Cost of Living in Barcelona for British Expats
Barcelona, the vibrant capital of Catalonia, is an enchanting destination that offers an irresistible mix of old-world charm and modern excitement.
Nestled between the sea and the mountains, this cosmopolitan city offers a high quality of life, making it a magnet for expats and tourists alike.
It is not just Barcelona’s warm Mediterranean climate that lures so many here.
This city is a feast for the eyes, with Gaudí’s iconic Sagrada Família and Park Güell. It is also a paradise for food lovers, boasting a culinary scene that ranges from traditional tapas to avant-garde cuisine.
Strolling through the narrow, winding streets of the Gothic Quarter, every corner reveals a piece of the city’s rich history.
Imagine relaxing on the sandy beaches of Barceloneta, with the sound of the Mediterranean waves as your backdrop.
Yes, Barcelona has much to offer, but beyond the allure of its lifestyle, what does it cost to live in this vibrant city?
Let’s delve into the expenses associated with life in Barcelona and uncover the benefits of making this city your home.
It’s important to note that living costs are subjective and can vary greatly depending on individual lifestyles and incomes.
While living costs in Spain are generally lower compared to many other countries, it’s also true that salaries tend to be lower, which can affect your overall budget.
About Barcelona
If you are contemplating a move to Barcelona, chances are you are already familiar with many of the city’s positive attributes.
An undeniably incredible place to live, the city attracts people from across the globe with its year-round warm weather, cultural offerings, stunning beaches, and vibrant nightlife.
Barcelona is a veritable melting pot of cultures, that supports a diverse population of people from all over the world.
This cultural diversity adds to the city’s vibrant atmosphere and offers countless culinary opportunities.
Most importantly, the city’s mild warm climate allows for outdoor activities year-round, whether it is sunbathing on the beach or hiking in the nearby mountains.
Lifestyle in Barcelona
Though the city is buzzing with fun and entertainment, it is also much less frantic than London in many ways.
Characterised by its laid-back Mediterranean vibe, Barcelona is packed with cultural richness and its emphasis on enjoying life to the fullest is so appealing.
You may encounter a few problems with the language barrier to start with but being a top tourist destination, most people can speak some English.
That said, it will pay dividends if you make the effort and learn to speak Spanish.
Accommodation Costs
The cost of accommodation in Barcelona will vary depending on the property size and area you live in.
Before you consider the possibility of owning your own property in Barcelona, you will need to find suitable temporary accommodation. Generally, this means renting a property in the city.
Though monthly rental prices in Barcelona vary depending on the location and size of the property, the city is pleasantly affordable compared to other places in Europe.
- City Center: A one-bedroom apartment in the city centre typically costs between £900 and £1,100 per month (Numbeo).
- Outside City Center: If you prefer to live outside the busy city centre, you can expect to pay around £676 to £848 for a one-bedroom apartment (Numbeo).
- Shared Flats: For those on a tighter budget, renting a room in a shared flat ranges from £300 to £550 per month again, depending on the size and location (Barcelona Expat Life).
- Family-sized accommodation is also available. A three-bedroom property in the city centre will cost approximately £1700; further out, you can expect to pay around £1100.
Cost of Buying a Home
After settling in Barcelona, you might consider buying a home to make your stay more permanent.
One of the biggest questions is how the cost of purchasing a home in Barcelona compares to the UK.
Getting the best deal is essential to managing your budget effectively.
The good news for expats is that buying property in Barcelona is generally more affordable than buying in the UK. This is especially true if you are willing to live on the city’s outskirts rather than in the central areas.
Also, without having to venture too far from the centre, homes in Barcelona tend to be cheaper and often have more extensive gardens, ideal for enjoying the Mediterranean climate and socialising outdoors.
So, what are the specific differences in property costs?
For comparison purposes, according to Numbeo, the price per square meter to buy an apartment in central London is around £15,992, while in Barcelona, it’s approximately £4,767, a huge difference.
Outside the city centre, the price per square meter in London is about £8,123, compared to £3,210 in Barcelona.
By choosing Barcelona over London, you could save between 65% and 75% on property costs, a substantial financial benefit.
