Living Costs in Greece: A Comprehensive Overview
While Greece has experienced financial challenges since the 2009 crisis, living costs have stabilized to some extent. However, the expenses can vary significantly depending on the region, lifestyle, and specific needs. This article provides a detailed breakdown of living costs in Greece.
1. Housing
Rent
In major cities like Athens and Thessaloniki, monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center typically ranges from €500 to €800. In smaller towns or rural areas, this can decrease to €300 to €500.
Utilities
Monthly utilities, including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage, can cost between €100 and €200, depending on the season and usage.
2. Food
Groceries
A typical monthly grocery bill for one person can range from €200 to €300. Basic items like bread, milk, eggs, fruits, and vegetables are relatively affordable.
Eating Out
A meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs around €15. A three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant might cost between €40 and €70.
3. Transportation
Public Transport
A monthly public transport pass in Athens costs about €30. Individual tickets range from €1.20 to €2.00 depending on the mode of transport.
Fuel
Gasoline prices can fluctuate but are generally around €1.80 to €2.00 per liter.
4. Healthcare
Greece has a public healthcare system that provides services at low or no cost to citizens and residents. Private health insurance is also available and can range from €30 to €100 per month depending on coverage.
5. Miscellaneous
Internet
Monthly internet costs around €30 to €50.
Entertainment
Movie tickets are about €8 to €10, and gym memberships typically range from €30 to €50 per month.
Conclusion
Overall, while Greece's living costs have risen somewhat since the crisis, they remain relatively low compared to many Western European countries. However, it is essential to consider that individual expenses can vary greatly based on personal lifestyle choices and location.
Personal Experience:
If you live in Athens with a partner in a 60 square meter apartment, the following costs are typical:
About €80-u2026100 per month for all bills, including 20 for phone and internet, 10 for water, and 40-u202660 for electricity. Electricity may be higher if there is no solar water heater. The 4 cold months (mid-November to early March) will require heating, costing a total of €150 for natural gas. Rent for an old apartment can range from €200 to €300, and up to €350-u2026400 for a new, cozy apartment with a fireplace and floor heating. Shopping for two costs at least €200 per month, potentially more with refined tastes. A monthly transport card with free access to all means of transport is €30. Students or those with reduced fees can get it for €15. Transport is free for the unemployed. Having a car costs almost as much as in Germany. Fuel is slightly cheaper, but only marginally. Cars with displacements over 1600 or 1800 are heavily taxed and are not recommended. The road tax is €100-u2026400 per year, depending on fuel consumption. Car insurance costs about €300 per year.The crisis has led to lower rents and wages but has not affected other costs. Rents are changing rapidly due to the increase in Airbnb.
Generally, if you have a decent-paying job in Greece (€900 and upwards), you can manage your finances efficiently and enjoy a comfortable life. A salary of €1000-u20261100 allows for several luxuries. However, the current unemployment rate is around 22-25%, making it challenging to find a job, especially if you do not specialize in fashionable sectors like computers or tourism.
Remember: we do not earn a lot but can manage our costs and afford at least two vacations per year, whether to a nice or a not-so-nice place, and some day trips. Finding the job is the first step.