Greece plans to build about 2,400 social homes on former military sites as part of a government effort to expand affordable housing and ease pressure on renters. Social Cohesion and Family Minister Domna Michailidou announced the initiative on Thursday, saying the properties would be rented at 50% to 60% of prevailing market rates.
The housing project will be developed in cooperation with the Ministry of National Defense, using funding from the European Union’s Social Climate Fund. Planning and preparatory work are nearing completion, with tenders to select contractors expected in early 2027.
Michailidou said the development would focus on organized residential complexes with high energy efficiency, communal areas and childcare facilities. The homes are planned for Athens, Thessaloniki and Patras, as well as other areas facing housing shortages.
Rental prices will be determined by applicants’ income and personal circumstances. The program will also provide additional consideration for families with children and people with disabilities.
Greece expands social homes through former military sites
The initiative forms part of a broader housing strategy aimed at addressing rising rental pressures. According to Michailidou, three in 10 Greeks living in rented accommodation face significant housing difficulties.
The government is implementing 47 housing measures, including rent refunds and programs designed to bring vacant properties back into use. One initiative, called “Renovate-Rent,” aims to return 14,000 properties to the rental market.
Separately, the government plans to launch tenders by February 2027 to develop public properties in Nea Ionia, Nea Smyrni, Pefki and Paiania under a social housing partnership. Under the proposed arrangement, private developers would retain ownership of 70% of the completed homes, while the remaining 30% would be allocated to social rentals.
Michailidou also announced that a new Market Pass would begin before Christmas, providing assistance to 190,000 low-income recipients. The program would offer approximately 60 euros ($66) monthly, with retroactive payments averaging about 1,000 euros ($1,105). The housing measures are intended to increase rental supply and improve access to affordable accommodation.
