Is Athens safe?▾
Athens has a homicide rate of 0.9 per 100,000 people (source: UNODC), making it very safe. The world average is around 5.8 per 100,000. The Numbeo Crime Index is 55.2/100 (lower is safer), which reflects residents' self-reported concerns about property crime, theft, and everyday safety. As with any city, awareness of local neighborhoods is recommended before settling.
What is the cost of living in Athens?▾
A 1-bedroom apartment in Athens city centre costs around $709/month (Numbeo data). Day-to-day: a cheap restaurant meal: $10.00, monthly transit pass: $30. A single person can expect total monthly costs of roughly $1109–$1509 depending on lifestyle — covering rent, food, transport, and utilities.
What is the weather like in Athens?▾
Athens has Summers reach around 33°C, winters drop to around 6°C. Summers are hot, so air conditioning is recommended.
Can you get by in Athens without knowing the local language?▾
Athens has Moderate English proficiency (EF EPI data). Basic interactions are possible in English in tourist and business areas, but learning some local language helps significantly.
Is Athens a good place to settle long-term?▾
Athens is in Greece, which scores 7.8/10 on the EIU Democracy Index. Strong institutions and rule of law make it a stable choice for long-term settlement. Rent from $709/month.
What is the job market like in Athens?▾
Greece has an unemployment rate of 7.7%, indicating a challenging job market; many expats rely on remote work or bring skills from abroad. For settlers planning to work locally, research your industry before committing. Remote workers and self-employed expats are less affected by local employment conditions.
Which companies have offices in Athens?▾
Notable companies with offices in Athens include Piraeus Bank, OPAP, Mytilineos, Aegean Airlines. The city's job market spans tech, finance, and other sectors — check company career pages for current openings.
Is Athens good for expats?▾
Athens attracts expats looking for long-term relocation in Greece. Key facts: rent from $709/month; Greece Digital Nomad Visa (moderate requirements); moderate English proficiency means expats may need some local language. The Livability Score, safety data, and cost of living figures above give a data-driven picture of what to expect when settling here.
How do I get long-term residency or a visa to live in Greece?▾
Greece offers the Greece Digital Nomad Visa program. Duration: 1 year (renewable to 3). Requirements: Income ≥ €3,500/mo. Work must be for foreign clients only. The process is manageable but requires preparation and documentation. Check the official government portal for the most up-to-date application process.