Cost of Living in Spain
Last updated on Feb 05, 2024
Summary: The cost of living in Spain is generally considered to be quite reasonable. A nice one bedroom apartment in Spain can cost anywhere from $500 to $1,000 per month, while a nice two bedroom apartment can cost from $800 to $1,500 per month. The cost of dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Spain is usually around $15 to $20 per person.
Is the cost of living in Spain high?
We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Spain, they wrote:
"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)," remarked one in Salamanca.
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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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Will I save money living in Spain?
"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.
What is the average cost of housing in Spain?
If you are thinking about moving to Spain, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:
"Average 2 bed unfurnished apt would run you 700€ mo plus first mo, last mo and deposit," explained one expat.
"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," said one person in Barcelona.
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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
![William Russell](https://www.expatexchange.com/images/william-russell-international-insurance-180.jpg)
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
What are typical rental prices for expats in Spain?
"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," remarked one expat in Spain.
What appliances are typically included in a rental?
We asked foreigners in Spain what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included:
"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," said an expat in Spain.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
- Spain Guide
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Spain
- Members Talk about Healthcare & Health Insurance in Spain
- Best Places to Live in Spain
- Real Estate in Spain
- Guide to Real Estate in Spain
- Pros & Cons of Living in Spain
- Cost of Living in Spain
- How to Enroll Your Children in School in Spain
- Educational System in Spain
- 10 Things to Know Before Moving to Spain
- How to Buy a Home in Spain
- 2025 Guide to Living in Spain
- Pros and Cons of Living in Spain 2025
- 2025 Guide to Moving to Spain