Key Takeaways

• A Unique Lifestyle Blend: Combining a full-time career with a holiday-like atmosphere is achievable in Greece, thanks to its culture, climate, and focus on work-life balance.
• Affordable and Accessible: The cost of living in Greece is generally lower than in many other Western European countries, allowing your salary from an international company to go further.
• Strong Career Opportunities: A growing demand for multilingual professionals in cities like Athens means you can advance your career while enjoying a Mediterranean lifestyle.

Want to turn your dreams for sunny Mediterranean days into your everyday reality? Explore customer service jobs in Greece and discover how your career can feel like a lifestyle upgrade.

Imagine finishing your workday and, instead of a grey, rainy commute, you head to a rooftop bar with a view of the Acropolis. Or perhaps you spend your weekend exploring a sun-drenched island, a short ferry ride away. For many people considering working in Greece, this sounds more like a dream vacation than a typical work week. But can you really live like you’re on holiday while building a career there?

The answer is a refreshing and resounding yes, with a touch of realism.

While a full-time job anywhere requires dedication and responsibility, Greece offers a unique environment where professional ambition and a relaxed, fulfilling lifestyle can coexist beautifully. The number of jobs in Greece for foreigners, especially for bilinguals and english speakers has been growing, especially in the booming Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) sector.

Let's explore how you can blend a rewarding career with the kind of life you usually only experience on vacation.

Balancing the Books: Salary and Cost of Living in Greece

One of the most practical questions for anyone living in Greece as an expat is about finances. Can you afford a good life? The good news is that the combination of competitive salaries for multilingual roles and a reasonable cost of living creates a comfortable financial picture.

Salary Expectations for Multilingual Roles

Global companies are actively recruiting for Athens jobs for English speakers and other multilingual professionals. These roles, particularly in customer experience and support, often come with salaries that are significantly higher than the local average, and combined with an additional benefits package. This "expat salary" is designed to attract top talent from across Europe. It empowers you to live comfortably, dine out, travel, and save.

Your next job could come with sea views and balance. Explore career opportunities in Greece and experience work-life harmony like never before.

The Advantage of a Lower Cost of Living

Compared to cities like Amsterdam, Dublin, or London, Athens and Thessaloniki offer a much more affordable lifestyle. Rent, groceries, transportation, and entertainment are all more budget-friendly.

In fact, according to February 2026 data from Numbeo, the cost of living index in Athens, Greece is just a little more than 58, versus 91+ in London and 100 in New York. For instance, assuming you're renting and will maintain the same lifestyle in either city, you'll need EUR 3,900+ to live in Athens, while in London, it will take over EUR 7,900—this is almost 50% difference in living cost.

In Athens, your salary stretches further (versus most European cities), allowing you to enjoy the perks of Greek life—from fresh, delicious food to weekend trips—without the financial pressure. This favorable balance makes the dream of a holiday-like lifestyle a practical reality.

The Greek Approach to Work-Life Balance

The concept of work-life balance in Greece is deeply ingrained in the culture. While professional life is taken seriously, there’s a strong emphasis on personal time, family, and simply enjoying the moment. This cultural mindset is a game-changer for many expats.

Flexible Work in a Thriving Industry

The rise of BPO jobs in Greece has brought modern, flexible work environments to the country. Many companies, including leaders in the customer experience industry, offer shift-based schedules. This flexibility can be a huge advantage, allowing you to plan your life in a way that suits you. You might work an afternoon shift and spend your mornings at the beach, or enjoy several days off in a row to explore the mainland or islands.

Embracing "Siga-Siga"

You’ll often hear the phrase "siga-siga," which means "slowly, slowly." This isn't about being unproductive; it's about being present and less stressed. Coffee breaks are social rituals, not just quick caffeine hits. Lunches can be longer, more relaxed affairs. This slower pace helps prevent burnout and encourages you to build genuine connections with your colleagues, turning your workplace into a supportive community.

Lifestyle Perks: More Than Just a Job

Working in Greece is about the entire experience, both inside and outside the office. The lifestyle perks are what truly make it feel like you’re living in a holiday destination.

A Climate Made for Adventure

With over 250 days of sunshine a year, the weather itself is a major mood booster. The Mediterranean climate invites an outdoor lifestyle. You can swim in the sea from May to October, hike mountains year-round, and enjoy outdoor dining for most of the year. This constant access to nature and good weather is fundamental to the high quality of life here.

