By analyzing rents, deposits, the cost of basic furnishing, and income levels across multiple markets, a study by iSelect reveals the initial cost that someone may face when moving to a new home after a separation.
The issue is of particular interest for Greece as well, since according to the latest data from ELSTAT, in 2024 there were 15,532 divorces, while the ratio of divorces to marriages reached 42.4 divorces per 100 marriages, up from 37.5 in 2023.
At a time when rents and the cost of living are putting pressure on households, the research highlights a less discussed financial consequence of a separation: how expensive it can be for someone to leave a shared home and stand on their own again.
| Key findings | Data |
|---|
| Average cost of a new start after separation | €3.159 |
| Average cost in the most expensive areas analyzed | €4.400 |
| Highest cost in the dataset | almost €6.400 |
| Average cost in the most affordable areas | €2.722 |
| Average weeks of income required | 3.1 weeks |
| Maximum financial burden | up to 6.5 weeks of income |
| Divorces in Greece in 2024 | 15.532 |
| Ratio of divorces to marriages in Greece | 42.4 per 100 marriages |
What the cost includes
The iSelect analysis calculated the initial cost that someone may face when moving after a separation. The total amount includes:
- First rent payment
- Rental deposit
- Basic furnishing for the bedroom, living room, and kitchen
- Essential household appliances and kitchen items
The basic furnishing basket included items such as a bed, mattress, chest of drawers, sofa, coffee table, television, curtains, fridge-freezer, microwave oven, cookware, cutlery, and dinnerware.
Separation as a cost-of-living issue
For those who shared a home, separation can mean that expenses previously covered by two people — such as rent, bills, and household equipment — must now be covered by one.
According to the research, the cost of a new start corresponds on average to 3.1 weeks of income, while in the least affordable areas it can reach up to 6.5 weeks of salary. This means that in some cases, the financial burden of a separation can exceed one and a half months of income, before everyday expenses such as bills, food, and transport are even taken into account.
Adrian Bennett, General Manager of General Insurance at iSelect, comments:
“The cost of moving after a separation can significantly strain your finances. It is important, where possible, to have a financial cushion for unexpected situations, so that you can recover and find your balance again.
“It may also help to reduce bills when you move. Comparing home and contents insurance, for example, can help you find an offer that meets your needs while also saving you money.”
To see specifically where in the world it is more expensive for someone to move after a separation, including the full ranking, you can find the full iSelect study here: https://www.iselect.com.au/home-insurance/insights/break-up-moving-costs/