Greece’s continuing appeal for retirees, expats

Greece’s attraction as the place to be continues to shine. Recently, the country was named as the world’s best place to retire and with fresh data showing growing numbers of well-heeled and international investors seeking out properties across Greece.

This month, Greece was ranked first in the 2026 Annual Global Retirement Index by International Living magazine based on the country’s natural beauty, cultural wealth and favorable living conditions. The magazine declared “whether you’re a short-term visitor or an aspiring expat, Greece has it all: outstanding year-round weather, affordable accommodation, superb food, friendly locals, and amazing history.”

The recognition comes amid an influx of expatriates from Asia, Europe and North America seeking to establish residency in the country. Over the last decade, more and more have been drawn by the Greece’s popular Golden Visa program, its membership in the European Union and its stable political system.

That has helped revive the Greek property market from depressed, crisis-era levels, but with analysts estimating that housing prices in Greece are still 20-30% below other popular European destinations. At the same time, the growing numbers of pensioners looking at Greece has raised new prospects for businesses to cater to the EU’s €6.4 trillion Silver Economy.

In recent years, third country nationals from places like China and Russia have been establishing residency in Greece, as have individuals from neighboring countries like Lebanon, Turkey and Israel. More recently, however, a growing number of U.S. citizens have been investing in Greek real estate – particularly higher-end properties – reflecting a new source of demand and despite tighter conditions in Greece’s Golden Visa program.

A new survey on Greece by Sotheby’s International Realty that was released last month, shows the rising appeal of the country to Ultra High Net Worth Individuals. According to Sotheby’s, 63% of UHNWIs surveyed are looking to buy luxury properties in Greece.