When considering a move or investment in Greece, it’s essential to compare the cost of living across its many beautiful islands. Corfu, known for its lush landscapes and rich history, is often compared to other Greek islands such as Mykonos, Santorini, Rhodes, and Crete. Let’s break down the costs and see how Corfu stands out as an affordable and rewarding destination for expats, retirees, and real estate investors.

1. Housing Costs

Housing is one of the most significant expenses when relocating or investing in Greek islands. Here’s how Corfu compares:

• Corfu: Average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Corfu Town is around €400-€600. Buying property costs €1,500-€3,000 per square meter, depending on location.
• Mykonos: Mykonos’ luxury appeal means rents often exceed €1,500 for similar apartments, and buying property can cost over €5,000 per square meter.
• Santorini: Known for its iconic views, Santorini’s property prices rival Mykonos, with rents averaging €1,200 and property prices around €4,000-€6,000 per square meter.
• Rhodes: More affordable than Mykonos and Santorini, Rhodes’ property prices range between €1,500-€2,500 per square meter, with rents around €500.
• Crete: Crete offers competitive pricing with rents averaging €400-€600 and property prices similar to Corfu.

Why Choose Corfu: Corfu offers a balance of affordability and appeal, making it ideal for those seeking value without sacrificing lifestyle.

2. Daily Living Expenses

The cost of groceries, dining, and transportation varies across the islands:

• Groceries: Corfu’s local markets provide fresh produce and goods at reasonable prices. A weekly grocery bill for a couple can be as low as €50.
• Dining Out: A meal at a mid-range restaurant in Corfu averages €15 per person, compared to €25-€40 in Mykonos and Santorini.
• Transportation: Corfu’s reliable bus network and affordable car rentals make getting around easy, with monthly transportation costs around €50.

Why Choose Corfu: Lower costs on essentials mean your money goes further, enhancing your quality of life.

3. Utility Costs

• Corfu: Monthly utilities, including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage, average around €120 for a 2-bedroom apartment.
• Other Islands: Mykonos and Santorini often see higher utility bills due to their popularity and infrastructure demands, averaging €150-€200.
• Rhodes and Crete: Similar to Corfu, utility costs remain affordable.

Why Choose Corfu: Moderate utility costs make Corfu a cost-effective choice for long-term living.

4. Healthcare

Greece’s healthcare system is affordable and efficient across the islands:

• Corfu: Public healthcare services are available at minimal costs, while private health insurance ranges from €50-€150 monthly.
• Mykonos and Santorini: Limited public facilities often mean reliance on private healthcare, which can be more expensive.
• Rhodes and Crete: Both islands have well-developed healthcare infrastructure similar to Corfu.

Why Choose Corfu: Access to quality healthcare without the higher private costs of more tourist-heavy islands.

5. Real Estate Investment Potential

For investors, the ROI potential on Greek islands varies significantly:

• Corfu: With growing tourism and affordable property prices, Corfu offers rental yields of 4-6%.
• Mykonos and Santorini: High property costs often reduce ROI, despite strong tourist demand.
• Rhodes and Crete: Both islands offer competitive yields, but with less of the boutique appeal Corfu provides.

Why Choose Corfu: A thriving tourism sector combined with moderate property prices ensures a strong investment case.

6. Lifestyle and Amenities

• Corfu: Known for its lush greenery, Venetian architecture, and laid-back vibe, Corfu strikes a balance between modern amenities and natural beauty.
• Other Islands: Mykonos and Santorini cater to luxury lifestyles, often at the expense of affordability. Rhodes and Crete offer more diverse landscapes but lack Corfu’s unique charm.

Why Choose Corfu: A harmonious blend of culture, nature, and modern living sets Corfu apart.

Final Thoughts

Corfu’s cost of living is lower than luxury destinations like Mykonos and Santorini while offering a richer lifestyle than Rhodes or Crete for the price. Whether you’re planning to relocate or invest in real estate, Corfu provides the perfect mix of affordability, lifestyle, and investment potential.

Ready to make your move? Explore Corfu’s real estate market today and discover why this Ionian gem is the ideal choice for your next chapter.