Living and Life in Greece: Your Complete Guide

Table of Contents

1. Introduction: Why Choose Greece?

2. The Greek Way of Life: Culture and Mentality

3. Climate and Natural Beauty

4. Popular Regions to Live In

   • Athens

   • Thessaloniki

   • The Peloponnese

   • Crete

   • Rhodes and the Dodecanese

   • Corfu and the Ionian Islands

5. Cost of Living

   • Housing and Rent

   • Groceries and Dining Out

   • Transportation

   • Healthcare and Insurance

6. Tax System and Regulations

   • Income Tax

   • Corporate Tax

   • Social Contributions

   • Benefits for Foreign Pensioners and Entrepreneurs

7. Buying Property in Greece

   • Legal Requirements

   • Types of Ownership Titles

   • Role of Notary, Lawyer, and Realtor

   • Mortgage Options

8. Working and Doing Business in Greece

   • The Job Market

   • Freelancing or Starting a Business

   • Digital Nomads and Remote Work

9. Education and Family Life

   • International Schools

   • Greek Education System

   • Parenting and Child-Friendliness

10. Integration and Language

    • Learning Greek

    • Local Customs and Etiquette

    • Tips for Social Integration

11. Practical Matters for Emigrants

    • Residency and Registration

    • Healthcare and National Health Fund

    • Banking and Utilities

    • Moving and Importing Goods

12. Advantages and Challenges of Living in Greece

    • What Makes Greece Unique?

    • Potential Drawbacks

13. Conclusion: Is Greece Right for You?

1. Introduction: Why Choose Greece?

Greece has long been a beloved destination among tourists, but more people are choosing to make it their permanent home. With its Mediterranean climate, rich culture, affordable lifestyle, and warm hospitality, the country presents an attractive alternative for those seeking tranquility, sunshine, and better quality of life. Whether you’re retired, a digital nomad, or a family with children, Greece offers something for everyone.

2. The Greek Way of Life: Culture and Mentality

Greek culture emphasizes "filoxenia" (hospitality), family, tradition, and a relaxed pace of life. Social connections and outdoor living are essential, and food plays a major role in daily routines. People are warm, proud of their heritage, and welcoming to foreigners.

3. Climate and Natural Beauty

Greece enjoys over 300 days of sunshine per year, with hot summers and mild winters. The landscape ranges from azure coastlines and mountain villages to olive groves. Notable natural spots include the Vikos Gorge, Meteora, and the beaches of Zakynthos or Lefkada.

4. Popular Regions to Live In

Athens

The vibrant capital offers culture, history, and employment opportunities.

Thessaloniki

A lively university city with a youthful vibe, solid infrastructure, and low cost of living.

Peloponnese

More rural and greener, ideal for nature lovers.

Crete

Well-developed with a mild climate and large expat community.

Rhodes and the Dodecanese

Sunny and touristic, but full of charm and island lifestyle.

Corfu and the Ionian Islands

Italian-influenced, with stunning scenery and a laid-back atmosphere.

5. Cost of Living

Housing and Rent

Homes in smaller towns and villages are often inexpensive to rent or buy. Prices in Athens or popular islands can be higher.

Groceries and Dining Out

Local food is affordable, especially at markets. Dining out is cheap compared to Northern Europe.

Transportation

Public transport is inexpensive. Car ownership costs are average, though fuel prices are relatively high.

Healthcare and Insurance

Public healthcare is free or low-cost, but crowded. Private care is widely accessible at reasonable prices.

6. Tax System and Regulations

Income Tax

Progressive up to 44%. Foreign pensioners can benefit from a flat rate of 7% upon tax residency transfer.

Corporate Tax

23%, with incentives for startups and foreign investors.

Social Contributions

Employers and employees contribute mandatorily. Self-employed pay their own dues.

Tax Benefits

Foreign retirees and entrepreneurs may qualify for beneficial schemes.

7. Buying Property in Greece

As an EU citizen, you have free access to the property market. Non-EU citizens can also purchase, with some restrictions in border areas.

Legal Process

A lawyer, notary, and real estate agent are recommended. You’ll need a Greek tax ID (AFM).

Buying Costs

Expect 8–10% additional costs on top of the purchase price (tax, legal fees, notary, transfer duties).

8. Working and Doing Business

Opportunities exist in tourism, IT, services, and real estate. Starting a sole proprietorship or LLC is relatively easy. There are schemes for digital nomads and remote workers, including visa options and tax incentives.

9. Education and Family Life

Greece offers both public and private schools. International schools are available in major cities. It is a family-friendly country with lots of outdoor spaces for children.

10. Integration and Language

While many Greeks speak English, learning Greek is appreciated and greatly aids integration. It's a worthwhile investment that opens doors to the local community.

11. Practical Matters

Residency and Registration

EU citizens must register after 90 days. Non-EU citizens require a residence permit.

Healthcare

Register with EOPYY for public coverage or opt for private insurance.

Banking

A local bank account is useful. A tax ID is needed for transactions.

Moving

Professional movers are available. You may import your car duty-free under certain conditions.

12. Advantages and Challenges

Advantages

• Affordable lifestyle

• Welcoming climate and culture

• Natural beauty and serenity

• Tax benefits for foreigners

Challenges

• Bureaucracy

• Slow public services

• Less developed infrastructure in rural areas

13. Conclusion

Greece offers a unique blend of sunshine, culture, affordability, and relaxed living. Whether you’re starting fresh, retiring, or working remotely, the country welcomes you with open arms. Living in Greece takes some adjustment but promises a more fulfilling life.