AthensvsBrussels
Overall
💰+30.9%
Athens is 30.9%more expensive
Rent
🏠+60.0%
Housing is 60.0% higher
Dining
🍽️+50.0%
Restaurants 50.0% pricier
Groceries
🛒+40.0%
Food shopping 40.0% more
Comparing the cost of living between Athens, Greece and Brussels, Belgium reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Athens is more expensive than Brussels by approximately 30.9%. This comparison covers essential living expenses including housing, food, transportation, and utilities, providing you with a complete picture of what to expect financially in each city.
Key Cost Differences
Housing costs in Athens are lower than in Brussels by 38%. A one-bedroom apartment in Athens's city center costs around €650, while the same in Brussels is approximately €1,200.
Dining out in Athens offers significant savings compared to Brussels. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs €12 in Athens versus €16 in Brussels.
Public transportation in Athens is more affordable, with monthly passes at €30 compared to €53 in Brussels.
Purchasing power in Brussels is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Athens.
Grocery shopping in Athens is more affordable by approximately 29%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show lower prices across the board.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Athens can expect to spend approximately €428 per month (excluding rent), while in Brussels, the same lifestyle would cost around €544. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about €1,499 monthly in Athens versus €1,905 in Brussels. These estimates include groceries, dining out, transportation, utilities, and entertainment, providing a realistic picture of day-to-day living costs in each city.
Detailed Cost Comparison
🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)
🍽️ Food & Dining
🛒 Groceries
🚌 Transportation
💡 Utilities & Internet
Tips for Moving Between Cities
For those considering a move from Athens to Brussels, the cost savings can be substantial, particularly in housing and daily expenses. However, it's important to factor in salary differences and job opportunities. Conversely, moving from Brussels to Athens requires careful financial planning. Consider negotiating salary adjustments that reflect the higher cost of living, and research neighborhoods outside the city center for more affordable housing options while maintaining reasonable commute times.
Quality of Life Indices
Athens
Brussels
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Athens more expensive than Brussels?
Yes, Athens is approximately 30.9% more expensive than Brussels overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Athens compared to Brussels?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.3x of your Brussels salary when living in Athens. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Brussels, you'd need about $65,455 in Athens for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Athens and Brussels?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 38%, making it a major factor in your budget planning. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Brussels offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Brussels provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Athens if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Brussels for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Athens vs Brussels?
In Athens, a single person needs approximately €878 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about €2,349. In Brussels, these figures are €1,444 for singles and €3,505 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Athens and Brussels in 2025 shows significant differences across various expense categories. Whether you're planning a relocation for work, considering retirement options, or simply curious about living costs, understanding these differences is crucial for making informed financial decisions.
Need to calculate salary equivalence?
Find out how much you need to earn in Brussels to maintain your lifestyle from Athens
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