The cost of living in Greece has risen over the last fews years, as Greece slowly comes out of the economic crisis of the last decade. Those who live in Crete can make their euros go further with thrifty shopping. Savings can be made at the large supermarket chains such (including Lidl) by buying their own brand goods. Buy local fresh fruit and vegetables only when they are in season, imported goods are far more expensive, and shop at the local farmers markets, the 'laiki' - every town in Crete has one (ask locally for the location and days of the laiki in your nearest town).
Basic goods and fuel on the islands, like Crete, tend to be a little more expensive than on the mainland due to transportation costs.
The overall prices of consumer goods, though, are fairly competitive. Shop around or buy in the sales (mid January to end February and in August), particularly for larger items such as electrical goods and furniture.
Eating out in Crete is still relatively cheap, particularly away from the main tourist areas and local 'in' places. Village tavernas usually offer the best value.
Guide to basic costs 2019
Long term rental
Varies depending on location, facilities and age of property. Prices have risen in the last few years due to the popularity of Airbnb holiday rentals and there is somewhat of a shortage of year-round rentals.
Prices start from around 300€ per month for an unfurnished one-bedroomed property in a village.
A three-bedroomed house or apartment in town or a popular area is likely to cost anywhere between 450€ per month (older property and unfurnished) to 800€ + per month (newer property/villa).
Electricity
A very general average of around 60€ / 100€ per month for a 2/3 bedroomed property with air con in the summer, electric cooker, water heater, family of four. The electricity bill also includes local council taxes & charges, which make up around 30 to 40% of the bill.
Telephone & Internet packages
Landline plus fast broadband Internet packages start from around 20€ per month - see Cosmote and Vodaphone.
Petrol
Prices in 2019 average around 1.65€ per litre, across Crete.
Going Out
Meal with local wine from 13€ per person.
Average 3 course meal with local wine 20€ per person.
Coffee from 1.40€ (cafeneon or fast food place) to 4€ (smart cafe in town/resort)
Beer from 2.00€ (cafeneon or fast food place) to 5€ (smart cafe in town/resort)
Cinema ticket 7€ to 8€
Further details about costs re housing, insurance, pools etc in Crete & Greece can be found on the forum thread (thanks to Brian C).
Details of food costs etc for Crete can be found on www.numbeo.com
