Living in Madrid offers authentic Spanish culture, vibrant nightlife, world-class museums, and Spain’s strongest job market—all at a lower cost than Barcelona. Madrid is Spain’s capital and largest city (3.3 million residents, 6.7 million metro area) with excellent quality of life (€1,800-€3,200/month for comfortable single life) and diverse job opportunities across all sectors.
This guide covers everything expats need to know about Madrid, from choosing neighborhoods and finding apartments to understanding the job market and building a social life in Spain’s most dynamic city.
Quick Facts: Living in Madrid
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Population | 3.3 million (city), 6.7 million (metro area) |
| Cost of Living (single) | €1,800-€3,200/month (comfortable lifestyle) |
| Rent (1-bed city center) | €900-€1,400/month |
| Language | Spanish (official), English (common in business) |
| Climate | Continental (cold winters 0-10°C, hot summers 30-40°C) |
| Beach Access | None (nearest beach Valencia, 3.5 hours) |
| Public Transit | Excellent (metro, bus, cercanías) - €54.60/month unlimited pass |
| Job Market | Strongest in Spain - finance, tech, consulting, government |
| Expat Population | High (~15% foreign-born residents) |
| International Airport | Madrid-Barajas (MAD) - Europe’s 6th busiest |
Why Madrid?
Pros of Living in Madrid
1. Authentic Spanish Culture
- Capital city with rich history (Royal Palace, Prado Museum, Retiro Park)
- Spanish language immersion (less English than Barcelona)
- Traditional tapas culture and nightlife (bars open until 2-3 AM)
- Flamenco, bullfighting, traditional festivals
2. Strongest Job Market in Spain
- Spain’s economic center (headquarters of major Spanish companies)
- Finance, consulting, tech, government, multinational corporations
- Higher salaries than other Spanish cities (15-25% more on average)
- Average salary: €25,000-€50,000/year (depending on field)
3. Excellent Public Transportation
- Metro: 12 lines, 300+ stations (largest in Spain)
- Cercanías (commuter rail): Connects metro area
- Bus network: 200+ routes
- Monthly unlimited pass: €54.60 (all zones)
4. Lower Cost of Living Than Barcelona
- Rent 10-15% cheaper than Barcelona
- Groceries and dining out slightly cheaper
- Similar quality of life at lower cost
5. Central Location for Spain Travel
- High-speed AVE trains to Barcelona (2.5h), Seville (2.5h), Valencia (1.5h)
- Easy weekend trips to Toledo, Segovia, Ávila (UNESCO cities within 1h)
- Better positioned for exploring all of Spain
6. World-Class Culture
- Prado Museum (Velázquez, Goya, El Bosco)
- Reina Sofía (Picasso’s Guernica, modern art)
- Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum
- Teatro Real (opera), flamenco shows, live music
Cons of Living in Madrid
1. Extreme Temperature Swings
- Winters: 0-10°C, can drop below freezing at night
- Summers: 30-40°C, oppressively hot (July-August)
- Saying: “Nueve meses de invierno, tres meses de infierno” (9 months winter, 3 months hell)
2. No Beach Access
- Landlocked city (nearest beach Valencia, 3.5 hours)
- No seaside lifestyle like Barcelona or Valencia
- Summers spent in parks, rooftop bars, or escaping to coast
3. Pollution and Traffic
- Traffic congestion during rush hour
- Air pollution (especially in winter months)
- Madrid Central low emission zone restricts car access
4. Less International Than Barcelona
- Smaller expat community (15% vs 20% in Barcelona)
- Less English spoken outside business/tourist areas
- More Spanish language needed for daily life
5. Nightlife Can Be Overwhelming
- Extremely late dining (10 PM-midnight) and nightlife (2-6 AM)
- Noise in neighborhoods with bar culture (Malasaña, La Latina)
- Takes adjustment if you prefer early nights
Best Neighborhoods in Madrid
Madrid is divided into 21 districts, each with distinct character and price points.
Salamanca (Upscale, Business District)
Overview: Madrid’s most elegant neighborhood with designer boutiques, embassies, and upscale restaurants.
Characteristics:
- Luxury shopping (Calle Serrano, Calle Velázquez)
- Wide tree-lined streets, elegant 19th-century buildings
- Business professionals, families, affluent residents
- Safe, quiet, sophisticated atmosphere
Rent Prices:
- Studio: €1,000-€1,600/month
- 1-Bedroom: €1,300-€2,000/month
- 2-Bedroom: €1,800-€2,800/month
Best For: Business professionals, families with high budgets, those seeking upscale lifestyle
Chamberí (Residential, Authentic)
Overview: Traditional middle-class neighborhood with local charm, excellent restaurants, and authentic Madrid feel.
