Retire in Greece

If you’re dreaming of retiring overseas, Greece deserves a spot on your list. With its Mediterranean climate, affordable cost of living, and breathtaking landscapes, this sun-soaked country offers an exceptional quality of life. Imagine savoring fresh, local cuisine, exploring ancient ruins, and embracing a relaxed pace of life. Greece also boasts high-quality healthcare, welcoming locals, and some of the world’s most stunning islands.

Here are 10 reasons why Greece could be the perfect place to enjoy your golden years.

10 Reasons to Retire in Greece

Endless sunshine in Greece—enjoy 300+ sunny days a year!|©iStock/serts

1. A Sunny Climate

Greece is one of the sunniest countries in the world, making it an ideal place for those who love warm, bright weather. Southern Crete enjoys an average of 344 sunny days per year, while Athens sees 316 days of sunshine annually. But it’s not just the sunshine—the light in Greece is famous for its clarity and intensity, inspiring artists, poets, and travelers for centuries. As author Henry Miller once wrote:

“The light of Greece opened my eyes, penetrated my pores, expanded my whole being.”

Come experience it for yourself.

2. An Affordable Cost of Living

Greece is one of the most affordable countries in Europe. Housing, transportation, and daily expenses are significantly lower than in the U.S. and Northern Europe. The gross average wage in Greece is about €1,400 (approximately $1,525), meaning local prices reflect that income level.

Of course, your cost of living depends on your lifestyle, but a couple can live comfortably in many parts of Greece for under $2,000 a month.

3. Warm, Friendly Locals

Greece is renowned for its hospitality, a cultural tradition known as filoxenia, which literally means “friendship to strangers” (“philo” = friendship, “xenia” = stranger/guest). Rooted in ancient Greek tradition, it was believed that Zeus, king of the gods, often disguised himself as a traveler to test people’s kindness toward strangers.

That same welcoming spirit remains strong today—visitors and expats alike are embraced with warmth, generosity, and genuine friendliness.

4. Breathtaking Natural Beauty

Raw nature and stunning landscapes are another reason to consider Greece. From the peaks of Mount Olympus and the sheer cliffs of Meteora in the northern mainland to the pristine beaches of Gavdos, Crete—the southernmost point in Europe—Greece offers tranquil seaside escapes, magical forests, sparkling waterfalls, healing thermal springs, and more. The mainland is impressive, and with over 200 inhabited islands, you can also go island-hopping, adding new destinations every summer.

5. Incredible Food

It is no secret that Greek food tastes amazing, and beyond island-hopping, Greece is probably best known for its delicious cuisine. Olive oil is featured in most dishes—Greece has the highest per capita consumption of olive oil of any country in the world, at about 6.3 gallons per person (compared to less than half a gallon per person in the United States).

Greek soil is famously rocky and inhospitable, which means factory farming is almost nonexistent. Instead, expect small, independently run farms where crops are grown using traditional methods, and simple, wholesome dishes are made based on recipes passed down for generations.

6. Easy Access to East, West, and Beyond

With its strategic location in Southeast Europe, Greece offers convenient access to Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and beyond. In just two hours of flight time, you can visit Rome, Istanbul, Cairo, Belgrade, or Beirut. Add another hour, and you could find yourself in Paris, Berlin, or Dubai.

For those eager to explore the world, Greece is a perfect springboard for international travel.

7. A Rich and Fascinating History

Greece is home to one of the oldest civilizations on Earth. From the mythology of ancient Greece that shaped our childhood imaginations to the contributions of legendary philosophers, the Byzantine era, the Ottoman occupation, and the impact of World War II—Greece’s history is both diverse and fascinating.

For history enthusiasts, Greece is a treasure trove of cultural landmarks. Athens, the capital, is home to over 80 museums, each showcasing a different facet of the country’s storied past. Sites like the ancient ruins of Knossos in Crete and Mystras near Sparta offer an unparalleled glimpse into civilizations that date back thousands of years.

8. A Laid-Back Lifestyle

As a sunny Mediterranean country, Greece offers a relaxed, laid-back way of life. The phrase “siga-siga” (slowly, slowly) is often heard, reflecting the Greek approach to getting things done at an easygoing pace.

