Greeks Still Willing to Leave for Better Work Conditions

According to the latest 2024 survey by the think tank diaNEOsis titled “What Greeks Believe,” 60.7% of the 1,103 respondents stated they would leave Greece if they had the opportunity to work abroad for higher wages and improved working conditions. This percentage highlights a strong inclination toward migration among Greeks.

Although migration rates have slowed compared to the massive wave of the past decade, the dream of a better life abroad remains alive. In 2022 and 2023, a total of 156,465 Greeks left the country, according to the Hellenic Statistical Authority (ELSTAT).

Economic factors are not the only reasons Greeks choose to emigrate. In a 2018 study by ICAP People Solutions, Greek expatriates cited lack of meritocracy and corruption as the primary reasons for leaving, followed by the economic crisis.

Thus, even though Greece’s economy is improving, it is not enough to retain those seeking decent wages—Greek salaries remain significantly lower than the European average—as well as fair opportunities, more efficient public services, and a higher quality of life.

The Best Cities for Job Seekers

CVwizard.com conducted a study analyzing the ease or difficulty of finding employment in cities worldwide. Using data from the Mercer Cost of Living Index, job availability per capita, and average annual salary, the study produced the Global Job Difficulty Index.

According to this index, the top 20 cities where finding a job is easiest are concentrated in four countries:

1. United States (by a large margin)
2. Switzerland
3. Denmark
4. Luxembourg

Other high-ranking countries include the Netherlands, Germany, Norway, Belgium, and Australia.

The top 10 cities with the best job opportunities are:

1. Boston, USA
2. Zurich, Switzerland
3. San Francisco, USA
4. Washington, USA
5. Basel, Switzerland
6. Bern, Switzerland
7. Copenhagen, Denmark
8. Atlanta, USA
9. New York, USA
10. Los Angeles, USA

Are These Cities on Greeks’ Radar?

While job opportunities and better salaries are key motivations for relocating, they are not the only factors. Stability, social benefits, work-life balance, and personal development also influence the decision.

Practical and emotional considerations—such as language, proximity to Greece, presence of Greek communities, personal recommendations, and family ties—also play a crucial role.

USA or Europe?

The USA has historically been a popular destination for Greek emigrants, hosting the largest Greek diaspora community. Boston and New York, both ranked among the best cities for employment, have strong Greek populations.

However, while the US offers high wages and a dynamic economy, securing a visa is challenging and time-consuming.

On the other hand, free movement within the EU and geographic proximity make European destinations more attractive. Germany, the UK (before Brexit), the Netherlands, Belgium, and Sweden have been among the most popular choices for Greeks in recent years.

Switzerland, despite being outside the EU, has an agreement allowing free movement of people. According to a 2024 Jobseeker survey, it was the most popular work destination for Greeks. With its stability, high salaries, low taxes, and quality of life, Switzerland appeals to workers in tourism, healthcare, IT, and construction. Reports from Open indicate that over 40,000 Greeks already reside there.

What About Denmark and Luxembourg?

Despite ranking high in job availability, Copenhagen and Luxembourg are not yet top choices for Greek workers. However, interest is growing.

Denmark’s statistics show that in 2010, only 941 Greeks lived in the country, whereas by early 2025, the number had risen to 5,390, with over half residing in Copenhagen.

Luxembourg had a Greek population of 4,500 in early 2024, compared to over 90,000 Portuguese residents.

Both countries offer opportunities in IT, finance, engineering, construction, industrial production, and healthcare. Denmark also seeks skilled workers in green energy, hospitality, transportation, and logistics, while Luxembourg has a demand for legal professionals, HR specialists, social service workers, and educators.