Characteristics:
- Local Spanish residents (not touristy)
- Traditional markets (Mercado de Vallehermoso)
- Tree-lined streets, early 20th-century buildings
- Great restaurants and cafés (not flashy, authentic)
Rent Prices:
- Studio: €850-€1,300/month
- 1-Bedroom: €1,100-€1,600/month
- 2-Bedroom: €1,500-€2,300/month
Best For: Expats seeking authentic Madrid experience, professionals, couples
Malasaña (Hip, Bohemian)
Overview: Madrid’s hipster neighborhood with vintage shops, indie bars, street art, and nightlife.
Characteristics:
- Alternative, artsy vibe
- Vintage clothing shops, record stores, craft beer bars
- Young crowd (20s-30s)
- Lively nightlife (bars open late, street drinking)
Rent Prices:
- Studio: €750-€1,200/month
- 1-Bedroom: €950-€1,500/month
- 2-Bedroom: €1,400-€2,200/month
Best For: Young expats, creatives, those who love nightlife
Considerations: Noisy at night (especially weekends). Some streets sketchy late night.
Chueca (LGBTQ+ Hub, Central)
Overview: Madrid’s LGBTQ+ neighborhood with rainbow crosswalks, trendy bars, restaurants, and vibrant atmosphere.
Characteristics:
- Inclusive, welcoming atmosphere
- Excellent restaurants and cocktail bars
- Central location (walkable to everywhere)
- Pride parade epicenter (June/July)
Rent Prices:
- Studio: €800-€1,300/month
- 1-Bedroom: €1,000-€1,600/month
- 2-Bedroom: €1,500-€2,400/month
Best For: LGBTQ+ community, young professionals, those who want central location
Chamartín (Business, Residential)
Overview: Northern business district with modern buildings, office towers, and residential areas.
Characteristics:
- Business district (offices, headquarters)
- Chamartín train station (AVE high-speed rail)
- Modern apartment buildings
- Residential and commercial mix
Rent Prices:
- Studio: €800-€1,200/month
- 1-Bedroom: €1,000-€1,500/month
- 2-Bedroom: €1,400-€2,200/month
Best For: Business travelers, those who travel frequently by train, professionals
Retiro (Parks, Families)
Overview: Quiet residential neighborhood bordering Retiro Park, Madrid’s largest park.
Characteristics:
- Adjacent to Retiro Park (125 hectares)
- Residential, family-friendly
- Quiet streets, tree-lined avenues
- Good schools and amenities
Rent Prices:
- Studio: €850-€1,300/month
- 1-Bedroom: €1,100-€1,600/month
- 2-Bedroom: €1,500-€2,400/month
Best For: Families, runners/outdoor enthusiasts, those seeking quiet residential life
La Latina (Tapas, Traditional)
Overview: Historic neighborhood famous for tapas bars, Sunday El Rastro flea market, and traditional Madrid atmosphere.
Characteristics:
- Tapas bar central (Cava Baja street)
- El Rastro flea market (Sundays)
- Historic buildings, narrow streets
- Lively on weekends (loud)
Rent Prices:
- Studio: €750-€1,200/month
- 1-Bedroom: €950-€1,500/month
- 2-Bedroom: €1,400-€2,200/month
Best For: Food lovers, those who embrace nightlife, social expats
Considerations: Extremely noisy on weekends. Tourist crowds on Sundays (El Rastro).
Argüelles/Moncloa (Students, Affordable)
Overview: University district near Complutense University with student vibe and affordable housing.
Characteristics:
- University students, young professionals
- Affordable bars and restaurants
- Near Parque del Oeste and Casa de Campo
- Good public transit connections
Rent Prices:
- Studio: €650-€1,000/month
- 1-Bedroom: €800-€1,200/month
- 2-Bedroom: €1,200-€1,800/month
Best For: Students, budget-conscious expats, young professionals
Centro (Tourist Central, Mixed)
Overview: Historic center including Sol, Gran Vía, and Plaza Mayor. Tourist central but mixed residential.
Characteristics:
- Tourist attractions concentrated here
- Mix of locals and tourists
- Excellent public transit hub (Sol metro)
- Noisy, crowded, but central
Rent Prices:
- Studio: €800-€1,300/month
- 1-Bedroom: €1,000-€1,600/month
- 2-Bedroom: €1,500-€2,400/month
Best For: Short-term stays, those who want absolute center
Considerations: Touristy, noisy, less authentic neighborhood feel.