A simple coffee with a friend can stretch over several hours, and conversations are more likely to revolve around life, family, and laughter than investment portfolios. The concept of “afternoon” in Greece extends well into the evening, often until 7 p.m., with a more flexible attitude toward timeliness. If a party is scheduled to start at 8 p.m., it’s perfectly normal to arrive around 9.30 or 10 p.m.

9. A Vibrant Expat Community

Greece attracts a diverse mix of foreigners, and in major cities, you’ll find a thriving expat community. From digital nomads and retirees to students and professionals, people from around the world choose Greece for its lifestyle, culture, and affordability.

You’ll find numerous social groups, networking events, and expat-friendly cafés, making it easy to connect with like-minded individuals.

10. High-Quality Healthcare

Greece has a well-developed healthcare system, with many doctors trained internationally, offering high-quality services at a fraction of the cost compared to the United States and other European countries.

Both public and private healthcare options are available, with private facilities often providing shorter wait times and more personalized care. Many medical professionals speak fluent English, making it easier for expats to navigate the system.

Additionally, Greece’s warm climate and Mediterranean diet contribute to overall well-being, making it an attractive destination for those seeking a healthy lifestyle.

Where to Retire in Greece

Mainland or island life? Find the perfect spot to settle in Greece.|©iStock/Schroptschop

Deciding where to live in Greece is arguably the most important decision you’ll make when planning your move. While Greece is synonymous with its stunning islands, the mainland offers plenty of appeal as well. You’ll also need to consider big cities versus smaller towns or villages—each has its pros and cons, so it really comes down to what lifestyle suits you best.

If you dream of island living, be sure to do your research and find an island that remains lively year-round. Crete, Rhodes, Corfu, and Syros are great options, as many smaller islands shut down in winter, leaving a quieter, more isolated atmosphere.

For those drawn to city life, Athens and Thessaloniki offer diversity, entertainment, and cultural variety, but they also come with higher living costs.

The Peloponnese, the southern part of mainland Greece, is a hidden gem that offers both beautiful beaches and easy access to Athens. The Mani region in the Peloponnese is particularly popular among expats.

What to Expect from Retirement in Greece

Before you book your one-way ticket to Greece, it’s important to get the full picture and be realistic about some of the challenges. Daunting bureaucracy, the difficulty of the Greek language, and increasingly hot summer temperatures are factors to consider.

The most challenging aspect of living in Greece is often the bureaucracy. Red tape is everywhere, and rules, processes, and procedures can be inconsistent, decentralized, and sometimes arbitrary. You may be told one thing about your residence permit at one government office, only to receive a completely different answer at another office in the same city. Expect long processing times and unhelpful staff—patience and persistence are key. A common phrase used to describe Greece is:

“Nothing ever works, but somehow everything eventually gets done.”

The language barrier is another challenge. Unless you have a knack for languages, Greek is not easy to learn. According to the Foreign Service Institute (FSI), which ranks languages based on how long it takes an English speaker to achieve proficiency, Greek is classified as a Category III language. This means it requires about 1,100 hours of study—more difficult than Spanish or French, but easier than Arabic or Chinese.

The good news? Language classes can be a great way to meet new friends, and the more Greek you learn, the richer your experience will be.

As climate change intensifies, scorching summer heat is becoming increasingly difficult to ignore. Cities like Athens now experience extreme heatwaves, especially in July and August, making it nearly unbearable at times. But this isn’t just an issue in Athens—many regions of Greece are now seeing record-breaking summer temperatures.

While there are ways to cope, such as spending summers on a cooler island, it’s important to consider the rising temperatures when choosing your home base.

Final Thoughts & Next Steps

Greece is a fantastic option for those seeking a friendly, relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle—as long as they can handle the frustrations of Greek bureaucracy.

With its affordable cost of living, legendary sunlight, breathtaking natural beauty, incredible food, rich history, and easy access to both East and West, Greece is an appealing choice for retirement.

The best way to know if it’s right for you? Book a scouting trip and experience what this country has to offer. You won’t regret it.