Can Americans Live in Greece? | Ultimate Guide

Increasing numbers of Americans in recent years have opted for a less stressful lifestyle in Southern Europe instead of enduring that frantic existence within a frantic, high-priced US environment. Greece is currently one of the more favored destinations for digital nomads, retirees, and investors because of its culture, climate, affordable cost of living, and enormous expat population. It's now completely possible to live in Greece as an American, making it no longer a dream but a reality for many!

If you're just window shopping around about how to live in Greece if you're American, if you're considering retiring in the Aegean Sea, or if you'd like to purchase property and wish to invest as a stepping stone toward residency, then know your options as clearly as possible. That's where iLand comes in.

iLand is a high-end property investment, real estate development, and residency services company focused on the southern coast of Athens, the most upscale and highest value area of the city. From premium real estate investments to Golden Visa consulting, we guide Americans and international clients through the process of building a life in Greece, ensuring a seamless and legal experience.

Pros and Cons of Living in Greece as an American

Living in Greece as an American offers a unique lifestyle shift, one filled with sunshine, history, and opportunity. But like any international move, it comes with both rewards and challenges. Here's a closer look at the real-life pros and cons of being an American expat in Greece, based on our on-the-ground experience at iLand in Athens.

It's a big life change as an American expat in Greece to have sunshine, history, and the baggage that comes with it. Like any international move, you're going to have rewards and challenges. Some of these first-hand accounts about the actual pros and cons of living as an American expat in Greece are below, based on our boots-on-the-ground experience at iLand in Athens.

PROS

1. Mediterranean Lifestyle & Lower Cost of Living
   The lifestyle in Greece is less hectic, more social, and slower paced than living in the U.S. From enjoying coffee at a harbor-front taverna or purchasing vegetables at the village farmer's market, daily Greek life seems to be more present with less stress. What most Americans find astonishing is the affordability of living here, which encompasses everything from rent to fresh produce - especially if they're accustomed to the higher costs of living in places like New York or San Francisco. 

2. Paths to Residency via Investment or Financial Independence
   Unlike some European countries with complex immigration processes, Americans can obtain residence in Greece through a Golden Visa (real estate purchase) or an FIP (Financially Independent Person) visa. These processes allow you to remain in Greece legally with no requirement to work (but you can start your own business or investment).

3. Rich Culture, Safe Environment, and Strategic Location
   Greece boasts a rich cultural heritage, featuring ancient ruins and stunning beaches, alongside a vibrant culture. It is one of the safest countries to visit in Europe, particularly in southern Athens, where our projects are situated. Finally, Greece's geography provides a convenient base from which to travel not only in Greece but also the rest of the EU.

4. English in Tourist and Expat Areas
   In certain parts of Athens and popular islands, English is also common, and there is a growing expat community, making it easy for Americans to adapt, make friends, and live their day-to-day.

Cons

1. Bureaucracy Can Be A Bit of a Pain Without Proper Instruction
   It has taken a few months to open a bank account and obtain a long-term residency permit. There is a desire and need to simplify the process, but the Greek Bureaucracy is slow-moving and potentially daunting for those unfamiliar with the system. This is why having a local organisation such as Iland, which has experience here for over a decade in legal, property, and residency advice, takes away all the anxiety, while still allowing you to experience the culture and the enjoyable side of Greece.

2. Limited Job Market for Non-EU Citizens
   Can Americans live and work in Greece? Technically, yes, but not as employees with a standard work visa unless they qualify through special permits like the Blue Card. Most residency types, like the Golden Visa or financial residency, do not allow salaried employment, though they do support entrepreneurship. That's why many Americans choose to start businesses in tourism agencies, restaurants, or wellness services, which are popular options.

3. Language Barrier Outside Tourist Zones
   While English works well in urban areas, rural regions, and government offices often operate only in Greek. Picking up the basics of the language is a smart (and respectful) move for long-term living.
   At iLand, we help American clients navigate all of these realities from choosing the right visa path to finding the perfect home in Athens or any other city. Whether you're a retiree, digital nomad, or investor, our job is to turn the Greek lifestyle into your new reality smoothly and legally.

