Greece vs Spain: Which Is Cheaper?
Greece is the cheaper country overall — about 26% less than Spain, or roughly $1,484 versus $1,994 a month for a single person (population-weighted across 4 and 10 cities). A city-centre one-bedroom averages $731 in Greece against $1,457 in Spain. Spain rates higher on safety (75 vs 66/100). Internet is faster in Spain (255 vs 85 Mbps). Healthcare scores 79 vs 59/100, favouring Spain.
Greece vs Spain at a glance
| Metric | Greece | Spain |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of living / mo | $1,484 | $1,994 |
| Rent (1BR, centre) / mo | $731 | $1,457 |
| Safety | 66/100 | 75/100 |
| Internet | 85 Mbps | 255 Mbps |
| Healthcare | 59/100 | 79/100 |
| Walkability | 74/100 | 82/100 |
| English spoken | 51% | 28% |
| Avg temperature | 77°F | 74°F |
| Digital nomad visa | Yes | Yes |
Figures are population-weighted averages across 4 cities in Greece and 10 in Spain.
Cost range by country
In Greece, monthly costs run from Rhodes at $1,329 up to Mykonos at $1,671.
In Spain, monthly costs run from Granada at $1,476 up to Barcelona at $2,217.
Greece vs Spain FAQ
Is Greece or Spain cheaper to live in?
Greece is cheaper — about $1,484 a month for a single person versus $1,994 — roughly 26% less.
Is Greece or Spain safer?
Spain scores higher on safety: 75/100 versus 66/100.
Is Greece or Spain better for retirement?
It depends on priorities: Greece is cheaper ($1,484 vs $1,994/mo), while Spain scores higher on healthcare (79 vs 59/100).
Which is better for digital nomads, Greece or Spain?
Spain has faster internet (255 vs 85 Mbps), but Greece stretches a remote income further at $1,484/mo.
Is Greece or Spain better to visit?
Greece is the more budget-friendly trip at roughly $1,484 a month for day-to-day costs, while Spain edges it on safety (75/100). Both offer plenty of variety — 4 cities in Greece and 10 in Spain.
Which should you choose?
On balance, Spain 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 Spain for
- higher safety
- faster internet
- better healthcare
- better walkability