Kavala, Greece

As I exit the eastbound interstate from Thessaloniki, a two-lane road winds through rocky limestone cliffs and pine forests. Suddenly, the Aegean Sea comes into view, framed by a city that cascades down the hills toward a picturesque bay. Kavala, with its blend of ancient history, vibrant modern life, and stunning sea views, is an intriguing option for expats seeking an affordable Mediterranean lifestyle.

But is it a viable place to settle? Let’s take a balanced look at what Kavala has to offer—and some of its potential challenges.

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First Impressions

Affordable, charming, and off the radar—Kavala is a coastal gem for adventurous expats.|©iStock/Freja Solberg

Kavala has the charm of a seaside town and the amenities of a small city. It reminded me of a Greek version of Santa Barbara—an amphitheater-like layout with houses and streets spilling down the hills to meet the water. The city is well-preserved, with a stunning Roman aqueduct, an old fortress, and Ottoman-era architecture. Yet it’s also modern, with upscale shops, trendy cafés, and a lively city center.

Wandering along the waterfront at sunset, the sight of the castle and aqueduct felt like something out of a dream. I could totally understand why someone would want to live here: the breathtaking views, the rich history, and that perfect balance of chill and sophisticated vibe. However, as I explored more, I realized that while the locals were friendly and welcoming, Kavala doesn’t seem to have a large North American expat community, which made me wonder how it would be to really settle down here.

Cost of Living

Enjoy Mediterranean living with sea views, affordable rent, and fresh taverna meals.|©iStock/KalervoK

One of the most attractive aspects of Kavala is its affordability. Compared to the U.S. or Canada, the cost of living here is significantly lower. Renting a two-bedroom apartment in the city center typically ranges from €300 to €600 per month. If you’re considering buying, the purchase price for a two-bedroom apartment in the city center falls between €100,000 and €250,000.

For townhomes, expect to spend around €200,000 to €300,000. Detached homes with three to four bedrooms are generally priced between €300,000 and €600,000. If you're open to restoration projects in the old town, you can find historic fixer-uppers with sea views starting as low as €90,000, offering incredible potential for transformation.

When it comes to the local food scene, dining at a taverna is an excellent choice, with a tasty meal for only €10 to €15 per person. If you’re in the mood for a cozy café—and Kavala definitely has a thriving café culture—you can enjoy a cup of coffee for around €3 to €4. Grocery shopping is also quite affordable, especially at local markets where you can buy a dozen eggs for under €4 and a fresh loaf of bread for less than €2. It’s a delightful way to savor the area's produce without breaking the bank!

For healthcare, residents have access to public services; however, most expats choose private healthcare options, which are very affordable, similar to co-pays for a visit in the U.S. A typical visit to a private doctor usually costs between €30 and €60. I indulged in an hour-long massage during my visit, and the cost was only €32, a bargain and well worth the pampering.

Compared to cities like Athens or Thessaloniki, Kavala offers a much lower cost of living while still providing modern conveniences.

Lifestyle

Climb to the Fortress of Kavala for panoramic views of the city and bay.|©iStock/Gatsi

Things to Do

For outdoor enthusiasts or history lovers, Kavala is a dream. The Old Town (Panagia district) is a maze of cobbled streets that lead up to the castle, offering stunning views of the bay. I visited the Fortress of Kavala (with an entry fee of only € 4), climbed its towers, and took in the panoramic views. Nearby, the ancient city of Philippi—a UNESCO World Heritage site—is a must-visit for history buffs.

For nature lovers, the nearby island of Thasos is a short ferry ride away, offering pristine beaches and lush green landscapes. I also found beautiful hiking trails above Kavala, providing sweeping views of the Aegean.

The city’s café culture is strong, with plenty of cozy spots to enjoy a morning coffee or an evening glass of wine by the sea. While Kavala is not a party town, it does have a lively bar and restaurant scene, especially in the summer months when tourists arrive.

Seasons & Weather

Kavala offers breezy summers, mild winters, and year-round seaside strolls.|©iStock/hdesislava

Kavala has a mild Mediterranean climate. Winters are cool—typically 40–50 degrees Fahrenheit—but not severe, with only rare dustings of snow. Summers are mild, with highs in the 80s during July and August, moderated by sea breezes. Locals told me that while summer tourism is noticeable (especially with cruise ships docking), it doesn’t feel overwhelming like it can in Athens or Santorini.

Community: Are There Expats in Kavala?

One challenge for North American expats considering Kavala is the limited expat community. Unlike Athens, Crete, or Thessaloniki, where you can easily connect with other English-speaking residents, Kavala’s expat scene mainly consists of Balkan expats (Bulgarian, Romanian, Turkish) and a few Germans.

During my visit, I asked around at the tourist office and had a coffee with a local man named Nikos, who had lived in the U.K. He confirmed that American and Canadian expats are rare here. However, he also noted that almost everyone speaks English, especially younger generations and businesses catering to tourists. Making friends wouldn't be difficult if you’re open to integrating into the local culture.

That said, for those who prefer a built-in expat network, it might take some effort to find connections here. However, Thessaloniki—with its thriving expat community—is only a short drive away.

Getting Around: Transportation and Accessibility

Kavala is surprisingly well-connected for a smaller city:

By Air: Just a short 30-minute drive from the city, Kavala International Airport (Megas Alexandros) offers flights to Athens and a handful of European destinations.
By Road: The highway leading to Thessaloniki is in excellent condition, allowing for a smooth 90-minute drive to Greece’s second-largest city. From Thessaloniki, you can easily access a broader range of international flights.
By Ferry: Kavala boasts a bustling port, with ferries operating routes to Thasos, Limnos, and islands farther down the coast.
Public Transport & Walking: The city is quite pedestrian-friendly, especially in the charming Old Town and along the waterfront. However, if you’re planning to venture beyond the city limits, having a car would definitely come in handy.

Challenges to Consider

While Kavala boasts many attractive features, there are a few potential drawbacks to keep in mind:

Limited North American Expat Community: If you’re hoping to connect with a well-established group of North American expats, you may need to put in extra effort to build those connections.
Summer Tourism: Although not overwhelming, Kavala does experience a rise in tourists and cruise ships during peak season, which can affect the local vibe.
Hilly Streets: The city’s picturesque layout comes with steep streets and staircases, which can pose challenges for those with mobility issues.

Verdict: Who Would Kavala Suit Best?

Kavala is a fantastic option for retirees, remote workers, or anyone seeking an affordable and authentic Greek lifestyle. It offers modern amenities, a lower cost of living, stunning natural beauty, and rich history.

For me, Kavala was a delightful surprise. It’s one of those places that feels undiscovered yet offers everything you need for a high quality of life. While it may not be the first destination that comes to mind for North American expats, it has the potential to be a hidden gem for those willing to embrace a slower, more immersive lifestyle.

If you’re looking for an affordable Mediterranean town with history, charm, and a stunning seaside setting, Kavala might be worth considering.