Rents in Attica Surge as Housing Costs Squeeze Tenants

Rents across Attica have surged, making affordable housing increasingly difficult to find. A quick search through property listings shows that apartments of around 70 square meters rarely rent for less than 700 euros per month, while in some areas monthly rents exceed 1,100 euros.

According to a recent diaNEOsis study on Greece’s housing crisis, renters are facing the heaviest financial burden. Six in ten tenant households now spend more than 40% of their income on housing—significantly higher than homeowners, including those still paying off mortgages.

The Bank of Greece warns that the housing problem is worsening as property prices, taxes, and operating costs continue to rise.

Data from property platform Spitogatos show that the five most expensive areas in Attica for renting homes include several northern and southern suburbs. Vouliagmeni remains the priciest location, with an average asking rent of 20.4 euros per square meter. Other high-cost districts include Kolonaki–Lycabettus, Voula, Filothei, Palaio Psychiko, and Glyfada.

At the opposite end of the spectrum, the most affordable areas in Attica for renters in 2025 include Stamata and Agios Stefanos in the northern suburbs, Perama near Piraeus, and Kamatero and Acharnes in western Athens.

Renters increasingly favor renovated, energy-efficient homes with modern design and functional upgrades. Renovation matters to 82% of tenants, while quality windows and natural gas heating remain key considerations. Interest in smart home features, however, is still limited.

Access to public transportation is crucial, with 94% of renters ranking it as a top priority. In Thessaloniki, most tenants seek bright, airy homes, with many also valuing views or outdoor space, while quiet neighborhoods and storage space are less decisive factors.

Preferences on furnishing differ: half of renters prefer unfurnished homes, while others are either open to furnished properties or have no preference. Demand for natural gas heating in Thessaloniki is universal.

Source: tovima.com