Buying property in Greece as an American, is it possible? If you want to know more about it, read the other article.

Average cost of living in Greece vs. the US

To most Americans planning to relocate overseas, Greece remains one of the most affordable and attractive options for moving to Europe in 2025. But how realistic is the average monthly cost of living in Greece compared to that of the United States? If you are retiring, relocating, or living in Greece through investment, it is essential to understand your estimated monthly expenses.
We will break down your actual cost of living and where your large savings will originate.

Housing: A Major Advantage in Greece

Housing is by far one of the biggest cost differences between Greece and the US, especially in major cities.

Even in high-end areas like Glyfada, Voula, and Elliniko, where iLand operates luxury development projects, property prices and rent are significantly lower than those in comparable US coastal cities.
And if you're considering buying property for a Golden Visa, you're not just reducing monthly rent, you're investing in long-term European residency.

Food & Groceries: Fresh, Local, and Affordable

One of the first things Americans notice when they arrive in Greece is how inexpensive and healthy buying groceries is.

Two months' worth of groceries:

Greece: €350–€500
USA: $700–$1,000
Dining out (two people at a typical restaurant):
Greece: €40–€60
USA: $80–$120
Healthy living in Greece costs pennies thanks to local markets, fresh in-season food, and Mediterranean staples.

Transport & Daily Expenses

Public transport is reliable and cheap in Athens, much unlike in large US cities. Owning a car is not customary; many American expats in Greece would rather use the metro and buses or simply walk.

Monthly pass for public transport:

• Greece: €30

• US: $127 (e.g., NYC)

Utilities (electricity, internet, water):

• Greece: €150–€250/month

• USA: $250–$400/month

Mobile phone plans with data:

• Greece: €10–€25/month

• USA: $60–$100/month

Healthcare: Quality at a Fraction of the Price

Even with private insurance, healthcare in the United States remains one of the biggest financial burdens. In Greece, it is an entirely different scene.
Private health insurance in Greece can start anywhere between €80–€150/month.
A basic physician consult? Approximately €30–€50
That same consultation could easily reach $300 in the US without insurance.
At iLand, we assist our clients in connecting with trusted insurance partners for their Golden Visa or Financially Independent residency applications.

Types of Visas for American Expats Living in Greece 

If you're an American citizen dreaming of life under the Mediterranean sun, the good news is: yes, Americans can live in Greece and legally too. The Greek government offers several residency and visa options for US nationals, depending on their financial background, goals, and lifestyle.
At iLand, we help you understand and choose the right residency path for your needs, and guide you through every step—from legal paperwork to property selection.
Here's a breakdown of the most common visa types available for American expats living in Greece in 2025:

1. Golden Visa Program (Permanent Residency through Investment)

The Greek Golden Visa remains one of the most attractive options for American investors. This visa grants permanent residency to non-EU citizens who make a qualifying real estate investment in Greece. If you want to know more about Greece Golden Visa Requirements, please visit the other page for more information.

Key Requirements in 2025:

As of the latest update, the Greek government has introduced three investment tiers, depending on property type and location:

• €800,000 for one residential property in major cities (Athens, Thessaloniki, islands with over 3,100 population)

• Minimum 120 sqm property

• €400,000: for properties in less populated areas

• €250,000: for converting a commercial unit (e.g., office) into a residential property

At iLand, we specialize in high-end investment properties in southern Athens, one of the most sought-after areas for Golden Visa investors. We also offer access to commercial-to-residential conversions starting from €250,000.
These are the features of this visa:

• Residency is permanent, renewed every 5 years

• Applies to the whole family (spouse, children under 21, and parents)

• Does not allow employment (but allows entrepreneurship)

2. Financially Independent Person (FIP) Visa

Also known as "Passive Income Visa", this is a popular route for retirees, digital nomads, and Americans with steady income from abroad. If you want to know more about Greece FIP visa requirements, please visit the other page for more information.

Key Requirements:

• Prove a steady monthly income of at least €2,000 per person (from pensions, dividends, rental income, etc.)

