Americans Live in Greece
Americans Live in Greece
Retire to Greece
Warm Mediterranean weather, fresh food, epic history, and a slower pace. Retire to Greece and live that stress-free yet affordable lifestyle.
How to Retire in Greece
Retirement Visa (FIP)
The go-to option for retirees in Greece, the FIP visa requires at least €2,000 (US$2,200) in passive monthly income. No investment necessary.
Tourist Visa
Americans can visit Greece visa-free for up to 90 days every 180 days under Schengen rules. Clearly, this is not a permanent solution.
Golden Visa
Invest at least €250,000 (US$275,000) in renovated or converted real estate to gain residency quickly. No minimum stay requirement.
Greece in Photos
Mediterranean Climate
Greece offers year-round sunshine and warm weather, making it easy to enjoy the stunning islands or mountains in every season.
Fantastic Cuisine
The local Mediterranean diet is centered around fresh, healthy ingredients like olives, seafood, and vegetables.
Low Cost of Living
You can live comfortably in most parts of Greece for under US$3,000 a month, including rent, food, and healthcare.
Natural Diversity
Most regions of Greece give you quick access to both the sea and mountains, so outdoor lovers never have to choose.
Expat Communities
Retirees in Greece find it easy to make friends thanks to active expat groups in places like Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini.
So Much History
No matter where you are in Greece, you’ll find ruins, castles, and museums. Imagine living in an open-air museum.
Accessible Healthcare
Greece has a solid private healthcare system and affordable clinics with English-speaking doctors for expats.
Slow Lifestyle
The Greek lifestyle is all about slow meals, good company, and enjoying the little things – perfect for retirement.
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How Life in Greece Compares
Cost of Living in Greece
Greece is significantly cheaper than the U.S. and Western Europe. A couple can live comfortably on US$3,000 per month, including rent, groceries, dining out, and even private health insurance. Coastal towns and villages offer the best value for money.
Taxes in Greece
Greece taxes worldwide income at significant rates. However, new Greek residents may qualify for special tax regimes, such as a 7% flat tax rate on foreign pensions. U.S. retirees should plan ahead and work with the Freedom Files global tax professionals.
Community in Greece
Expat groups are common throughout Greece – in Athens and the islands, making it easier to meet others in a similar stage of life. While most locals can be friendly and welcoming, learning basic Greek goes a long way to bridging the gap.
Quality of Life in Greece
Life in Greece moves at a slower, more intentional pace. Locals enjoy long lunches, lots of fresh air, and plenty of social and family time. Our Freedom Files clients often say their stress levels drop dramatically after relocating to Greece. The cuisine may have something to do with it!
Safety in Greece
Greece is one of the safest countries in Europe, especially outside of Athens. Violent crime is rare, and most expats feel secure, even at night. Like anywhere, petty theft can occur in tourist zones, so basic precautions help. Overall, it’s a peaceful place to retire.
Travel Connectivity in Greece
Athens and Thessaloniki offer solid flight connections across Europe, the Middle East, and beyond – even to the U.S. east coast and Midwest. Ferries make it easy to explore the islands. Still, it’s easy to reach major hubs with some planning.
Infrastructure in Greece
Big cities have reliable infrastructure. On the islands, life can be less predictable. Occasional power outages or water shortages aren’t uncommon in more remote spots. Still, most retirees find the trade-off worth it for the lifestyle.
Healthcare in Greece
Greece offers a high-quality private healthcare system, which is affordable by U.S. standards. Public hospitals can be crowded and lacking in quality. Most retirees opt for private clinics, which offer faster service and English-speaking doctors.
English Proficiency in Greece
English proficiency increases in tourist zones and among younger Greeks. But in most areas, most Greeks are not proficient in English. Learning a few key Greek phrases (a notoriously difficult language to learn) will help tremendously with everyday tasks.
Bureaucracy in Greece
Greece is known for its slow, paperwork-heavy bureaucracy. Residency, banking, and government processes will be frustrating and time-consuming. That’s why retirees trust the Freedom Files to handle the admin work.
Where to Live in Greece
Population: 3,155,320
Athens
Athens is Greece’s cosmopolitan capital. While most expats in Greece choose elsewhere, you’ll find world-class museums, chaotic neighborhoods, and endless dining options here. Healthcare is excellent, with top private hospitals and English-speaking doctors. It’s perfect for retirees who want modern city life and access to an international airport.
Population: 624,408
Crete
Crete is a charming little island south of Greece, known for Chenia’s Venetian harbor and relaxed pace of life. It’s a favorite among American and European retirees thanks to its affordability, walkability, and strong expat groups. The weather is mild year-round, and the beaches are beautiful. While you may not find a lot of convenient city options, you’ll also avoid the big-city chaos.
Population: 1,006,112
Thessaloniki
Thessaloniki is Greece’s second-largest city and a cultural hub in the north. The cost of living is lower here than in Athens, and the city has a lively expat presence. It’s ideal for retirees who want urban life with a laid-back, artistic vibe.
Population: 127,613
Rhodes
Rhodes offers an affordable island lifestyle, deep sense of history, a thriving expat scene, and a medieval Old Town that feels like a movie set. The cost of living is lower than more touristy islands like Santorini or Mykonos. With beaches, good hospitals, and a regional airport, it’s a solid all-around retirement choice.
Greece in the Blog
FAQs About Greece
Will Greece Tax My Social Security Or Retirement Income?
Yes, if you spend more than 183 days per year in the country and become a tax resident. But the good news is – Greece offers a flat 7% tax rate on foreign pensions for new residents. The Freedom Files can help you structure things properly and minimize your taxes abroad as much as possible.
Is Greece Safe?
Absolutely. Greece moved up 17 places in Global Peace Index’s 2024 report of the safest countries on Earth. Violent crime is rare. Most areas are peaceful, and retirees report feeling safe walking around, even at night. Just watch your bag in tourist zones like Athens.
What’s The Best Visa For Retiring In Greece?
If you have at least €2,000 per month in passive income, Greece’s Independent Means Visa is your best bet. But if you want immediate permanent residency, a diversified investment and backup plan abroad, and lifelong benefits for you and your family, invest €250,000 in local real estate to get Greece’s Golden Visa with no minimum stay required.
Is The Greek Healthcare System Reliable For Expats?
Yes, if you stick to the private system. Avoid the public hospitals as they’re crowded and inconsistent. Private clinics, on the other hand, are clean, modern, and affordable. And many doctors speak English.
How Hard Is It To Deal With Greek Bureaucracy?
It’s slow, confusing, and paperwork-heavy. You’ll wait, then wait again. Greek bureaucracy is one of the worst in the world. That’s why the Freedom Files handles everything for you, so you don’t get buried in the administrative work of relocating across borders.
