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:
"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)," explained one expat.
"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 person in Spain.
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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," explained one expat living 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:
"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.
"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 person in Spain.
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," wrote one expat.
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," remarked one 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.
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