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Madrid, Spain
Capital City

Follows Spain Residency Rules. Check Digital Nomad & Retiree Pathways →
Est. Monthly Cost (1 Person)
$2,230
Retiree Score
99.0
Safety Index
70.0
Healthcare
389 facilities

Moving to Madrid is not for the faint of heart - the bureaucracy is a persistent headache and the hot, dry summers can be brutal. But with a population of over 3.5 million, Madrid is the second-largest city in the EU and a major financial and cultural hub. The tax burden is heavy, but the city boasts world-class museums, a vibrant nightlife, and easy access to green spaces. Those who can handle the challenges will find Madrid a diverse, cosmopolitan destination that rewards the adventurous.

Can I afford Madrid?

$

Madrid

You could save

770/mo

Savings Rate26%

Monthly Costs

Rent $1,350
Living (Country Average Adjusted)$880

Attractiveness Scores

FIRE Score
(i)
26/100
Retiree Score
(i)
99/100
Lifestyle Score
(i)
50/100
💻Nomad Score
(i)
50/100
Meets Spain Digital Nomad Visa Income Rule.
70
Safety
389
Healthcare
100
Walkability
100
Nomad

Grocery Basket

Milk (1L) $1
Bread (loaf) *$1
Eggs (12) $4
Rice (1kg) *$1
Chicken (1kg) *$4

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Eating Out

Meal (Inexpensive) *$17
Meal (Mid-range) $104
Cappuccino $3
Water (0.33L) *$2

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Utilities & Lifestyle

Utilities (mo) $203
Mobile Plan (mo) $19
Gym (mo) *$50
Cinema Ticket $12

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Housing

1BR Center (mo) $1,350
1BR Outside (mo) *$804
3BR Center (mo) $2,500
3BR Outside (mo) *$1,232

* Estimated based on regional averages.

🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
Widely Spoken
Expat Community
Large & Active
Top Neighborhoods
Salamanca, Malasaña, Chamberí
Best For
professionals, young adults

Expat Life Notes

A vibrant, world-class capital with an unmatched energy. It is exceptionally international and walkable.

Pros

  • ✓ Incredible social scene and nightlife
  • ✓ Global transit hub
  • ✓ Safe and walkable center

Cons

  • ✗ Noise pollution
  • ✗ Expensive housing market
  • ✗ Bureaucracy is slow

🌐 Infrastructure & Lifestyle

Avg Internet
—
Temperature
3°C°C - 33°C°C
Annual Rainfall
517 mm
Coworking Spaces
—
Best Months to Visit
Mar, Apr, May, Sep

Also Consider

Denia, SpainIbiza, SpainItatiba, BrazilLiving in Itatiba offers a quiet, affordable lifestyle near São Paulo, Brazil. Ideal for retirees or families seeking peace without isolation.Prince George, CanadaLiving in Prince George, Canada offers affordable rents and outdoor access but long winters. A practical choice for healthcare workers and remote earners.

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Madrid

Click any question to expand the answer.

Madrid has a population of approximately 3,506,730 people.

A single person can expect to spend around $3,375 per month in Madrid, including rent. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $1350/month.

The nearest airport to Madrid is MAD, approximately 14km away.

Madrid is considered relatively safe, with a safety index of 70.0. As with any city abroad, expats should research specific neighborhoods before committing to a location.

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