Cost of Living in Athens, Greece (2025)

Published: April 24, 2025 | Reading Time: 6 minutes

Introduction

Athens, the capital of Greece and one of the world's oldest cities, is a vibrant metropolis with a rich past and a surprisingly modern edge. With over 3.15 million residents in the greater metropolitan area, Athens serves as the economic, political, and cultural heart of the country.

Known as the birthplace of democracy and philosophy, it's also a city that pulses with street art, contemporary music, and a strong café culture. Today, Athens blends millennia-old heritage with 21st-century urban living attracting remote workers, creatives, and retirees alike.

Whether you're drawn by the Mediterranean climate, affordable rents, or the ability to explore world famous ruins during your lunch break, Athens is a city of contrasts. But how much does life actually cost here in 2025? Let's explore the numbers behind the lifestyle.

Housing

Rental Prices:

1-Bedroom Apartment:

• City Centre: €572

• Outside Centre: €493

3-Bedroom Apartment:

• City Centre: €1,032

• Outside Centre: €898

Purchase Prices:

Price per Square Meter:

• City Centre: €3,190

• Outside Centre: €3,029

Daily Expenses

Food & Dining:

• Groceries (Monthly): €450

• Meal at Inexpensive Restaurant: €15

• Three-Course Meal for Two (Mid-Range): €50

Utilities & Internet:

• Basic Utilities (85m²): €181

• Internet (Unlimited, 60 Mbps+): €30

Transportation:

• Monthly Public Transport Pass: €30

• Taxi Start: €3.50

• Gasoline (1L): €1.80

Culture, Fitness & Leisure

Cultural Life Costs:

• Cinema Ticket: €8

• Museum Entry (Average): €5–€10

• Theatre Performance (Local Production): €15–€25

• Classical Concert Ticket: €25–€40

• Acropolis Entry (Standard): €20

• Combined Museum Pass (valid 5 days): €30

Fitness & Sports:

• Monthly Gym Membership: €33

• Yoga or Pilates Class (drop-in): €10–€15

• Tennis Court Rental (1h): €15

Employment & Economy

Athens is home to a diverse economy centred around tourism, shipping, finance, and an emerging tech/startup scene. While job opportunities are expanding, especially in international-facing industries, the labour market remains competitive and is marked by a traditionally formal work culture.

• Unemployment Rate: 11.2%

• Major Sectors: Tourism, Maritime, Tech, Finance, Design

• Work Culture: Formal, long hours, emphasis on hierarchy

• Average Working Hours: 40/week

Healthcare & Education

Healthcare:

• Public System: Available to legal residents, average quality

• Private Clinics: High quality, short waiting times

• Common Private Doctor Visit: €40–€80

Education:

• Public Schools: Free, Greek language instruction

• Private Schools (Annual): €5,000–€15,000

• International Schools (British, American): €7,200–€15,000

Cost of Living Overview

Disclaimer: Prices are based on local sources and averages and may vary depending on district and lifestyle.

Lifestyle & Local Feel

Neighbourhood Vibes:

• Koukaki: Walkable, trendy cafés, cultural scene

• Kolonaki: Elegant, boutique shopping, expensive rentals

• Exarchia: Political, artsy, affordable living

• Glyfada: Coastal suburb, popular with expats

Local Customs:

• Late dinners (~21:00)

• Daily café culture (Freddo espresso is a must!)

• Strong family ties and neighbourhood networks

Climate & Weather in Athens

Athens has a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, damp winters. This climate not only affects daily life, but also influences costs related to energy, clothing, and lifestyle.

🌤️ Typical Daily Temperatures (Annual Averages)

🌅 Sunrise & Sunset Times

Seasonal Climate Overview

☀️ Summer (June – August)

• Highs: 32–35°C, often hotter in July

• Humidity: Low

• Rainfall: Rare

🍂 Autumn (September – November)

• Highs: 20–30°C → gradual cooling

• Rain: Begins in late October

❄️ Winter (December – February)

• Highs: 13–17°C

• Lows: 5–9°C

🌸 Spring (March – May)

• Highs: 16–24°C

• Sky: Clear, sunny

Summary

Athens offers a unique blend of low living costs, rich cultural access, and Mediterranean lifestyle. While salaries are moderate and job competition can be high, the low rent and affordable entertainment keep the city attractive for digital nomads, creatives, and locals alike.

→ Compare Athens to other cities on Best City Index and see where it ranks for your lifestyle. https://bestcityindex.com/comparison

→ To see how Athens ranks, check out: Best City Index – Athens, Greece. https://bestcityindex.com/city/athens-greece

Watch & Explore Athens

Watch these YouTube videos to get a better feel for the lifestyle, atmosphere and culture in Athens:

• 20 Things to do in Athens

• Culture Shock from Living in Greece? (Athens)

• Top 20 Things To Do In Athens, Greece