Living in Spain used to be “dirt cheap”, which led to the invasion of the British and Germans as they looked for an affordable Change of Lifestyle that included nets full of fresh fish, pitchers of wet and delicious sangria and many days of sunshine.  With the introduction of the Euro, Spain moved into the modern economy and while it is still affordable, it has succumbed to inflation.

As with any country, life in the big cities is costly.  But by going into the countryside, or away from the high-tourist areas, Spain still offers one of the most affordable economies in the world.  

Don’t forget that Spain is also an easy market in which to find work.  Tutoring or assisting in a medical office are just two of the many jobs available, and the country encourages, and makes it easy, for incoming residents to work.

Shop in local markets.  Stay away from big grocery stores.  Eat in local cafes, not in the restaurants lining the streets of the major tourist centers.  Drink Spanish wine – it is some of the best in the world.  Or better yet, order a pitcher of sangria, laced with local fruit, and you’ll be set for the evening!

Some of the costs of living in Spain are outlined below.  As we always suggest, rent, don’t buy when you first move to Spain. The freedom it allows you will prove to be beneficial in the end.  Once you get to know Spain, and find a locale that meshes with your soul, then you can buy.  And the advantage is that by then, you’ll have made loads of friends who can offer some of the best advice you'll get!

The prices below are in Euros.  Use the  “converter” for an exchange rate:

MONTHLY BUDGET FOR TWO PEOPLE:
                  
Rent: 350€ for a 2-bedroom villa with a beach view but no pool

Electricity: 35 Euros(€)

Telephone: 20 € plus calls

Food: Including eating out:  400€  Plan your dining out for lunchtime, when prices are lower, the table is yours for the afternoon.  The bill will be in the 10€ rage.  Include a glass of wine or beer from about 2€.

Movies:  5€

Nursery School:  80€ per month, 5 days/week. 

Water:  15€

Internet:  10€

You will need to purchase a car, and petrol is much higher than in the U.S. Get a used car, and plan your trips wisely. 

Medical:  Doctor visits are in the 25€ range. You can also purchase insurance from one of many insurance companies that serve the expat population.

Travel:  Fly to Paris for the day, or London for the weekend.  With low-cost air flights you can do it for about 25€!   

Life in Spain can be easily lived for under $2,000 US per month for two people.  All you need to do now is book a trip and find out the details for yourself!  Your Change of Lifestyle awaits!