Follow this link to ThinkSPAIN’s website. They have thousands of homes for sale, and you can see just how far your money will stretch when you buy a home in Barcelona.
Utility Costs
Having a good understanding of utility costs will help you get a grasp of your living costs in Barcelona.
There are some significant savings to be made on monthly bills in Barcelona.
As the weather conditions are warmer for more of the year, heating your home will not be as expensive as it would be in the UK; however, you may find that during the hottest part of the Spanish summer, your air conditioner will be heavily used.
Here are some typical monthly costs to consider.
Utilities, including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage, average around £113 per month for a standard apartment.
For a mobile phone monthly plan with calls and 10GB+ data, you will pay approximately £12; this is not too dissimilar to the UK.
Accessing the internet is also comparable, costing around £13 per month.
Stats taken from the cost-of-living website Numbeo.
Food and Grocery Prices
Aside from your utility costs, food will form a major component of your monthly outgoings.
However, budgeting, shopping around and using the popular and plentiful local food markets will significantly reduce your grocery bill when money is short.
Plus, Spain produces most of its food and wine locally, making some fresh food items much more pocket-friendly.
Here are some typical grocery prices:
- Milk (1 liter): £89
- Bread (500g): £1.23
- Eggs (dozen): £2.61
- Chicken breast (1kg): £3.55
- Local cheese (1kg): £10.88
Dining Out in Barcelona
Eating out for dinner is a wonderful experience in Barcelona.
It is a well-known fact that Barcelona is a haven for food lovers.
Eating out is a popular way for the Spanish to socialise and spend time with family, friends, and work colleagues. The city’s fresh food markets and gourmet restaurants testify to its rich gastronomic heritage.
Barcelona provides a wide range of dining options, from budget-friendly tapa bars to Michelin-starred restaurants and eateries.
You can pay as little as £12 for an inexpensive meal at a restaurant. For dinner at a mid-range restaurant, including a bottle of wine, you are looking at around £50.
Share your food. Sharing platters is a great way to save on cost by going 50-50 on the price.
If you’re moving to Barcelona or just visiting, you must be adventurous with your food choices.
Don’t stick to the familiar; dive into the local flavours that make this city unique, who knows you may find a new favourite dish!
Some of the most memorable dishes you can try in Barcelona might also be the most unusual.
- Morcilla, a rich blood sausage, offers a hearty taste of traditional Spanish cuisine.
- Razor clams sautéed in garlic are a delicate and flavourful seafood treat.
- Grilled sweetbreads provide a rich, savoury experience,
- Boquerones and marinated white anchovies offer a tangy and refreshing light bite.
- Bacalao, or salt cod, is a classic Spanish staple often prepared in delicious ways.
- Tinned mussels in escabeche sauce and their tangy, slightly spicy marinade are a delightful surprise.
You don’t need to splash the cash when planning to eat out in the city.
But you do need to embrace Barcelona’s culinary adventure.
By exploring its unique dishes and adjusting to local dining customs, you’ll better appreciate the city’s rich food culture and enhance your overall experience in this vibrant metropolis.
Leisure Expenses
Park Güell, Barcelona.
Living in Barcelona doesn’t mean you don’t have plenty to keep you busy when you have spare time on your hands.
On the contrary, so many wonderful attractions across the city are waiting to be discovered.
While many places to visit cost quite a bit to experience, there are also lots of things to do and see that are free and have absolutely no impact on your budget. Bonus!
Here are just a few things you can do in Barcelona without spending a penny or (a cent).
La Rambla
Stroll down this famous street and soak in the lively atmosphere, street performers, and local vendors.
La Boqueria Market
Explore one of Europe’s largest and most famous food markets, where you can sample local produce and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Magic Fountain of Montjuïc
Watch the spectacular light, music, and water show at the famous Magic Fountain of Montjuic, usually held in the evenings.
Parc de la Ciutadella
Relax in the beautiful Parc de la Ciutadella, which includes a lake, fountains, museums, and the city zoo (the zoo has an entry fee).
