18 Pros & Cons of Living in Athens Greece by an Expat 2025

So what is it really like living in Athens in 2025? Well, you are about to find out!

I made the move to Greece in 2023 on the newly offered Digital Nomad visa, which I found fairly easy to obtain if you meet the criteria.

So if you are considering doing the same, this post is for you!

Read on as I candidly share ALL the pros and cons of living in Greece as an expat.

My Story Living Athens

Since moving to Athens in May 2023 from the US with my small dog, my life has been a blend of the exciting unknown and an array of new routines.

Living as an expat in such an iconic and famous city has been kinda surreal. I first visited Athens alone in 2010, and I didn’t really like it.

As a tourist I found it to be noisy, busy, smelly, and very ugly. But as a resident, I absolutely loved it! And a lot has changed since 2010.

My hope is that if you have an understanding of both the pros and cons it can offer invaluable insights if you are considering a similar path or simply curious about expat life in Greece’s capital.

One day you will be wandering through ancient ruins and the next on to the frustrations of navigating local bureaucracy. But it’s all part of the expat Athenian life.

My aim is to paint a realistic picture, highlighting not only the picturesque moments but also the hurdles and surprises that often come with relocating to a new country.

Is Athens A Good Place To Live?

Overall, yes, Athens is a good place to live. But if your expectations are set high like it’s going to be perfect then you need to reconsider.

You need to be prepared for things like water being turned off in an entire neighborhood without notice. This happened twice when I lived there when there was a pipe issue nearby.

Brownouts happen in the summer because of the extreme heat and overuse of power.

The lack of co-working spaces and expat community (though growing).

It has a long way to go to become a hub for expats to be comparable to cities like Lisbon, Paris, or Berlin for example.

This list of pros and cons is written with a dose of reality check for any of you considering making this move anytime soon!

Pros & Cons of Residing in Athens in 2025

#1. Pro: Rich Historical Sites

Bring on the history! Living in Athens means you can access the world’s most renowned historical sites.

From the breathtaking Acropolis to hidden Byzantine churches, residents can enjoy the city’s ancient monuments at their leisure.

Unlike tourists, who might feel rushed to see everything in a few days, living in here means having the time to fully appreciate its lot of history, explore archaeological sites, and even become a regular visitor at the Acropolis Museum.

I often have to pinch myself when I sip coffee near centuries-old ruins and stroll through neighborhoods steeped in ancient times.

Living amidst such historical wealth provides endless opportunities for exploration and continuous learning, making Athens a fascinating place to call home.

#2. Con: Overcrowded Tourist Attractions in Athens

While the historical sites of Athens are undoubtedly one of its greatest assets, they can also become a drawback for those living in the city.

This is my first summer as a resident of Athens, and starting mid-June it has been overrun with oversized busses and droves of people.

Forget visiting tourist attractions, especially famous landmarks like the Acropolis.

I have definitely experienced my favorite spots swarmed with tourists.

The overcrowding doesn’t only affect the enjoyment of the sites but I noticed prices are higher for everything.

Navigating through throngs of tourists drinking their way through Athens regularly can take away from the charm of living near these ancient monuments.

While the historical sites of Athens remain a unique privilege for its residents, the popularity of these attractions can sometimes be a double-edged sword.

Pro Tip: Consider living in Koloanki or Pagrati. These neighborhoods are central, but a little removed from the swarms of tourists.

#3. Pro: Mild Winter Climate

Hate winter? Move to Athens and experience those mild winters. During the winter months, the Mediterranean climate ensures relatively warm and temperate conditions compared to many other European cities.

This climate allows for more comfortable outdoor activities and exploration, even in the heart of winter.

The hours of sunshine during this season are more abundant than in many northern regions, making the winters in Athens not only bearable but often quite pleasant.

#4. Con: Hot and Dry Summers

On the flip side, the hot summers in Athens can be a significant drawback. I have experienced some INTENSE heat in the summer months.

