Why Athens Is No Longer a Low-Cost Option, But a Strategic Talent Relocation Destination

For a long time, Athens was treated as the budget choice.
A place companies came to reduce costs, not to build strategy.

According to a recent article in Forbes Greece, major international companies have strengthened or expanded their presence in Greece, building technology, innovation and operational hubs rather than simple back-office units. This shift changes the relocation profile entirely.

So what is behind this shift?

1. Tax Incentives That Matter

• 50% income tax relief for eligible new tax residents (up to 7 years)

• Non-Dom regime allowing eligible executives with foreign income to pay a fixed annual tax instead of standard taxation on global earnings.

For multinational employers, this improves net compensation outcomes without inflating payroll costs.

2. Strategic Geography

Athens operates as a bridge between:

• Western Europe

• The Middle East

• U.S. time zones

3. Retention Is Easier Here

Executive relocations tend to work better when families feel settled.

Access to international schools, reliable healthcare, strong air connectivity and everyday quality of life make Athens feel like a place you can actually build around, not just pass through.

So, Athens is no longer competing as the cheapest market,It is competing as a strategically positioned, tax-efficient EU base for high-impact talents.

That is a different level of relocation conversation.