The Practicalities of Living in Spain
After we researched the pros and cons of living in Spain we studied the practical aspects of making the move. We looked at factors such as finding a place to live, navigating the healthcare system, understanding the education system, and getting around the country.
Finding Affordable Accommodation
Affordable housing options are available in Spain, especially outside of major cities like Madrid and Barcelona. You can find apartments, houses, and rooms to rent or buy, depending on your budget and preferences. Be prepared to act quickly, as the rental market can be competitive, especially in popular expat areas. Our Tip: To avoid making a costly mistake, it’s best to plan on renting for a few months before making any long term commitments. When you’re ready, work with a real estate agent to find the perfect place for you.
Navigating the Healthcare System
Healthcare in Spain is generally of high quality, but it can be complicated for expats to navigate. The public healthcare system is generally considered excellent, but there may be long wait times for non-emergency procedures. Private healthcare is also available, and many expats opt for private insurance to ensure quicker access to medical care. Be sure to research your options and choose a healthcare plan that suits your needs.
Making sense of the system can be challenging, especially for those who don’t speak Spanish fluently. Consider hiring a relocation consultant or using online resources to help you understand the system and find the right healthcare providers. We have found that Expat groups can also be helpful but we always use experts for any legal issues.
Understanding the Education System
Education in Spain is excellent, but it can be complicated for expats to understand. The public education system is free for residents, but there may be long waitlists for popular schools. Private schools are also available, and many expats opt for international schools for their children that follow a curriculum similar to their home country. Be sure to research your options and choose an education path that suits your child’s needs.
Another important consideration is language. While many schools offer bilingual or English-language programs, your child may still need to learn some Spanish to fully integrate into the education system. Consider enrolling them in language classes or hiring a tutor before and after your arrival to help them adjust.
Getting Around Spain: Transportation Options
The transportation network in Spain is well-developed, with many options for getting around the country. Rail networks connect major cities, and buses cover smaller towns and rural areas. You can also rent a car or use ride-hailing services, although be aware that traffic in cities can be chaotic. For shorter trips, walking or cycling are great options, especially in pedestrian-friendly cities like Barcelona.
You’ll find the transportation system can make a big difference in your daily life as an expat in Spain. Research your options, plan ahead, and consider investing in a good GPS or mapping app to help you navigate the country.
The Cost of Living in Spain
Unlike many other European countries, Spain offers a relatively low cost of living, making it an attractive option for expats and digital nomads. Here’s a breakdown of some of the key expenses you’ll need to consider. Keep in mind that prices are subject to change but at least you’ll have some guidelines to work from. At the time of writing one US Dollar was worth 0.9342 Euros.
Rent and Housing Costs
On average, rent in Spain is lower than in many other European countries. You can find a one-bedroom apartment in a city center for around $700-900 per month, while a three-bedroom apartment can cost between $1,050-1,550 per month. However, prices vary greatly depending on the location, with cities like Madrid and Barcelona being more expensive than smaller towns and cities.
Food Prices and Eating Out
Food costs in Spain are relatively low, especially if you’re willing to eat like a local. We love street food which costs between $5-10. You can also find a meal in a mid-range restaurant for around $20-30 per person, while a pint of beer can cost as little as $2.50. Groceries are also affordable, with a basket of basic items costing around $40-50 per week, depending on your lifestyle.
Spain is famous for its tapas culture, which means you can enjoy a variety of small plates at a low cost. Additionally, many restaurants offer a “menu del día” (daily menu) which typically includes a starter, main course, and dessert for a fixed price, usually around $10-20.
Transportation Costs
Living in Spain, you’ll find that transportation costs are very affordable. A single bus ticket can cost as little as $1.40, while a monthly public transport pass can cost around $20-30. Trains are also relatively cheap, with a one-way ticket from Madrid to Barcelona costing around $30-60.
Renting a car for a day can cost around $40-60, while a monthly car rental can cost around $200-300. However, owning a car in Spain can be expensive due to high fuel prices and tolls.
Other Living Expenses
Expenses like utilities, internet, and phone bills are relatively low in Spain. You can expect to pay around $100-150 per month for a small apartment, while a larger apartment can cost around $200-300 per month for utilities.
Apart from these expenses, you’ll also need to consider other costs like health insurance, which can range from $50-100 per month depending on your age and health status. You may also need to pay around $100-200 per year for property taxes if you own a property in Spain.
Keep in mind, costs can vary greatly depending on your lifestyle and location, so it’s vital to research thoroughly before making the move to Spain.
Job Opportunities in Spain
We were looking at retiring in Spain but for some expats, finding a job can be a challenge. However, with the right skills and knowledge, it’s definitely possible to secure a job.
Finding Work as an Expat
The job market in Spain is competitive and fluency in Spanish is often a requirement. However, if you’re willing to put in the effort, you can increase your chances of finding a job that suits your skills and experience.
Teaching English in Spain
With a high demand for English language instruction, teaching English can be a great option for expats. Many language schools and institutions hire native English speakers to teach students of all ages.
The country has a number of programs that allow expats to teach English such as the Language Assistant Program, which provides a visa and a stipend to teach English in public schools. Additionally, many private language schools hire English teachers, often with a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certification.
Remote Work Options
The rise of remote work has made it easier for expats to live in Spain while working for companies based in other countries. With a reliable internet connection and a comfortable workspace, you can work remotely from anywhere in the country.
For instance, many digital nomads choose to live in cities like Barcelona, Valencia, and Granada, which offer a great quality of life and a thriving expat community. There are also a number of co-working spaces and digital nomad communities that can provide support and networking opportunities.
Starting Your Own Business
Spain has a thriving entrepreneurial spirit, and many expats choose to start their own businesses here. With a relatively low cost of living and a supportive business environment, this can be an attractive option for entrepreneurs.
Whether you’re interested in freelancing, opening a small business, or starting a company it’s important to research the regulations and requirements and obtain any necessary licenses and permits.
Tip: We can’t stress enough how important it is to look at every aspect of life in any country that you are considering as your permanent home. We have seen too many people fall in love with a country, without doing proper due diligence. They buy property, ship their belongings (at great expense) only to find out a few months later that one or other of the partners isn’t happy. Don’t make the same mistake!
