Which Country is the Best to Live in: Greece or Israel?
When considering the best country to live in, the choice between Greece and Israel presents a complex set of considerations. This comparison aims to provide insightful guidance based on economic, social, and personal factors, targeting individuals in their 30s, like myself, seeking stable living conditions to advance their careers and raise a family.
Economic Considerations
Unemployment Rates and Average Incomes
Encompassing economic factors, Greece and Israel both offer family-oriented cultures but differ significantly in employment and income levels. Greece's unemployment rate sits at a concerning 23.2% as of recent statistics, with an average annual income of 17,858.26 Euros. In contrast, Israel boasts a much lower unemployment rate of 3.9% and a higher average annual income of 44,802.36 Euros. These figures starkly highlight the financial disparities between the two countries.
Cost of Living
The cost of living varies substantially between the two nations. Greece offers a lower cost of living, with an overall index that is 35.2% lower than that of Israel. This translates to a significant difference in expenses for housing, clothing, transportation, food, and utilities.
Purchasing Power
A key metric for assessing the quality of life is purchasing power. Israelis rank the highest among 110 tracked economies, ranking fourth globally, while Greeks rank rather low at 31st. This underscores that unless you secure a high-paying job or enjoy the benefits of a remote position with a Western European, Japanese, or American company, Israel offers a more economically favorable option.
Safety and Crime Rates
Criminal Statistics
Examining safety, both Greece and Israel present relatively low crime rates compared to other countries. According to CIA World Factbook data, Israel’s homicide rate in 2021 was 1.07 per 100,000 people, while Greece’s rate was 0.99 per 100,000 people. For context, countries like Russia (8.21 per 100,000), the United States (4.97 per 100,000), France (2.02 per 100,000), and Canada (1.78 per 100,000) exhibit higher rates.
Public Safety Concerns
While both countries generally offer safety, the presence of firearms in Israel might be a consideration for some. As a military brat, I am accustomed to firearms, but I understand that their prevalence could be unsettling for others. In Greece, the visible presence of firearms is noticeably lesser, aligning more with my personal comfort level.
Political and Social Infrastructure
Political Landscape
Israel, known for its political polarizing nature, is a place where opinions diverge sharply. However, the country maintains a robust military structure, ensuring safety in major cities. Greece, on the other hand, experiences periodic domestic political violence and rowdy protests that can escalate into violent conflicts. Israel’s orderly and conservative political environment contrasts with Greece’s more liberal stance.
Social Infrastructure
Physically, Israel is notably cleaner than Greece. Athens, while charming, suffers from a significant homeless population and graffiti-covered surfaces. In contrast, Israel enjoys better sanitation, cleaner streets, and even allows the disposal of toilet paper in public restrooms. Israel’s infrastructure has seen more recent updates and better maintenance, reflecting a higher standard of living and organization.
Personal Perspective and Conclusion
Given these comparisons, considering personal circumstances and factors, I lean towards Israel. For my situation, which involves a career in tech, raising a family, and a desire for a more organized living environment, Israel stands out. However, this decision is personal and may not align with every individual's needs. If financial stability and robust social infrastructure are prioritized, Israel is a compelling choice. Conversely, Greece offers a unique cultural experience and a lively, artistic atmosphere that may appeal to others.
Ultimately, the choice between Greece and Israel depends on the specific needs and preferences of each individual.