As the world becomes more connected and remote work becomes increasingly popular, the concept of being a digital nomad is becoming more and more appealing. Being able to work from anywhere in the world, while exploring new cultures and experiences, is a dream for many people. Spain is a popular destination for digital nomads, with its beautiful beaches, rich culture, and vibrant cities. But what does it really cost to live as a digital nomad in Spain? In this blog post, we’ll explore the cost of living in Spain as a digital nomad, including accommodation, transportation, food, and other expenses.
Accommodation
One of the biggest expenses for digital nomads in Spain is accommodation. The cost of rent varies depending on the city and the type of accommodation you choose. In Madrid and Barcelona, for example, you can expect to pay around €700-€1000 per month for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center. In smaller cities like Valencia or Malaga, you can find cheaper options, with rents ranging from €500-€700 per month.
If you’re looking for a more affordable option, you can consider sharing an apartment with other digital nomads or locals. Websites like Idealista, Spotahome, and Badi are great resources for finding shared apartments in Spain. You can expect to pay around €300-€500 per month for a room in a shared apartment.
Transportation
Spain has a great public transportation system, with buses, trains, and metros connecting all major cities and towns. The cost of transportation varies depending on the city and the mode of transportation. In Madrid, for example, a monthly metro pass costs around €54, while in Barcelona it costs around €40.
If you prefer to travel by car, you can rent a car for around €200-€300 per month. However, keep in mind that parking can be expensive in some cities, so it’s important to factor that into your budget.
Food and Drink
Spain is known for its delicious food and wine, but eating out can be expensive. A meal at a mid-range restaurant can cost around €15-€20 per person, while a meal at a high-end restaurant can cost €50 or more. If you’re on a budget, you can save money by cooking your own meals at home. Groceries in Spain are relatively cheap, with a weekly shopping trip for one person costing around €30-€40.
If you enjoy a drink or two, you’ll be happy to know that alcohol in Spain is relatively cheap. A beer at a bar will cost around €2-€3, while a glass of wine will cost around €3-€4.
Other Expenses
There are other expenses to consider when living as a digital nomad in Spain. These include:
- Health insurance: If you’re not a citizen of the EU, you’ll need to purchase private health insurance. The cost varies depending on the type of coverage you choose, but you can expect to pay around €50-€100 per month.
- Coworking spaces: If you prefer to work in a coworking space, you can expect to pay around €100-€200 per month for a membership.
- Entertainment: Spain has a vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars, clubs, and cultural events to enjoy. The cost of entertainment varies depending on the city and the activity, but you can expect to pay around €10-€20 for a night out.
Conclusion
Living as a digital nomad in Spain can be affordable, but it’s important to budget accordingly. Accommodation, transportation, food, and other expenses can add up quickly, so it’s important to plan ahead and be mindful of your spending. With a little bit of planning and budgeting, you can enjoy all that Spain has to offer while living the digital nomad lifestyle.