Athens vs Copenhagen: Cost of Living Comparison

Housing represents the largest discrepancy between the two cities. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city center of Copenhagen typically costs between $2,100 and $2,600 USD per month. In Athens, a comparable apartment in the city center ranges from $650 to $900 USD. For those looking to buy, the price per square foot in Copenhagen is nearly triple the price in Athens. While Copenhagen offers exceptionally high-quality building standards and energy efficiency, Athens provides far more space for the money, particularly in the emerging southern suburbs or historic central districts.

The cost of food varies greatly depending on whether you eat out or cook at home. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant in Athens costs about $15 USD, while a similar meal in Copenhagen starts at $25 USD. For a mid-range three-course dinner for two, expect to pay around $55 in Athens versus $115 in Copenhagen. Grocery prices are also higher in Denmark; basic staples like bread, eggs, and local cheese are 40% to 60% more expensive in Copenhagen. However, Copenhagen offers a world-class fine dining scene that, while expensive, is often considered more diverse than the traditional Greek-focused offerings in Athens.

Copenhagen is famous for its cycling infrastructure, which allows many residents to avoid transport costs entirely. However, if you use public transit, a monthly pass in Copenhagen costs approximately $95 USD, compared to just $30 USD in Athens. Gasoline prices are high in both cities, often exceeding $2.00 per liter, but owning a car is significantly more expensive in Denmark due to the country's massive registration tax on new vehicles. Athens remains a more car-dependent city, though its metro system is affordable and efficient for reaching the city center.

Lifestyle costs reflect the general economic divide. A monthly gym membership in Copenhagen averages $45 USD, while in Athens it is closer to $40 USD, though budget chains in Athens can be found for much less. Utility costs (electricity, heating, water) for a standard 900 sq ft apartment are surprisingly similar, ranging from $180 to $250 USD, though Denmark's district heating is often more reliable during winter. For leisure, a cinema ticket in Copenhagen costs about $18 USD, compared to $10 USD in Athens.

There are currently no direct flight routes provided between Athens (ATH) and Copenhagen (CPH). Travelers typically choose connecting flights through major European hubs such as Munich (MUC), Frankfurt (FRA), or Zurich (ZRH). The total travel time including a layover generally ranges from 5 to 7 hours. Several major carriers and low-cost airlines operate these routes, making it easy to find daily connections despite the lack of a direct flight.