Rental Yields in Athens and Beyond: Surprising Outcomes in 2026
Athens, Attica, Greece, June 11, 2026 – A new study by ReDataset for 2026 indicates that the highest rental yields in Greece are not found in the most commercially valuable areas, challenging conventional wisdom in the real estate market. The research, titled “Greek Residential Gross Yields,” analyzed rental returns across six major geographical zones and dozens of municipalities, revealing that more affordable districts often offer better investment opportunities.
The study found that Agia Varvara in West Attica recorded the highest gross yield at 7.1%, closely followed by Larissa in the periphery at 7%. In stark contrast, areas like Elliniko-Argyroupoli saw yields of 3.2%, and Glyfada, one of the country’s most expensive real estate markets, registered even lower returns. This suggests that continuous increases in property sale prices have compressed yields, as rental rates have not kept pace.
Yields in Central Athens
Central Athens shows relatively high yields, though with significant variations between municipalities. The Municipality of Athens recorded the highest yield at 5.4%, followed by Kaisariani at 5%, Zografou at 4.9%, and Byron at 4.8%. On the lower end were Galatsi with 4.1% and Ilioupoli with 3.3%. Despite these discrepancies, the study notes that most central areas maintain a narrow range of yields, attributed to the market’s high liquidity and stable demand for rental properties.
Stability in Northern Suburbs
The northern suburbs exhibit the greatest stability in rental yields. Chalandri leads with 4.7%, followed by Kifissia and Nea Ionia at 4.3%, Agia Paraskevi at 4.1%, Papagou-Cholargos at 4%, and Marousi at 3.8%. This reflects a market with a strong homeowner presence and relatively homogeneous characteristics, where yield fluctuations are limited.
The Surprise of the Southern Suburbs
Contrary to expectations, some of the country’s most expensive properties in the southern suburbs show lower yields. Kallithea tops this zone at 4.8%, followed by Nea Smyrni at 4%. Paleo Faliro and Agios Dimitrios hover around 3.6%, while Alimos and Elliniko-Argyroupoli are at 3.2%. Glyfada, despite being a prime location, recorded the lowest yields in this category. This trend highlights that the rapid appreciation of property values along the Athenian Riviera has outpaced rental increases, thereby compressing yields.
West Attica: The Unexpected Champions
The biggest surprise of the research comes from West Attica. Agia Varvara boasts the highest gross yield in the entire Attica region at 7.1%. Egaleo follows with 5.7%, Haidari with 4.8%, Ilion with 4.5%, and Peristeri with 4.4%. Even Petroupoli, at the bottom of this zone with 3.7%, outperforms several southern suburbs. This phenomenon is attributed to comparatively lower purchase prices combined with strong rental demand.
East Attica and Piraeus
In East Attica, Spata and Artemida recorded yields of 5.5%, with Marathon at 4.9%, Koropi at 4.8%, and Paiania at 4.5%. Conversely, Pallini and the areas of Vari-Voula-Vouliagmeni fell below 4%, reinforcing the conclusion that high property values do not guarantee higher returns. Piraeus shows remarkable stability, with Keratsini-Drapetsona, Nikaia-Agios Ioannis Rentis, and Perama all at 5.1%, Korydallos at 4.9%, and the Municipality of Piraeus at 4.7%.
Regional Greece Upsets the Data
The most significant surprises emerge from regional Greece. Larissa achieved a 7% yield, directly competing with Agia Varvara. Volos followed with 6%, Patras with 5.9%, and Heraklion and Ioannina both at 5.5%. Thessaloniki, surprisingly, was limited to 4.3%, a lower performance than many provincial cities.
The study’s findings indicate that the real estate market no longer adheres to traditional stereotypes. The most expensive areas are not necessarily the most profitable, and the best opportunities for rental income often lie away from the most prominent addresses.
Source: https://www.newsbeast.gr/financial/arthro/13160999/pou-apodidoun-perissotero-ta-enoikia-oi-ekplixeis-se-athina-peiraia-kai-perifereia
