Living in Spain: Cost of living guide 2024

Moving to a new country can be an exciting and life-changing experience. However, one of the most important factors to consider before making the move is the cost of living. In this article, we will provide insight into the cost of living in Spain for expats, focusing on various aspects such as rent, utilities, transport, health insurance, and entertainment. This will give you a clearer understanding of what to expect when moving to Spain in the near future.

The cost of living in Spain is still relatively affordable compared to other popular expat destinations in Europe. On average, a couple can expect to spend around €1,900 to €2,300 per month, while a family of four would need approximately €2,500 to €3,500 per month to maintain a comfortable lifestyle. These figures include rent, utilities, groceries, transport, and other basic expenses.

Compared to countries like the United Kingdom, France, or Germany, Spain offers a more affordable cost of living, making it an attractive destination for expats looking for a high quality of life without breaking the bank.

However, it is important to remember that the Spanish government ascertains whether you have enough funds to live in Spain by applying the IPREM (Indicador Público de Renta de Efectos Múltiples) indicator. This indicator establishes the minimum income for an individual per year, however, this is the absolute minimum which is also used to calculate state benefits and amongst other things Visa eligibility.

The current IPREM value for 2024 is €600 per month. For those who are not EU citizens and wish to apply for a non-lucrative visa, this will be the indicator that measures your income eligibility and you will be required to provide proof of income for 400% of the IPREM value which equates to €28,800 a year plus €7,200 (100% IPREM) for each additional family member. However, if you are an EU citizen you will only be required to provide proof of income for 100% of the IPREM value.

But can you live off 100% IPREM - €7,200 a year? The short answer is No. So it is important to take into consideration the cost of living. If you have 400% of the IPREM you will be more than comfortable living in Spain.

Average Cost of Living in Cities Around Spain

Here are some average cost-of-living assessments created by Numbeo the world’s largest cost-of-living database generated with crowd-sourced real-life data.

Average Cost of Renting an Apartment in Spain

The cost of renting an apartment is normally the largest cost an expat will need to face on a monthly basis. If you are still deciding on where to buy your property, renting in different areas will give you the insight you will need to make the right decision.

Rental prices in Spain can vary greatly depending on the region and city. In larger cities like Madrid and Barcelona, an apartment in the city centre can cost between €1900 and €2,500 per month. In smaller cities and towns, rental prices can be significantly lower, with an apartment costing between €400 and €600 per month in cities such as Ciudad Real and Cáceres.

Even though rental prices over the past year have increased, on a like-for-like basis compared to other popular expat destinations, rental prices in Spain are generally lower, making it an attractive option for those looking to save on housing costs.

1. Málaga

Málaga, situated on the Costa del Sol, is an increasingly popular choice for expats. Its warm weather, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture attract older individuals looking for a relaxed lifestyle. The average cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment in Málaga ranges between €700 and €1000 per month, depending on the location and property type.

2. Alicante

Alicante is another popular coastal city on the Costa Blanca. It offers a fantastic climate, beautiful beaches, and a wide range of amenities for expats. Rental prices in Alicante vary depending on the location, but generally speaking, a one-bedroom apartment costs between €700 and €900 per month.

3. Valencia

Valencia, located on the eastern coast of Spain, provides a delightful mix of bustling city life, a rich cultural heritage, and gorgeous beaches. As Spain's third-largest city, it offers a variety of housing options. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in Valencia typically costs between €700 and €1200 per month.

4. Madrid

As the capital city of Spain, Madrid holds considerable appeal for expats with its rich culture, historical sites, and lively art scene. However, living in Madrid is more expensive due to the higher cost of living. The average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre can range from €900 to €1,500 per month.

5. Barcelona

Barcelona, renowned for its stunning architecture and vibrant culture, is another sought-after destination for expats. However, it is also one of the more expensive cities in Spain. A one-bedroom apartment rental in Barcelona typically costs between €1000 and €1,700 per month.

Comparison with Other European Destinations

In comparison to other popular European retirement destinations, Spain's rental prices are generally lower. For example, renting a one-bedroom apartment in central Paris or London can easily cost over €1,800 per month. Furthermore, cities like Lisbon in Portugal or Rome in Italy tend to have higher rental costs than their Spanish counterparts, though still less than London and Paris.

Average Cost of Utilities in Spain

In 2023, the cost of utilities in Spain varied depending on the type of utility and the specific needs of households. Generally, the costs were said to be reasonable compared to other countries.

