Spain
Cost of Living in Madrid
Budget €5,000-6,000 for initial setup (deposit + first month + agency fees). Shared apartments (€550-700/room) are popular with young expats. Monthly budget: Frugal single $1,500-1,800, Comfortable single $2,400-2,800, Couple $3,500-4,200.
Monthly Total
$3,058
$53,515
Housing (1BR Mid-range)
$1,748
Daily Spend (ex. rent)
$44
Based on a typical expat lifestyle: 1BR furnished apartment, mix of cooking/eating out, rideshare transportation, moderate entertainment. Last updated: 1/15/2026.
Monthly Cost Breakdown
Housing (Rent)
1BR furnished apartment in mid-range neighborhood
$1,748
$30,590
Utilities
Electric, water, gas, and internet
$170
$2,975
Groceries
Groceries from supermarkets
$210
$3,675
Dining Out
Mix of casual restaurants, ~12 meals/month
$180
$3,150
Transportation
Rideshare (Uber/Didi), ~30 rides/month
$360
$6,300
Lifestyle & Entertainment
Entertainment, occasional cleaning service
$280
$4,900
Healthcare
Basic private health insurance
$60
$1,050
Phone & Subscriptions
Phone plan and streaming subscriptions
$50
$875
Monthly Total
$3,058
$53,515
Recommended PartnerDon't skip health insurance
Cost estimates are great for budgeting, but real coverage protects you when something goes wrong.
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Living in Madrid
Madrid is Spain's most expensive city but still offers excellent value compared to US metros. Housing in the center is pricey, but neighborhoods like Lavapiés, Malasaña, and Chamberí offer character at lower prices.
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