Greece: Europe's 'Champion' in Rent and Mortgage Arrears

Greece has the highest rate in the European Union for late rent and mortgage payments, according to a new study by diaNEOsis and IOBE. In 2024, 10.4% of households in Greece are behind on their rent or mortgage payments, compared to an EU average of just 1.8%.

The study reveals that over one-third (35.5%) of Greek households' disposable income goes towards housing, almost double the European average. Nearly four in ten citizens (42.8%) live in households with debts on rent, mortgages, and utility bills.

The pressure is particularly acute for renters, with six in ten spending more than 40% of their income on housing. Single-parent households are among the most vulnerable groups, with nearly two out of three facing excessive housing cost burdens.

The study suggests targeted interventions to address the housing crisis, such as controlling rent increases in areas with proven housing pressure and support measures for tenants.