Cost of living in Spain
If Spain is on your radar as a potential destination for further studies, it’s important to first know how much it will cost you to study and live there. In this article, we’ll try our best to help you estimate your cost of living in Spain.
The big picture
In general, Spain is more affordable than many Western European countries, making it an attractive option for people who want to be cautious about spending too much money to complete their studies. Big cities like Madrid and Barcelona are more expensive compared to smaller cities like Granada and Alicante.
It’s also important to research the student accommodation situation in each cities. If student accommodation is limited, it might mean that you will need to pay more for rent as you’ll not enjoy subsidized rent.
Accommodation
Here’s an estimate of rent for short term accommodation in major cities in Spain.
| Short term rent in major cities in Spain (per month) | |
|---|---|
| Madrid | €630 |
| Barcelona | €590 |
| Granada | €240 |
| Valencia | €290 |
| Seville | €300 |
| Bilbao | €360 |
| Salamanca | €220 |
| Malaga | €220 |
| Murcia | €230 |
| Cádiz | €280 |
Source: blog.erasmusplay.com/en-accommodation-prices-spain/
As you can see from the table above, it’s much more expensive to study in Madrid or Barcelona. Bilbao is quite expensive too at about €360 per month but most other cities are reasonable.
Where possible, we recommend students stay at student accommodations called Colegios Mayores. However, there might not be sufficient rooms for students and students might need to rent privately which might cost a lot more compared to Colegios Mayores. Therefore, it’s important to apply for your student accommodation as soon as possible.
Food and dining: savouring Spanish cuisine
Spain’s food culture is a delightful blend of affordability and variety. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:
Groceries: For a single person, monthly grocery bills typically range from €150 to €250. Shopping at local markets can save you money while providing fresh, delicious produce.
Eating Out: Dining out is a treat in Spain. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant will cost around €10 to €15, while a three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant is approximately €25 to €35. Tapas, Spain’s famous small dishes, are an affordable way to enjoy diverse flavors, often costing between €2 to €5 per dish.
Transportation: Navigating the Spanish Streets
Spain boasts an efficient public transportation system. Here’s what you need to know:
Metro and Buses: In cities like Madrid and Barcelona, a monthly public transport pass costs around €40 to €55. Single tickets range from €1.50 to €2.50.
Biking: Many cities have bike-sharing programs, with costs around €10 to €30 per month.
Healthcare
For non-EU students, private insurance costs around €50 to €150 per month.
Entertainment and Social Life: Enjoying Spanish Vibrancy
Life in Spain is not all about budgeting; it’s also about enjoying its rich cultural offerings:
Cinema and Theatre: A movie ticket costs about €8 to €12. Student discounts and “Dia del Espectador” (Spectator’s Day) offer cheaper tickets.
Nightlife: Spain’s nightlife is legendary. Entry to clubs ranges from €10 to €20, often including a drink. Many cities host free outdoor concerts and festivals.
Travel: Exploring Spain is a must. Train travel with Renfe (Spain’s national railway company) offers discounts for students. Budget airlines like Ryanair and Vueling make international travel affordable.
How much will it cost you if you study in Valencia?
| Estimated monthly cost in Valencia | |
|---|---|
| Rent | €290 |
| Food and dining | €200 |
| Transportation | €55 |
| Health insurance | €150 |
| Entertainment | €100 |
| Sum | €795 |
The estimated cost of living in Valencia is probably similar to most cities in Spain, with the exception of Madrid and Barcelona.
Students can work part-time (most Malaysian students do) to earn extra allowance to cover their living expenses.
Final Thoughts: Balancing Budget and Experience
Living in Spain can be an enriching and enjoyable experience if you plan wisely. Understanding the cost of living helps you balance your budget while making the most of what this vibrant country has to offer. Embrace the adventure, savor the new experiences, and let Spain’s charm enhance your journey into adulthood. ¡Buena suerte! (Good luck!)