Cost of Living in Spain 2024: The Complete Guide for Expats

The cost of living in Spain in 2024 varies extensively. From the city you choose to call home and the number of people in your household, to the type of lifestyle you’re accustomed to. All these factors impact the cost of living in this beautiful country known for its fiestas, colorful culture, and delicious cuisine.

In this article you’ll learn about:

• The cost of living in Spain for expats
• The price of rent in different cities in Spain
• The cost of living in Spain vs the US and the UK
• The cost of groceries, transport, healthcare, and more

The cost of living in Spain for a family of four versus a single person varies significantly and will change depending on your lifestyle. Here is a breakdown of the average cost of living in Spain, without rent.

Real Estate and Housing Costs in Spain

Rent prices in Spain

You’ll find that rental prices in Spain will vary depending on the city as well as the location. Central areas of all the major cities will command higher prices.

Even small towns like Marbella, which are popular among tourists and many expats, can be expensive due to supply and demand. In any case, you’ll find an affordable place to rent in some of the best places to live in Spain if you look around and choose wisely.

Madrid

The largest city in Spain has some of the highest rental prices in the country, but compared to other capital cities like London, Paris, and Munich, rental prices in Madrid are much lower. You can expect to pay the following prices for rent in Madrid:

Barcelona

One of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe, averaging eight million annual visitors, Barcelona is the second largest city in Spain and the most expensive city for rent in the country; you can expect to pay the following prices for rent in Barcelona:

Malaga

Malaga is the southern hub of Spain that brings the big city vibe to the Costa del Sol. Although it offers a similar level of infrastructure and services that you’ll find in both Madrid and Barcelona, it’s one of the cheapest cities in Spain. You can expect to pay the following prices for rent Malaga:

Valencia

Valencia is one of the most popular areas for expats in Spain. This mid-sized city offers a more affordable cost of living compared to Barcelona and Madrid, while still offering an excellent quality of life. You can expect to pay the following prices for rent in Valencia:

Buying property in Spain

If you’re considering immigrating to Spain, buying property may be a better long-term option.

Buying property in Spain can be a lucrative investment. Not only can you gain Spanish residency if you buy a property in Spain for at least €500,000 via the Spain Golden Visa, but you can also receive high returns on investment by renting out your property.

Spain has a booming and consistent tourism industry, particularly in coastal regions, with no shortage of demand for short-term rentals.

Below is an estimation of Spanish property prices per meter squared for some of the most popular tourist destinations and cities that many expats choose to live in.

Food Prices in Spain

Groceries

Thanks to its great climate, Spain is a top producer of fruits and vegetables in Europe. This means you can enjoy a variety of fresh, locally grown produce at affordable prices.

Below are some of the average Spain food prices:

Cost of eating out in Spain

If there is one thing you’ll never run out of in Spain, it is its vast selection of restaurants and bars providing delicious food and drinks. Whether you enjoy tapas, fresh seafood, paellas, or international cuisines like Thai and Indian food, it is widely available in Spain – and affordable.

Here are some of the prices for eating out in Spain:

• A meal in an inexpensive restaurant: €13
• Three-course meal for two people in a mid-range restaurant: €50
• A local beer: €3
• Cappuccino: €1.90

Cost of Utilities in Spain

Utility prices in Spain are reasonably low due to its temperate climate, eliminating the need for central heating or air conditioning throughout the summer and winter.

The cost of utilities in Spain varies drastically based on where you live and the types of utilities you require to run your home. Let’s look at some basics from different Spanish cities:

Cost of Transport in Spain

Spain has a very convenient public transport system that works well. This includes metros, trains, and buses in the majority of Spanish cities and towns. Here are a few of the costs for transportation in Spain.

While expats find the transportation systems in Spain convenient, most choose to purchase a vehicle to explore the country more conveniently. Luckily, the costs here aren’t too expensive, with gasoline coming in at €1.59 and comprehensive car insurance costing €500-€1,000 per year.

Healthcare in Spain

Spain’s highly-rated public healthcare system ranks as one of the best in the world. Healthcare in Spain is easily accessible, whether you’re an expat, resident, or tourist. All Spanish citizens and permanent residents have access to the free and efficient Spanish public healthcare system.

However, private health insurance is also available and is very budget-friendly, giving you access to various healthcare options. Private health insurance in Spain is highly recommended for expats to ensure they are covered and have access to a range of specialists. The average monthly cost for private health insurance is €100 to €200 per month. 

Cost of Education in Spain

The education system in Spain is fantastic, with various options available. Here is a breakdown of the options and the cost involved:

• Public schools: Public schools in Spain are available to Spanish citizens and EU residents for free. 
• Private schools: The private schools in Spain are some of the best in Europe offering small classes in both English and Spanish. Cost: €4,000-€10,000 per year. 
• International schools: A popular option for expats, international schools in Spain are fantastic, offering a well-rounded education in English. Cost: €6,000-€20,000 per year. 
• University: The universities in Spain offer an excellent education for local and international students. A bachelor’s degree generally costs about €700-€2,500 annually for EU students. While a master’s degree can set you back between €1,000-€3,500 annually. 

Important to note: International university students generally pay quite a bit more than local and EU students. It’s best to contact the university of choice directly to confirm fee structures.

Cost of Living in Spain vs USA

One of the top queries surrounding the cost of living in Spain is how it compares to other countries across the globe. Generally, the cost of living in the US is 41% higher than in Spain without rent, including rent that rises to 52%. 

Let’s look at some of the price differences between Spain and the US.

