A travel expert has helped Brits in their quest to move out of Britain by sharing the cheapest place to move to in sunny Greece.
As of June 2024, the average house price in the UK is £288,000, with an annual price increase of 2.7 percent, based on the UK House Price Index. In England alone, this average soars to £306,000. Just under 25 years ago, the average house price in England in August 2000 was £83,504, according to Data.gov.uk.
It is no wonder, therefore, why so many Brits have waved goodbye to the British Isles and headed for mainland Europe. In fact, by December 2023, an estimated 532,000 people had emigrated from the UK, including 98,000 British citizens. This was an increase of 39,000 from the previous year, according to Statista.
One of the favourite destinations for Brits is Greece, and it is not difficult to see why. Greece is much cheaper than the UK, especially for property and living expenses. Even in Athens where prices are higher, living costs are 33 percent lower than living in London, according to Compare My Move.
Not to mention the warm climate and seemingly endless hours of sunshine, beautiful landscapes, picturesque beaches and unique cuisine that one could wake up every morning to. Greece also has a vibrant expat community that can help newcomers feel at home.
Now, a travel expert has revealed the cheapest place in Greece for Brits to move to – and it’s the beautiful island of Ithaca, just off the coast of the Ionian Islands’ biggest island, Kefalonia.
Mercedes Zach, travel agent at ASAP Tickets, said an option for those considering moving “to a more remote and quiet part of Greece” is Ithaca, one of the smallest Greek islands in the Ionian Sea which is also considered one of the most beautiful ones with an exotic laid-back vibe.
She said: “Famous as the home of Odysseus, it is located close to Kefalonia and it is a perfect destination for those seeking beautiful natural landscapes and spectacular views. It is, therefore, a top choice for couples and families, as it has both a romantic and relaxing atmosphere.”
Similar to its neighbours, Ithaca is covered with lush green nature and hides secret beaches with emerald waters. It also has a rich history and culture waiting to be explored.
The island’s main town and capital is Vathy, a charming seaside town known for its traditional Greek architecture, narrow streets, and vibrant harbour. Other notable villages include Kioni, with its beautiful bay, and Stavros, where you will find a bust of Odysseus and a small museum dedicated to the island’s history.
“Even though it is small in size, there are various options for sightseeing across the mountainous villages,” Ms Zach continued. “With its 27-kilometre [17-mile] long and 6.5-kilometre [four-mile] large mountainous surface, Ithaca boasts plenty of hiking and mountain bike trails alongside the coastline.
“The island’s many undiscovered beaches, hidden sea caves and very few tourists make it an idyllic holiday spot that you can reach by ferry in about 3.5 hours from the port of Patras on the northern shore of Peloponnesus.
“And on top of that, the great Mediterranean weather, amazing food, hospitable people and affordable everyday living expenses have turned Ithaca into a great destination to consider for a permanent stay.”
Indeed, according to Rightmove, well-maintained properties are available on Ithaca for immediate occupancy for as little as £146,000. For those up for more of a challenge, Brits up for renovation work can buy old properties for just £37,500, or land for £50,000.
“From housing, food and utilities to healthcare and transportation, the average cost of living in Greece and Ithaca island, in particular, is significantly lower than throughout the UK,” Ms Zach concluded.
