools in Athens include American Community Schools (ACS Athens) offering American curriculum with IB option, Campion School following British curriculum (IGCSE/IB Diploma), and St. Catherine's British School. Fees range from €6,000-18,000 annually depending on institution and grade level. Popular schools often have waitlists, so apply early — ideally 6-12 months before intended start date.

Moving to Athens? Explore our cost of living calculator and Greece visa guide for personalized planning.