Pan-European Survey Reveals Greek Youth Among the Least Happy in Europe

A new pan-European survey of young people aged 15 to 34 has revealed troubling results for Greece, showing that the country’s youth report some of the lowest levels of happiness in Europe—second only to Cyprus—and express the greatest dissatisfaction with their healthcare system.

The findings come from two new reports published by Greece’s National Centre for Social Research (EKKE), based on data from the European Social Survey (ESS) and the European Quality of Life Survey (EQLS). The reports examine both digital inequality and the health and well-being of young Europeans.

North–South Divide Persists

The first report highlights ongoing digital inequalities across Europe, with a clear divide between northern and southern countries. The second report, titled “Make It Healthy”, focuses on the physical and mental well-being of Europe’s younger generation, analysing behavioural, social, and economic factors that affect health.

While Europe’s youth generally report better outcomes than previous generations, the picture for Greece is far less encouraging. Greek young people are not only among the least happy in Europe, but they also rank at the bottom when it comes to satisfaction with the quality of healthcare services—particularly hospital and specialist care.

Slow to Gain Independence

The survey spans a broad age range—from late teenagers to thirty-somethings. Yet in Greece, independence remains elusive: young Greeks leave their parental home at an average age of 30.7, compared to just over 26 across the EU. Economic insecurity and high housing costs continue to delay milestones such as moving out or starting a family.

Healthcare Dissatisfaction

Greek respondents expressed the lowest confidence in their country’s healthcare services, placing Greece behind not only Western and Central European nations but also neighbouring Balkan countries such as Bulgaria.

Interestingly, only 4% of Greek respondents said they had unmet health needs, but this figure contrasts sharply with Eurostat data showing that over 20% of the wider population report being unable to access necessary medical care, mostly for financial reasons. EKKE researchers suggest this may indicate that young people seek medical help less frequently, often only in urgent cases.

Financial Strain and Gender Inequality

Across Europe, the report found that young people generally rate their health as good and engage in more physical activity than older adults. However, many reported financial difficulties that affect their nutrition and overall well-being.

The data also reveal persistent gender gaps: young women and those with lower education levels experience lower confidence, happiness, and sense of control over their lives. They are also more likely to face job insecurity, housing problems, and unmet medical needs—particularly in urban environments.

A Call for Policy Action

EKKE notes that the findings underscore the need for targeted, youth-oriented social policies to address inequality, health access, and economic precarity. The “Make It Healthy” study, which included data from up to 28 European countries, aims to inform policymakers by identifying emerging risks and promoting the well-being of Europe’s younger generations.