How to Find a Student Apartment in Athens and Thessaloniki | Housing Guide

How to Find a Student Apartment in Athens or Thessaloniki: A Practical Guide

Finding student accommodation isn’t just about browsing listings and hoping for the best. It’s a process that requires planning, market awareness, and the ability to distinguish between properties that look appealing and those that truly suit your needs. Whether you’re studying in Athens or Thessaloniki, this guide provides a clear and realistic approach to help you navigate the housing market with confidence.

Step One: Define Your Criteria

Before you even begin searching, clarify these key points:

• What is your total monthly budget (including rent, utilities, and maintenance fees)?
• Which neighborhoods are realistically accessible from your university?
• Do you want to live alone or with a roommate?
• What features are non-negotiable for you (e.g., independent heating, natural light, balcony)?

Without clear parameters, your search can quickly become overwhelming and unproductive.

Start Early = More Options

The best time to start looking is from late May to mid-July. As September approaches, demand skyrockets, good listings disappear fast, and prices often rise. If you wait until university admission results are announced, you’ll find yourself competing in the most saturated period of the year.

If you’re already a student planning to move, consider November–December or March–April, when the market is quieter and there’s less competition.

Use Reliable Sources

Trustworthy methods for your apartment search include:

• Real estate platforms with filters tailored for student housing
• Local real estate agents familiar with the student rental market
• University forums, online communities, and social media groups (be cautious of scams)
• Personal referrals from fellow students who are moving out

Avoid listings with no photos, prices that seem “too good to be true,” or descriptions that sound overly pushy. If something feels suspicious, it usually is.

How to Evaluate a Property

When visiting an apartment, assess it with care:

• Check window frames and insulation (both for sound and heat)
• Observe lighting, ventilation, and any signs of moisture
• Test appliances (water heater, stove, fridge, heating system)
• Compare the rent to average prices in the same area
• Ask about building maintenance, elevator access, and general condition
• Inquire whether internet access is already installed or needs to be arranged

Always ask to see recent utility bills. Heating or building fees can vary greatly—sometimes by more than €100 per month.

Location Matters More Than the Address

Don’t be misled by a listing that says the property is “close to the university” if it actually takes you 30 minutes and two buses to get to class. Prioritize neighborhoods with direct access to public transport, especially in Athens, where distances can be greater.

Popular student areas in Athens include Zografou, Pagkrati, Kypseli, Exarchia, Ilisia, and Neos Kosmos.

In Thessaloniki, top student neighborhoods are Rotonta, Kamara, Ano Poli, Toumba, and the greater city center.

If You Can’t Visit in Person

For students coming from other cities or abroad, an in-person visit isn’t always possible. In that case:

• Ask for a video walkthrough (not just staged photos)
• Make sure the lease terms are clear and provided in writing
• Never pay a deposit without a signed agreement
• Prefer rentals via agents or verified platforms

Final Decision: Don’t Rush

Many students make the mistake of rushing into a lease due to time pressure or uncertainty. A poorly insulated apartment, an unreliable landlord, or hidden costs can turn your daily life into a source of stress. A well-chosen apartment, on the other hand, supports focus, peace of mind, and overall well-being.

Student housing is an investment—not just financially, but emotionally. Like any important investment, it requires proper research, comparison, and rational judgment.