The Mediterranean climate of Crete consists of hot, dry summers, with a July mean of 26° C (79° F) at Iráklion, and mild winters, with a January mean of 10° C (50° F). Annual rainfall, concentrated in the winter months, totals approximately 635 mm (25 in). Scrub has replaced the forest that once covered much of the island.

Although less than one-third of Crete is cultiated, agriculture is the primary occupation. Olies, grapes, and cereals predominate; grazing, especially of sheep and goats, is important in the mountains. Most peasants own their land. Industrial deelopment, concerned mainly with food processing, has lagged because of the absence of railroads. Almost one-third of the population  are urban, but towns are small. Iráklion is the administratie capital and largest city. A substantial migration of young people to the mainland has occurred in recent years.