This article looks at the 5 best places to retire in Greece. If you want to check out our detailed analysis on the changing status of Greece and moving to the country, go to 12 Best Places to Retire in Greece.
5. Zakynthos
Insider Monkey Score: 7
Zakynthos, a Greek island blessed with numerous beaches, plenty of sun, and a mild climate, is a popular place to retire in Greece. The island enjoys a Mediterranean climate, and retirees enjoy innumerable recreational activities on its varied terrain. Venetian architecture, monasteries, and museums add to its cultural charm. The diet on the island is Mediterranean, just like the climate, and retirees get to eat healthy food with fresh and locally sourced ingredients. The island is accessible by ferry from the Greek mainland and other Ionian islands. An individual retiree can manage to live comfortably under $1,800 per month.
4. Thessaloniki
Insider Monkey Score: 7
Probably one of the best towns to retire in Greece, Thessaloniki is considered a hidden gem of the country. Retirees explore historical sites such as the White Tower, the Arch of Galerius, and numerous Byzantine churches here. The city is also considered a gastronomical capital of the country, and the delicious food is complemented by delightful, locally produced wine. Retirees here love relaxing on the Aristotelous Square on the waterfront and shopping in the Modiano market. The city also has three hospitals, four international schools, public transport, and a university. An individual retiree can manage a comfortable retirement here for $1,500 per month on average.
3. Rhodes
Insider Monkey Score: 8
One of the sunniest and most popular islands in Greece is Rhodes. Strikingly beautiful beaches, an impeccably preserved medieval old town, and modern amenities are the main features of this island. The locals can speak English, so retirees will have little trouble adjusting here. However, learning Greek to ease into the community is always best. An expat retiree can live in Rhodes for an average of $1,845 monthly.
2. Corfu
Insider Monkey Score: 8
Corfu, or Kerkyra, is an island situated off Greece’s northwest coast in the Ionian Sea. Its rich natural beauty provides the perfect scenic backdrop for retirees. Beautiful beaches and lush greenery, complemented by a mild Mediterranean climate, make retirement feel heavenly. The pace of life is relaxed and slow, the healthcare system is well-developed, and retirees enjoy a close-knit community life. Hiking, swimming, sailing, and golf are some of the many activities enjoyed here. An individual retiree can have a comfortable retirement here for $1,500 to $1,800 per month, with an average of $450 spent on monthly rent.
1. Crete
Insider Monkey Score: 10
Revered for its seaside taverns, top-class beaches, and relaxed lifestyle, Crete can be an excellent place to retire in Greece. Located in the Southern Aegean Sea, it enjoys a temperate Mediterranean climate with rainy, mild winters and warm, sunny, and dry summers. Top places to live in Crete include Heraklion, Chania, and Rethymno. There is also a vibrant expat community here, so retirees will have many people to socialize with. The cost of living for an expat retiree is an average $1,895 per month, with $400 spent on rent.
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