How much does it cost moving to Spain in 2025?
Most expats spend €6,000–€10,000 for the initial move (visa, flights, first rent, deposits, setup). After settling, expect €2,000–€4,000/month depending on your city, family size, and lifestyle. Smaller towns and coastal regions (Alicante, Granada, Galicia) are cheaper than Madrid or Barcelona.
What are the biggest relocation expenses I should plan for?
Common one-time or early costs include:
- Visa application & legalization: €300–€1,000 per person
- Translations & apostilles: €150–€400
- Flights & luggage shipping: €200–€2,000
- First rent & deposits: 2–3 months of rent upfront
- Furniture & setup: €2,000–€5,000
- Private health insurance: from €60/month (required for most visas)
What is the average rent in Spain in 2025?
Rent varies widely by location:
- Madrid / Barcelona: €1,500–€2,500 for a 2–3 BR flat
- Valencia / Málaga / Alicante: €1,000–€1,800
- Smaller towns: €700–€1,200
Landlords often ask for proof of solvency (bank statements or job contracts) and sometimes a guarantor or seguro de impago.
How much is the cost of living in Spain for an expat family?
Approximate monthly budgets (2025):
- Single: €1,500–€2,000
- Couple: €2,200–€2,800
- Family of four: €3,000–€4,500
Includes rent, groceries, utilities, insurance, and leisure. Groceries are affordable (30–40% cheaper than UK or US), but imported products and private schooling raise costs.
What hidden or unexpected costs do expats mention most often?
Based on real feedback from expat forums and Reddit:
- Paying 3 months’ rent upfront (deposit + agency fee)
- Administrative help for NIE/empadronamiento (€100–€300)
- Legal review of contracts (€150–€300)
- Bank account maintenance fees (€10–€20/month)
- Currency conversion fees for non-EU transfers
- Car registration / insurance for those importing vehicles
Is Spain still affordable compared to other EU countries?
Yes — in 2025 Spain remains 20–35% cheaper than France, Germany or the Netherlands for daily life. However, housing and utilities have risen sharply in major cities since 2022. Southern and eastern regions (Andalucía, Murcia, Valencia, Galicia) offer better value.
What can I do to reduce relocation costs?
- Rent outside city centers or in well-connected suburbs
- Use furnished rentals at first to avoid setup costs
- Choose concertado schools instead of private ones
- Bundle services (relocation + visa support) to avoid multiple intermediaries
- Start planning 3–6 months in advance — last-minute visas and housing are always more expensive
Is it realistic to move to Spain with €10,000 savings?
Yes — many singles or couples start with around €8,000–€10,000, especially under Digital Nomad or Non-Lucrative Visas. Families should budget more (€12,000–€15,000) to cover deposits and school fees. Visa authorities often require proof of financial means around €2,500–€3,000/month for the main applicant.
What’s the cost of healthcare and insurance for expats?
Private insurance (compulsory for most visas) costs:
- €60–€90/month for adults under 50
- €100–€150/month for older applicants or with dependents
Once you’re resident, you can join the public healthcare system (Seguridad Social), which is nearly free but slower for non-urgent care.
How can Livin’España help reduce relocation costs?
We provide independent relocation and housing advisory — helping expats avoid overpriced agency fees, compare rental options by region, understand local paperwork and taxes, and coordinate with trusted lawyers and accountants. We help you save time, avoid mistakes, and plan a realistic budget before you move.