Athens, Greece
Europe · Arid
Athens, the cradle of Western civilization, is an increasingly popular destination for digital nomads. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes, Athens offers a unique blend of traditional and modern amenities. The city's affordable cost of living, fast internet, and growing expat community make it an attractive choice for remote workers.
At a Glance — Athens
City Personality
Athens is a city with a rich history and a vibrant cultural scene, offering a unique blend of traditional and modern amenities.
Best For
- digital nomads
- remote workers
- history buffs
- foodies
Less Suitable For
- those seeking a fast-paced city
- nightlife enthusiasts
Cost of Living in Athens
The cost of living in Athens is relatively affordable compared to other European cities. The monthly budget for a digital nomad in Athens is around $797, excluding rent. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center costs around $710 per month, while outside the center, it costs around $600. Everyday items like a meal at a mid-range restaurant cost around $68, and a domestic beer costs around $5.70.
Cost Comparison: Cities in Greece
Internet Speed in Athens
Athens has fast and reliable internet, with an average mobile download speed of 200.5 Mbps and a fixed download speed of 244.8 Mbps. The city's internet infrastructure is well-suited for digital nomads, supporting video calls, cloud development, and file transfers.
Fixed Broadband
Fiber, cable, or DSL in your apartment
Mobile Data
4G/5G cellular network
Remote Work Readiness
Visa Options for Athens, Greece
Greece offers a Digital Nomad Visa, making it easy to stay long-term.
Greece offers a digital nomad visa, which allows remote workers to stay in the country for up to 12 months, renewable for two more years. The visa requires a minimum income of €3,500 per month (net) and comes with a 50% tax reduction.
See what visa you need for Athens based on your passport
Is Athens Safe?
Athens has a moderate safety level, with a safety index of 44.96. Petty crime and corruption are concerns, but overall, the city is generally safe, especially during the day. Digital nomads should take normal precautions to stay safe.
What Residents Worry About
Crime Severity
Safety Tips for Athens
- Keep valuables out of sight in crowded areas and avoid walking alone after dark in unfamiliar neighborhoods.
- Choose accommodation with secure building access, and consider portable door alarms.
- Avoid leaving belongings unattended in public spaces and use lockers for laptops and cameras.
- Research which districts have higher crime rates and plan your route accordingly, especially at night.
Athens Climate & Weather
Athens has a hot and dry climate, with low rainfall throughout the year. The best months to visit are April to October, with comfortable temperatures and low rainfall. Winters are mild, but can be cool and rainy.
Athens has a Arid climate.Hot with low rainfall.
Average Daily Temperature
Daylight Hours
Healthcare Quality in Athens
Athens has a good healthcare system, with a healthcare index of 58.43. The city's hospitals and medical staff are well-equipped to handle most medical needs. However, digital nomads may want to consider additional insurance for comprehensive coverage.
Quality Scores
Satisfaction Scores
What This Means for Digital Nomads
- Book appointments in advance and consider private clinics for faster service.
Real Estate Market in Athens
Rent prices in Athens are relatively affordable, with a one-bedroom apartment costing around $710 per month in the city center. However, buying property can be expensive, with a price-to-income ratio of 13.95.
Overview
Buy vs Rent
Rental Yields & Returns
Apartment Prices
City Centre
Outside Centre
What This Means for Digital Nomads
- Buying property requires 13.9 years of salary — renting is more practical for nomads.
- Mortgage costs take up 106.0% of income — renting offers more flexibility.
- Loan affordability is low — plan for upfront cash payments if considering property.
Power Grid in Greece
Athens has a reliable electricity grid, with a grid access of 100%. The city's energy consumption is around 4685.96 kWh per capita, with a significant share of renewable energy.
Energy Mix
· 51% fossil fuelsTraffic & Commute in Athens
Athens has heavy traffic congestion, with a traffic index of 151.5. Commute times are around 37 minutes, and the city has a high CO2 emission index. Digital nomads may want to consider using public transportation or walking/biking.
