How much does it really cost to move to Spain?

So, you’re dreaming of sipping an ice-cold beer on a sun-drenched terrace, waving goodbye to your 9-to-5 in the drizzle. But how much money do you actually need in the bank to make your Mediterranean move a reality? From visas to vet bills, here’s what you need before shouting ‘¡Vamos!’

We’ve crunched the numbers from start to finish – from visa fees to flights, deposits to dog crates – to give you a clear, factual breakdown of what it really takes to start a new life in Spain.

Step one: Getting to Spain legally won’t come cheap

Non-EU citizens such as UK and US nationals typically apply for Spain’s non-lucrative visa (NLV), which suits retirees or those with passive income. Applicants must show they have at least €36,000 in savings or passive income to support themselves without working in Spain. When renewing after the first year, they must show enough funds to cover a two-year period – effectively doubling the required amount.

• Visa application fees: approx. £516 (€600) per person
• Document processing (e.g. ACRO Police Certificate, apostille, certified translation): approx. €400-€500
• Private health insurance (fully paid upfront, with no co-pay): around €250/month or €3,000/year for a couple in their 50s

Flights and shipping

• Flights will depend on where you’re flying from and where flying to, and also the time of year. Half-terms, Easter and summer tend to be more expensive.
• Shipping personal belongings: We can estimate around €2,000 for the average person unless you want to start fresh and just pack your suitcases and go, which many people do.

Temporary accommodation

A short-term ‘landing pad’ – such as a three-week stay in a rental or hotel while apartment hunting – comes in at around €1,000-€2000 depending on the size, time of year, and location of course. It’s a wise investment though, as you will often need to scout an area before deciding to move. Pick an area that has what you’re looking for.

Renting in Spain: Deposit drama and dodgy demands

Renting in popular cities like Malaga, Madrid, and Barcelona can be a fast-paced, competitive affair. While Spanish law limits landlords to asking for a one-month rent deposit and up to two months more as additional guarantees, it’s not uncommon for them to bend or outright ignore these rules.

We researched available rentals on April 18, 2025, and we found:

• Monthly rent for a two-bed furnished apartment near Benalmadena beach was €1,550 on average.
• Upfront costs: €4,650 (first month’s rent plus two months’ deposit)

Some landlords or agents may try to tack on illegal ‘service fees’ or demand more months upfront. Technically unlawful, these practices are still common in hot markets, and many tenants feel forced to comply just to secure a place.

The hard costs of moving: Totalling it all up

Let’s tally the essentials:

• Visa and document fees: €780
• Health insurance: €3,000
• Flights: ?
• Shipping: €2,000 (optional)
• Temporary accommodation: €1,000-2000 (can vary by region)
• Rental move-in costs: Around €4,650

Optional extras that quickly add up

These aren’t required, but many expats end up spending on them:

• Immigration lawyer: up to €2,000
• Tax advice before moving: €500
• Relocation agent (to help secure housing): Around €2,000
• Temporary accommodation back home after selling your property: varies.
• Larger shipping jobs: can exceed €10,000 if moving an entire household.
• Pet relocation: Up to €350 for health paperwork, with air transport ranging from €100 to €200 (cabin) to or even up to €6,000 for US and Canadian flyers in cargo.

Living in Spain: What will your new life cost?

Once you’re settled, the next big factor is day-to-day living. Spain’s national statistics agency reports that the average annual cost of living per consumer unit in Andalucía (excluding rent) is approximately €14,745. For a couple, this number is adjusted by multiplying it by 1.5, bringing the estimate to €22,118 per year.

Add rent back into the equation – using our earlier figure of €1,550 per month – and that’s another €18,600 annually.

Yearly living costs for a couple would be around €40,000.

Want more comfort, travel, and margin? Doubling the non-rent portion brings the estimate closer to €62,000 per year, giving plenty of headroom for holidays, flights home, and unexpected expenses.

This can be slightly higher in Madrid, Barcelona, Bilbao, Valencia, or Mallorca. It can also be lowe in more remote regions and places. Think “España vacía.”  

Don’t forget the taxman

After around six months in Spain, you’re likely to become a tax resident, meaning you’ll be taxed on your worldwide income and assets. There are tax treaties to prevent double taxation, but your overall budget should account for this new financial obligation. It’s one of the most overlooked parts of planning a move.

So, is Spain still worth it?

Absolutely yes – but only if you go in with your eyes (and wallet) wide open. At the bare minimum, expect to fork out €8,000 – €15,000 to get set up, and at least €40,000 – €60,000 per year to live comfortably as a couple. Costs will vary by lifestyle and location as always – small towns are cheaper, cities like Malaga or Madrid will cost more, particularly for housing.

The bottom line? Spain can offer a better quality of life – but only if your budget is realistic, your paperwork is in order, and you’re prepared to deal with a few Spanish quirks along the way.

Plan wisely, and you could be swapping stress for sangria and siestas in no time.

If you like this article, check out the biggest mistakes people make when buying a home in Spain.

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