Finding Housing in Madrid
Madrid’s rental market is more accessible than Barcelona, with higher vacancy rates and more options.
How to Find Apartments
Online Platforms:
- Idealista: Most popular (Spanish platform, English available)
- Fotocasa: Large listings
- Badi: Flat-sharing, room rentals
- SpotAhome: Furnished apartments for expats (higher prices, verified listings)
- Uniplaces: Students and young professionals
Facebook Groups:
- “Madrid Piso Rentals”
- “Madrid Expats”
- “Flat Search Madrid”
- “Expats in Madrid”
Real Estate Agencies:
- Charge 1 month rent as fee (typically tenant pays)
- English-speaking agents available
- Helpful for newcomers navigating Spanish contracts
Find: Real Estate Agents Madrid
Rental Process and Costs
Upfront Costs:
- First month’s rent: €900-€1,400 (1-bedroom)
- Security deposit: 1-2 months rent (€900-€2,800)
- Agency fee: 1 month rent if using agency (€900-€1,400)
- Total upfront: €2,700-€5,600
Monthly Rent:
- Studio: €700-€1,200/month
- 1-Bedroom: €900-€1,400/month
- 2-Bedroom: €1,300-€2,200/month
- 3-Bedroom: €1,800-€3,200/month
Utilities (not included):
- €80-€150/month (electricity, water, gas, internet)
Rental Contract:
- Standard: 1 year minimum (LAU law)
- Furnished vs. unfurnished (furnished €100-€200/month more)
- Rent increases capped at CPI in “stressed markets” (includes Madrid)
Tips for Finding Apartments
1. Visit Madrid First
- Book Airbnb for 2-4 weeks
- View apartments in person (avoid scams)
- Experience neighborhoods before committing
2. Have Documents Ready
- NIE (foreigner ID number) - How to get NIE →
- Proof of income (3x monthly rent)
- Employment contract
- Passport
3. Act Quickly
- Good apartments rent within 3-5 days
- Have deposit ready to transfer
4. Negotiate
- Madrid rental market less competitive than Barcelona
- You can often negotiate rent, especially for longer leases
5. Watch for Scams
- Never pay before viewing apartment in person
- Verify landlord identity
- Avoid “too good to be true” prices
Cost of Living in Madrid
Madrid offers excellent quality of life at 10-15% lower cost than Barcelona.
Monthly Budget (Single Person, Comfortable Lifestyle)
- Rent: €1,100 (1-bedroom, good neighborhood)
- Utilities: €120 (electricity, water, gas, internet)
- Groceries: €300
- Transportation: €54.60 (unlimited monthly pass all zones)
- Phone: €20-€30 (Movistar, Vodafone, Orange)
- Healthcare: €100 (private insurance, or public if working)
- Dining Out: €250 (weekly restaurant visits)
- Entertainment: €180 (bars, cinema, events)
- Gym: €35-€50
- Miscellaneous: €100
Total: €2,250-€2,550/month
Monthly Budget (Couple, Comfortable Lifestyle)
- Rent: €1,500 (2-bedroom, good neighborhood)
- Utilities: €150
- Groceries: €550
- Transportation: €109.20 (2 unlimited passes)
- Phone: €50
- Healthcare: €180 (private insurance for 2)
- Dining Out: €450
- Entertainment: €300
- Gym: €70 (both)
- Miscellaneous: €150
Total: €3,500-€3,800/month
Comparison: Madrid vs. Other Spanish Cities
| City | Rent (1-bed) | Total Monthly (single) | Difference from Madrid |
|---|---|---|---|
| Madrid | €1,100 | €2,250-€2,550 | Baseline |
| Barcelona | €1,200 | €2,500-€2,700 | 10-15% more expensive |
| Valencia | €750 | €1,700-€1,900 | 25-30% cheaper |
| Seville | €700 | €1,600-€1,800 | 30-35% cheaper |
| Málaga | €850 | €1,900-€2,100 | 20-25% cheaper |
Madrid offers better salaries (15-25% higher) that offset the higher cost compared to smaller cities.
Learn more: Cost of Living in Spain
Jobs and Work in Madrid
Madrid has Spain’s strongest and most diverse job market across all sectors.
