Cost of Living in Spain for International Students: 2025 Updated Details

Life in Spain rests on its immaculate charisma and culture. It’s a small paradise on Earth that thousands of students wish to see.

Staying in Spain as a student is an experience like no other. But behind the glamor, there are plenty of duties to fulfill.

First, you must determine the cost of living in Spain. This will give you an insight into how you will use your funds in the country.

Living costs in Spain are generally affordable. To give you a better idea, here’s a breakdown of the cost of living in Spain.

Accommodation costs

The cost of accommodation is one of the highest expenses when calculating the cost of living in Spain. Rental costs vary depending on the city and type of accommodation.

• On-campus accommodation: €250–€400 per month
• Shared flats: €300–€500 per month
• Private apartments: €600–€900 per month

Cities like Barcelona and Madrid tend to have higher rental costs compared to smaller cities like Rota or Denia.

Food and dining out expenses

Spanish cuisine is a food lover’s greatest delight. So it may surprise you that dining out in Spain doesn’t cost much.

A single meal in a mid-range restaurant ranges from €6 to €20 only. Even eating out during weekends won’t make you feel guilty.

If you plan to buy your own groceries, prepare at least €125 per month. This budget can already get you some meat, milk, and snacks.

Comparison of food costs in popular cities

Please note: These costs are approximate and may vary, depending on various factors.

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Transportation costs

Spain boasts an excellent transportation system that students can enjoy. A single-trip ticket on the bus costs €1 to €2. A single ticket on the metro costs roughly the same.

Taxis are generally cheaper too compared to European standards. It costs around €2.50 per kilometer. You may have to pay extra depending on the time of day.

If you are planning long-term travel, public transport passes offer significant savings. For instance:

• Barcelona: Monthly pass: €40
• Madrid: Monthly pass: €54
• Valencia: Monthly pass: €38

These options make commuting easier and more affordable, contributing to a manageable monthly cost of living in Spain.

Costs of clothing

Did you know that Spain is a fashion powerhouse? Every year, tourists (and fashionistas) visit the country for the Madrid Fashion Week.

There are plenty of upmarket boutiques in Spain. But if that’s too extravagant for your taste, you can shop locally instead.

Staying on-trend in fashion wouldn’t be hard in Spain. The best part is, you won’t have to break the bank to stay stylish.

You can buy your clothes in malls, department stores, outlets, and independent shops. A nice pair of jeans costs around €70, while a summer dress costs around €28.

Utility bills

Your utility bills largely depend on your accommodation and lifestyle. For example, your monthly rent may already cover these bills. If not, then it’s an additional expense to consider.

If you have opted for on-campus accommodation, services like laundry may come for free. But, if you are in a flat, you have to pay for the electricity, water, gas, and more. Expect to spend around €300 per month. It may seem like a huge amount, but if you have roommates, you can split the bill.

Healthcare services costs

Spain’s efficient healthcare system is one of the best in the world. You’re guaranteed to receive outstanding medical care while you are in the country.

It’s vital to maintain your health while you’re studying. This reason alone makes regular doctor consultations necessary.

A trip to the doctor’s office would cost about €50. If you have health insurance, this would cost less.

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Additional expenses to consider

Entertainment and recreation

Life in Spain isn’t all about studying. Entertainment and recreation are integral to the experience. Here’s what you can expect:

• Movie tickets: €8–€10
• Gym membership: €30–€40 per month
• Weekend outings: €20–€50

Internet and mobile services

Internet and mobile plans are relatively affordable in Spain. High-speed internet costs around €30–€40 per month. Mobile data plans with sufficient GB cost roughly €15–€20.

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Conclusion

If you are interested in studying in Spain, you now have a fair idea regarding how much it would cost you to live in different parts of the country. Budgeting is as important as choosing the right program and the university for a fulfilling study-abroad journey.

Apart from living costs, and choosing a university and course, there are many more aspects that need to be taken into consideration while studying abroad.

MSM Unify overseas education consultants can help you with expert guidance and all-around support for a successful overseas education journey. MSM Unify has helped more than 1,86,000 students attain their study-abroad dreams, now is your chance to succeed!

FAQs

1. What is the average cost of living in Spain per month for international students?
The average cost of living in Spain per month ranges from €700 to €1,200, depending on the city and lifestyle.

2. How affordable is the cost of living in Barcelona, Spain, compared to smaller cities?
Barcelona is relatively more expensive, with higher rental and dining costs. Smaller cities like Rota or Denia offer lower living expenses.

3. Is Spain affordable for Indian students?
Yes, Spain is affordable for Indian students, especially in smaller cities. Careful budgeting can help keep costs manageable.

4. Are there any free healthcare services for students in Spain?
Students with health insurance can significantly reduce healthcare costs. Some public universities also offer health plans.

5. How much should I budget for transportation in Spain?
Transportation costs in Spain are affordable. A monthly pass costs around €40–€54, depending on the city.

6. What are the cheapest cities in Spain for students?
Cities like Rota, Denia, and Granada are among the cheapest for students, offering affordable rent, dining, and utilities.