Housing Costs in Athens: Renting or Buying?
Renting an Apartment in Athens in 2025
Housing is one of the largest components of living expenses.
- City Center: Renting a one-bedroom apartment in central Athens costs between €700 and €1,200 per month.
- Suburbs: In suburban areas like Marousi, one-bedroom apartments range from €500 to €900 per month.
- Larger Apartments: For families or those needing more space, two-bedroom apartments in the city center typically cost €1,200 to €2,500 per month.
Buying Property in Athens
For those interested in long-term investments or permanent residency:
- Central Athens apartments range between €2,500 and €4,000 per square meter.
- In suburban or less populated areas, prices vary from €1,500 to €2,800 per square meter.
Public and Private Transportation Costs in Athens
Public Transportation Costs
Athens’ public transportation system, including the metro, buses, and trams, is relatively affordable:
- Monthly Pass: €30.
- Single Ticket: €1.20 (valid for all public transport within 90 minutes).
Personal Vehicle Costs
If you prefer to drive:
- Fuel: Approximately €2 per liter.
- Car Maintenance: Annual costs, including insurance, taxes, and repairs, range from €1,000 to €1,500.
Grocery Expenses in Athens 2025
Daily Shopping from Supermarkets
Grocery costs in Athens depend on the shopping location and brand preferences:
- Bread (500g): €1.20.
- Milk (1L): €1.50.
- Eggs (12): €3.50.
- Red Meat (1kg): €10–€14.
- Fruits and Vegetables (per kg): €1–€3.
Dining Out
For those who enjoy dining out:
- Budget Meal: €12–€15.
- Dinner for Two at a Mid-Range Restaurant: €40–€60.
- Coffee in a Café: €3–€5.
Utility Bills and Internet Costs
Monthly Bills for an 85 m² Apartment
- Utilities (electricity, gas, water): €150–€250 per month, depending on usage.
- Internet: €25–€40 per month for high-speed packages (50–100 Mbps).
Healthcare and Insurance Costs in Athens
Public and Private Health Insurance
- Public Insurance (EOPYY): Covered through income tax and includes basic healthcare services.
- Private Insurance: Costs range from €50 to €200 per month, depending on coverage.
Doctor Visits and Medications
- Doctor Consultation: €50–€80 without insurance.
- Medications: Average costs range between €10 and €50, depending on prescriptions.
Education Costs in Athens 2025
Schools
- International Schools: Annual tuition ranges from €7,000 to €15,000.
- Public Schools: Free of charge but instruction is in Greek.
Universities
- Public Universities: Free for EU citizens.
- Private Universities: Annual tuition ranges from €5,000 to €10,000.
Entertainment and Leisure Costs in Athens
Recreational and Cultural Activities
- Gym Membership: €30–€60 per month.
- Movie Ticket: €8–€12.
- Tour Packages: €50–€150, depending on the destination.
FAQs About the Cost of Living in Athens
- What is the average monthly expense for a family in Athens?
Depending on lifestyle, a family of four may spend between €2,500 and €3,500 monthly. - Has the cost of living in Athens increased in 2025?
Yes, due to inflation and increased demand, costs have risen slightly but remain lower than in major European cities like Paris or London. - Is living in Athens affordable for expats?
Yes, Athens is an economically viable and attractive option for expats compared to other European capitals.
What is the difference between residency and citizenship? If you want to learn more about it, please refer to the other article.
Conclusion and Final Tips
Living in Athens in 2025 offers a balance of high-quality life, reasonable costs, and rich cultural experiences. With careful planning, you can make the most of what this beautiful city has to offer.
For more information or personalized advice on relocating to Athens, feel free to contact us!
