🏠 Renting vs. Buying Property in Athens: What’s Best in 2025?

Renting in Athens in 2025

Advantages of Renting

• Flexibility: Easier to move between neighborhoods or even leave Greece without long-term commitment.

• Lower upfront cost: No need for down payments, purchase taxes, or transaction fees.

• Ideal for short stays: Perfect for students, digital nomads, or professionals on temporary contracts.

Disadvantages of Renting

• High rental demand: Prices have risen sharply, especially in central areas like Koukaki, Exarchia, and Kolonaki.

• No asset building: Rent payments don’t build equity or ownership.

• Uncertainty: Rental contracts can change, and landlords may adjust terms.

Rental Prices in 2025

• Central Athens (Koukaki, Kolonaki): €12–€18 per m²/month.

• Northern suburbs (Marousi, Kifisia): €10–€15 per m²/month.

• Athens Riviera (Glyfada, Voula): €15–€25 per m²/month.

Buying Property in Athens in 2025

Advantages of Buying

• Asset appreciation: Property values have been rising 4–6% annually in key districts.

• Long-term stability: A home is both a residence and an investment.

• Rental income potential: Owners can rent out properties (long-term or Airbnb) and earn strong yields.

• Golden Visa eligibility: Buying real estate may qualify for residency permits if thresholds are met.

Disadvantages of Buying

• High upfront costs: Taxes, notary fees, and transfer costs increase the purchase price by 5–10%.

• Liquidity risk: Real estate is not as liquid as renting — you can’t sell instantly.

• Maintenance costs: Owners pay ENFIA tax, municipal fees, and upkeep expenses.

Property Prices in 2025

• Marousi: €3,800–€4,800/m²

• Kifisia: €6,000–€8,000/m²

• Kolonaki: €5,500–€7,000/m²

• Glyfada & Voula: €6,000–€9,000/m²

• Piraeus: €2,000–€2,500/m²

Which Option Is Best in 2025?

• Renting is best if:

  • You are staying short-term (less than 2–3 years).

  • You want flexibility to move between neighborhoods.

  • You are still exploring Athens and not ready to commit.

• Buying is best if:

  • You plan to stay in Athens long-term or want a stable investment.

  • You are looking for capital appreciation and rental yields.

  • You want to secure residency through the Golden Visa program.

Hybrid Strategy – Rent First, Buy Later

Many expats choose to rent for the first year to get to know different neighborhoods. Once they understand Athens’ lifestyle and market, they commit to buying a property in a location that fits their long-term goals.

✅ Key Takeaways

• Renting offers flexibility but no long-term equity.

• Buying offers investment growth but requires higher upfront costs.

• In 2025, Athens continues to offer strong appreciation and rental yields, making buying increasingly attractive for long-term residents and investors.

• A hybrid “rent first, buy later” strategy works well for newcomers.

📞 Ready to Decide?

At POLI Real Estate, we help expats and investors choose the right option — whether renting temporarily or buying for the long term.

👉 today to explore properties in Athens that fit your lifestyle and goals.