If you have decided to move to this country you should know the pros and cons of living in Greece.
Greece is trying to recover from the crisis of the last few years, the economy is recovering slowly and it is extremely difficult to find a job. So if you decide to move in search of work, do not go to Greece to seek your fortune, you need to find a job before you leave.
People who have jobs are lucky. Unemployment in Greece is high and wages are low. Only public employees are still well paid and do little work.
Many Greeks earn between 500 and 600 euros a month, but make ends meet because they live with their parents.
Many job opportunities have long hours and low salaries, but there are companies that still need skilled workers. It all depends on your niche. It is certainly more difficult than in other countries, but there are still opportunities.
Given the increasing development of tourism, you can also start your own business in the hospitality industry.
The Greeks are a friendly, open-minded and tolerant people in terms of religion, sexuality and political orientation. Even towards corrupt politicians they are very tolerant.
They are also generally talkative and warm, have a harmonious and peaceful lifestyle and a stress-free attitude towards life. When you go to a restaurant, it is almost as if you are a guest in someone’s home.
But do not think you can get by with English, if you really want to integrate, you will have to learn Greek when you move to Greece.
I think there are few places in the world with such a relaxed pace of life as Greece.
Greeks love to party, smoke, drink coffee and play backgammon while sitting in bars for hours.
Many, even adults, still live with their parents. They are a very family-oriented people. Even when married, Greeks usually live near their parents. Greek grandparents practically raise their grandchildren, so no one has to hire a babysitter.
The Greeks take great care of their houses, they keep their houses clean and tidy, but when you go outside you trip over the potholes on the sidewalks. They do not care about what happens outside their houses, they have little interest in public space.
The crime rate is not very high. It is higher than a few years ago because of the economic crisis, but crime and theft are still low.
Bureaucracy is and always has been a big problem in Greece. To do simple things, you may need 10 documents, signatures and stamps. Corruption is also still present at all levels.
The cost of living is estimated to be 20-30% lower than most other European countries and even cheaper in rural areas.
Real estate is quite cheap compared to other Mediterranean countries and also cheaper on most islands than on the mainland.
Athens is the most expensive city and housing costs in particular are rising considerably.
Public schools are free, but do not expect school buses, gyms, swimming pools or even lockers. Greek schools have very simple and often outdated structures. The level of education is also quite low and many students are forced to take private lessons.
University is free, and to be admitted you must pass an entrance exam.
Health care is free, although it is considered one of the worst in Europe. Waiting times to see a doctor are very long and public hospitals are often dilapidated, while doctors are usually prepared. Many people take out private health insurance to avoid the long waiting lists for specialist visits and take advantage of private hospitals, which are excellent.
For lovers of history, art and culture, life in Greece is like paradise on earth. Wherever you go, there are ancient ruins and historical sites to visit.
The sea is crystal clear, and the thousands of beaches cater to all tastes, whether they are sandy, rocky or pebbly. The Greek islands are enchanting and offer everything for those seeking a relaxed lifestyle.
The weather is really nice. Many hours of sunshine and a mild climate. Although the weather is mild and mostly sunny, winters can be cold and wet, while in summer the heat is tempered by cool breezes from the sea, just as in spring and autumn.
The food is good, the cuisine is based on Mediterranean ingredients, and eating out is usually inexpensive, especially if you get away from the tourist resorts.
Living and working in Greece pros and cons
Living in Greece, Pros
- Very attentive, helpful and respectful people
- Easy social integration
- Low crime rate
- Beautiful landscapes with very clean air (except Athens)
- Excellent weather
- Good cuisine and good food in general
- People like to have fun and live without stress
- Low cost of living
Living in Greece, Cons
- Difficulties in finding work and low wages
- Critical economic situation
- Language not easy to learn
- High level of corruption
Difficulties in finding a job, long hours, low wages, ever-increasing taxes and social security contributions may make you think it’s crazy to move to Greece, but life in Greece is not as bad as you might think, contrary to the results of some surveys that name Greece as one of the worst places in the world to move. It is certainly not as easy as it was in the pre-crisis period, but if you can find work from your country or if you intend to move and start a business, the country could satisfy you.
Those who dare to move here will find some of the friendliest people in the world, low cost of living, warm weather most of the year, incredible history and heritage, and some of the best food in the entire Mediterranean.
