Living & Accommodation in Greece for Pakistani Students

When Pakistani students choose to study in Greece, they not only gain access to high-quality education but also experience an exceptional Mediterranean lifestyle. Greece offers a blend of modern urban life, rich history, cultural diversity, and affordable living, making it an ideal destination for international students. Understanding the living conditions and accommodation options in Greece helps Pakistani students plan better and adapt easily to Greek student life.

Overview of Student Life in Greece

Greece offers a safe, friendly, and welcoming environment for Pakistani students. Locals are known for their hospitality (philoxenia), and English is widely spoken in academic and urban areas. Students enjoy access to modern facilities, vibrant student communities, and affordable entertainment options.

Some of the most popular student cities include:

Athens – The capital city, full of culture, nightlife, and top universities.
Thessaloniki – Known as Greece’s student hub with a youthful, energetic atmosphere.
Crete and Patras – Coastal cities offering a relaxed, affordable lifestyle.

Accommodation Options for Pakistani Students

Finding suitable housing is a top priority for students moving to Greece. The country offers several student accommodation options, depending on budget and personal preferences.

Accommodation Type	Average Monthly Rent (€)	Features
University Dormitories	€150 – €250	On-campus, affordable, shared rooms
Private Apartments	€250 – €400	Independent living, ideal for long-term stay
Shared Flats	€200 – €350	Split costs, great for social life
Hostels / Student Residences	€200 – €300	Fully furnished, includes utilities
Homestays	€300 – €450	Live with a Greek family, cultural experience

University dormitories are usually the cheapest and most convenient option, but spaces are limited. Many Pakistani students prefer renting private apartments or shared flats close to campus to balance comfort and affordability.

Cost of Living in Greece

Greece is known for its low cost of living compared to other European countries. The following table outlines the average monthly expenses for Pakistani students:

Expense Category	Estimated Monthly Cost (in Euros)	Approximate PKR Equivalent
Accommodation	€250 – €400	PKR 76,000 – PKR 122,000
Food & Groceries	€150 – €250	PKR 45,000 – PKR 76,000
Transportation	€30 – €50	PKR 9,000 – PKR 15,000
Utilities & Internet	€60 – €100	PKR 18,000 – PKR 30,000
Personal & Leisure	€70 – €120	PKR 21,000 – PKR 36,000

Total Estimated Monthly Cost: €560 – €920
Total Annual Cost: €6,700 – €11,000 (approx. PKR 2.0 – 3.4 million)

These figures can vary depending on lifestyle choices and the city of residence. Athens tends to be more expensive, while Thessaloniki and Crete offer lower living costs.

Student-Friendly Cities in Greece

Athens
- Capital and largest city of Greece.
- Offers numerous universities, historical landmarks, and vibrant nightlife.
- Average rent: €350 – €500/month.
Thessaloniki
- Often called the “Student City of Greece.”
- Known for its affordable living, warm culture, and diverse student community.
- Average rent: €250 – €350/month.
Crete
- A peaceful island city offering a mix of beaches, low living costs, and top universities like the University of Crete.
- Average rent: €200 – €300/month.
Patras
- A smaller city, ideal for students seeking a quiet academic environment with affordable prices.
- Average rent: €180 – €300/month.

Food and Dining in Greece

Greek cuisine is healthy, delicious, and affordable. Pakistani students can easily find halal food in larger cities like Athens and Thessaloniki. Many supermarkets also offer halal meat and South Asian products.

Average meal costs:

Restaurant meal: €8 – €12
Fast food: €4 – €6
Monthly groceries: €150 – €200

To save money, many students cook at home. Popular and affordable dishes include gyros, souvlaki, moussaka, and Greek salads.

Transportation in Greece

Greece has an efficient public transport system, especially in cities like Athens and Thessaloniki. Students enjoy discounted travel passes for buses, trams, and metros.

Monthly student transport pass: €30 – €40
Single bus ticket: €1.20 – €1.50
Taxi (short trip): €5 – €10

Cycling and walking are also common in smaller towns, reducing transport expenses.

Utilities and Internet

Most private accommodations require students to pay for utilities, which include electricity, water, and internet. Costs can range between €60 – €100 per month, depending on usage.

High-speed internet is widely available, with average plans costing €25 – €35/month. Many universities also provide free Wi-Fi access on campus.

Social and Cultural Life

Living in Greece offers Pakistani students the chance to experience a unique blend of European and Mediterranean culture. Students can participate in:

University clubs and societies
Cultural festivals and student exchange events
Outdoor activities like hiking, beach trips, and historical tours

The Greek lifestyle is relaxed and community-oriented, which helps international students adapt quickly and enjoy their stay.

Part-Time Work Opportunities

Pakistani students studying in Greece on a valid Student Visa (Type D) can work up to 20 hours per week during semesters and full-time during holidays.

Common part-time jobs include:

Cafés, restaurants, or supermarkets
University assistantships
Freelance work in IT, writing, or design

Average earnings range between €400 – €700/month, helping students manage rent or food expenses.

Conclusion

Living in Greece as a Pakistani student is not only affordable but also enriching. From affordable accommodation and delicious food to friendly locals and safe environments, Greece provides everything an international student could ask for. With careful planning and budgeting, Pakistani students can enjoy a comfortable and fulfilling student life in this Mediterranean gem — all while earning a globally recognized degree.