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San Sebastian, Spain
Capital City

Follows Spain Residency Rules. Check Digital Nomad & Retiree Pathways →
Est. Monthly Cost (1 Person)
$2,200
Retiree Score
100.0
Safety Index
88.5
Healthcare
62 facilities

While San Sebastian may be renowned for its Michelin-starred restaurants and picturesque beaches, the reality is that it's a small, rainy city of just 176,908 residents. With a quarter of the population over 65 and a sizable foreign-born community of 14.5%, the city can feel bureaucratic and insular at times. Persistent political unrest and occasional states of emergency in the Basque region are another potential headache. However, those drawn to San Sebastian's world-class gastronomy, art festivals, and coastal charm may find it an ideal fit.

Can I afford San Sebastian?

$

San Sebastian

You could save

800/mo

Savings Rate27%

Monthly Costs

Rent $1,250
Living (Country Average Adjusted)$950

Attractiveness Scores

FIRE Score
(i)
27/100
Retiree Score
(i)
100/100
Lifestyle Score
(i)
53/100
💻Nomad Score
(i)
50/100
Meets Spain Digital Nomad Visa Income Rule.
89
Safety
62
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) *$21
Meal (Mid-range) $90
Cappuccino $2
Water (0.33L) *$1

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Utilities & Lifestyle

Utilities (mo) $138
Mobile Plan (mo) $29
Gym (mo) *$44
Cinema Ticket $9

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Housing

1BR Center (mo) $1,000
1BR Outside (mo) *$643
3BR Center (mo) $1,760
3BR Outside (mo) *$986

* Estimated based on regional averages.

🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
Widely Spoken
Expat Community
Large & Active
Top Neighborhoods
Centro, Antiguo
Best For
foodies, retirees

Expat Life Notes

The gastro-capital of Europe. Exceptional quality of life and stunning beaches.

Pros

  • ✓ Best food
  • ✓ Safe and safe
  • ✓ Clean air

Cons

  • ✗ Very expensive
  • ✗ Rainy climate

🌐 Infrastructure & Lifestyle

Avg Internet
—
Temperature
6°C°C - 22°C°C
Annual Rainfall
1807 mm
Coworking Spaces
—
Best Months to Visit
Mar, Jun, Jul, Aug, Oct

Also Consider

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Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about San Sebastian

Click any question to expand the answer.

San Sebastian has a population of approximately 176,908 people.

A single person can expect to spend around $3,125 per month in San Sebastian, including rent. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $1250/month.

The nearest airport to San Sebastian is BIO, approximately 75km away.

San Sebastian is considered relatively safe, with a safety index of 88.5. As with any city abroad, expats should research specific neighborhoods before committing to a location.

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