Mykonos, Greece

What It Is Like to Retire in Mykonos

Remember those pictures you seen of white stone windmills (like the ones above) on a Greek island? Chances are that these are photos of Mykonos, Greece (pronounced Meek' a nos). The island is located in the center of the Aegean Sea, and it is filled with dozens of tiny whitewashed churches with stunning blue domes. Mykonos is the island's main port and major town, although there are other small towns on the island. Cafes and restaurants surround the lovely waterfront, where the people drink coffee or ouzo and watch people and incoming boats. Mykonos is unlike a lot of Greek islands in that the town is built at the waterfront and not on a steep hill overlooking it. That feature makes it easy to stroll from town to the harbor or many beautiful beaches. Just under 10,000 people live here

Rising up in the hills surrounding the harbor are lovely homes and villas. Unless you are very adventurous most retirees would probably be more comfortable in the more modern housing that is spread along the coast, just outside of town. Homes in town are smaller and more rustic, as they curve along the byzantine streets that spread out in a maze (to confuse invading pirates).  Home prices are lower than in the rest of Europe, as is the cost of living.

Where to Retire in Mykonos and Home Prices

What Is Special about Mykonos

If you choose to live here you will be living on one of the most beautiful islands on earth. Restaurants, cafes, elegant shops (arts, crafts, and jewelry) will provide plenty of low stress entertainment. Nearby Delos offers spectacular ruins. The nightlife is legendary in Mykonos, the largest town on the island

What Is Not Special about Mykonos

You have to get used to living with a lot of tourists around. This is an island, so your world becomes smaller

Who Will Like Retirement in Mykonos

Laid back people will be happiest in Mykonos. if you like cafes, beaches, reading, a slow-paced life - Mykonos could be for you

Local Economy Is Driven by

Tourism!

Climate and Physical Environment

Mykonos is a fairly small island in the center of the Aegean. It is about 41 square miles and has elevations of just over 1100'

Restaurants & Cultural Scene

The nightlife is legendary, which includes outlets for gays. There is a maritime and an archaeology museum. The island and nearby Delos have ancient ruins to explore. Many great galleries in town.

Crime

Medical facilities

For serious medical conditions you will have to fly or take the ferry to another island or Athens

Transportation

Mykonos has a busy airport with regular flights of large jets. Ferries to Athens and other islands stop here frequently