Best Cities in Greece for Living

Greece—known as Hellas by the locals—is considered one of the best countries to live in and ranks high among Mediterranean nations for its cost-to-quality-of-life ratio. But where exactly to live in Greece: in the vibrant, ancient capital of Athens, the quieter Thessaloniki, or the romantic yet remote islands? If you’re not sure where to settle, take a look at the data. The international portal Livingcost named the top 8 cities for living in Greece based on 20 criteria, including crime rates, air quality, life expectancy, cost and quality of life, and infrastructure.

And at the end of the article, we’ll cover the most effective and reliable way to obtain Greek residency.

Mainland Cities

Many of Greece’s most famous cities are located on islands. But if you’re planning a permanent move, think carefully about whether island life suits you. If you love being in the center of events, want access to diverse activities, and plan to travel often, you might be better off considering the Greek mainland.

Athens: Capital City Vibes

One of the oldest cities in the world, Athens is home to 3M people today. If you enjoy a fast-paced, urban lifestyle, this lively and historic city is for you. Business opportunities, a bustling tourism scene, beachside relaxation, and leisurely strolls among ancient ruins all coexist here. Athens is ideal for those seeking an active social life, great shopping, and career prospects.

The suburbs of Athens, like Piraeus or Glyfada, are also excellent options—they’re essentially extensions of the city but quieter, less touristy, and more affordable, including real estate prices.

Athens is also the best base for frequent travelers across Europe, thanks to its international airport, which is a major regional hub. From here, it’s easy to reach Greece’s picturesque islands by ferry or explore the country and beyond via a well-connected rail network.

Thessaloniki: The Balance of Nature and City Life

Thessaloniki is one of Greece’s largest cities, known for its economic stability and family-friendly environment. With a metropolitan population of 789,000, it’s smaller and more relaxed than Athens, and also about 50% cheaper when it comes to housing. Yet it matches the capital in terms of food, entertainment, and overall quality of life. The public transport infrastructure is also very convenient.

The city sits on a beautiful bay of the Aegean Sea, and just 1.5 hours away is Lake Kerkini, the country’s largest freshwater reservoir. It’s one of Europe’s top birdwatching spots, home to over 300 species.

Patras: Romance of a Major Port

Greece’s 3rd largest city lies on the western coast and is a popular choice among expats. Located on the Peloponnese peninsula, Patras is easily connected to the mainland via a 1.5 km suspension bridge that makes the water barrier virtually disappear. Patras is an ancient city, founded in the 6th century BC and influenced by Romans, Venetians, Turks, and French. Today, it’s a lively hub for youth, with a thriving nightlife and strong higher education institutions.

For just €20, you can hop on a ferry from Patras to the Ionian Islands and reach paradises like Ithaca, the mythical home of Odysseus, in just 3 hours.

Life on the Islands

Greek islands are idyllic escapes with a perfect Mediterranean climate, pristine nature, and a distinct pace of life—at times it feels like the rest of the world simply doesn’t exist. Families with young children often prefer island life for its safe communities and the high value placed on personal relationships.

Corfu: Peaceful Bohemian Living

The capital of the island of Corfu is often called the “most Italian” part of Greece, thanks to four centuries of Venetian influence visible on every street. Locals are known for their love of classical music and host private concerts just for the community. Incredibly, a town of only 110,000 people supports 18 full symphony orchestras.

Corfu, the largest and safest of the Ionian Islands, also features international schools, universities, and hospitals—making it an ideal location for family life. Young expats tend to settle in Corfu Town, while retirees often choose peaceful nearby villages.

Tourism and water sports are the main sources of income here, with diving being especially popular. However, immigrants should be aware that job opportunities—even with language skills and permits—are limited. Remote work or passive income is usually necessary.

Salamina: Summer Home of Athenians

Salamina is a small island city just 40 minutes by ferry from Athens, making it a popular weekend retreat for the capital’s wealthier residents. Locals affectionately call it the “donut” thanks to the perfectly round shape of its central bay.

There are just two official public beaches on the island, but countless small coves and quiet harbors attract tourists in high numbers.

Heraklion: The Capital of a Big Island

Heraklion is the capital of Crete, Greece’s largest island—its area (8,500 sq.km) is comparable to the entire country of Cyprus. The city is home to 175,000 people, making it feel less like a remote island and more like a connected urban center. Crete also boasts excellent transport infrastructure, including 3 airports.

The legendary birthplace of the Minotaur is known for beautiful landscapes, ancient ruins, turquoise bays, and world-class beaches. The diverse natural setting offers endless activities—from swimming beneath the waterfalls of Kourtaliotiko Gorge to hiking the Psiloritis Mountains and exploring their hidden caves.

Chania: Greece’s Little Italy

Chania is like a treasure box. Its charming alleys evoke Venice, and its colorful houses with red roofs and arched windows make the whole town feel like a postcard. Once the capital of Crete, Chania is now the island’s 2nd largest city, with 54,000 residents.

It’s known for having the friendliest people in Greece and a lively nightlife. If you are looking for a slower pace of life, want to know all your neighbors by name, and enjoy drinking your morning coffee at the same café every day—Chania is the place for you.

Rhodes: The Beautiful Birthplace of Aphrodite

Here, ancient ruins blend with medieval castles. North of the Old Town, you’ll find the modern district with the scenic Mandraki Port and the upscale Elli Beach promenade. Rhodes has always been one of Greece’s most picturesque cities—even mythology says the goddess of beauty, Aphrodite, was born here among the emerald waters and wild roses.

The island is bordered by both the Aegean and Mediterranean seas. Expats appreciate the relatively low cost of groceries and services—although prices can fluctuate with the tourist season. Rhodes boasts an 8-month beach season from April to November, and even in winter, nighttime temperatures rarely dip below 10°C.

The Greek Golden Visa: 5-Year Residency and Maximum Flexibility

So, you’ve found your ideal destination—whether for living or vacationing. The next step is to invest in property and handle the paperwork.

Here’s the good news: Greece offers a Golden Visa program that grants 5-year renewable residency for the entire family with a real estate investment starting at €250,000.

Unlike other residency types, the Golden Visa offers maximum freedom. You and your family are not required to relocate to Greece—you can maintain residency without spending a minimum number of days in the country or becoming a tax resident.

Contact Astons today for a free consultation and discover your path to life in Greece.