Madrid: Cost of living

The city of Madrid is well-known for its accessibility. Having said this, the amount of income you’ll need will depend on the type of experience you’re looking for. Without a doubt, you can expect to live a exhilarating metropolitan lifestyle in Madrid, but the activities and the types of things that you’ll be able to pay for will vary significantly based on your current budget. 

1. Accommodation

Housing is by far the greatest expense in Madrid. The price per square meter will vary significantly according to the Madrid neighborhood it is located in, however, the average price of rent in Madrid is €10,99 per square meter. If you want to live close to or within the city center, keep in mind that these areas require quite a bit more money - almost €16 per square meter! On average, rooms tend to cost €200-400, apartments typically €800, and studies around €600 a month. Other additional costs, such as water, electricity, or wifi cost, on average, €50 a month.  

 2. Transportation

In Madrid you have many ways to get around the city:

  • If you are younger than 26 years old, you can take the Metro, bus (EMT) or train to surrounding areas with your annual pass (€200) or monthly pass (€20). It’s valid through each zone in the city and makes it much easier to reach your university or popular nightlife areas.  
  • Bicycle:  Pay only €15-25 per year and move easily through Madrid’s city center. .
  • Carsharing: An option that is becoming very popular in Madrid! Some options are Car2Go (€0,19/1 min), Wible or Zitty (€0,24/min), and Bluemove or Respiro (from €2/h). With their apps, you can find the nearest car to you and rent it for various minutes and hours. In addition, you have the option to take Uber and Cabify, starting at €3 for the cheapest trip.
  • Motosharing: You have several options (Ecooltra, Acciona, Movo, Coop...) for €0,21/min. 

 3. Meals

If you’re going to eat in Spain, be sure to ask for the "menú del día". This is a weekly lunch with a special price that costs €7-8 up to €15 approximately and  includes an appetizer, main dish, dessert, and drink.

There are many fresh food markets in Madrid that are cheaper than supermarkets, fresher, and more flavorful. The cost of food in Madrid costs about €200/mes.

4. Nightlife 

The locals define Madrid as "la ciudad que nunca duerme" - the city that never sleeps. Something is always happening in the capital of Spain! There are many bars with free entry and great prices for beer (€2) and liquor (€5-6), although it is important to know that the most popular nightclubs are expensive (€15-20). However, don’t worry because it is fairly easy to find discounts. 

5. Travel

Madrid is the Spanish city with the best connections to the rest of the country. If you have plans to visit the surrounding areas, in Madrid there are many companies and organizations with which you can travel. Take a look at the trips located in our app!