Cost of living comparison: How much cheaper is life in Spain than the US in 2025?

For Americans contemplating a move to Spain, understanding the cost of living is crucial. Recent statistics reveal a significant trend: the number of Americans residing in Spain surged by 10,000 from 2022 to 2024. The growing appeal of Spain lies in various factors, including a favorable political climate, enhanced safety, and an overall improved quality of life.

This article delves into the specifics of how living in Spain compares to the United States, particularly focusing on affordability.

According to Expatistan, the cost of living in the United States is higher than in 93% of countries globally, including Spain. In 2025, the cost of living in the U.S. is projected to be 75% more expensive than in Spain. The breakdown is striking: food is 49% pricier, housing costs are 112% higher, transport expenses rise by 70%, personal care is 99% more expensive, entertainment costs 63% extra, and clothing is merely 2% more costly.

Most expensive cities

Among the cities in Spain, Madrid and Barcelona stand out as the priciest. A comparison with some of the most expensive U.S. cities—New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Miami—shows that living in Barcelona is 60% cheaper than New York, 47% less than San Francisco, 43% cheaper than Miami, and 32% less than Los Angeles. In contrast, Madrid is 67% less expensive than New York, 49% cheaper than San Francisco, 46% less than Miami, and 39% more affordable than Los Angeles.

The Price Index indicates that the cost of living in Barcelona and Palma de Mallorca aligns with cities like Louisville, Kentucky, or Green Bay, Wisconsin, while Madrid's costs are comparable to Tucson, Arizona.

Other costly cities in Spain include San Sebastián, Bilbao, and Palma de Mallorca. Conversely, the cheapest cities are Zamora in Castilla y León, Ciudad Real in Castilla-La Mancha, and Lugo in Galicia.

Renting and buying in Spain

The rental market in Spain is currently at a historical peak, with prices averaging €14.0 per square meter. For an average 80 square meter apartment, this translates to a monthly rent of €1,120. However, prices can soar in major cities, reaching €21.2 per square meter in Madrid, €23.7 in Barcelona, and €17.1 in Palma de Mallorca.

Home ownership costs are also rising sharply. As of February 2025, the average price for a 100 square meter property has exceeded €220,000.

Other expenses

In addition to housing, general expenses in Spain can vary significantly. Expatistan reports that an average transport ticket costs €29, a three-course dinner for two at a nice restaurant is approximately €51, internet bills average €27 per month, and utility bills are around €78 per month.

Healthcare

Healthcare costs in Spain are markedly lower than in the U.S. While the American healthcare system lacks universal coverage, Spain's public healthcare system is accessible to those who contribute to social security. This ensures that most citizens pay nothing extra for healthcare services, aside from subsidized prescriptions. Pregnant women and children receive free treatment under this system, regardless of social security contributions.

In 2022, U.S. healthcare spending reached an astounding 4.5trillion,averaging4.5 trillion, averaging 4.5trillion,averaging13,493 per person. In contrast, average healthcare costs in other wealthy nations are less than half that amount.

For individuals not contributing to social security, private health insurance remains an option, typically costing between €50 and €200 monthly. Those who have lived in Spain for over a year can also access the public healthcare system through a special agreement, with costs ranging from €60 to €157 based on age.

Rising costs in Spain

While Spain has historically been seen as an affordable destination, inflation has affected the cost of living. Food prices surged by 30.7% between December 2019 and August 2024, and rent has increased by an astonishing 78% over the past decade.

Despite these increases, living expenses in the U.S. are also on the rise, influenced by various economic factors.

Salaries

Another essential consideration is local salary levels. Americans moving to Spain under a digital nomad visa may find themselves in a fortunate position, earning significantly more than the local populace. However, those looking to integrate into the local job market may face challenges, as the average gross salary in Spain is approximately €2,128.4 per month, equating to 29,392.46annually—farlessthantheU.S.averageof29,392.46 annually—far less than the U.S. average of 29,392.46annually—farlessthantheU.S.averageof66,622.

As costs for housing, utilities, food, and transport are expected to continue rising in 2025, it's vital for newcomers to be mindful of their impact on local markets.