Greece vs Italy: Which Is Cheaper?
Greece is the cheaper country overall — about 28% less than Italy, or roughly $1,484 versus $2,049 a month for a single person (population-weighted across 4 and 9 cities). A city-centre one-bedroom averages $731 in Greece against $1,403 in Italy. Italy rates higher on safety (70 vs 66/100). Internet is faster in Italy (101 vs 85 Mbps). Healthcare scores 66 vs 59/100, favouring Italy.
Greece vs Italy at a glance
| Metric | Greece | Italy |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of living / mo | $1,484 | $2,049 |
| Rent (1BR, centre) / mo | $731 | $1,403 |
| Safety | 66/100 | 70/100 |
| Internet | 85 Mbps | 101 Mbps |
| Healthcare | 59/100 | 66/100 |
| Walkability | 74/100 | 80/100 |
| English spoken | 51% | 34% |
| Avg temperature | 77°F | 71°F |
| Digital nomad visa | Yes | Yes |
Figures are population-weighted averages across 4 cities in Greece and 9 in Italy.
Cost range by country
In Greece, monthly costs run from Rhodes at $1,329 up to Mykonos at $1,671.
In Italy, monthly costs run from Naples at $1,741 up to Milan at $2,421.
Greece vs Italy FAQ
Is Greece or Italy cheaper to live in?
Greece is cheaper — about $1,484 a month for a single person versus $2,049 — roughly 28% less.
Is Greece or Italy safer?
Italy scores higher on safety: 70/100 versus 66/100.
Is Greece or Italy better for retirement?
It depends on priorities: Greece is cheaper ($1,484 vs $2,049/mo), while Italy scores higher on healthcare (66 vs 59/100).
Which is better for digital nomads, Greece or Italy?
Italy has faster internet (101 vs 85 Mbps), but Greece stretches a remote income further at $1,484/mo.
Is Greece or Italy better to visit?
Greece is the more budget-friendly trip at roughly $1,484 a month for day-to-day costs, while Italy edges it on safety (70/100). Both offer plenty of variety — 4 cities in Greece and 9 in Italy.
Which should you choose?
On balance, Italy comes out ahead — it leads on higher safety, faster internet, better healthcare, though Greece is cheaper at $1,484/mo if budget is your top priority.
Choose Greece for
- a lower cost of living
- cheaper rent
Choose Italy for
- higher safety
- faster internet
- better healthcare
- better walkability