Moving To Athens: Myth vs Reality

Every year, more professionals, families, and digital nomads make the decision to relocate to Greece.

Some people move to Greece for work, others for lifestyle and many simply because they fell in love with the sun, the sea, and the feeling that life here moves a little more slowly.

If you’re planning a move to Athens, you’re probably picturing island weekends, outdoor cafés, late dinners with friends, and long walks under blue skies.

Truthfully? That part is real, and Athens does offer an incredible quality of life.

But after years of assisting expats settle into their new homes the team at Especially Relocation Agency, knows that although the dream is real, the logistics are not always as simple as people expect. Behind every smooth relocation plan, there’s usually a lot of paperwork, planning, and local know-how which is inevitable.

Here’s a practical look at one of the most common myths about expat life in Athens, and the reality behind it.

Reality: Daily life still requires planning and plenty of paperwork

Before you can fully relax into the Mediterranean lifestyle, there are a few essentials to sort out. New arrivals quickly discover they need to obtain a tax number (AFM), open  a Greek bank account, arrange utilities, sign rental contracts and register for healthcare. Also enrolling children in schools and navigating various other government procedures might seem simple on paper but less simple in practice, especially when all happen in Greek.

Many processes require in-person appointments, multiple documents and waiting times or complex online procedures.

Choosing to work with local relocation professionals is not because life here is difficult, but because having someone who understands the system saves time, avoids costly mistakes, and allows them to start enjoying their new life sooner.

 Myth #2: “Housing in Athens is cheap and easy to find”

Reality: The best homes move fast and many are off market.

Compared to other European capitals, Athens may still be affordable, but housing in Athens for expats has become highly competitive. Especially in areas like Kolonaki the southern and northern suburbs quality properties are often rented within days and sometimes before even listed online.

Finding the right home today isn’t just about browsing listings, it’s about knowing the neighborhoods, market prices, and having local contacts. 

Reality: English will help you navigate daily life but speaking Greek makes every process faster and far more efficient.

At first glance, relocating to Greece can seem effortless for English speakers. In major cities and popular areas, English is widely spoken, and socially, you can navigate daily life without much difficulty. However, settling in goes far beyond ordering coffee or making casual conversations. 

When it comes to essential matters, such as dealing with public services, signing leases, coordinating with notaries, arranging technicians, communicating with landlords, or visiting government offices — Greek is often necessary. While some professionals may speak English, official documentation, legal terminology, and administrative procedures are typically conducted in Greek. Even minor misunderstandings can lead to unexpected delays, sometimes setting your move back by weeks.

This is where local guidance becomes invaluable. Having someone on the ground who understands both the language and the system can make everyday tasks significantly smoother, from setting up electricity and utilities to reviewing contracts and navigating paperwork.

Reality: Lifestyle choices matter

The cost of living in Athens varies greatly depending on how you live. and personal choices. While Greece is often perceived as an affordable destination, expenses can rise quickly in premium neighborhoods where rental prices continue to increase. Families opting for private education should also factor in the substantial investment required for international or bilingual schools. Access to international-standard healthcare, though excellent, comes at a higher cost, and modern new-build apartments are often priced at levels comparable to other European capitals. Athens can certainly be affordable, but thoughtful planning and informed decisions make all the difference in managing your relocation budget successfully.

Reality: Things get done — just differently

Greece runs less on systems and more on relationships. Once you know who to call, which office to visit, what documents to bring, and when to follow up, things tend to move far more efficiently than expected. It’s not that the process is slower, it’s simply more personal. 

Living in Greece can truly be incredible,  the food, the climate, the sense of community, the lifestyle. But the difference between a stressful move and a smooth transition usually comes down to one key factor: local knowledge. Relocating isn’t just about finding an apartment; it’s about feeling at home quickly. Having someone on the ground who understands both the Greek way of doing things and international expectations can make all the difference.

Especially Concierge & Relocation supports individuals, families, and companies moving to Athens and across Greece with personalized relocation services. From home search and school placement to neighborhood orientation and comprehensive settling-in support, Especially helps expats transition smoothly and confidently from day one.

To explore how we can support your move, contact us at info@especially.gr to arrange a 30-minute consultation and discuss your next chapter in Greece.