Greece is a country people dream about their whole lives, so choosing it as a retirement destination is a no-brainer. The capital city of Athens is experiencing a renaissance in its arts and culture scene, while the islands continue to epitomize Mediterranean bliss.
And while probably don’t need to convince you to spend your retirement years on a sunny isle, it’s worth pointing out the country’s abundance of expat communities and language centers, both of which will help you assimilate easily into your new way of life. Plus, the fact that housing prices are roughly 75% lower than those in the US certainly doesn’t hurt.
Cost of living: Greece is by no means the cheapest country in Europe, but the cost of living is still quite comfortable, especially compared to most of the United States. As with any country, the price of housing varies from region to region: In Athens, two-bedroom condos cost around $1,200 per month to rent, or $295,000 to buy. Those prices drop to $860/$250,000 on Crete, and $860/$160,000 in Nafplio, a coastal town located in the Peloponnese. Budget correctly, and a couple can live comfortably for under $2,000 a month in Greece.
Healthcare: In Greece, most visas require proof of a low-cost insurance plan called residence permit insurance, which has an annual premium of around $180. You can purchase more extensive private insurance or simply pay out of pocket for medical visits—both options are vastly cheaper than anything in the US. (And emergency room visits are free!)
Visa requirements: Greece is another country with a Golden Visa option, which grants five-year permanent residency to anyone investing €500,000 (~$541,000) in Athens, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, and Santorini; or €250,000 (~$271,000) in all other areas of Greece. As long as you keep your investment standing, you can renew your residency after five years and apply for citizenship after seven years.