Overview
Traffic Indexes
Commute Mode Split
What This Means for Digital Nomads
- Traffic congestion is significant — consider accommodation close to co-working spaces or use public transit.
- Car dependency is high — factor in parking costs and traffic when choosing where to live.
- CO₂ emissions from transport are high — you may prefer walkable neighborhoods to reduce exposure.
Pollution & Environment in Athens
Athens has moderate air quality, with an air quality index of 45.32. The city experiences some pollution, especially during peak traffic hours. Digital nomads may want to take precautions when outdoors.
Overview
Pollution Levels — Lower is better
Quality Metrics — Higher is better
Livability
What This Means for Digital Nomads
- Consider an air purifier for your apartment, especially during high-pollution months.
- Look for accommodation on quiet streets or higher floors to escape noise and light pollution.
- Green spaces are limited — plan weekend trips outside the city for nature.
- Some areas may be less tidy — research neighborhoods before committing to a longer stay.
Frequently Asked Questions About Athens
- What is the cost of living in Athens?
- The cost of living in Athens is relatively affordable, with a monthly budget of around $797 excluding rent. A one-bedroom apartment costs around $710 per month.
- Is the internet fast in Athens?
- Yes, Athens has fast and reliable internet, with an average mobile download speed of 200.5 Mbps and a fixed download speed of 244.8 Mbps.
- Are there coworking spaces in Athens?
- Unfortunately, there are no registered coworking spaces in Athens. Digital nomads may need to rely on cafes, business centers, or home offices.
- What are the visa requirements for digital nomads in Athens?
- Greece offers a digital nomad visa, which allows remote workers to stay in the country for up to 12 months, renewable for two more years. The visa requires a minimum income of €3,500 per month (net) and comes with a 50% tax reduction.
- Is Athens safe for digital nomads?
- Athens has a moderate safety level, with a safety index of 44.96. Petty crime and corruption are concerns, but overall, the city is generally safe, especially during the day.
- What is the climate like in Athens?
- Athens has a hot and dry climate, with low rainfall throughout the year. The best months to visit are April to October, with comfortable temperatures and low rainfall.
- What kind of healthcare can I expect in Athens?
- Athens has a good healthcare system, with a healthcare index of 58.43. The city's hospitals and medical staff are well-equipped to handle most medical needs.
- Can I buy property in Athens?
- Buying property in Athens can be expensive, with a price-to-income ratio of 13.95. Rent prices are relatively affordable, with a one-bedroom apartment costing around $710 per month.
- Is the electricity grid reliable in Athens?
- Yes, Athens has a reliable electricity grid, with a grid access of 100%. The city's energy consumption is around 4685.96 kWh per capita, with a significant share of renewable energy.
- How do I get around Athens?
- Athens has a public transportation system, but traffic congestion can be heavy. Digital nomads may want to consider using alternative transportation options, such as walking or biking.
- What is the air quality like in Athens?
- Athens has moderate air quality, with an air quality index of 45.32. The city experiences some pollution, especially during peak traffic hours.
Key Takeaways
Quick insights for each category
Key Takeaways
Quick insights for each category
Athens offers a relatively affordable cost of living, making it an attractive destination for digital nomads.
Athens has fast and reliable internet, making it suitable for digital nomads.
Athens has limited coworking options, so digital nomads may need to get creative with their workspace.
The digital nomad visa offers a convenient and tax-efficient way for remote workers to live and work in Athens.
Athens has a moderate safety level, so digital nomads should be aware of their surroundings and take necessary precautions.
Athens has a Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild winters, making it suitable for digital nomads.
Athens has a good healthcare system, but digital nomads may want to consider additional insurance for peace of mind.
Athens offers affordable rent options, but buying property can be expensive.
Athens has a reliable electricity grid, making it suitable for digital nomads.
Athens has heavy traffic congestion, so digital nomads may want to consider alternative transportation options.
Athens has moderate air quality, so digital nomads may want to take precautions when outdoors.
Athens is a great base for exploring nearby destinations in Greece.