Despite the decline in migration rates, thousands of Greeks continue to search for better or more lucrative job opportunities abroad. A study by CVwizard reveals where they are most likely to find them.
According to the latest survey by diNEOsiS titled "What Greeks Believe" (2024), which involved 1,103 participants, 60.7% stated they would leave Greece if given the opportunity to work abroad for higher salaries and improved working conditions. This figure reflects a strong trend towards migration among respondents.
While the pace of Greek migration has slowed compared to the mass exodus of the previous decade, the dream of a better life outside Greece remains alive. In 2022 and 2023, a total of 156,465 Greeks left the country, according to ELSTAT data.
Even during the crisis years, economic reasons weren't the only factors driving Greeks to pack their bags and leave. A 2018 ICAP People Solutions survey revealed that the primary reason for departure was the lack of meritocracy and corruption, with the economic crisis coming in second.
Thus, while Greece’s economic improvement is significant, it’s not enough to retain those seeking decent wages. Greek salaries remain far below the European average, alongside a lack of meritocracy, insufficient public services, and overall lower quality of life.
So, where do Greeks have the best chances of finding a job to build the life they dream of?
Cities with the Most Job Opportunities
CVwizard.com conducted a study to explore where in the world it is easiest or hardest to find a job. Analyzing the top 65 cities based on the Mercer Cost of Living Index and considering factors such as job availability per resident and the average annual salary, they presented the Global Job Difficulty Index.
According to this index, the top 20 cities where it is easiest to find a job are concentrated in four countries: the United States (by a large margin), Switzerland, followed by Denmark and Luxembourg. A little further down the list, we find the Netherlands, Germany, Norway, Belgium, and Australia.
The top ten cities are as follows:
Boston, USA
Zurich, Switzerland
San Francisco, USA
Washington, USA
Basel, Switzerland
Bern, Switzerland
Copenhagen, Denmark
Atlanta, USA
New York, USA
Los Angeles, USA
Are These Cities on Greeks’ Radar?
It’s important to emphasize that while job opportunities and higher wages are the main drivers of labor migration, they are not the only factors. Those who make the difficult decision to migrate are also seeking stability, social benefits, a good environment, growth opportunities, and a work-life balance.
Additionally, practical or emotional factors play a key role in the final decision. According to a joint study by The Network, Boston Consulting Group, and The Stepstone Group, these include the language spoken in the host country, distance from the home country, the presence of a Greek community, personal recommendations, and family ties.
USA or Europe?
The United States has long been a favorite destination for Greeks, hosting the largest Greek diaspora. Cities like Boston and New York, which offer abundant job opportunities, also have a strong Greek presence.
However, while the world’s largest economy continues to attract with its high salaries and strong markets for business, research, and innovation, securing a visa for residency remains challenging and time-consuming.
In contrast, the free movement within the EU and geographical proximity have made European options more appealing. Countries like Germany, the United Kingdom (pre-Brexit), the Netherlands, Belgium, and Sweden have been popular destinations in recent years.
Switzerland, although outside the EU, has a special agreement with the Union for free movement of people. In fact, according to a Jobseeker study, Switzerland was the most popular destination for Greeks in 2024.
From stability and a favorable natural environment to high salaries, low taxes, and quality of life, Switzerland offers many compelling reasons for relocation, especially for workers in tourism, healthcare, IT, and construction. According to Open reports, Switzerland is already home to over 40,000 Greeks.
What About Denmark and Luxembourg?
Despite being ranked higher on the Global Job Difficulty Index for job availability, Copenhagen and Luxembourg are still not top choices for Greeks, though they are on their radar.
According to Denmark's statistics office, only 941 Greek nationals were living in the country at the beginning of the 2010s. By early 2025, that number had risen to 5,390, with nearly half (2,565) residing in Copenhagen.
Similarly, Luxembourg's Greek community numbered around 4,500 people in early 2024, according to the country's official statistics. For comparison, the Portuguese community exceeds 90,000 people.
Both countries present job opportunities in information technology, finance, engineering, construction, industrial production, and healthcare. Denmark is also seeking skilled workers in green energy, hospitality, transportation, and logistics, while Luxembourg is looking for legal professionals and experts in HR, social services, and education.
