AthensvsCalgary
Overall
💰+30.9%
Athens is 30.9%more expensive
Rent
🏠+100.0%
Housing is 100.0% higher
Dining
🍽️+50.0%
Restaurants 50.0% pricier
Groceries
🛒+60.0%
Food shopping 60.0% more
Comparing the cost of living between Athens, Greece and Calgary, Canada reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Athens is more expensive than Calgary 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 Calgary by 50%. A one-bedroom apartment in Athens's city center costs around €650, while the same in Calgary is approximately CA$1,600.
Dining out in Athens offers significant savings compared to Calgary. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs €12 in Athens versus CA$20 in Calgary.
Public transportation in Athens is more affordable, with monthly passes at €30 compared to CA$112 in Calgary.
Purchasing power in Calgary 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 38%. 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 Calgary, the same lifestyle would cost around CA$730. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about €1,499 monthly in Athens versus CA$2,555 in Calgary. 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 Calgary, 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 Calgary 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
Calgary
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Athens more expensive than Calgary?
Yes, Athens is approximately 30.9% more expensive than Calgary overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Athens compared to Calgary?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.3x of your Calgary salary when living in Athens. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Calgary, you'd need about $65,455 in Athens for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Athens and Calgary?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 50%, 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?
Calgary offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Calgary provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Athens if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Calgary for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Athens vs Calgary?
In Athens, a single person needs approximately €878 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about €2,349. In Calgary, these figures are CA$2,030 for singles and CA$4,755 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Athens and Calgary 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 Calgary to maintain your lifestyle from Athens
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