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Athens, the capital of Greece, is a city where ancient history meets modern living. Knowing the cost of living in Athens helps you plan your budget well. This includes expenses like housing, daily needs, transportation, leisure activities, etc.
Understanding these costs gives you a clear idea of what it takes to live comfortably in this culturally rich European city and focus on your studies. Now, curious about the average expenses in this vibrant city? Read the detailed information on the cost of living in Athens in this blog.
This Blog Includes:
Cost of Living in Athens: Overview
The average cost of living in Athens for international students is EUR 833 per month without rent, according to Numbeo data. Although the cost of living in Athens may be more affordable than in some other cities in Greece and Europe, you can still enjoy a high quality of life, excellent amenities, and access to various cultural and recreational opportunities.
The average cost of living in Athens is close to the average cost of living in the world. Below, we have provided a general overview of the typical cost of living in Athens for international expats across different categories. Which includes utility bills, house rent, travel passes, personal expenses, food and grocery expenses. Please have a look:
Cost of Housing in Athens
The cost of housing rent in Athens for a single room is around EUR 502 per month in a city area. Various accommodation options are available for expats according to their budget and lifestyle. Before relocating to Athens, it is crucial to conduct thorough research and comparison of apartment rental prices across different areas to ensure they align with your requirements and financial plan.
For your convenience, we have gathered average housing cost information for various apartments located both within and outside the city centre of Athens. Please review this data to determine the most suitable option for your needs.
Source: livingcost
Also Read: Cost of Living in Australia: A 2023 Guide
Cost of Grocery in Athens
Grocery expenses are a daily necessity for students who choose to cook at home, and their food choices will determine these expenses in Athens. These expenses play a significant role in the overall cost of living in Athens city.
It is advisable to compare prices among various stores or vendors to ensure optimal value when purchasing groceries in Athens. Below is a list of grocery items along with their respective costs.
| Grocery Item | Approx. Cost |
| Milk (regular), (1 litre) | EUR 1.62 |
| Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g) | EUR 1.2 |
| Rice (white), (1kg) | EUR 1.96 |
| Eggs (regular) (12) | EUR 4.17 |
| Local Cheese (1kg) | EUR 13.1 |
| Apples (1kg) | EUR 1.77 |
| Banana (1kg) | EUR 1.72 |
| Oranges (1kg) | EUR 1.2 |
| Tomato (1kg) | EUR 2.09 |
| Potato (1kg) | EUR 1.11 |
| Onion (1kg) | EUR 1.18 |
| Water (1 liter bottle) | EUR 0.56 |
Cost of Utilities in Athens
For a single person in Athens, the basic utility costs are around EUR 131 per month. This is a relatively modest expense, especially considering the overall cost of living in Athens city. These utility bills typically cover heating, electricity, gas, a mobile phone plan, and internet service. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the typical utility costs for international students living in Athens:
Source: livingcost
Cost of Transportation in Athens
Athens boasts a highly convenient and affordable transportation system, making it easy for residents to travel around the city. The city offers a variety of local transport options, including trains, buses, and ferries.
The monthly cost for a transportation pass is approximately EUR 29.9, which is a significant component of the overall cost of living in Athens. Here is an overview of the various modes of transportation and their monthly costs:
| Mode of Transport | Approx. Monthly Cost |
| One-way Ticket(Local Transport) | EUR 1.2 |
| Monthly Pass(Regular Price) | EUR 29.9 |
| Taxi 8km(Normal Tariff) | EUR 11.2 |
| 1-litre Gasoline | EUR 1.88 |
Also Read: Cost of Living in Taiwan: A Guide on Expected Expenses
Average Tuition Fees in Athens
When considering the cost of living in Athens, international students should consider and evaluate the total tuition fees of their desired university. Before relocating, students need to evaluate whether they can afford the average tuition fees of universities in Athens.
To aid in this assessment, we’ve provided a table below outlining the average tuition fees at some of Athens’s universities:
| University Name | Average Tuition Fees (per year) |
| National Technical University of Athens | EUR 1,500 to EUR 3000 |
| National and Kapodistrian University of Athens | EUR 6000 |
| Ohio University | EUR 37045 |
| Harokopio University | EUR 3000 to EUR 6000 |
Cost of Living Comparison: Athens vs Other Cities
When comparing the cost of living in Athens to other nearby cities, several factors should be considered. Athens is well-known for its affordable housing and transportation costs, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a balanced lifestyle. Understanding how the cost of living in Athens measures up against other cities is essential for making informed decisions about moving or long-term stays.
To provide a clear picture of how living expenses in Athens compare to major cities like Vancouver, Toronto, Edmonton, Calgary, Winnipeg, Canada, Alberta, and Regina we have gathered relevant data. Here’s a detailed comparison for better clarity:
| Cost of Living City Wise | Average Cost of living | Comparison with Cost of Living in Athens |
| Cost of Living in London | EUR 1311 (including rent) | Higher than Athens |
| Cost of Living in Madrid | EUR 810 (excluding rent) | Lower than Athens |
| Cost of Living in Thessaloniki | EUR 852 (excluding rent) | Higher than Athens |
| Cost of Living in Istanbul | EUR 576 (excluding rent) | Lower than Athens |
| Cost of Living in Bucharest | EUR 651 (excluding rent) | Lower than Athens |
| Cost of Living in Berlin | EUR 1,009 (excluding rent) | Higher than Athens |
| Cost of Living in Warsaw | EUR 727 (excluding rent) | Lower than Athens |
| Cost of Living in Barcelona | EUR 777 (excluding rent) | Lower than Athens |
| Cost of Living in Sofia | EUR 634 (excluding rent) | Lower than Athens |
| Cost of Living in Amsterdam | EUR 1,075 (excluding rent) | Higher than Athens |
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FAQs
Answer: The average cost of living in Athens is around EUR 833 a month without tuition fees and rental costs. This indicates that students in Athens face a relatively moderate living expense compared to other cities in Greece.
Ans: Living in Athens is relatively affordable compared to other major cities in Greece. The average cost of living in Athens is around EUR 833 per month, excluding tuition fees and rental costs. This suggests that students in Athens encounter moderate living expenses, making it a cost-effective option for those studying or living in the city.
Ans: To live comfortably in Greece, you would need approximately EUR 833 per month, apart from rental costs. This amount is equal to the average cost of living in Athens without rental costs.
Ans: On average, renting a one-room apartment in the city area costs around EUR 502 per month, while outside the city area, the rent is approximately EUR 402 per month. The rent in Athens, Greece, varies depending on the location.
So, this was all about the cost of living in Athens. Many Indian students dream of pursuing education in foreign nations due to the exposure and career growth they offer. Consider joining a free counselling session with Leverage Edu if you plan to study abroad.
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