The explosive growth of Airbnb revenue—now approaching €1 billion ($1.18 billion) annually—is the primary reason the government of Greece is avoiding broad, abrupt restrictions.
With tax revenues skyrocketing from approximately €70 million ($83 million) in 2017 to €973 million ($1.15 billion) in 2025, short-term rentals have become a cornerstone of national fiscal planning. Consequently, the state is opting for surgical interventions rather than sweeping bans.
The fiscal weight of Airbnb in Greece
The data highlights why this sector has become a high-priority asset for the Treasury. Revenues climbed steadily from €740 million ($877.9 million) in 2023 to €880 million ($1.04 billion) in 2024, reaching €973 million ($1.15 billion) in 2025.
These figures, presented by IAPR (AADE) Governor George Pitsilis at the 43rd POMIDA conference, confirm that short-term rentals are now a vital pillar of the country’s tax base.
Airbnb geographic targeting
The 2026 framework prioritizes “geographic targeting” over generalized prohibitions as follows:
- Athens: The suspension of new Property Registration Numbers (AMA) remains in effect for specific zones in the historic and commercial center where housing pressure is most prevalent. This measure is not retroactive.
- Thessaloniki: A similar freeze begins on March 1, 2026 for the city’s 1st Municipal Community (Center). Investors have a “window of opportunity” until the end of February 2026 to secure new registration numbers.
- Non-transferability: A critical 2026 update stipulates that, in restricted zones, registration numbers are non-transferable. If a property is sold, gifted, or inherited, the right to operate it as an Airbnb is revoked, and the listing is deleted.
Short-term vs. long-term letting
Despite a slight 4% dip in average income per property in 2025 (due to increased supply), short-term rentals remain significantly more lucrative than traditional leasing:
Short-term: In central Athens, the average monthly gross income was roughly €1,740 in 2025. After operating costs, management fees, and taxes, the net profit sits near €800/month.
Long-term: A standard 75 sq.m. (807 sq. ft.) apartment yields a net income of roughly €600/month, excluding maintenance or property taxes (ENFIA).
This €200 (about $237) monthly premium, combined with upfront payments and better property oversight, ensures that owners remain incentivized to stay on short-term platforms.
Related: Greek PM Unveils Six-Point Plan to Combat Housing Crisis