These extreme heat and dry conditions, often reach uncomfortable levels leading to the possibility of wildfires.

If you are coming from places like the US where EVERYWHERE has strong AC, expats in Athens have to contend with the so-so-cool air-conditioned spaces.

Although Athens has better AC than some other countries I visited, it’s still a lot of heat and relentless hours of sunshine that make some daily activities less enjoyable.

The allure of the Mediterranean climate loses some of its charm when faced with the reality of Athens’ hot and dry summers.

#5. Pro: Delicious Cuisine

One of my favorite things about living in Greece is the delicious Greek cuisine!

The city offers an array of traditional dishes, all enriched with the famous local olive oil, providing an authentic taste of Greece that you can have delivered to your doorstep, using Wolt.

#6. Con: Limited International Food Options

While the local Greek food is undoubtedly appealing, as an expat, you may find yourself missing the variety of international cuisines you might be accustomed to.

In Athens, the focus on traditional dishes might limit the availability of diverse international food options in both restaurants and grocery stores.

If you have special diet needs or like certain foods that aren’t common in Greek cooking, shopping for groceries can be tough. You might need to plan more to find different international foods.

For example, the US has a variety of gluten-free products that you might struggle to find here in Athens.

#7. Pro: Lower Cost of Living (Compared to Other European Capitals)

One of the attractive aspects of living in Athens is the lower cost of living compared to other European capitals. Greece is definitely one of the cheapest countries to live in the EU.

Whether looking for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center or seeking suburban serenity, rental prices tend to be more affordable.

For example, my 1 bedroom in the heart of the city center is only 1095 euros a month.

Staying within my budget in Athens has been very easy. The average cost of daily essentials, and transportation (including suburban railway and green line services), is super manageable.

Even in central Athens, with its access to green spaces and cultural amenities, long-term living expenses can be surprisingly attainable, making Athens an appealing new city for many ex-pats.

Check Rent Prices in Athens

#8. Con: Lower Average Salary

While the lower cost of living is a significant advantage, it’s essential to consider the corresponding lower average salary in Athens.

If you are coming to Athens and looking for work, the salaries might be a lot lower than you are used to.

The balance between income and expenses might limit some options in central locations, impacting the overall quality of life for some expats.

When you live in Athens you need to plan the lower salary scales that may require careful planning and budgeting, especially for those considering long-term residence.

#9. Pro: Friendly Locals

One of the best things about living in Athens is the warmth and friendliness of the locals. I have felt so welcomed and found a sense of community and hospitality.

From neighborhood gatherings to everyday interactions in shops and cafes, the genuine interest and kindness shown by Athenians can make settling into a new city much more comfortable.

I was lucky enough to make a friend on my visit to Athens that I see regularly now that I live in Athens.

The connections formed with locals can become an enriching part of life in Athens, fostering a sense of belonging even far from home.

#10. Con: Language Barriers for Non-Greek Speakers

While local friendliness is a highlight, language barriers for non-Greek speakers can pose a challenge.

Even with the best intentions, navigating daily life, understanding cultural nuances, or forming deeper connections can be hindered if you don’t speak Greek.

Though many people in Athens may speak English, especially in tourist areas, the lack of proficiency in the Greek language might limit some interactions and experiences.

The language barrier can sometimes turn a simple task into a complicated process and might take some time and effort to overcome for those planning to live in Athens long term.

It is not a deal breaker, but if you were to live outside the central areas you might really notice this as an issue.

#11. Pro: Proximity to Islands and Beaches

A major perk of living in Greece is the advantage of being near beautiful Greek Islands and beaches.

The Mediterranean climate, which ensures mild winters and hot summers, creates a year-round appeal to explore the coastal areas.

Even in the winter months, the allure of the nearby sea remains.

A quick weekend getaway to an island or a short drive to a local beach is never out of reach. I often frequent islands such as Naxos and Milos.

