You’ve seen the dreamy Instagram shots — wine glasses on a sun-drenched terrace, relaxed mornings with café con leche, and that signature Mediterranean glow.
And you think: I want that.

But what does it actually cost to live that life?

In this blog, we’ll give you a real-world answer. With current numbers (November 2025), real examples, and some honest advice based on years of experience — so you can plan smarter, stress less, and move with clarity.

Renting or buying: What will housing cost you in Spain?

Whether you plan to rent short-term or buy a long-term home, housing will likely be your biggest expense.

• In Valencia, the average rent is €14.90 per m² per month.
  For a 70 m² apartment in a nice neighborhood, expect to pay €1,000 to €1,300. In trendy areas like Ruzafa, El Carmen, or Ensanche, this can rise to €1,600+.
• Want to buy? You’re looking at an average price of €2,670 per m² in Valencia city. Premium districts go up to €3,200 – €3,800 per m².

Example: A 90 m² flat in a central neighborhood may cost around €240,000+, depending on the condition and location.

Don’t forget:
Renting often comes with a 1-month agency fee + 1-month deposit.
Buying involves notary fees, legal support, and taxes, budget 10–15% extra on top of the purchase price.

Monthly expenses: Food, utilities, internet & health insurance

Beyond your housing cost, here’s what daily life will typically cost you in Spain (per person):

Expense	Monthly Average (Nov 2025)
Groceries	€250 – €350
Utilities	€100 – €130
Internet	± €28
Private Health Ins.	€50 – €90
Transport (public/car/scooter)	€50 – €120
Dining & cafés	€100 – €250

Total monthly living costs (without rent): €700 – €950 per person.
For a couple, this typically means €1,400 – €1,700, depending on your lifestyle.

Families with kids should also plan for school fees, childcare, and extracurricular activities, which vary widely based on location and preference.

Is it really cheaper than the Netherlands?

In many ways: yes.

• Groceries and local products are more affordable
• Heating costs are lower (thank you, sunshine)
• Property taxes and municipal fees are usually lower
• You get more space (and often more peace) for your money

But beware: cheaper doesn’t mean free.
Spain comes with different types of expenses, like:

• Hiring a gestor (tax and admin advisor) is often necessary
• If you’re self-employed, your taxes and obligations may change
• Private healthcare, translation services, and extra admin fees add up

Pro tip: Build a realistic monthly budget and leave space for the unexpected.

The hidden costs of moving to Spain

Aside from your monthly expenses, there are one-time costs you’ll want to plan for:

• Moving your belongings
• NIE number, local registration, Spanish bank accounts
• Updating your driver’s license or registering a car
• Initial deposits for rent
• Temporary housing
• Help from translators, lawyers or tax advisors

A good safety buffer is €3,000 – €5,000 for the first 2–3 months of transition.

So, what does living in Spain really cost?

It costs what you make of it.
If you’re a digital nomad living lean, you might get by on €1,200/month.
A family of four with kids and private schooling? Easily €3,000–€4,000+.

What matters most is this:
You know what to expect.
You build a plan around facts, not fantasies.
And you stay flexible, because every stage of relocation comes with its own surprises.

Let Dreams and Realism Walk Hand in Hand

Moving abroad isn’t just about numbers. It’s about building a life that fits, financially, emotionally and practically.

At Match Better Valencia, we don’t sell you the sunshine dream.
We offer real guidance, real knowledge, and real support — so you can start strong and feel at home.

Curious what your dream life in Valencia would really cost?
Send us a message. We’d love to talk it through with you.