Cost Of Living In Spain For Expats: Complete Guide

Published on October 2, 2025 and written by Cyril Jarnias

Spain attracts many French expatriates drawn by its sunny climate, rich culture, and relaxed lifestyle. But what is the actual cost of living in this Mediterranean country? This article provides a comprehensive overview of expenses to anticipate for a successful relocation to Spain.

Living in Spain: A More Affordable Budget Than in France

One of Spain’s main advantages for expatriates is its generally more affordable cost of living compared to France. Indeed, everyday expenses are on average 20-30% lower than in France, allowing for better purchasing power.

Housing, the Biggest Expense

As in most countries, housing represents the largest portion of the monthly budget. However, real estate prices in Spain remain attractive compared to those in France, especially outside major metropolitan areas:

• In Madrid or Barcelona, the monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center ranges between 800 and 1500 euros.
• In medium-sized cities like Valencia or Seville, the same type of accommodation rents for 500 to 800 euros per month.
• In the suburbs or smaller towns like Granada, rents can drop to 350-500 euros for a one-bedroom apartment.

Groceries and Daily Shopping

Shopping in Spain is generally less expensive than in France. Supermarkets offer competitive prices, and local markets provide fresh products at very attractive rates. On average, a monthly budget of 200 to 300 euros is sufficient for groceries for a single person.

Transportation and Mobility

Public transportation is well-developed in major Spanish cities, and their fares are advantageous. For example, a metro ticket in Barcelona costs about 2.40 euros, while an unlimited monthly pass is around 40-50 euros.

Leisure and Outings

Spain is known for its vibrant nightlife and numerous entertainment options. Restaurant and bar prices are generally more affordable than in France:

• A meal at a mid-range restaurant costs between 15 and 30 euros per person.
• A beer in a bar is 2-3 euros.
• A movie ticket costs about 8-10 euros.

Monthly Budget for an Expatriate in Spain: What to Expect?

The budget needed to live comfortably in Spain varies depending on the chosen city and lifestyle. Here is an estimate of average monthly expenses for a single expatriate:

• In a large city like Madrid or Barcelona: 1500-2000 euros
• In a medium-sized city like Valencia or Seville: 1200-1500 euros
• In a small town or rural area: 1000-1200 euros

These amounts include rent, utilities, groceries, transportation, leisure, and everyday expenses. For a family of four, expect to double these figures.

Focus on Salaries in Spain

It’s important to note that salaries in Spain are generally lower than in France. The average salary for a full-time job is around 2250 euros gross per month. However, experienced professionals or those working in high-demand sectors can expect higher compensation.

Specific Costs of Expatriation

When moving to Spain, certain one-time expenses should be anticipated:

• Moving costs: between 1000 and 3000 euros depending on volume
• Housing deposit: typically 1 to 2 months’ rent
• Private health insurance: between 50 and 100 euros per month
• Administrative fees (NIE, residence permit): about 200 euros

Living in Spain: Unbeatable Value for Money

Despite lower salaries than in France, Spain offers excellent value for money for expatriates. The moderate cost of living allows full enjoyment of the country’s assets:

• A sunny climate ideal for outdoor activities
• Renowned and affordable cuisine
• A relaxed pace of life promoting well-being
• A rich cultural and historical heritage
• Varied landscapes between sea and mountains

The Most Attractive Spanish Cities for Expatriates

Some cities stand out for their quality of life and affordable cost:

• Valencia: combining beaches, culture, and reasonable prices
• Malaga: for its climate and economic dynamism
• Alicante: offering an excellent compromise between quality of life and budget
• Seville: for its historical heritage and festive atmosphere

Preparing Your Expatriation Budget for Spain: Key Points

To succeed in your relocation to Spain while managing your budget, here are some essential tips:

• Choose your city of residence based on your priorities and budget
• Anticipate costs related to your move and setup
• Compare private health insurance offers, essential for expatriates
• Prioritize local markets and seasonal products for your groceries
• Take advantage of the many free or low-cost activities offered by Spanish cities
• Learn Spanish to facilitate your integration and access better professional opportunities

In conclusion, Spain offers expatriates an attractive living environment at reasonable costs. With an average monthly budget of 1500 euros for a single person, it’s possible to live comfortably in most Spanish cities. The key to a successful expatriation lies in thorough preparation and balanced budget management, allowing full enjoyment of the many assets of this Mediterranean country.