The proximity to places like Milos, with natural wonders such as Sarakino Beach allows expats in Athens to fully embrace the Greek island life.

And if you love great food, the Greek Islands are a great place for foodies!

#12. Con: Overcrowded Beaches During Peak Season

While access to beaches and islands is undoubtedly a pro, it comes with a downside during the summer months.

Athens’ beaches can be overcrowded during the peak tourist season, which is one of the disadvantages of living in Greece. What should be a relaxing day at the beach feels chaotic and cramped.

The hot summers drive both locals and tourists to the water, leading to congestion and sometimes diminishing the enjoyment of the natural beauty.

For those living in Athens, finding a quiet spot on the beach might require extra effort or traveling further afield during the busy summer months.

#13. Pro: Excellent Public Transportation

One of the highlights of living in Athens, especially for expats planning a long-term stay, is the city’s excellent public transportation system.

Whether in the bustling city center or residing in a more central location near green spaces, the well-connected suburban railway and the metro’s green line provide efficient and affordable ways to navigate the city.

I love how the accessibility enhances the quality of life, making it easier to explore not only the new city’s cultural landmarks but also its hidden gems.

Athens’ public transportation offers both convenience and a greener alternative to daily commuting, reflecting a modern urban lifestyle.

#14. Con: Traffic Congestion in the City

While the public transportation system in Athens is commendable, the city is not immune to traffic congestion, particularly in and around the city center.

And if there is a political protest, rally, or something like it, you can forget it. They close roads in the center, it can be a nightmare.

If you get a car, just know that the congestion can sometimes overshadow the convenience of living in a central location.

Expats considering a long-term stay in Athens may need to plan around this reality, potentially relying more heavily on the public transportation system to avoid the frustration of daily traffic jams.

#15. Pro: Access to Live Music and Local Favorites

Athens is such a great place to live if you consider yourself a music enthusiast.

From traditional Greek music in quaint tavernas to bands like Florence + the Machine & Guns N’ Roses who came to Athens in 2023.

Exploring local favorites, whether it’s a hidden jazz bar or a renowned music venue, becomes part of the daily adventure in Athens.

#16. Con: Noise and Crowds in the City Center

While the lively atmosphere contributes to Athens’ appeal, it can also lead to noise and crowds, particularly in the city center.

Athens is big city living! This means that families with loud children are living in apartments, the streets are filled with tourists, and it can feel chaotic at times.

This isn’t your quaint village kind of place. The noise, whether from traffic or late-night entertainment venues, may become a nuisance for those living close to the central areas.

#17. Pro: Thriving Digital Nomads Community

In recent years, Athens has emerged as a great place for digital nomads from different countries.

As I mentioned I came to Athens to live on a Digital Nomad Visa.

I have found that the city has good wifi connectivity making it a good choice for remote workers.

Co-working spaces are starting to emerge year after year.

Check out the local Facebook groups such as Digital Nomads in Greece, Nomad Hub Greece, and Greece Digital Nomads.

#18. Con: Concerns Related to Health Care and Medical Services

Finally, living in Athens may present healthcare and medical services concerns.

Navigating the Greek economy’s healthcare system might present challenges for ex-pats. But this depends if you can use the public system.

I would recommend getting good expat insurance from my favorite carrier which specializes in expat coverage.

Check out Safety Wing for more information.

Drawing upon my personal journey and observations helped me craft this in-depth and nuanced perspective on life in Athens, Greece.

Pros and Cons Conclusion on Living in Athens

The decision to move to Greece was a great decision for me. Athens, though annoying at times, has been nothing short of amazing.

Embracing the city’s history, from its ancient monuments to its place as the birthplace of democracy, offers daily inspiration.

Despite challenges like expensive housing in the summer months, and overcrowded areas due to tourism, I love it.

It’s a great city where the best thing might just be the way it makes you feel at home, even if it’s your first time here.

Still have questions about moving to Greece? Contact me!

FAQ’s Living in Athens

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