Many students get targeted by scammers, especially through Facebook groups. Scammers often post fake listings with stolen photos, ask for money upfront, and disappear once you pay.
How to stay safe:
The safest way to avoid scams is to use trusted platforms like Nostus.com, where every listing is verified, payments are protected, and landlords are personally onboarded. Nostus also covers you in case on cancellations.
👉 Read more: How to Avoid Rental Scams in Greece as an International Student.
2. Typical student rent prices in Greece 💶
Knowing the average rent will help you spot both scams and overpriced listings.
- Athens: Rooms range 350-550€/month, apartments or modern studios 500-800€.
- Thessaloniki: Rooms 300-500€/month, apartments or modern studios 450-700€.
- Other cities (Patras, Ioannina, Crete): usually cheaper, ~350€/month.
Keep in mind: utilities (electricity, water, internet) are usually not included in the rent and can add 50-100€/month.
3. Rental contracts are required 📜
Even for Erasmus and short stays, we recommend you have a written contract. In Greece, contracts are usually registered online with the tax office (AADE).
A proper contract protects you against illegal evictions and ensures your deposit is returned.
4. Location matters more than you think 📍
Each city has its own “student-friendly” neighbourhoods.
- In Athens, popular areas include Exarchia, Kypseli, and Pangrati (close to universities and nightlife).
- In Thessaloniki, Erasmus students love Ano Poli, City Center, and Vardaris.
👉 See our guides:
- Best Neighborhoods in Athens for Erasmus Students (2025 Guide)
- Best Neighborhoods in Thessaloniki for Erasmus Students (2025 Guide)
Choose a neighborhood based on your lifestyle: close to campus, nightlife, or quieter low-cost options.
5. Deposits and fees 💳
Most landlords in Greece ask for a 1-month deposit, refundable at the end of the contract if there’s no damage. Be ready to pay the first month’s rent + deposit upfront.
If you’re renting through platforms like Nostus, there’s also a tenant service fee (25% + VAT of the first month’s rent) which ensures safe booking, verified listings, and secure payments.
👉 Example: If your rent is 400€/month, the Nostus fee is 100€ + VAT (~124€ in total). This is much cheaper than a real estate agent, who usually charges a full month’s rent (~400€), and lower than other international rental platforms.
Final tip: Use verified student housing platforms ✅
Renting in Greece as an international student doesn’t have to be stressful. By understanding the basics – contracts, typical rents, and scam prevention – you can avoid costly mistakes.
That’s why platforms like Nostus.com exist: to give students a safe, verified, and easy way to find mid-term rentals in Athens and Thessaloniki.
👉 Start your Erasmus adventure stress-free by booking your student accommodation on Nostus.com.
