- Download our Moving to Madrid Guide (PDF)
- Download our Madrid Schools Guide
One of the sunniest cities in Europe, Madrid boasts an average of 350 days of sunshine annually. It’s no wonder people from all over Europe and the world relocate to Madrid to soak up the sun in the Spanish capital and take advantage of its wonderful way of life. With the high quality of life comes an equally high price tag: according to Mercer’s 2023 Cost of Living Survey, Madrid is ranked as the 83rd most expensive city for expats out of 227 cities surveyed.
Still, Madrid is relatively affordable for a Western European capital, especially when compared to the likes of Bern and London. The city is also Spain’s commercial and political hub, which means lucrative job opportunities are plentiful.
Cost of accommodation in Madrid
Accommodation in Madrid is the second priciest in Spain, following Barcelona as the country's most expensive city to rent in. Securing well-priced and quality accommodation in the city centre is notoriously challenging. The properties in the city centre are usually older with few modern amenities, but they offer quick access to Madrid's commercial hub.
Housing in the outlying areas of the city tends to be more popular among expats, as the apartments and houses are often larger and better equipped at a lower price than in the city centre. Madrid’s transport system is also well-developed and affordable, making commuting easy.
Cost of transport in Madrid
Expats will find that life in the capital without a car is easy and even preferable. With a population of 6.8 million, Madrid's roads are congested, while parking is scarce and expensive. The efficient public transport system includes buses, a metro and taxis, all of which offer day and night access to all the districts in the city.
Expats keen on buying a car should prepare to navigate the infamous Spanish bureaucracy. Expats eager to avoid this often pay a small additional fee to the dealership, which then handles all the paperwork.
Cost of food in Madrid
Spanish cuisine is one of the most famous in the world. Some staples include olive oil, seafood, fresh produce and wine. Expats looking to adopt a Mediterranean diet can expect to spend significantly less than on a diet that contains a lot of red meat and dairy products, as these can be costly in Madrid.
Eating out in Madrid is generally more affordable than in other European cities, and the capital enjoys fresh fruit and vegetables throughout the year thanks to the sunny climate.
Cost of entertainment in Madrid
Madrid is well known for its art museums, nightlife and theatre scene, while it’s no surprise that sport is a big part of the city’s entertainment seeing as it’s home to two world-famous football teams, namely Real- and Atlético Madrid. Food and drink in the city cost significantly less than in the likes of London, Paris and Rome.
The city also offers multiple manicured parks ideal for running, walking or picnicking. Most of these green spaces are free to access, making them an excellent option for expats on a tight budget.
Cost of living in Spain chart
Prices may vary across the city, depending on product and service provider. The list below shows average prices for Madrid in February 2023.
Accommodation (monthly rent) |
|
One-bedroom apartment in city centre |
EUR 1,100 |
One-bedroom apartment outside city centre |
EUR 800 |
Three-bedroom apartment in city centre |
EUR 1,800 |
Three-bedroom apartment outside city centre |
EUR 1,300 |
Shopping |
|
Dozen eggs |
EUR 2.35 |
Milk (1 litre) |
EUR 0.89 |
Rice (1 kg) |
EUR 1.24 |
Loaf of white bread |
EUR 1.11 |
Chicken breasts (1kg) |
EUR 7.34 |
Pack of cigarettes (Marlboro) |
EUR 5.15 |
Eating out |
|
Big Mac Meal |
EUR 8 |
Coca-Cola (330ml) |
EUR 2.35 |
Cappuccino |
EUR 2.13 |
Bottle of beer (local) |
EUR 3.50 |
Three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant for two |
EUR 50 |
Utilities |
|
Mobile call rate (per minute – mobile to mobile) |
EUR 0.14 |
Internet (uncapped ADSL or cable – average per month) |
EUR 34 |
Basic monthly utilities (includes electricity, water, refuse) |
EUR 168 |
Transport |
|
Taxi rate/km |
EUR 1.10 |
Bus fare in the city centre |
EUR 1.50 |
Petrol/gasoline |
EUR 1.85 |
Further reading
►For more on the cost of living in Spain, have a look at this page
►For more on expat financial matters, check out Banking, Money and Taxes in Spain
Expat Experiences
"Spain has a lot of great qualities: friendly locals, beautiful beaches, nice weather, low cost of living, etc. In comparison, it’s the cheapest country I’ve ever lived in, in terms of rent, food and nightlife, and with one of the most accepting cultures." Read about Mimi's expat experience in Spain in her interview.
Are you an expat living in Madrid?
Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Madrid. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute.
Expat Health Insurance
Cigna Global Health Insurance - 10% off any plans bought in November and December 2023
With Cigna, you won't have to rely on foreign public health care systems, which may not meet your needs. Cigna allows you to speak to a doctor on demand, for consultations or instant advice, wherever you are in the world. They also offer full cancer care across all levels of cover, and settle the cost of treatments directly with the provider. Cigna is currently offering a 10% discount for seniors (over 60) on their Silver package.
Moving Internationally?
International Movers. Get Quotes. Compare Prices.
Sirelo has a network of more than 500 international removal companies that can move your furniture and possessions to your new home. By filling in a form, you’ll get up to 5 quotes from recommended movers. This service is free of charge and will help you select an international moving company that suits your needs and budget.
Get your free no-obligation quotes from select removal companies now!