Spain is known for its high quality of life and cultural richness. However, it is important to do the math to be able to live in this country. In this article, we will analyze the prices of the main services to get an idea of the monthly budget needed before moving, and thus know approximately the cost of living in Spain.
The cost of living in Spain
Food in Spain
The shopping basket is one of the most basic expenses to take into account. Although prices in Spain are generally stable, inflation can occasionally affect them. Basic products and their average prices can vary depending on the supermarket, the quality of the product and the city in which they are purchased.
It is estimated that filling the cart for one person per week is around €50, which means a monthly expense of €200 just on food.
Accommodation in Spain
The prices of the housing in Spain They vary greatly depending on the city, the area, the size of the apartment, whether it is shared or not, whether it is furnished and the building's services. Below are price ranges in some major cities for a 50 m² apartment:
- Madrid y Barcelona: Between €660 and €880 per month; around €400 for a room.
- Valencia: Between €550 and €650 per month; around €300 for a room.
- Sevilla: Between €450 and €550 per month; around €280 for a room.
- Vigo: Between €400 and €500 per month; around €250 for a room.
- Bilbao: Between €600 and €700 per month; around €350 for a room.
- Las Palmas de Gran Canaria: Between €500 and €600 per month; around €280 for a room.
- Santander: Between €500 and €600 per month; around €250 for a room.
Transport in Spain
Transport in Spain also varies by city, with different prices, voucher offers and frequency of service. Below are the bus ticket prices in the main cities of the country:
- Madrid: €1,50
- Barcelona: €2,40
- Valencia: €1,50
- Seville: €1,40
- Vigo: €1,40
- Bilbao: €1,35
- Las Palmas de Gran Canaria: €1,40
- Santander: €1,30
These prices may vary if you purchase multi-trip packages, monthly passes or use public transport cards.
Other additional expenses
There are other non-basic recurring expenses that should also be considered in the monthly budget:
- Plan of mobile: between €15 and €20.
- Cinema tickets: between €7 and €9.
- Theatre entrance: between €15 and €20.
- Gym: between €30 and €40.
- Water, electricity and fibre optics: around €100.
Estimated monthly budget for living in Spain
Taking into account the different expenses mentioned, it is estimated that the cost of living in Spain ranges between 820 € and 1100 € per person per month.
Minimum interprofessional wage in Spain
It is important to mention that the minimum interprofessional wage in Spain is in €1.167 gross per month.
Tips to save on the cost of living in Spain
- Buy seasonal and sale products.
- Compare prices in different supermarkets.
- Use public transport passes.
- Share a flat to reduce the cost of rent.
- Save on basic services, such as water and electricity, through responsible consumption.
Conclusions
Spain is a country with a high quality of life, but it is essential to plan your monthly budget before moving. Although prices can vary depending on the city and lifestyle, it is possible to live in Spain on a tight budget and make the most of the cultural and gastronomic wealth it offers.
FAQs
1. What is the minimum wage in Spain?
The minimum interprofessional wage in Spain is €1.167 gross per month.
2. How much does a bus ticket cost in Madrid?
A bus ticket in Madrid costs €1,50.
3. How much does a movie ticket cost in Spain?
Movie tickets in Spain range from €7 to €9.
4. How much does a room to rent cost in Barcelona?
Renting a room in Barcelona costs around €400 per month.
5. How much do you spend on food per month in Spain?
It is estimated that a person spends around €200 per month on food in Spain.