Let’s tap into the beauty of Greece, a country with a long history, rich culture and amazing landscapes. Greece is a country in southeastern Europe, occupying the southernmost part of the Balkan Peninsula. From archaic temples to endless coasts, this Mediterranean country has something for everyone. Today we will get acquainted not only with the beauty of Greece, but also with the economic aspects of the country, including minimum and average wages, different professions and income distribution in different regions. The country has a highly developed economy and a very high standard of living (22nd in the world). It is a popular tourist destination, but it is also home to numerous job opportunities. In this Blog we will look at salaries, professions, taxes and living expenses in Greece.
Minimum wage
In Greece, as in many other countries, the minimum wage serves as an important indicator of the economic situation of the population. The amount is determined by the Government of Greece. The official minimum wage in Greece in 2023 is 831.83 euros per month, on an annual basis 9,982 euros and with a payment of 14 times a year, it amounts to 713 euros per month. This size varies according to different sectors and areas of work. In addition, Greek professionals can earn below the legal minimum. For example, according to the local Ministry of Labour, up to 25% of part-time workers earn up to 500 euros per month.
The average salary
Due to uncertainty and fluctuations in the Greek labour market, it is quite difficult to determine the exact average salary in the country, and the rate is not set at the legislative level. For example, according to the authoritative portal Trading Economics, the average salary in Greece in 2023 is 1,060.45 euros per month before taxes. At the same time, qualified professionals receive 1,510 euros and unskilled workers – 717 euros.
The population of the country is about 10.3 million people, with about 4.1 million officially employed and the number of unemployed exceeding 596 thousand. Every fifth Greek works part-time, and over 30,000 only up to 4 hours a week or 16 hours a month. Accordingly, this strongly affects the average income level of Greek citizens in the country as a whole.
The salary in the country also depends on the profession and education of individuals. For example, highly skilled professionals such as doctors, engineers, and programmers often receive higher wages than other average workers.
In tourism, which is a key sector of the Greek economy, people employed in hotels, restaurants and travel agencies often have specific salaries depending on their experience and position. The agricultural sector also plays an important role, especially in areas outside the big cities. The salaries of farm workers and farmers may vary depending on the success of agricultural activity.
Salaries by occupation
Salaries in Greece vary depending on the region. The highest wages are in Athens and Thessaloniki, while in smaller towns and villages wages are lower.
Pay in Greece in terms of occupations largely depends on the employer’s capabilities, region, level of qualification and experience of the employee. For example, doctors with internship in regular clinics receive about 1,300 –
EUR 1 600 per month, and young professionals EUR 900 – EUR 950. Lawyers earn between 1,250 and 3,000 euros, teachers up to 900 euros, and shopkeepers no more than 500-700 euros. One of the best-paid professions in Greece is that of judges, who, depending on their rank, earn between 1,500 and 4,000 euros per month.
It is difficult even for graduates of prestigious Greek universities to expect a decent salary in Greece, let alone labor migrants. Real monthly incomes rarely exceed 700 euros. In such popular areas as tourism services and agriculture, foreign applicants receive about 500-600 euros per month. This should be taken into account especially by those who dream of obtaining a residence permit in Greece in order to settle in this picturesque country for a long time.
Income taxes
The difficult economic situation leaves its mark on Greece’s tax system. For example, the country has a fairly high VAT and corporate tax rate – 24 and 22%, which does not have the best impact on attracting foreign investment.
Income tax in Greece in 2023
Annual income (euro) / Tax rate (%)
Up to 10 000 – 9
From 10 001 to 20 000 – 22
From 20 001 to 30 000 – 28
From 30 001 to 40 000 – 36
More than 40 000 – 44
Since 2016, in addition to income tax, the country has introduced a so-called special solidarity contribution, for which progressive rates are also provided depending on annual income.
Solidarity tax rates in Greece in 2023
Annual income (euro) / Tax rate (%)
From 0 to 12 000 – 0
From 12 001 to 20 000 – 2,2
From 20 001 to 30 000 – 5
From 30 001 to 40 000 – 6.5
From 40 001 to 65 000 – 7.5
From 65 001 to 220 000 – 9
More than 220 000 – 10
Taxes on salaries in Greece are withheld from both residents (resident in the country for more than 183 days per year) and non-residents who work on Greek territory.
Cost of living
The cost of living in Greece is lower than in many other European countries. For example, the cost of food, transport and rent is lower.
Another factor depends on the region. In large cities such as Athens and Thessaloniki, prices for housing, food and services are often higher compared to smaller rural areas. Furthermore, life on islands that is more relaxed may be associated with higher costs for some items and services.
Here are some examples of living expenses in Greece:
One-bedroom apartment for rent in the center of Athens: 500-700 euros per month
Single portion in restaurant: 15-20 euros
Liter of gasoline: 2.2 euros