• Funds must come from outside Greece

• No requirement to buy property (though many choose to rent or buy)

• No work allowed, but entrepreneurship is permitted

This visa is issued as a 2-year temporary residency and can be renewed. It offers full access to live in Greece, travel in the Schengen zone, and enjoy the local lifestyle without the obligation to invest.
Our legal advisors at iLand can help prepare your income documentation, secure long-term rental contracts, and walk you through the entire application process.

3. Entrepreneur or Business Owner Residency

If you're planning to establish a business in Greece, you may be eligible for an entrepreneurship-based residence permit. Greece actively promotes tourism and innovative businesses, especially in services, gastronomy, and Hospitality.
You must register a company in Greece and show a viable business plan
Ideal for those who want to open a restaurant, tourist agency, boutique hotel, or any business that is owned by oneself
Allows work, as you're self-employed
Residency is granted for the first time for 2 years, renewable
At iLand, we can also introduce you to local partners, legal advisors, and even help design your business model in the Greek market.

We can also provide counseling on investing in Greece real estate, anywhere you'd like.

Other Visa Options 

While the following are less popular, they may apply to specific situations:

• Digital Nomad Visa for remote workers with income over €3,500/month; If you want to know more about Greece Digital Nomad Visa requirements, please visit the other page for more information.

• Student Visa for academic or language programs

• Job Seeker Visa or Blue Card for professionals with job offers or in-demand skills in Greece (engineering, IT, medicine, etc.)

Visa vs. Residency: What's the Difference?

It's important to understand:

• A visa is an entry permit.

• Residency is the legal right to live long-term in Greece.

For example, with a Golden Visa, you apply directly for permanent residency, no need for temporary visas. With financial independence, you start with a temporary residency, which is renewable.
And yes, Americans can live in Greece, but the path depends on your goals, whether you're investing, retiring, or planning to open a business.

Top 4 Cities in Greece for American Expats

When Americans are planning on moving to Greece, deciding the right city to live, work, or invest in is one of the more important decisions to make. Each city in Greece offers a unique lifestyle, characterized by varying levels of wealth, affordability, community, and entrepreneurial opportunities.

At iLand, we have helped hundreds of American expats secure their future in Greece in many of the best and most livable places. Based on our experience and looking into the 2025 market, here are our top 4 cities that are ideal for Americans living in Greece:

1. Athens 

Athens, Greece's capital and largest city, is an eclectic mixture of culture, history, and modernity. It is the most popular destination for American expats in Greece, especially real estate investors with the Golden Visa program. 
Who is it best for: Investors, entrepreneurs, digital nomads, families 

What are the best features? 

World-class culture and entertainment infrastructure (e.g., museums, restaurants, nightlife)
Acceptable English-speaking expat community; an option for international schools 
Southern suburbs (i.e., Glyfada, Voula, Elliniko) are beachfront, luxury, family-focused 
World-class private hospitals and connections to international transport 
Iland's Athens office offers our clients world-class investment properties in elite Athenian Riviera suburbs, which is a solid option for comfort, value, and ROI for Americans. 

2. Thessaloniki: A Cultural and Culinary Centre

Thessaloniki is Greece's second-largest city, and compared to Athens, it's a slower-paced, cheaper city with a predominantly student base if we're being fair. 
Best suited for: retirees, artists, families, digital nomads, etc.

Key features:

• Cheap housing/rent

• Cozy cafes, fun food scenes, and great views of the sea

• A community of expats and students

• An excellent jumping-off point for exploring northern Greece and the Balkans

For Americans who don't want to cough up €800,000+ for Athens, Thessaloniki is a very attractive alternative. Property can be found for between €250,000 and €400,000, ideal if you want to pursue a Golden Visa or other financial residency options.

3. Chania (Crete): Island Life with a Touch of Modernity

Located on the island of Crete, Chania has combined Greek tradition with steadily faster globalism. Many American retirees and teleworkers are drawn to its breathtaking natural beauty and easy living.
Best for: retirees, nature enthusiasts, teleworkers

Highlights:

• Walkable old city and harbor

• Good community health care and infrastructure

• English widely spoken

• Property prices are lower than in mainland towns

Chania is also one of the best places in Greece for highly skilled Americans to achieve financially independent residency, without a large investment.

