Greek households face soaring living costs as inflation and tourism pressure intensify

A joint survey by the Institute of Alternative Politics (ENA) and Prorata found that 69% of Greeks consider price inflation the country’s biggest problem, while 64% report living "month to month." High energy costs are seen as a major burden by 88% of respondents, 69% struggle with rent or mortgage payments and 66% say financial insecurity harms their mental health.

The same research shows that 63% have not planned any holidays and 62% lack money for leisure activities. Many households are forced to stay in owned or relatives’ homes (38%) rather than hotels (32%) or short‑term rentals (19%). Among 17‑34‑year‑olds, 48% are seriously considering emigration and 43% have postponed having children.

Separately, studies cite tourism’s contribution to Greece’s GDP at 9‑13%, but also its role in amplifying inflation. Prices for food, accommodation, entertainment and transport rise sharply in tourist‑heavy zones, turning seasonal price spikes into permanent increases that further strain household budgets. Despite macro‑economic indicators showing growth above the euro‑area average, low unemployment and rising wages, the surge in living costs means disposable incomes are not keeping pace, limiting the real welfare of a large share of the population.