Spain
Cost of Living in San Sebastián
Parte Vieja, Centro, and Gros are popular areas. Expect to pay premium for quality. Monthly budget: Frugal single $1,900-2,200, Comfortable single $2,500-3,000, Couple $3,400-4,000.
Monthly Total
$2,845
$49,788
Housing (1BR Mid-range)
$1,539
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
$1,539
$26,933
Utilities
Electric, water, gas, and internet
$164
$2,870
Groceries
Groceries from supermarkets
$245
$4,288
Dining Out
Mix of casual restaurants, ~12 meals/month
$216
$3,780
Transportation
Rideshare (Uber/Didi), ~30 rides/month
$300
$5,250
Lifestyle & Entertainment
Entertainment, occasional cleaning service
$280
$4,900
Healthcare
Basic private health insurance
$55
$963
Phone & Subscriptions
Phone plan and streaming subscriptions
$46
$805
Monthly Total
$2,845
$49,788
Don't skip health insurance
Cost estimates are great for budgeting, but real coverage protects you when something goes wrong.
A portion of affiliate revenue is donated to UNHCR
Living in San Sebastián
San Sebastián is Spain's most expensive city outside Madrid/Barcelona. The premium is justified by exceptional quality of life, stunning La Concha beach, and world-renowned culinary scene with highest Michelin star density.
Frequently Asked Questions
Compare San Sebastián to Other Cities
See how San Sebastián stacks up against other popular expat destinations in Mexico.
Customize Your Comparison