Spain Cost of Living for Retirees: Monthly Breakdown

Spain Cost of Living for Retirees: Spain continues to be a top destination for retirees thanks to its sunny climate, high-quality healthcare, and affordable living. But how much does it really cost to retire comfortably in Spain in 2025? This guide offers a detailed monthly budget breakdown for retirees in different parts of the country, covering housing, healthcare, food, and more.

 

While this guide focuses on retirees, if you’re a remote worker or entrepreneur considering Spain, it’s worth checking out the Spain Digital Nomad Visa which offers tax benefits and residency options for digital professionals.

 

🏠 Housing Costs for Retirees

 

Housing will likely be your largest monthly expense. Here’s what to expect depending on location and lifestyle:

 

• Madrid & Barcelona: €900–€1,500 for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center.
• Valencia & Seville: €700–€1,000 for a similar apartment.
• Smaller towns: €500–€800, or less for rural areas.

 

Many retirees prefer quieter coastal towns or inland villages where rent and property prices are much lower.

 

🍽️ Food and Grocery Expenses

 

Spanish cuisine is both delicious and affordable. Grocery prices are very reasonable compared to Northern Europe or the U.S.:

 

• Groceries (per person): €200–€300/month.
• Dining out: Menu del día from €10–€15; dinner at a restaurant €20–€40 per person.

 

Markets and local shops often offer fresh produce at lower prices than supermarkets.

 

🏥 Healthcare Costs for Retirees

 

Spain has a top-rated public healthcare system. Many retirees opt for private insurance to avoid wait times and gain access to English-speaking doctors.

 

• Public healthcare: Free or low-cost for legal residents.
• Private insurance: €50–€150/month depending on age and coverage.
• Doctor visit (private): €50–€80 per visit.

 

Retired EU citizens often qualify for public healthcare through the S1 form. Non-EU retirees will need to purchase private insurance during the visa process.

 

🚇 Transportation & Utilities

 

Spain’s public transportation is efficient and affordable, especially for seniors:

 

• Public transport pass: €30–€55/month (with senior discounts available).
• Utilities: €100–€150/month (electricity, gas, water, internet).

 

🎭 Lifestyle & Other Expenses

 

Enjoying retirement doesn’t need to be expensive in Spain. Here’s what other monthly costs might look like:

 

• Gym membership: €30–€50
• Entertainment (cinema, events): €50–€100
• Mobile plan: €10–€25

 

💶 Total Estimated Monthly Budget for Retirees in Spain (2025)

 

• Single retiree (big city): €1,500–€2,200/month
• Single retiree (smaller town): €1,200–€1,600/month
• Couple (big city): €2,200–€2,800/month
• Couple (smaller town): €1,800–€2,300/month

 

✅ Final Thoughts

 

Spain offers retirees an excellent quality of life at a reasonable cost. From vibrant cities to tranquil coastal villages, there’s a lifestyle for every budget. With proper planning and the right location, you can live well and stress-free in retirement.

 

📺 Want to Learn More?

 

If you want more information about retiring in Spain, here’s a great video that walks through real-life budgets and tips: