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Moving to Madrid, Spain | Expat Exchange
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Plaza Mayor in Madrid

Moving to Madrid

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Apr 21, 2023

Summary: Expatriates are drawn to Madrid, Spain for its vibrant culture, rich history, and excellent quality of life. With its mild climate, Madrid offers a great balance between work and leisure, making it an ideal destination for those looking to experience a new culture while still enjoying the comforts of home. The city is also known for its lively nightlife, with a wide variety of bars, restaurants, and clubs to explore. Additionally, Madrid is home to some of the world's best art galleries, museums, and parks, making it a great place to explore and experience the culture of Spain.

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What do I need to know before moving to Madrid?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Madrid, they said:

"You can get much cheaper and larger apartments outside of the center of the city (duh). I do like where I live simply because I don't have to go anywhere to have fun. I'm 10 min away from the central tourist/party area of Sol. I live 2 minutes away from a metro stop and have literary hundreds of club and bars outside my doorstep. With all of this I hear no sounds at night since my apartment window faces inwards," said one expat in Madrid.

"Madrid is a vibrant and exciting city with a lot to offer expats. Before moving to Madrid, it is important to research the cost of living, as it can be quite high. Additionally, it is important to familiarize yourself with the local culture and customs, as well as the language. It is also important to research the different neighborhoods and find one that best suits your needs. Lastly, it is important to obtain the necessary paperwork and visas to live and work in Madrid," remarked one expat who made the move to Madrid.

How do I find a place to live in Madrid?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"Looked through a bunch of apartments mostly near the center. Asked around a bit at work as well. Found a flat in a good, central party area. It is small but I don't mind and I live with great people. A co-worker of mine found a place a week later 10 min away from me. for only 100euro more he gets a huge room, huge 2 story apartment with 2 balconies," explained one expat living in Madrid, Spain.

"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Madrid is to use online rental websites such as Idealista, Fotocasa, and Habitaclia. These websites allow you to search for rental properties in Madrid by location, price, and other criteria. Additionally, you can contact local real estate agents who specialize in renting properties in Madrid. They can provide you with more information about the local rental market and help you find a place that meets your needs. Finally, you can also look for rental postings on social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter," said one expat in Madrid.

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SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Madrid?

"Expat homes and apartments in Madrid typically feature modern, stylish decor with a mix of traditional Spanish elements. Many apartments have balconies or terraces, allowing for plenty of natural light and outdoor space. Expats can expect to find well-equipped kitchens with modern appliances, and bathrooms with modern fixtures. Expats can also expect to find plenty of storage space, as well as air conditioning and heating. Madrid is a vibrant city, and expats can expect to find plenty of amenities nearby, such as restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues," replied a member in Madrid.

What is the average cost of housing in Madrid?

If you are thinking about moving to Madrid, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"Way lower, I am paying 400 euro for my small place in the center and my friend is paying 500euro for his huge place near me. His apartment would probably run for about 1000euro or more in DC," said one expat who made the move to Madrid.

"The average cost of housing in Madrid is generally quite high. Renting an apartment in the city center can be expensive, with prices ranging from around €800 to €1,500 per month. Outside of the city center, prices tend to be lower, with apartments costing around €500 to €800 per month," explained one expat living in Madrid, Spain.

Should I buy or rent a home in Madrid?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Madrid, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"Buying a home in Madrid can be a great investment, as the city is a popular tourist destination and the real estate market is strong. However, it is important to consider the cost of living in Madrid, as well as the cost of purchasing a home, before making a decision. Renting a home in Madrid can be a great option for those who are not ready to commit to a long-term purchase, as it allows for more flexibility and can be more cost-effective in the short-term. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Madrid should be based on individual needs and preferences," said one expat in Madrid.

What should I pack when moving to Madrid?

We asked people living in Madrid to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:

"Brought: 1) More clothes, you simply can't get Old Navy/GAP quality clothes for even anywhere close to US prices 2) More hygienic products, once again wayyy more expensive here. 3) Pillows, seriously can't buy a bunch of pillows like you could in Target," explained one expat living in Madrid, Spain.

"When moving to Madrid, it is important to pack clothing suitable for the climate. Madrid has a Mediterranean climate, so lightweight clothing for the summer and warmer clothing for the winter is recommended. Additionally, it is important to bring any necessary medications, as well as any important documents such as passports and visas. It is also a good idea to bring a few items from home to make the transition easier, such as photos, books, and other sentimental items. Finally, it is important to bring any necessary electronics, such as a laptop, phone, and chargers," said one expat in Madrid.

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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Madrid?

We asked people in Madrid if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:

"Thank God no! But my daughter, who is very polite, provoke a few laughs for using to much "please" and "thanks"," explained one expat living in Madrid, Spain.

"It is important to be aware of the cultural norms in Madrid. It is considered rude to be late for social engagements, so it is important to arrive on time. It is also important to dress appropriately for the occasion, as dressing too casually or too formally can be seen as disrespectful. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local customs when it comes to dining etiquette, such as not eating with your hands or talking with your mouth full. Finally, it is important to be respectful of the local language and to avoid speaking English unless it is necessary," said one expat in Madrid.

Why do people move to Madrid?

When we asked people why foreigners move to Madrid, they responded:

"Madrid is an attractive destination for expats due to its vibrant culture, excellent cuisine, and diverse nightlife. The city is also known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and beautiful parks and gardens. Additionally, Madrid is a great place to live for its low cost of living, excellent public transportation system, and its proximity to other major cities in Spain. With its warm climate and friendly locals, Madrid is an ideal place for expats to call home," commented one expat living in Madrid.

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How are healthcare services Madrid?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Madrid, they replied:

"Madrid offers a wide range of healthcare services to its citizens. The public healthcare system is managed by the Ministry of Health, Social Services and Equality and is available to all residents of Madrid. The public system provides access to general practitioners, specialists, hospitals, and emergency services. Private healthcare is also available in Madrid, with a variety of private clinics and hospitals offering a range of services. Private healthcare is often more expensive than public healthcare, but it can provide more personalized care and shorter wait times. Madrid also has a number of specialized healthcare centers, such as the National Center for Oncological Research, which provides cancer treatment and research. Additionally, Madrid has a number of mental health services, including counseling and therapy," replied one expat when asked about moving to Madrid.

What are medical services in Madrid like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Madrid, they replied:

"Madrid offers a wide range of medical services for its citizens and visitors. The city has a number of public and private hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that provide quality healthcare. Many of these facilities offer specialized services such as cardiology, neurology, and oncology. Additionally, Madrid has a number of pharmacies that provide prescription medications and over-the-counter remedies. The city also has a number of medical centers that provide emergency services and urgent care," wrote one expat living in Madrid.

About the Author

Joshua Wood 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.

Plaza Mayor in Madrid

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