Pros and Cons of Moving to Madrid

The pros and cons of living in Madrid become clear when you examine Spain’s capital in detail. Sitting in the heart of Spain, this jewel of the Iberian Peninsula has emerged from history as the country’s industrial hub.

Housing the royal residence, Madrid is a thriving modern metropolis that still retains its rich cultural heritage and classical grandeur. Refined museums and galleries sit alongside characterful cafés, Michelin-star restaurants and a buzzing nightlife scene. 

The capital might be expensive to live in, but as many report, it’s worth every penny. As with any major city, life in Madrid has its advantages and disadvantages. Below, we list some of the pros and cons of moving to the Spanish capital.

Cost of living in Madrid

- CON: Generally expensive for a European capital

The cost of living in Madrid reflects its status as a major European capital. Things typically cost more than in the rest of Spain, full stop. Rent will probably be your biggest financial burden. Upmarket areas like Salamanca command premium prices that can be triple those in emerging neighbourhoods like Carabanchel. Even these ‘affordable’ options cost significantly more than the outer districts.

+ PRO: Smart spending pays dividends

Eating out on a budget can be trying in Madrid. Those settling down long term make good use of markets and local grocery shops, which offer far more wallet-friendly prices. Local markets often provide fresher produce at a better value than supermarkets.

+ PRO: Excellent value public transport

Public transport in Madrid offers outstanding value. Monthly transport passes are affordable, and the system is very popular with locals. Given the steep petrol and parking costs, there’s really no need for a car.

Cost of Living in Madrid
Getting Around in Madrid

Accommodation in Madrid

+ PRO: Affordable and modern housing options further out

City centre accommodation in Madrid can be pricey, but there are some alternatives. The further out you search, the more affordable and modern the apartments become. Houses and condominiums are bigger in the suburbs, offering better value for families and those seeking more space. Areas like Carabanchel and Vallecas have gained popularity among young professionals and families.

- CON: City centre living comes at a premium

Like most world metros, staying in Madrid’s city centre costs serious money. Low supply and high demand drive prices through the roof. Living spaces might be beautiful and antique, but a lot of the maintenance is behind. This often results in apartment blocks that look somewhat dilapidated and need major work.

+ PRO: Central location for European travel

Madrid’s central location makes it perfect for travelling in Spain and throughout Europe. Barcelona’s Mediterranean charm and Seville’s old-world appeal are just a short plane or train ride away.

Best Places to Live in Madrid
Renting Accommodation in Madrid

Working and doing business in Madrid

+ PRO: Thriving job market with multinational presence

Working in Madrid gives you access to Spain’s industrial and geographic heart. Many large multinational corporations have their headquarters in the capital. Major employers cluster in the financial, engineering and ICT fields, and the service industry makes up the largest sector.

The tech sector shows particular promise, with Spain facing a shortage of professionals and tech unemployment much lower than other industries.  Spain’s new Digital Nomad Visa makes remote work more accessible for qualified professionals.

- CON: High living costs versus wages

Madrid offers Spain’s highest wages, but your wallet will take a beating from high living costs. Employment competition is fierce compared to the rest of the country, and the salary-to-cost ratio challenges newcomers, particularly in creative and service industries where pay hasn’t kept pace with rising rents.

+ PRO: Strong professional networking scene

Business networking in Madrid thrives in its coworking spaces and professional associations. The city hosts regular networking events, and the Meetup app lists numerous tech, startup, and business gatherings.

Finding a Job and Working in Madrid

Safety in Madrid

+ PRO: Generally very safe city

Madrid ranks highly in terms of safety, safer than many major cities worldwide. Violent crime rates are very low, and walking alone feels safe during both day and night. Serious crimes like kidnapping, assault, and armed robbery are rare occurrences.

- CON: Pickpocketing in tourist areas

The main safety concern centres on pickpocketing and petty theft, particularly in busy tourist areas and on public transport. Theft ranks as the second-most reported crime, with incidents concentrated around popular attractions and transport hubs. Neighbourhoods like Lavapiés and Puente de Vallecas require extra caution, especially after dark.

Education in Madrid

+ PRO: Excellent international school options

For expats, the education system in Madrid features excellent international schools. They help ease children into Madrid society with familiar languages and environments. American, Italian, French, English, and Russian curricula are all available. There are also bilingual school initiatives that give children chances to immerse themselves fully in local culture while maintaining international standards.

+ PRO: Abundant family activities

There are plenty of activities to keep children entertained in Madrid. Local parks provide perfect spots for picnics and play dates. The Natural Science Museum, zoo, aquarium and amusement parks mean kids never get bored. Retiro Park offers rowboat rentals, playgrounds, and vast open spaces for family recreation year-round.

International Schools in Madrid
Activities for Kids and Families in Madrid

Lifestyle in Madrid

+ PRO: World-class cultural scene

The lifestyle in Madrid is a matter of classic and contemporary attractions. The Prado Museum displays works by Botticelli and Rembrandt, and the Thyssen and Reina Sofia focus on Spanish artwork from the 20th century. Families love the Naval Museum. Everyone can relax among lakes, fountains and cafés in Parque del Buen Retiro, and the cultural calendar stays packed year-round with festivals and events.

- CON: No coastal access

Those seeking stereotypical ‘fun in the sun’ face disappointment. Madrid doesn’t have the seaside atmosphere or coastal allure of Valencia or Barcelona. Travelling to the coast isn’t difficult, and the weather is warm and pleasant for escaping northern European winters, but the sea remains hours away.

+ PRO: Football paradise

Like most of Spain, Madrid lives and breathes football. The city houses possibly the world’s biggest football club, Real Madrid. The Santiago Bernabéu stadium truly impresses when bathed in the white of Los Blancos. Atlético Madrid constitutes the other half of a fierce city rivalry that brings tensions to a boiling point during derby matches.

+ PRO: Improved cycling infrastructure

The electric bike-sharing service BiciMAD has expanded rapidly, now offering over 7,700 bikes across 630 stations throughout the city. Since then, usage has grown by rapidly, and cycling is now a viable and enjoyable way to get around the capital.

Shopping and Attractions in Madrid
Weather In Madrid

Local culture in Madrid

- CON: Language barriers

The local culture in Madrid presents some language challenges for newcomers. English isn’t widely spoken outside international business environments and tourist areas. Banks, post offices, and administrative services typically require Spanish. Daily tasks will quickly become challenging without language skills or local assistance, and this creates initial hurdles for professional and social integration.

+ PRO: Welcoming and laid-back atmosphere

Madrid’s culture is eminently warm and welcoming once you connect with locals. The city maintains a relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle despite being a major European capital. The famous siesta tradition still influences a lot of life’s rhythm, with many shops closing between 2pm and 5pm.