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GREECE: EMPLOYMENT, SALARIES, COST OF LIVING, AND RELOCATION IN 2026

Greece is one of Southern Europe's most attractive countries thanks to its Mediterranean climate, rich history, beautiful islands and relatively affordable lifestyle. The country attracts professionals, entrepreneurs, students, retirees and an increasing number of digital nomads seeking a balance between work and quality of life.

Patras

The Greek economy is driven by tourism, shipping, logistics, healthcare, construction, agriculture, renewable energy and a steadily expanding technology sector. Although salaries remain below the European Union average, Greece offers lower living costs than many Western European countries and an excellent quality of life.

This guide covers salaries, taxes, living expenses, employment opportunities, immigration options, major cities and useful resources for anyone considering moving to Greece.

GREECE AT GLANCE (2026) 
Population 10.3 million
Average life expectancy  81 years
Unemployment rate 9.6%
Inflation  2.4%
Area 131,957 km²
Form of government Parliamentary republic
Income tax 9–44%
Capital Athens
Currency Euro
Official Language Greek
Doing Business rank 79
Average salary 1,060.45 euros per month
Minimum wage 1,027 euros per month

Jobs, Salaries, and Business in Greece

Greece offers employment opportunities in tourism, hospitality, shipping, logistics, healthcare, construction, renewable energy, agriculture and information technology. Athens and Thessaloniki are the country's largest employment centres.

Advantages of Working in Greece

  • Mediterranean climate
  • Lower living costs than many EU countries
  • Large tourism industry
  • Growing technology sector
  • Access to the European labour market
  • High quality of life

Information about Working in Greece

Work in the capital of Greece

Salary in Greece

Popular Jobs in Greece

  • Software Developers
  • Engineers
  • Healthcare Professionals
  • Hotel and Tourism Staff
  • Construction Workers
  • Logistics Specialists
  • Customer Service Representatives

Greece Compared with Other Countries

Useful Salary Tools

Living in Greece

Living costs vary across Greece. Athens and popular island destinations such as Mykonos and Santorini are generally the most expensive locations, while many mainland cities and smaller towns offer significantly lower housing and everyday expenses.

Pros and Cons of Living in Greece

Advantages

  • Warm Mediterranean climate
  • Beautiful coastline and islands
  • Lower living costs than many Western European countries
  • Excellent cuisine
  • High quality healthcare in major cities
  • Relaxed lifestyle and good work-life balance
  • European Union membership

Disadvantages

  • Lower salaries than Northern Europe
  • Limited job opportunities in some sectors
  • Higher unemployment than the EU average
  • Seasonal labour market in tourism
  • Bureaucratic administrative procedures
  • High housing costs in tourist destinations
  • Greek language is often required for many positions

Useful Cost of Living Tools

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average salary in Greece?
The average salary in Greece is approximately €1,100 per month before taxes. Earnings depend on the profession, industry, experience and region.
Is Greece expensive to live in?
Greece is generally more affordable than many Western European countries. Athens and popular tourist islands are the most expensive places to live.
Are taxes high in Greece?
Greece has a progressive income tax system with rates ranging from 9% to 44%, depending on taxable income.
Can foreigners find jobs in Greece?
Yes. Foreign workers can find opportunities in tourism, hospitality, shipping, healthcare, IT, engineering, logistics and education.
Which cities offer the best employment opportunities?
Athens and Thessaloniki have the largest labour markets in Greece. Patras, Heraklion, Larissa and Volos also provide employment opportunities in healthcare, education, manufacturing and tourism.
How much money can a person save in Greece?
Savings depend on salary, housing costs and lifestyle. Professionals working in international companies or living outside expensive tourist destinations are generally able to save a larger share of their income.
Is Greece better than Portugal or Spain for work?
Each country has its advantages. Greece offers a lower cost of living than many European countries and a strong tourism sector, while Portugal and Spain may provide larger labour markets in certain industries.

Explore Other Countries

Interested in Greece? Explore other countries offering different opportunities for work, salaries, immigration and quality of life across Europe.

Sources

The information presented on this page is compiled from publicly available government publications, labor market reports and international statistical organizations.

  • Hellenic Statistical Authority (ELSTAT)
  • Greek Ministry of Labour and Social Security
  • Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE)
  • Bank of Greece
  • Greek Ministry of Development
  • Eurostat
  • OECD
  • European Commission
  • World Bank
  • International Monetary Fund (IMF)

About the Author

WageCentre is an independent project focused on immigration, employment, wages, taxes, the cost of living, and international comparisons.

Learn more: About us

Learn how salary, tax, cost of living and savings estimates are calculated: Methodology

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