The ultimate guide to the cost of living in Barcelona

Whether you're studying, relocating for work, or moving to Barcelona with your family, understanding the cost of living as an expat is essential. One of the most important questions to consider before your move is: What is the cost of living in Barcelona?

Because gaining insight into everyday expenses is the key to creating a realistic budget and ensuring a smooth transition to life in Barcelona.

We've taken a close look at the cost of living in Barcelona across 4 areas:

1. Rental prices

2. The food prices

3. The leisure prices

4. Public transportation

While Barcelona is moderately expensive, it's still more affordable than many major European capitals. A single person can expect to spend around €785 ($818) per month excluding rent, while a family of 4 typically needs €2,760 ($2,880) per month without rent.

Compared to cities like London, Amsterdam, and Paris, Barcelona offers lower living expenses. Rent in particular is significantly cheaper, and local food production helps keep grocery prices down. For example, living in Barcelona is 24.7% cheaper than in the Amsterdam and 33.6% cheaper than in London.

While salaries in Spain are generally lower, the overall cost of living allows for a comfortable lifestyle with proper budgeting. But this goes without saying, your expenses will ultimately depend on your housing choices, daily habits, and personal spending preferences.

The cost of living in Barcelona is expensive in comparison to other Spanish cities like Seville and Valencia. As the 2nd most expensive city in Spain after Madrid, you'll have to dig a little deeper than some southern cities when it comes to the cost of living.

On average, you should expect €1,219 ($1,271) monthly to rent a studio in Barcelona. With the growing popularity of Barcelona's neighbourhoods comes a rapid rise in rental prices. Especially in recent years, rental prices in Barcelona have gone through a slight rollercoaster ride. And to slow down rising rent prices, the Catalan city proposed a rent cap.

Generally, renting a studio in Barcelona is more expensive than renting an apartment or room.

Here are the rent prices in Barcelona for 2025, based on HousingAnywhere's Rent Index:

In Spain, you're at the heart of Tempranillo production and the "fruit and vegetable garden of Europe," which means grocery prices are generally lower. In Barcelona, you can expect your monthly grocery bill to be around €250 to €300 ($260 to $312).

Expect the following prices for grocery: | Food | Prices | | ---------- | ---------- | | Water (1.5 l) | €0.76 ($1.13) | | Wine (mid-range) | €6 ($6.25) | | Local beer (0.5 l) | €1.20 ($1.25) | | Imported beer (0.33 l) | €1.98 ($2.07) | | Milk (1 l) | €1.12 ($1.13) | | Fresh white bread (500 g) | €1.74 ($1.81) | | Rice (white), (1 kg) | €1.64 ($1.70) | | Eggs (medium), (12) | €2.93 ($3.06) | | Local cheese (1 kg) | €14.80 ($15.43) | | Beef (1 kg) | €16.62 ($17.32) | | Bananas (1 kg) | €1.93 ($2.01) | | Oranges (1 kg) | €1.92 ($2) | | Tomatoes (1 kg) | €2.29 ($2.38) | | Potatoes (1 kg) | €1.72 ($1.80) |

Grabbing a freshly made bocadillo and a cold draft beer for merienda will soon be part of your daily routine. Spaniards are passionate about food, and you’ll quickly discover the best local cafés and restaurants in Barcelona—away from the tourist crowds! On average, you can expect to spend around €200 to €300 ($210 to $312) per month on leisure activities.

Expect the following prices for your free time in Barcelona:

The public transport network in Barcelona is run by the "Autoritat del Transport Metropolità" (ATM), making it easy and convenient for you to get around.

Check out these prices for public transport and other means of transport in Barcelona:

If you're student (under 30) you can purchase T-Jove card for €40 ($42) per month for all areas, valid for 3 months.

Now that you have an idea of the cost of living in Barcelona, it's time to explore the best areas to live. Check out the best neighborhoods in Barcelona to find the perfect spot for you!

Want to know more about Moving to Spain? Download the free e-book by filling out the form below.