Beaches
Enjoy the Mediterranean coastline at Barcelona’s various beaches, such as Barceloneta, Bogatell, and Mar Bella.
Museu Picasso (Free Sundays)
Enjoy free entry to this museum, which houses an extensive collection of Picasso’s early works, on the first Sunday of each month and every Sunday after 3 PM.
Cathedral of Barcelona (La Seu)
Visit this stunning Gothic cathedral in the heart of the Gothic Quarter. Free entry is available outside of mass hours.
Take a look at the Earth Trekkers website for more things to do in Barcelona.
Costs of Public Transport in Barcelona
Barcelona has some excellent and affordable public transport options.
When you live in a city, you want to be able to access all areas without any hassle, this is certainly the case if you move to Barcelona.
Barcelona’s compact size means residents can easily, efficiently, safely, and inexpensively travel around the city via its public transportation system.
The public transport network in Barcelona is operated by “Autoritat del Transport Metropolità” (ATM).
An extensive network of more than 150 metro stations, dozens of bus lines and more are at your disposal.
Similar to London, there are zoned areas, but as an example, a one-way rail ticket will cost you £2.12.
If you are a student (under 30), you can purchase a T-Jove card for €40 per month. It covers all areas and is valid for three months.
If you are older than 30 and plan to travel by metro or bus frequently, save some euros and get the T10 pass. This handy card allows 10 metro trips for as little as £9-£10.
Taxis can be hailed and generally charge between £1.50 and £2.00 per kilometre.
There is no doubt that in a relatively short time, you will be traversing the city like a pro.
Cost of Healthcare in Barcelona
When you first move to Barcelona, securing adequate private healthcare is essential.
This is a crucial expense to prepare for any unexpected health issues.
Private healthcare is top-notch, with varying fees depending on the provider and your personal circumstances.
According to Expatra, a basic health insurance plan can cost between £ 44 and £170 per month, depending on factors like age and pre-existing conditions.
It’s essential that your insurance company approves the doctors and medical centres you visit to guarantee coverage.
For more comprehensive information on healthcare options and costs, consider visiting local health service providers for personalised quotes and services.
Here are three popular providers:
With a good grasp of the cost of living in Barcelona, you’ll be all set for your move to the Catalan city!
Are you Impressed by the cost of living in Barcelona?
Now that you have a clearer picture and more information about the cost of living in Barcelona, it’s evident that this wonderful city offers a more affordable lifestyle in almost all cases compared to the UK.
Moving to Barcelona can be relatively straightforward as long as you are prepared to take the time and do what is necessary to get your visas and finances in place.
The city provides abundant opportunities for personal and professional growth, making it an attractive destination for almost everyone, young or old.
Moreover, the potential financial savings, combined with Barcelona’s high quality of life, unique culture, and pleasant climate, make relocating there a very appealing option.
Whether it’s the lower cost of housing, the cheaper public transport, or the rich cultural experiences, Barcelona offers numerous advantages that can significantly enhance your overall living experience.
Moving to Barcelona is a realistic and rewarding possibility you will unlikely regret if you do decide to make the move!
Start your Barcelona Journey
White & Company Truck
To start your relocation to Barcelona, you will need to contact a removal firm that specialises in European moves.
For expert handling, consider reaching out to White & Company, a well-respected name in the industry.
White & Company offer reliable, trustworthy, and competitively priced European removal services.
As longstanding members of prestigious organisations like BAR, Omni, and FIDI, their services are endorsed by leading bodies in the removal sector, which is an important factor when choosing a removal company.
Get the ball rolling and contact us today to schedule a free, no-obligation home or virtual survey.
You can also fill out an online quick quote form or chat with our helpful chatbot.
Regardless of the method you choose to get in touch, White & Company aims to assist you in making your dream of relocating to Barcelona a reality.
With expertise that spans over 150 years, you can ensure that your personal belongings are handled with care and professionalism throughout the entire moving process.
Max is a seasoned writer and blogger in the real estate and home moving sectors, as well as a knowledgeable source of information for expatriates living and working abroad. His detailed insights have helped thousands of people move and live abroad with greater simplicity and ease.
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