Retire in Greece vs Spain: The 2026 Freedom Comparison

Geo-arbitrage is the strategy of earning a strong currency (like USD or EUR) while living in a country with a lower cost of living. In 2026, this is the fastest way to achieve FIRE, allowing you to reduce expenses by 40-60% without lowering your quality of life.

The Freedom Clock calculates your exact 'Freedom Date' based on your savings, income, and the real-time cost of living in your target country. It accounts for 2026 inflation rates and tax laws to give you a precise timeline for early retirement.

Applicants must demonstrate a monthly net income of at least €3,500, plus 20% for a spouse and 15% per child.

Yes, Greece offers a 50% income tax exemption for 7 years to qualifying nomads who commit to staying for at least two years.

The nomad visa itself is for 1 year (renewable for 2), but 5 years of legal residence can lead to permanent residency eligibility.

Public healthcare is accessible to residents, but nomads usually maintain private insurance, which is high quality and relatively low cost.

The threshold for real estate investment has increased to €800k in high-demand areas (Athens, Thessaloniki, islands) and €400k elsewhere.

Major islands like Crete and Rhodes have excellent fiber, while smaller islands are now largely covered by high-speed Starlink.

A single person can live comfortably on €1,800–€2,200 per month, which is significantly lower than in Northern Europe.

Greece is very safe with low violent crime rates; common sense is sufficient even in busy urban centers.

No, the visa strictly prohibits local employment; all income must come from employers or clients based outside Greece.

Greece averages over 300 days of sunshine per year, making it a top choice for those seeking a Mediterranean climate.

A tax regime allowing qualifying expats (including remote workers) to pay a flat 24% tax on Spanish-sourced income for up to 6 years, instead of progressive rates.

Applicants must earn at least 200% of the Spanish minimum wage (SMI), which in 2026 is approximately €2,760 per month.

Yes, but it varies by region. Madrid and Andalusia offer high exemptions, while other regions tax net assets above €700k at 0.2% to 3.5%.

Spain ranks consistently in the top 10 globally. Residents can access the public 'Sistema Nacional de Salud' or buy private insurance for ~€60–€150/month.

The 'Golden Visa' (investing €500k in real estate) is under heavy reform in 2026; check current regional restrictions as many areas have suspended this route.

Spain is one of the safest countries in the EU. Petty crime like pickpocketing is common in tourist hubs, but violent crime is very low.

A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center typically ranges from €1,200 to €1,800 per month.

Generally, yes; groceries, dining, and public transport are significantly cheaper, often 30-40% less than major US cities.

You can drive for the first 6 months, after which you must obtain a Spanish license, which usually requires passing both theory and practical tests.

In major cities and tourist areas, English is widely spoken, but learning Spanish is essential for daily life and bureaucracy in smaller towns.