What if you could cut your living expenses in half without giving up sunshine, great food, or a high quality of life? That’s the
reality for many expats discovering the true cost of living in Spain.
From sunny coastal towns to vibrant city centers, Spain delivers affordability without sacrificing comfort or quality. Whether you’re a digital nomad, retiree, or relocating with your family, knowing what to expect financially is key to making a smooth transition.
In this blog, you’ll get a detailed breakdown of the average cost of living in Spain, side-by-side comparisons with other countries, and insight into how your lifestyle, household size, and location can shape your monthly budget.
Spain continues to rank as one of the most attractive countries for expats in Western Europe and the numbers back it up.
With a very high Quality of Life Index (186.76) and a low Cost of Living Index (48.28), Spain offers the rare combination of affordability and comfort.
The average cost of living in Spain is significantly lower than in many Western countries. This is one of the main reasons that Spain is an appealing option for expats seeking value without sacrificing comfort.
Spain is a large country, so your expenses will vary based on location, lifestyle, and household size, but it consistently ranks as one of the more affordable countries in Western Europe. Here’s a general overview of monthly costs for a moderate lifestyle in Spain:
Item | Average Monthly Cost |
Rent (1-bedroom, city centre) | €700 – €1,200 |
Utilities (gas, electricity, etc.) | €90 – €150 |
Mobile Phone Plan | €15 – €30 |
Internet | €25 – €40 |
Public Transport | €30 – €60 |
Daycare | €250 – €450 |
Gym Membership | €30 – €60 |
Meal for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | €40 – €80 |
Whether you’re living in a vibrant city like Valencia or a coastal town in Andalusia, Spain offers an excellent balance between affordability and quality of life.
The cost of living in Spain varies not just by region, but also varies within each city, depending on the household type. Whether you’re relocating solo, with a partner, or as a family, here’s what to expect in terms of monthly expenses for a comfortable lifestyle.
To better understand the cost of living in Spain, it’s helpful to break down expenses by category. This gives expats and foreign residents a realistic idea of what they’ll spend monthly based on lifestyle and location.
Item | Single Person | A Couple | Family of Four |
Rent (city-centre apartment) | €700 – €1,000 | €900 – €1,400 | €1,300 – €2,200 |
Utilities | €90 – €130 | €120 – €160 | €180 – €250 |
Mobile Plan(s) | €15 – €25 | €30 – €50 | €50 – €70 |
Internet | €25 – €40 | €25 – €40 | €25 – €40 |
Public Transport (monthly) | €30 – €60 | €60 – €90 | €100 – €150 |
Groceries | €200 – €300 | €350 – €450 | €600 – €750 |
Meal Out (Moderate Restaurant) | €15 – €30 | €30 – €60 | €60 – €120 |
Daycare (if applicable) | – | – | €400 – €1,000 |
No matter your household size, Spain offers a variety of living options, making it a flexible and attractive destination for expats.