Spain is a diverse and vibrant country offering a high quality of life at an affordable cost. With a budget of $2000 USD per month (approximately €1850), you can comfortably live in many Spanish cities and towns, enjoying the rich culture, delicious cuisine, and beautiful landscapes.
Spain has long been a dream destination for expats and digital nomads, but many assume living here comes with a high price tag. The truth is, Spain offers a variety of cities and towns where you can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle, rich culture, and beautiful surroundings without breaking the bank. With a budget of under $2000 USD a month, it’s entirely possible to live well.
What makes Spain particularly appealing is the balance it strikes between affordability and quality of life. From lively urban hubs to quiet coastal escapes, the country’s regions each offer their own unique blend of history, cuisine, and community. Whether you prefer the energy of a bustling city or the charm of a smaller town, Spain has a place to suit your lifestyle and budget.
For Americans and other international residents, the cost of living in Spain often comes as a pleasant surprise. Housing, healthcare, and everyday expenses are generally lower than in much of the United States, making it easier to stretch your dollar further while enjoying all the benefits of Mediterranean living.
Here’s a guide to some of the best places to live in Spain on a budget, along with recommendations on what to do and where to go.
Read here best things to know before visiting Spain, Planning an Itinerary in Spain: 3 Days Madrid Itinerary and 4 Days Barcelona Itinerary
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Tips for Living on a Budget in Spain
Accommodation: Consider sharing an apartment or living slightly outside the city center to reduce rent costs.
Transportation: Utilize public transportation or walk/bike when possible. Many cities have affordable monthly transit passes.
Food: Shop at local markets for fresh produce and cook at home. Enjoy tapas culture, where you can get free or low-cost small dishes with drinks in some regions.
Entertainment: Take advantage of free or discounted museum days, public festivals, and outdoor activities.
Language: Learning Spanish can enhance your experience and may lead to better deals and local friendships.
One controversial point is the impact of foreigners moving into affordable Spanish towns. While many communities welcome the economic boost, others worry about rising rents and property prices caused by international demand. This tension often sparks debates about gentrification and preserving local life.
Another debated issue is the lifestyle trade-off. Some argue that living for under $2000 USD a month often means settling in smaller towns or less touristy regions, which can come with fewer job opportunities and limited services. Others counter that the slower pace and stronger community ties make the trade-off worthwhile.
Finally, there’s the question of sustainability. Critics point out that relying on foreign residents to sustain small towns could change cultural dynamics over time. Supporters believe it helps revitalize declining areas and keep traditions alive. For expats, navigating these realities respectfully is key to integrating into local life.
Best Places to Live in Spain
1. Valencia
Why It’s Great:
Valencia is Spain’s third-largest city, known for its perfect blend of city life and beach relaxation. With a lower cost of living compared to Madrid and Barcelona, Valencia offers affordable housing, a pleasant climate, and a rich cultural scene.
Estimated Monthly Rent:
One-bedroom apartment: €800-€1000 ($1000) in the city center
Outside city center: €500-€700 ($540-$760)
What to Do and Where to Go:
City of Arts and Sciences: Explore this futuristic complex housing museums, an aquarium, and an opera house.
Turia Gardens: Enjoy outdoor activities in this 9-kilometer-long park built on a former riverbed.
Malvarrosa Beach: Relax on the sandy shores and enjoy Mediterranean views.
Central Market (Mercado Central): Shop for fresh produce and local delicacies in one of Europe’s largest markets.
Las Fallas Festival: Experience this famous festival in March featuring elaborate sculptures, fireworks, and street parties.
2. Alicante
Why It’s Great:
Alicante is a coastal city on the Costa Blanca, known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and lively atmosphere. It’s more affordable than larger cities and offers a relaxed lifestyle with plenty of sunshine.