• Electricity is a major utility in Spain, with an average monthly bill of approximately €80 in 2024. However, it's essential to note that seasonal variations could affect this, as heating needs in winter and air conditioning needs in summer might cause an increase. Furthermore, the average wholesale electricity price was 74.11 euros per megawatt hour in January 2024.
• Water bills are naturally another important component of utility costs. Although specific data for 2023 isn't currently available, In 2022, the average cost of water bills in Spain ranged between €30 and €150 per month, depending on factors such as location, consumption, and the type of contract. On average, a household could expect to pay between €40 and €60 each month for water expenses
• Natural gas is commonly used for heating homes and providing hot water. The average cost for natural gas in 2024 is around €60 to €95 per month, but again, this cost could fluctuate depending on factors such as consumption, location, and seasonal variations.
• Butane gas bottles are a popular choice for those who are not connected to the main gas system or who prefer them for the use of gas stoves or portable heaters. In 2024, the average price of a 12.5 kg butane gas bottle was around €15,89. Keep in mind that the butane gas bottle prices could change slightly based on factors like local taxes.

It's important to note that utility costs can vary based on the specific location within the country and the prevailing climatic conditions.

Average Cost of Public Transport in Spain

Public transport in Spain is affordable and efficient, with buses, trains, and metros available in most cities. A monthly public transport pass can cost between €40 and €60, depending on the city. For example, a monthly pass in Madrid costs around €54, while in Barcelona, it costs around €48. For less frequent local travel on buses or metros, a one-way trip usually costs around €1.80. But there are also 10-ride cards available that can make each journey considerably cheaper, often resulting in 30 to 40% savings

Compared to other popular expat destinations, public transport in Spain is relatively affordable, making it an attractive option for those looking to save on transport costs.

Average Cost of Private Health Insurance for Expats in Spain

The cost of private health insurance for expats in Spain varies depending on factors such as the age, health condition, and the specific level of coverage.

According to different sources, the monthly premiums for a comprehensive private healthcare policy in Spain can vary greatly. A basic policy may start from around €50 to €60 per month for those under 65. For those 65 and above, the cost may rise to between €125 to €175 per month. For a policy with more comprehensive coverage, you can expect to pay somewhere between €150 to €250 per month. Keep in mind, if pre-existing conditions are covered, the cost may rise significantly. Furthermore, adding on optional extras such as dental care will also increase the premiums.

It's important to highlight that these costs are just an estimate and the actual cost can vary greatly based on different factors. We recommended that you contact several insurance providers to get quotes that suit your specific healthcare needs.

Average Cost of Entertainment and Socialising in Spain

Living in Spain isn't just about the basic living costs; it's also about enjoying the rich culture and vibrant social scene this country has to offer. Spanish cuisine is globally renowned, and dining in Spain can be a truly delightful experience.

• Dining out in Spain is relatively affordable, with the cost varying depending on the city and type of restaurant. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant may cost around €10 per person, while a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant may cost about €40–€50. In fine dining restaurants and in cities like Madrid or Barcelona, these costs can be higher.
• Spain is also known for its tapas culture. Many bars offer free tapas with each drink purchased, which can make for a budget-friendly night out. The average cost of a beer in bars ranges from €2 to €4, while a glass of good Spanish wine can cost you around €3 to €6.
• If you're a movie lover, Spain's got you covered. The average price for a cinema ticket is around €8–€10. However, keep an eye out for special promotions. Many cinemas offer a reduced price on certain days of the week.
• Spanish people have a deep love for performing arts, and consequently, theatre, concerts, and dance performances are common across the country. Expect ticket prices for these events to vary greatly depending on the event and seating category, with prices typically ranging from €20 to €50.
• Spain also boasts an impressive number of museums and historic sites. Entry prices vary, but many museums offer free entry on certain days or times. For example, the renowned Prado Museum in Madrid offers free entry in the evenings.
• Don't overlook local fairs, outdoor markets, and community festivals, which are a staple of Spanish culture and provide affordable entertainment. These events are often free or cost very little to attend and offer a chance to truly immerse yourself in Spanish culture.

Average Cost of Groceries in Spain

The average cost of groceries per week for a couple in Spain is estimated to be around €133. The precise amount may vary, depending on dietary preferences, shopping habits, and the particular city or region within Spain. For example, staple foods such as milk, bread, and eggs are generally inexpensive. A litre of milk typically costs just over €1, a loaf of fresh bread is around €1.20, and a dozen eggs can be bought for just under €3. The cost of groceries in Spain can also vary significantly depending on the supermarket chain you choose, and the region in which you're shopping. As a guideline, on average you can expect to find the following prices:

• A loaf of fresh bread: €1.28
• One dozen eggs: €2.43
• A litre of milk: €1.04
• 1kg of chicken breasts: €6.96
• 1kg of apples: €1.98
• 1kg of bananas: €1.68

These prices can give you a rough idea of the cost of groceries in Spain but remember, prices do fluctuate based on store location, sales, and other factors.

The cost of living in Spain for expats is relatively affordable compared to other popular expat destinations. By carefully managing expenses and choosing the right city or region, expats can enjoy a high quality of life without breaking the bank. To further manage living costs in Spain, consider shopping at local markets, taking advantage of public transport, and exploring free or low-cost cultural events. Why not start planning your adventure in Spain today? Visit our rentals page to find a wonderful selection of properties in beautiful locations across Spain. It's the first step in finding not just a house, but a home in this beautiful country.