How much does it cost to live in Spain in 2026?
In October 2026, one person in Madrid or Valencia needs roughly $1,500 to $2,200 a month for rent, food, transport and public health cover. A couple needs about $1,950 to $2,900, and costs vary widely by city.
Dollar figures use the European Central Bank reference rate of 1.1181 dollars per euro for 12 October 2026. Prices come from Numbeo's crowd-sourced data, updated 10 to 12 October 2026, unless noted.
Rent: a one-bedroom outside central Valencia averaged about $1,058 a month, and about $1,421 in the center. In Madrid, the figures were about $1,192 outside the center and $1,489 in it.
Food: Numbeo's minimum grocery budget for Madrid was about $339 per person a month. We allow up to about $500 if you eat out often. Transport: monthly passes were 33 euros in Madrid and 35 euros in Valencia.
Health: after one year of registered residence, people without other public coverage can join the public system through the convenio especial. The Ministry of Health lists 60 euros a month under age 65 and 157 euros from 65. That is about $67 or $176, and you need other cover until you qualify.
Totals: these four lines come to about $1,500 to $2,200 for one person and $1,950 to $2,900 for a couple. Utilities, phone and leisure are extra. Madrid utilities averaged about $188 a month.
Sovereo Index: See Spain's full country profile: score, rank, pillar scores and nearby alternatives.
Sources
- Euro foreign exchange reference rates · European Central Bank
- Convenio especial de prestación de asistencia sanitaria · Ministerio de Sanidad, Spain
- Cost of Living in Madrid · Numbeo
- Cost of Living in Valencia · Numbeo
- Food Prices in Madrid, Spain · Numbeo
Written and reviewed by Todd Allyn, Founder, Sovereo Intelligence Research
Facts checked Oct 13, 2026 · Next review by Jan 13, 2027
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