Cost of Living in Spain

"The cost of living in Spain varies depending on the city or region. In general, one can expect to pay slightly more in amenities like food, hotel prices, and public transportation costs compared to other European countries, but if you budget wisely, you can still find good value. Rent and utilities will also be more expensive than some other European countries, but many locals choose to rent shared apartments which can be more affordable. Salaries are slightly lower than other European countries, but the cost of living is still manageable," said one expat in Spain.

"I can only attest to the cost of living in my city. For Salamanca, you can live very comfortably for 1500 euros (or around $1650)," wrote a person living in Salamanca.

"Living in Spain can often be less expensive than living in the United States, since the cost of living tends to be lower. Additionally, taxes may be lower in Spain, providing an additional cost benefit. Goods and services such as groceries, clothing, and transportation may also cost less in Spain than what is available in the United States. On the whole, many people who move from the United States to Spain often find that their money can go further in Spain than what it can in the United States," said one expat in Spain.

"The cost of housing in Spain varies greatly depending on location and other factors, such as quality and size of the property. Generally, in large cities the cost of living is higher, with rents for a one bedroom apartment reaching an average of around €700 per month. Outside of big cities, rents will typically be much lower, ranging from around €400-500 for a one bedroom flat. With the increasing popularity of Spain as a holiday and expat destination, property prices have risen in recent years, making it an attractive area for investments," explained one expat living in Spain.

"We came in 2020 and the housing costs have increased at least 20% in Malaga and on the CDS since we arrived. We live in a town on the coast with population 75,000 and have read the average rent here is the same as Madrid average! Another thing to remember is the currency exchange rates, if your funds are outside the EU. Our rent went up $175 this month solely due to the exchange rate," said one expat in Spain.

"Average 2 bed unfurnished apt would run you 700€ mo plus first mo, last mo and deposit," wrote a person living in Palma de Mallorca.

"Housing costs - higher than the "average" in the USA; the "average" cost of housing for a three-bedroom apartment would be about $2,000 per month," explained one expat living in Barcelona.

"The cost of renting a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Spain can vary significantly depending on the area and quality of the property. Generally speaking, the range of prices can be anywhere from a few hundred to over a thousand US dollars per month. Similarly, the cost of renting a nice 2 bedroom apartment can range from a few hundred to over two thousand US dollars a month, again depending on the location and quality of the property," said an expat in Spain.

"When renting a home in Spain, it is typical for the rental property to include an oven, hob, refrigerator, washing machine, dishwasher, toaster, coffee maker and other small appliances. Heating and/or air conditioning might also be included, depending on the rental property," commented one expat who moved to Spain.