Estimated Monthly Rent:
One-bedroom apartment: €700-€900 ($900) in the city center
Outside city center: €500-€600 ($430-$650)
What to Do and Where to Go:
Santa Bárbara Castle: Visit this medieval fortress atop Mount Benacantil for panoramic city views.
Explanada de España: Stroll along this elegant promenade lined with palm trees and mosaic tiles.
Postiguet Beach: Enjoy sunbathing and swimming at this city beach.
Old Town (El Barrio): Explore narrow streets filled with bars, restaurants, and nightlife.
Tabarca Island: Take a boat trip to this small island for snorkeling and fresh seafood.
3. Granada
Granada, located at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains, is famous for the Alhambra Palace and its rich Moorish heritage. The city offers a low cost of living, free tapas with drinks, and a vibrant student population.
Estimated Monthly Rent:
One-bedroom apartment: €400-€600 ($430-$650) in the city center
Outside city center: €350-€500 ($380-$540)
What to Do and Where to Go:
Alhambra Palace: Visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site, a stunning example of Moorish architecture.
Generalife Gardens: Explore the beautiful gardens adjacent to the Alhambra.
Albaicín Neighborhood: Wander through the historic Muslim quarter with its narrow streets and whitewashed houses.
Sacromonte Caves: Experience flamenco performances in traditional cave dwellings.
Sierra Nevada: Enjoy skiing in winter or hiking in summer in the nearby mountains.
4. Seville
Why It’s Great:
Seville is the capital of Andalusia, known for its historic architecture, flamenco music, and lively festivals. The city combines a rich cultural heritage with modern amenities, all at a reasonable cost.
Estimated Monthly Rent:
One-bedroom apartment: €550-€750 ($600-$810) in the city center
Outside city center: €450-€650 ($490-$700)
What to Do and Where to Go:
Seville Cathedral and Giralda Tower: Visit the largest Gothic cathedral in the world and climb the tower for city views.
Real Alcázar: Explore this royal palace with its stunning gardens and Mudejar architecture.
Plaza de España: Admire this impressive plaza built for the 1929 Ibero-American Exposition.
Barrio Santa Cruz: Wander through the charming old Jewish quarter with its narrow streets and colorful patios.
Flamenco Shows: Experience authentic flamenco performances in the city where the art form was born.
5. Málaga
Why It’s Great:
Located on the Costa del Sol, Málaga offers a warm climate, beautiful beaches, and a thriving cultural scene. The city has undergone significant development, blending its historic charm with modern museums and facilities.
Estimated Monthly Rent:
One-bedroom apartment: €550-€750 ($600-$810) in the city center
Outside city center: €450-€650 ($490-$700)
What to Do and Where to Go:
Picasso Museum: Visit the museum dedicated to Málaga’s most famous native, Pablo Picasso.
Alcazaba and Gibralfaro Castle: Explore these historic Moorish fortresses with panoramic views.
Málaga Cathedral: Admire the architecture of the city’s iconic cathedral, known as “La Manquita.”
La Malagueta Beach: Relax on the popular city beach and enjoy seaside restaurants.
Atarazanas Market: Shop for fresh produce and sample local foods in this bustling market.
6. Bilbao
Why It’s Great:
Bilbao, located in the Basque Country, is known for its modern architecture, particularly the Guggenheim Museum. The city offers a high quality of life, excellent public transportation, and a rich culinary tradition.
Estimated Monthly Rent:
One-bedroom apartment: €800-€1000 ($1000) in the city center
Outside city center: €600-€800 ($700-$960)
What to Do and Where to Go:
Guggenheim Museum: Explore contemporary art in this iconic building designed by Frank Gehry.
Casco Viejo (Old Town): Wander through the historic center with its narrow streets and traditional shops.
Pintxos Bars: Enjoy Basque tapas called pintxos in local bars and taverns.
Mount Artxanda: Take the funicular for panoramic views of the city.
Ribera Market: Visit one of the largest covered markets in Europe for fresh produce and local delicacies.