A Culture of Food, Fun, and History

Greek culture is vibrant and welcoming. The food is a celebration of fresh, local ingredients, and sharing a meal is a core part of social life. Every corner of the country is steeped in thousands of years of history, offering endless opportunities for exploration. Plus, the famous Greek hospitality, or philoxenia, makes newcomers feel welcome and integrated.

Why choose between career growth and quality of life? Discover international customer service roles in Greece and start living where others vacation.

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Getting Started: Practical Steps for Working in Greece

Making the move is more straightforward than you might think, especially when you have support.

Visa and Relocation Assistance

For EU citizens, the process is simple—you have the right to live and work in Greece without a special visa. For non-EU citizens, many large employers provide visa sponsorship and guidance.

Visit the official website of the government of Greece for more information on the terms and conditions of employment in the country as a foreigner.

Furthermore, leading companies with customer service jobs in Greece offer comprehensive relocation packages. This support often includes your flight ticket, temporary accommodation, and assistance with finding an apartment and navigating local paperwork. This removes a huge amount of stress, allowing you to focus on the excitement of your new life.

Finding Accommodation

Start searching for accommodation online before you arrive using trusted platforms and expat groups. Temporary housing provided by your employer will give you time to explore neighborhoods in Athens or Thessaloniki and choose one that fits your lifestyle and budget. Local real estate agents (often English-speaking) can help you through the process, and rentals are typically more affordable than in many Northern European cities.

Don't be afraid to ask your potential employers for some assistance around accommodations. They might be able to share recommendations. Leading CX companies, like TTEC Athens can also provide you with guidance and even a relocation package.

Dreaming of working abroad without pausing your career? Discover customer service jobs in Greece and start building a life that feels like a holiday. Explore open roles at TTEC Athens at TTECJobs.com.

Navigating Public Transportation

Both Athens and Thessaloniki have reliable and affordable public transportation systems, including metro, buses, and trams. Monthly passes are cost-effective and connect you to neighborhoods, work, and the city center. Many expats find they don’t need a car, especially in the city, as daily commutes can easily be managed with public transit or even walking or biking in some areas.

Understanding Local Customs

Greeks are warm, sociable, and value personal relationships—even in professional settings. A friendly greeting and some small talk go a long way in building rapport. Punctuality is appreciated, but the pace may feel more relaxed than what you’re used to. Embrace the local tradition of coffee breaks and communal lunches—they’re an important part of work culture and a great way to bond with colleagues. Learning a few basic phrases in Greek and showing respect for traditions, like the midday siesta in summer or participating in local festivals, will help you feel at home.

By preparing for these practical details, you’ll set yourself up for a smooth transition and a rewarding experience, both at work and in your new community.

Pro tips to make your work and life in Greece a breeze:

• When looking for a job in Greece, make sure to ask potential employers questions about Visa and relocation assistance.
• Read job posts carefully and don't be afraid to ask recruiters questions about work set up, working hours and even about health insurance and other benefits they offer.
• Research about Greece's work culture and always be prepared to adopt to .
• Once you receive a job offer, always read employment contracts and make sure the working conditions offered to you fits your needs before signing anything.

Sun, culture, and career growth — why not have all three? Unlock the life in Greece while building a meaningful career and make your move toward a more balanced life. Discover jobs for travelers and explorers like you at TTEC.

Your New Adventure in Greece Awaits

So, can you live like you’re on holiday while working in Greece? Yes. It’s a life where your career can flourish in a supportive, international environment, while your personal life is enriched by sun, sea, culture, and community. It’s a balanced life, where you work hard but also live fully.

If you’re ready to trade routine for adventure and build a career in a place that inspires you every day, Greece is waiting.

Ready to explore your options? Discover current opportunities and take the first step toward your new life in the Mediterranean.

Explore Open Roles in TTEC Greece Today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Do I need to speak Greek to work and live there?

For multilingual jobs, your professional work will be in English and your other fluent language (e.g., German, French, Dutch). You do not need Greek to get the job. However, learning some basic Greek phrases will enrich your daily life and help you connect with the local community.

Is it safe for a foreigner to live in Athens or Thessaloniki?

Yes, Greece is generally a very safe country, and its major cities are welcoming to foreigners. Like any large city, it’s wise to be aware of your surroundings, but Athens and Thessaloniki are considered safe for expats, with vibrant international communities.

Will I be working all the time, or can I really travel?

The BPO and customer service industries often operate on shifts, which can provide blocks of days off perfect for travel. With affordable flights and ferries, exploring the Greek islands or other parts of Europe is very accessible. Your “holiday” lifestyle can include plenty of actual holidays!