Greek flag against a backdrop of houses and the sea
Greece is also famous for its purest azure beaches, olive groves, stunning landscapes, and a very interesting, unusual cuisine. Summers here are hot and dry, while winters are mild and humid.
Interestingly, the country has a low crime rate, a fairly well-developed healthcare system, and a stable environmental situation that other European countries might envy. Considering Greece's economic situation, one can see an unstable situation due to the crisis and external debts: salary levels can change, and in 2021 the government cut benefits.
But despite this, our compatriots go to Greece and build successful careers there. They "burst into" the "measured" Greek life and instantly become successful, because our people are used to working!
Greece is a good option not only for work but also for leisure. If you are currently considering the possibility of buying real estate in Greece, it is worth taking into account all the nuances of living in this country and choosing the optimal region.
Specifically for this, we have compiled a TOP-3 best cities in Greece where moving for permanent residence is most advantageous. To compile the ranking, data from the end of 2019 were taken, as the situation was more stable then and not distorted by the pandemic. Keep this information in mind and do not forget about current restrictions in the country.
TOP-3 Best Cities for Permanent Residence in Greece
1. Athens. It is not surprising that the first, well-deserved place is taken by the best city in Greece. Athens concentrates everything: culture, economy, tourism, maritime industry, history. The city differs from others by its high agglomeration: 655 thousand people live here, many Russian-speaking and people from former Soviet Union countries.
Main advantages of moving to Athens are developed infrastructure, salary levels higher than in other cities of the country: the average salary is 1500 euros. The housing market is well developed, so there is always a larger selection of real estate properties. Additional advantages include a large number of tourists and a Russian-speaking diaspora. The possibility to buy a house in a village (in the suburbs of Athens) from 50,000 euros. Such prices are not found anywhere in Europe. Also common is the option of an apartment needing renovation in Athens, a kind of investment that can pay off well or save you money. Buying an apartment in Athens is not difficult; as a rule, it takes from 1 month (although there is very little real estate).
Disadvantages include hot summers (up to +40 degrees Celsius), steadily rising prices for real estate and food, and traffic congestion.
2. Thessaloniki. Thessaloniki is one of the metropolises of Greece, with a population of 325 thousand people. The city is located in the north of the country, considered well-developed, with many interesting attractions.
Advantages. Thessaloniki has a moderate climate, better ecology than Athens. The average salary is around 1200 euros, the education system is developed, and transport links are established.
Disadvantages. Disadvantages include high gasoline prices, a small number of tourists, which reduces the possibility of constant income from real estate rental.
3. Heraklion. The city is famous for its luxurious landscapes, unique history, and stunning sunsets. The number of people wishing to buy their own house in Heraklion grows every year, and there is a logical explanation for this.
Advantages of moving to Heraklion. The climate is pleasant, the real estate market is developing rapidly, but villas and townhouses often prevail. Rent starts from 200 euros per month.
Disadvantages. Finding a job is more difficult, and the economy depends on tourists.
Where is it better to settle – in a small or large city?
In small Greek cities, prices are significantly lower than in metropolises. However, one should not forget that in this case, finding a job will be more difficult, some goods are hard to buy, and overall economic development also lags behind.
In Athens, the situation is completely different: good infrastructure, high salary levels, an abundance of goods, and the opportunity to start your own business! So the choice is obvious: if you want to enjoy the advantages of life in Greece, choose Athens!