For years, Thessaloniki has been one of the most popular choices for studying among young people from Serbia. Its proximity, a similar lifestyle, and a large number of universities make it a natural option for families who want a quality education for their children without going too far from home. This is precisely why, in recent years, more and more parents are thinking not only about where their child will live during their studies, but also whether it makes sense to buy an apartment instead of paying rent for years.
At first glance, renting seems simpler and more flexible. However, when looking at a period of four or five years, which is how long studies usually last, the difference becomes obvious. The money that would be spent on rent can be directed toward purchasing a property that remains in the family's ownership. In addition to the financial aspect, buying also brings security – there are no frequent moves, changes of landlords, or uncertainty, which is especially important when a child goes to live independently for the first time.
Demand and Specifics of the Small Apartment Market
The greatest demand in Thessaloniki is for smaller apartments that are practical for one person. These are studio and one-bedroom apartments with an area between 20 and 50 square meters, most often in the city center or near universities. Such properties are sought after not only by students but also by investors, precisely because they are easy to rent out and rarely remain vacant. Due to this combination of high demand and limited supply, prices per square meter for smaller apartments are often higher than for larger family properties.
It is important to have realistic expectations when it comes to prices. High-quality renovated small apartments in good locations in Thessaloniki can rarely be found at a low price today. On the contrary, it is not uncommon for them to exceed 3,000 euros per square meter, especially if they are ready for moving in or renting. Apartments advertised at significantly lower prices usually require major renovation, are located in less attractive parts of the city, or have certain drawbacks such as being in a semi-basement. That is why it is crucial to make a good choice at the beginning, as a quality property brings more security and better profitability in the long run.
Location Choice and Long-Term Investment Profitability
Parents who decide to buy most often choose central parts of the city or the wider center with good connections to the universities. Such locations enable easy daily life for students, but also guarantee stable rental demand in the future. This means that after graduation, the apartment does not have to stand empty. It can be rented out long-term to other students, used for short-term rentals, or simply kept as a family property in one of the liveliest cities in Greece.
At this moment, timing is particularly important to keep in mind. Summer is the period when most families actively decide to buy, as the beginning of the school year approaches. The academic year in Greece starts in the autumn, and by then it is often too late to find a good apartment in the right location and at a realistic price. The highest quality properties in Thessaloniki are already sold during that period because the student apartment market works in advance – those who are late usually have to choose from limited options.
The Purchase Process and Legal Framework for Serbian Citizens
The purchase process for citizens of Serbia is well-defined today and is carried out in practice without major complications. With adequate legal support and good organization, all stages – from obtaining a tax number to signing the contract – can be completed relatively quickly and safely. What is crucial is to have reliable information and make the right property choice, as the differences between a good opportunity and a bad investment in this segment can be significant.
Buying an apartment in Thessaloniki for a child coming to study is therefore not just a solution to a practical issue, but a decision that combines security, cost control, and long-term value. In conditions of constant demand for smaller apartments and a limited supply of quality real estate, such a move represents a more rational choice for many families than renting for several years.
If you are considering this option, it is important to start on time, as the best apartments on the market sell quickly. By properly choosing the location and type of property, it is possible to provide not only a quality living space during studies but also a stable investment for the years to come.