4. Nafplio 

Overlooked but quickly becoming popular, Nafplio is a seaside town in the Peloponnese and is only two hours from Athens by vehicle. It has Venetian architecture, a safe environment, and romantic surroundings.
Ideal for: Retired foreigners, couples, history enthusiasts

Highlights:

Slower pace of life, perfect for wellness and peace
Pretty old centre and sea frontage
Extremely low cost of rent and living
Qualifies for lower-end Golden Visa investment zones
We have witnessed increasing interest from US clients who are interested in living discreetly close to but not in the capital. Nafplio provides this ideal equilibrium.

Can American Citizens Work in Greece?

Yes, American citizens can work in Greece with the right residence permit or visa. Greece is generally very open to American expats; however, not all visas allow you to work. This is why getting the right advice is so important. 
At iLand, we assist US citizens with the legal pathways to live, invest, and, where permitted, work in Greece. Once you know whether you are looking to operate a business, make an investment, or just find a job, the first thing is to know what you are legally permitted to do. 

Can you work with a Golden Visa or Financial Independence Visa?

This is where most Americans become confused. Let's clarify:

Golden Visa (Residency by Investment):

Provides for permanent residency for people who are investing in property
Does NOT allow the holder to obtain any salaried employment in Greece

You can establish and run your own business

Financially Independent Visa (FIP):

Designed for someone who is retired or has passive income
Requires proof of support, such as stable income that comes from outside of Greece
Also, it does not allow employment

Self-employed or run a business

If you plan to secure a job with a Greek company, these two visa options are not suitable for you.
Legal Ways for Americans to Work in Greece
To legally work as an employee in Greece, Americans must apply for one of the following visa categories:

1. National Work Visa (Type D)

• Requires a job offer from a Greek employer

• The employer must prove that no EU citizen can fill the position

• Includes sectors with talent shortages (tech, healthcare, etc.)

2. EU Blue Card

• For highly skilled professionals with university degrees

• Requires an employment contract and a minimum annual salary

• Grants rights to live and work in Greece and other EU countries

3. Entrepreneur / Business Visa

• If you plan to start a business in Greece (restaurant, tourism agency, tech firm), this path allows you to live and work as the owner-operator.

• You must create a clear business plan and register your company.

This is where iLand specializes in helping Americans legally establish a business in Greece that qualifies for residency and complies with immigration law.

What Work Can Americans Legally Do?

If you have the proper permit, some of the best work opportunities for Americans in Greece include:

• Tourism & Hospitality (tour operators, hotel managers)

• English Teaching (private language schools)

• Remote Work / Freelancing (via Digital Nomad Visa)

• Entrepreneurship (restaurants, cafés, travel startups)

• Real Estate or Marketing Agencies

Many Americans prefer to launch their businesses, especially in sectors like tourism, wellness, and property services, which are booming in Greece, particularly in Athens' southern coastal areas, where iLand operates.

Conclusion

Greece continually attracts more American citizens seeking a better quality of life with a slower pace and the rich, wonderful culture of Europe, through investment, retirement, or entrepreneurial adventures. From the sun-kissed southern coast of Athens to the quaint villages of Crete, Greece is a wonderful country with a lifestyle and potential opportunities. If you find yourself asking, How can I live in Greece as an American, it ultimately depends on your goals - do you plan to simply invest in a property, start your business, or retire to spend your golden years on the Mediterranean?

With the various residency options such as the Golden Visa or the Financially Independent Permit, it is possible to secure legal residency status, enjoy excellent healthcare, and travel in the Schengen zone without a visa.

So, can an American live in Greece? Absolutely, and not just live, but thrive. But to do it legally and successfully, expert guidance is key.

At iLand, we don't just offer information; we deliver results. With over a decade of experience, a local legal team in Athens, and a portfolio of luxury properties in Greece's most desirable locations, we're here to make your move smooth, strategic, and fully compliant with Greek law.