AthensvsCairo
Overall
💰-36.4%
Athens is 36.4%cheaper
Rent
🏠-40.0%
Housing is 40.0% lower
Dining
🍽️-40.0%
Restaurants 40.0% cheaper
Groceries
🛒-36.0%
Food shopping 36.0% less
Comparing the cost of living between Athens, Greece and Cairo, Egypt reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Athens is more affordable than Cairo by approximately 36.4%. 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 higher than in Cairo by 67%. A one-bedroom apartment in Athens's city center costs around €650, while the same in Cairo is approximately EGP 10,000.
Dining out in Athens is notably more expensive compared to Cairo. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs €12 in Athens versus EGP 150 in Cairo.
Public transportation in Athens is more affordable, with monthly passes at €30 compared to EGP 200 in Cairo.
Purchasing power in Athens is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Cairo.
Grocery shopping in Athens is more expensive by approximately 56%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show higher 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 Cairo, the same lifestyle would cost around EGP 4,980. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about €1,499 monthly in Athens versus EGP 17,430 in Cairo. 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 Cairo to Athens, 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 Athens to Cairo 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
Cairo
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Athens more expensive than Cairo?
No, Athens is approximately 36.4% cheaper than Cairo. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Athens compared to Cairo?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 73% of your Cairo salary when living in Athens. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Cairo, you'd need about $36,667 in Athens for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Athens and Cairo?
The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 67%, which can significantly impact your entertainment budget. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Athens offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Athens provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Athens if you prioritize earning potential, or Cairo for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Athens vs Cairo?
In Athens, a single person needs approximately €878 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about €2,349. In Cairo, these figures are EGP 10,980 for singles and EGP 29,430 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Athens and Cairo 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.
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Find out how much you need to earn in Cairo to maintain your lifestyle from Athens
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