At What Cost?

Greece in general is significantly more affordable than the rest of Western Europe on average.

Some Greek islands have a reputation for being expensive, even over-priced for what they offer… Corfu isn’t one of those islands. On Corfu you can enjoy a high standard of living for a low cost, especially considering it’s in Europe and a major beach destination. Your lifestyle will determine exactly how much you pay, but about US$1,500 a month should be enough for a couple to live comfortably.

Renting a two-bedroom apartment costs about US$450 a month; for a house, you’ll pay between US$485 and US$545 a month. Enjoying yourself in Corfu doesn’t cost much either. A pint of local beer costs about US$2.50; a glass of local wine will set you back about US$5. You can get a lunchtime special—chicken or pork gyro and a pint—on the beach for US$5, but going out for proper meals at nicer restaurants won’t break the bank. Main courses are generously portioned and cost between US$12 and US$20 a plate. US$50 is plenty to spend on a nice night out.

Crete, one of the major islands and most popular spots for tourists and expats alike, can be surprisingly affordable. You could live in Crete on a budget of just 800 euros or so a month, but it would be a simple life. You wouldn’t eat out, use taxis, or go to the movies, and your apartment would be small, located in one of the less attractive areas of the city or a small, simple villa out in the countryside. A budget of about 2,000 euros will get you a bigger more luxurious property, have you eating out and seeing movies, get you a gym membership, and indulge in a few more luxuries (like buying foreign newspapers and renting a car or paying for the occasional taxi).

Nationwide, groceries are inexpensive if you shop for local produce… As with any place, and especially an island, shopping for imported products will jack up costs considerably.

Go here to check itemized budgets for each of our favorite destinations in Greece.