Wondering where the best places to live in Greece are?
Sitting in the mediterranean sea, Greece offers one of the best climates in Europe. The country boasts endless sunshine and mild winters, along with over 6,000 islands and even more beaches to enjoy the weather at.
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You’ll never get bored with so many ancient ruins, archaeological museums, water activities, and entertainment venues.
But in a country that has so much on offer, where is the best place to base yourself?
To help you plan your new life in this European country, we’re sharing the seven best places to live in Greece for expats.
Corfu
Corfu, in northern Greece, is one of the most internationally known parts of Greece and a popular tourist destination. Therefore, it is no surprise that the largest expat community is here.
While a diverse range of residents lives in Corfu, you’ll find many expats from the UK, Germany, and Russia.
Some expats come to work during the summer season in the bustling resorts and bars; others choose to work remotely on this blissful island; others settle down long-term. So whatever you’re looking for, you’ll likely find it in Corfu.
Corfu has a reputation for being a party island, but it has so much more to offer. Corfu boasts crystal clear blue waters surrounded by lush greenery and majestic mountainous scenery inland.
There are also some beautiful fortresses and monasteries, creating a sense of peace amidst the party atmosphere.
As a popular tourist spot, you’ll find all the amenities you need, including plenty of restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. Corfu also has its own international airport.
There are a few downsides to residing on this island, though. Firstly it lacks the local vibe you’ll find in other parts of the country.
Secondly, as prices rise in the summer, living here can be pretty expensive. That being said, if you’re staying long-term, you should be able to find a good deal.
If you are wondering what to do on the island, check out our guide to 3 days in Corfu.
Santorini
Santorini is the postcard picture of Greece, famed for its blue domes and whitewashed walls. It is one of the Cyclades islands in the Aegean Sea, located south of the mainland.
While it can get crowded in the summer, the island has some traditional villages free from tourists, so it is possible to experience local life here.
Still, even in the two main towns, Fira and Oia, there is more of a Greek “feel” than anywhere in Corfu. Therefore, it’s one of the best places to live in Greece for anyone looking for a balance between laid-back island life and local culture.
Many expats come to Santorini to work in the tourist industry, although not as many as in Corfu.
It is also popular with well-off digital nomads looking to live a temporary life of luxury in one of the many gorgeous villas with priceless ocean views.
There are many eateries here, ranging from cheap local tavernas to flashy, expensive restaurants.
The scenery is also contrasting, with turquoise seas and pristine beaches on one side and rugged mountains on the other (shaped by a volcanic eruption in the 16th century BC).
The biggest downside to Santorini is the high cost of living compared to other parts of the country.
The prices increase rapidly in summer and then drop in the winter, so if you’re moving here long-term, look for a one-year contract for the best rates.
Athens
Athens is the capital city of Greece and the most densely populated part of the country, with over 10 million residents. While famed for its historical 5th-century BC landmarks like the Acropolis, the city also has a modern side.
There are many amenities, a vibrant night scene, and an efficient and extensive metro system. Moreover, each of the 58 municipalities has a unique character and atmosphere.
You’ll find the most diverse job opportunities in Athens than anywhere else in the country, making it one of the best cities to live in Greece for expats.
In particular, there is a significant financial district, so banking and finance jobs are plentiful.
Athens is also a top choice for families as you’ll find the best international multilingual schools here.
However, housing can be expensive; a one-bedroom apartment is on average €500, while a 3-bedroom house can easily be double.
Thessaloniki
Thessaloniki is a popular alternative to Athens for those who want to base themselves on the mainland. Thessaloniki is a port city in northern Greece close to the borders of Bulgaria and North Macedonia.
Like many of the best Greek cities, Thessaloniki has an idyllic balance between old and new. The city has many ancient landmarks like the Ancient Forum and the 4th century Rotunda.
In addition, there is a newly-developed cosmopolitan waterfront full of multi-cuisine restaurants and cocktail bars.
Despite being a city, the atmosphere is much more relaxed than in Athens, with fewer tourists. The cost of living is also lower, as you can find a one-bedroom apartment in the city for €400 or less.
The downside to Thessaloniki is that the winters are colder than in the south.
Even so, the warm Greek islands are easy to access, so if all-year-round pleasant weather is not your top concern, Thessaloniki is an excellent choice.
Rhodes
Rhodes, in the southeast, is another of the most popular places to live in Greece for expats for its perfect balance between history/culture and modern living.
Here you can find everything, from medieval architecture and cobblestone streets to white sand beaches and bustling bars to picturesque wineries.
Rhodes is the largest of Greece’s Dodecanese islands and is often favored by expats over the other Greek islands as it has longer summers.
Moreover, because the island is not too small, there are sufficient employment opportunities for foreigners, not only in tourism.
Another pro to living in Rhodes is affordable housing. A one-bedroom apartment costs on average between €300 and €400 and a 3 bedroom house ranges from €500 and €700.
Patras
Patras is the most popular place to live on the west side of the country. As a busy port city, Patras is pretty industrial, but there is a happening nightlife and a vibrant restaurant scene.
What’s more, as a university city, there is quite a youthful atmosphere, making it a fab option for younger remote workers and digital nomads.
In addition to the modern amenities, the cobblestone streets and pretty squares of the old town keep the city’s rich heritage in check. Plus, the coastal location supplies beautiful sea views despite lacking proper beaches.
However, there are not as many job opportunities here as in Athens and Thessaloniki (hence why it’s best for remote workers). It’s also not a top option for expats with children as there are no international or English-speaking schools.
Still, out of all the best cities in Greece, it is one of the most affordable. The monthly rental on a one-bedroom apartment is around €250, and a 3-bedroom house costs less than €500.
Mykonos
Like Corfu, Mykonos has a party island reputation and is an expensive place to live during the summer. Still, it deserves a spot on this list as it is a fantastic choice for party-loving digital nomads looking to find a better work/life balance.
Living in Mykonos allows you to enjoy lazy days or adrenaline-filled water sports on one of the 25 pristine beaches. Then, you can party the night away listening to world-class DJs at the trendy beach clubs.
When you want to slow the pace down, head inland to local villages full of traditional tavernas and ancient architecture.
Is Greece A Good Place To Live?
You may be wondering “is Greece a good place to live?”. My answer is yes, it definitely is!
If you value a rich culture, beautiful landscapes, and a lower cost of living, Greece may be the perfect place for you to live.
However, it is important to thoroughly research the specific area you are considering and to take the necessary precautions to make sure it’s the right destination for you.
Final Thoughts On Best Places To Live In Greece
Whether you prefer a historic city, a laid-back island, or a bustling party town, you’ll have tons of fun living and working in Greece.
And with a lower cost of living and better weather than many other European countries, moving to Greece is a top choice!
Thinking of moving there soon? Read our guide to learn how to buy a Greece SIM card.
Not sure if Greece is the right place for you? Read one of the following guides:
