Many expatriates find the idea of living in Greece to be appealing. Greece is a very vibrant nation known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and distinctive culture. The country also enjoys year-round good weather. Since 1981, when it was admitted to the EU, the nation has become increasingly prosperous.
Greece is often fairly safe, and there isn’t much severe crime there. Although cities like Athens are often more expensive than the rest of the nation, they have one of the lowest costs of livings in the European Union. The level of life is good, especially if you are a digital nomad living in Greece under an expat contract.
Greeks are renowned for being extraordinarily hospitable and friendly. 99% of the people in Greece are Orthodox Christians, making up a significant portion of the country’s population.
Living as an expat in Greece
Greece’s admission to the EU in 1981 signaled the start of a more hospitable environment for foreign nationals. Before this, Greece was still a developing country where expats frequently had to wait more than two years for a phone line, and cars were hardly ever seen on the road.
However, joining the EU drastically raised living standards and made life easier, even if this may have come at the expense of Greece’s former pristine environment.
Greece has never been as well-liked by foreigners as some of its European neighbors. This is largely due to the absence of numerous multinational corporations in this area. You should be aware that, compared to other countries in Europe, Greece may not provide you with the same opportunities to advance your career.
Cost of living in Greece
Greece uses the Euro and belongs to the European Union. Although Greece’s average local pay is lower than many other European nations, the cost of living there is typically 30% cheaper. Greek expats earning a local income will yet be able to live pretty comfortably because social security rates are also lower than those of the typical EU nation.
Greece has the lowest prices in Europe for food supplies, notably in Rhodes where there are no import taxes, making it a better place to live than many other European nations. Because of the deflation brought on by the economic crisis, it is expected that the cost of living in Greece would decrease even further in the following months.
Living in Greece: language
Greek is the native language of 99.9% of Greeks. English and French are the other main languages used.
The weather in Greece
Greece experiences warm, dry days and moderate, cool winters due to its Mediterranean climate. There could be snow. In various areas of Greece throughout the winter, but this is mainly restricted to the mountainous areas of the mainland.
Expat job and career opportunities in Greece
If you do not speak Modern Greek well, it may be challenging to find employment in Greece. However, there are positions available for some expats in the fields of English teaching, tourism, child care, and manual or agricultural labor. Many international corporations with English-speaking employees might also think about hiring expats who don’t speak Greek.
The most important things every expat should know before moving to Greece
– Greece is well known for having one of the poorest healthcare systems in Europe, and foreigners have no access to any treatment at all. Therefore, if you plan to live in Greece, you must get private health insurance before relocating there.
– The construction regulations in Greece vary by region, so what has worked for one foreigner may not be suitable for another.
– Before relocating to Greece, you should be aware that cash payments in Euros are the norm there. The majority of local businesses, including tavernas, cafes, taxis, kiosks, street vendors, and other kinds of shops, only accept cash. Hotels typically accept credit cards.