As you can see, there is quite a dramatic difference between the cost of living in Spain vs USA. The lower cost of living in Spain is one of the main draws for expats from the US. This is particularly true for those wanting to retire, study, or live a digital nomad lifestyle in Spain without the costs of the US, while still maintaining a high quality of life.

Cost of Living in Spain vs UK

The cost of living in Spain vs the UK is quite different. Although they are closer in proximity, the difference in various costs of living are noticeable. Let’s take a look:

One of the biggest differences in cost between living in Spain vs the UK is the average rental prices. However, it’s important to remember that it depends on where you stay. You can save money by living in areas outside the city center. But the same goes for most west European countries.

Quality of Life in Spain

The quality of life in Spain is fantastic, with many choosing to move to this gorgeous country for this reason alone. Not only does Spain have a better quality of life than most western European countries, it beats many other countries outside of Europe, coming in 9th place on the quality-of-life index.

Now, while Spain isn’t the cheapest country to live in, it is a lot more affordable that other western European countries, including France, Italy, and Germany. Ultimately, you can live in Spain for a cheaper price and get a higher quality of life.

From the low crime rate, amazing weather, exceptional schools, and excellent healthcare, Spain is one of the best countries to consider immigrating to for students, retirees, and families.

Visa and Immigration Options for Expats in Spain

If you’re considering living in Spain, it’s essential to be informed about the various visa and residency routes available. The Golden Visa Spain program is an attractive option for many, offering residency to investors and their families. For those eyeing retirement in this beautiful country, the Non-Lucrative Visa is tailored for you.  While those looking to work remotely in Spain may benefit from the Spain Digital Nomad Visa. Additionally, if you have Spanish ancestry, you might be eligible for Citizenship by Descent.

How Can Global Citizen Solutions Help You?

Global Citizen Solutions is a boutique migration consultancy firm with years of experience delivering bespoke residence and citizenship by investment solutions for international families. With offices worldwide and an experienced, hands-on team, we have helped hundreds of clients worldwide acquire citizenship, residence visas, or homes while diversifying their portfolios with robust investments. 

We guide you from start to finish, taking you beyond your citizenship or residency by investment application. 

Frequently Asked Questions About the Cost of Living in Spain

Is it expensive to live in Spain?

The cost of living in Spain is one of the cheapest in Western Europe, with living expenses significantly lower than in many other EU countries. Spain’s average rental prices, grocery bills, dining out, healthcare, and public transportation costs are all very reasonable.

Is it cheaper to live in Spain than the US?

The cost of living in Spain in US dollars is considerably cheaper than in the USA. Spain is 41% cheaper than the US without rent, and including rent, that goes up to 52%. For instance, a one-bedroom apartment in the center of one of Spain’s most expensive cities, Madrid, costs around €1,491 ($1,655) per month, whereas in Los Angeles, a similar apartment is €2,441 ($2,710) on average. This makes Spain a popular option for US expats.

Are the rent prices in Spain expensive?

Average rent prices in Spain vary depending on the city, but they are generally affordable. The average cost for a one-bedroom apartment in the center of major towns or cities is around €961 per month, while a one-bedroom apartment outside smaller cities costs about €719 per month. This is much cheaper than the average prices in countries like the US, Germany, the UK, and Australia, making Spain a top choice for expats from across the globe.

Are Spain food prices expensive?

Food prices in Spanish supermarkets are relatively low cost, thanks to Spain’s role as a major producer of fruits and vegetables. You can find lots of fresh products in Spanish supermarkets at low prices, and farmers’ markets are common and plentiful compared to other European countries, further reducing grocery costs in Spain.

How much does it cost to live comfortably in Spain?

The cost of living in Spain for single person is around €1,200 to €1,500 per month, covering all basic expenses including rent, groceries, and social security contributions. However, living in an expat area, choosing to buy property, and lifestyle choices can also influence the total monthly expenses in Spain.

Are there healthcare benefits for expats in Spain?

Yes, expat residents of Spain have access to the fantastic Spanish healthcare system. EU citizens may obtain the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for medical care in Spain. However, most expats choose private healthcare in Spain which is easily accessible with the range of private health insurance options.

What are the benefits of living in Spain?

The benefits of living in Spain include a warm climate, high quality of life, affordable cost of living, excellent public healthcare, rich culture, and diverse landscapes. Spain offers a relaxed lifestyle, well-developed infrastructure, and a strong expat community, making it an attractive destination for foreigners.

Is Spain cheaper than Portugal?

It’s no secret that Portugal is one of the cheapest countries in Europe. When it comes to comparing the cost of living in Portugal versus Spain, Portugal does have a leg up, with an average of a 6% lower cost of living than Spain without rent. Restaurant prices are around 20% lower in Portugal than Spain while groceries are 2% cheaper.

Do expats pay taxes in Spain?

Yes, expats pay taxes in Spain if they are considered tax residents, meaning they live in Spain for more than 183 days a year. Tax residents are subject to taxes on their worldwide income, while non-residents only pay taxes on Spanish-sourced income. However, Spain has tax treaties with many countries to avoid double taxation and a range of other incentives for expats.

How much does it cost to live in Spain?

Your monthly costs will depend on a range of factors. The average cost of living in Spain for a single person is about €712 per month without rent, while a family of four can expect to spend around €2,500 per month without rent.

What is the average salary in Spain in 2024?

The average salary in Spain in 2024 after tax is around €1,700. However, salaries in Spain are generally based on where you work and the industry. A big Spanish city will usually offer a higher salary to cover the cost of living.