Greeks Protest Rising Rents, Housing Shortages

Protesters gathered in Athens on Wednesday, November 12, to demand action on soaring housing costs, voicing solidarity with workers in Spain who staged a nationwide general strike over affordable housing.

Demonstrators highlighted high rents, shortages of affordable homes, and the struggle of young couples and students, many of whom remain with parents. Eurostat data show that in 2025, 25% of young Greeks spent 40% or more of disposable income on housing—among the EU’s highest rates.

Greece has recovered strongly from its 2009–2018 debt crisis, with the Mitsotakis government cutting taxes and raising the minimum wage five times since 2022 to €920, with another increase planned for 2027. Critics say this remains inadequate against rising living costs. Protesters linked their action to Spain’s strike, the first general walkout there in 14 years, where unions reported millions participating amid large marches in Madrid and Barcelona.