7. Zaragoza
Why It’s Great:
Zaragoza is a lesser-known gem located between Madrid and Barcelona. The city boasts impressive historical sites, affordable living, and a relaxed atmosphere without the crowds of larger cities.
Estimated Monthly Rent:
One-bedroom apartment: €450-€650 ($490-$700) in the city center
Outside city center: €350-€500 ($380-$540)
What to Do and Where to Go:
Basilica del Pilar: Visit this stunning basilica located by the Ebro River.
Aljafería Palace: Explore this medieval Islamic palace, a testament to Zaragoza’s Moorish past.
Plaza del Pilar: Relax in this large plaza surrounded by historic buildings.
Goya Museum: Discover works by Francisco Goya, who was born near Zaragoza.
Tapas in El Tubo: Enjoy tapas in this lively area filled with bars and restaurants.
8. Salamanca
Why It’s Great:
Salamanca is renowned for its beautiful sandstone architecture and prestigious university, one of the oldest in Europe. The city offers a vibrant student atmosphere and affordable cost of living.
Estimated Monthly Rent:
One-bedroom apartment: €400-€600 ($430-$650) in the city center
Outside city center: €350-€500 ($380-$540)
What to Do and Where to Go:
Plaza Mayor: Visit one of Spain’s most beautiful squares, the heart of Salamanca’s social life.
University of Salamanca: Explore the historic university buildings and their intricate façades.
Old and New Cathedrals: Admire the architectural blend of the connected cathedrals.
Casa de las Conchas: See this unique building decorated with over 300 stone shells.
Roman Bridge: Walk across this ancient bridge spanning the Tormes River.
9. Cádiz
Why It’s Great:
Cádiz is one of the oldest cities in Western Europe, located on a peninsula surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean. It offers beautiful beaches, a rich history, and a relaxed lifestyle at an affordable price.
Estimated Monthly Rent:
One-bedroom apartment: €450-€650 ($490-$700) in the city center
Outside city center: €350-€500 ($380-$540)
What to Do and Where to Go:
Cádiz Cathedral: Visit the cathedral with its golden dome offering views over the city.
La Caleta Beach: Enjoy this picturesque urban beach popular among locals.
Plaza de las Flores: Explore this vibrant square filled with flower stalls.
Tavira Tower: Climb to the top for panoramic views and experience the camera obscura.
Carnival of Cádiz: Participate in one of Spain’s most famous carnivals if visiting in February.
10. Murcia
Why It’s Great:
Murcia is a smaller city in southeastern Spain known for its warm climate, historic architecture, and agricultural produce. It offers a slower pace of life and lower cost of living.
Estimated Monthly Rent:
One-bedroom apartment: €400-€600 ($430-$650) in the city center
Outside city center: €350-€500 ($380-$540)
What to Do and Where to Go:
Murcia Cathedral: Admire the Baroque façade and climb the bell tower for city views.
Real Casino de Murcia: Visit this historic building featuring a blend of architectural styles.
Plaza de las Flores: Enjoy tapas in this lively square.
Segura River Walk: Stroll along the riverbanks and enjoy the city’s greenery.
Nearby Beaches: The Costa Cálida beaches are a short drive away for weekend getaways.
Final Thoughts
Living in Spain for less than $2000 USD a month is not only possible but can also be incredibly rewarding. With the right location and lifestyle choices, you can enjoy a high standard of living without sacrificing comfort or cultural richness.
What makes Spain so special is that affordability does not mean compromise. Even in smaller towns or budget-friendly cities, you’ll find incredible food, vibrant traditions, and welcoming communities. This combination is what draws so many expats to make Spain their home.
In the end, choosing where to live in Spain is about more than just cost—it’s about finding a place that fits your rhythm of life. Whether you’re after seaside relaxation, cultural immersion, or urban energy, there’s a corner of Spain waiting for you, all within a reasonable budget.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.