Key Industries
1. Finance and Banking
- Major banks headquartered in Madrid (Santander, BBVA, CaixaBank)
- Investment firms, insurance companies
- Average salary: €35,000-€60,000/year (analysts, managers)
2. Technology and Startups
- Growing tech scene (Google Campus Madrid, tech accelerators)
- Multinationals: Google, Amazon, Microsoft, Oracle
- Spanish tech: Cabify, Glovo (HQ in Barcelona), Jobandtalent
- Average salary: €30,000-€55,000/year (developers, product managers)
3. Consulting and Professional Services
- Big 4 (Deloitte, PwC, KPMG, EY) Spanish headquarters
- Management consulting (McKinsey, BCG, Bain)
- Legal firms, accounting
- Average salary: €30,000-€65,000/year
4. Government and Public Sector
- Spain’s capital = government ministries, agencies
- EU institutions, international organizations
- Requires Spanish language fluency
- Average salary: €25,000-€50,000/year
5. English Teaching
- High demand for native English teachers
- Language academies, private schools, private tutoring
- Salary: €1,200-€1,800/month (full-time), €15-€25/hour (freelance)
Learn more: Teaching English in Spain
Finding Jobs in Madrid
Job Boards:
- LinkedIn (most effective for professional roles)
- InfoJobs (Spanish job board)
- Indeed Spain
- Glassdoor España
- Madrid Tech Job Boards
Networking:
- Madrid Startup Community events
- Meetup groups (tech, marketing, entrepreneurship)
- Professional associations
- InterNations (expat networking)
Work Visa Requirements:
- Non-EU citizens need Work Visa (employer sponsors)
- Digital Nomad Visa for remote workers (€28,008/year income)
- Freelancers need Autónomo status (€80-€600/month Social Security)
Learn more: Spain Work Visa Guide Learn more: Digital Nomad Visa Guide Learn more: Autónomo Guide
Average Salaries by Role
| Job Role | Average Salary (Gross/Year) |
|---|---|
| Software Developer | €35,000-€55,000 |
| Product Manager | €40,000-€65,000 |
| Financial Analyst | €30,000-€50,000 |
| Consultant | €35,000-€65,000 |
| Digital Marketing | €25,000-€40,000 |
| Sales Executive | €28,000-€50,000 |
| English Teacher | €18,000-€25,000 |
| Accountant | €28,000-€45,000 |
Note: Madrid salaries are 15-25% higher than other Spanish cities (except Barcelona).
Transportation in Madrid
Madrid has Spain’s largest and most comprehensive public transportation network.
Metro and Public Transit
Metro (Metro de Madrid):
- 12 lines, 300+ stations (largest in Spain)
- Operates: 6:00 AM - 1:30 AM (extended hours on weekends)
- Clean, efficient, air-conditioned
- Covers entire metro area
Bus (EMT):
- 200+ routes, including night buses (Búhos)
- Frequency: 5-15 minutes
Cercanías (Commuter Rail):
- Connects metro area suburbs
- Key for reaching outer neighborhoods and nearby towns
Monthly Pass (Abono Transporte Público):
- €54.60/month (unlimited metro, bus, cercanías, all zones)
- Single ticket: €1.50-€2.00 (depending on zones)
Madrid is walkable in the center (most central neighborhoods within 30-40 minute walk).
Biking
BiciMAD (Bike-Share):
- €25/year subscription (residents), €2/day (tourists)
- 250+ stations, 2,500+ electric bikes
- First 30 minutes free, then €0.60/30 min
Personal Bike:
- Growing bike lane network (400+ km)
- Bike theft less common than Barcelona
- Flat city center makes cycling easy
Car Ownership
Not Recommended for City Living:
- Excellent public transit makes cars unnecessary
- Parking difficult and expensive (€100-€200/month for garage)
- Madrid Central low emission zone restricts older vehicles
- Traffic congestion
Consider Car Ownership If:
- Living in outer suburbs (weak public transit)
- Regular travel outside Madrid
- Family with children (weekend trips)
Alternative: Rent cars for weekend trips (€25-€70/day)
Taxis and Rideshare
Taxi:
- Base fare: €2.50-€3.00
- Airport to city center: €30-€40 (fixed rate €30)
Uber/Cabify:
- Available in Madrid
- Competitive pricing with taxis
- Easier payment (app-based)
Airport (Madrid-Barajas Adolfo Suárez, MAD)
13km from city center, Europe’s 6th busiest airport
Transport Options:
- Metro (L8): €4.50-€5.00, 30-40 minutes to city center (Sol)
- Cercanías Train: €2.60, 25 minutes (to Atocha, Chamartín)
- Express Bus (Exprés Aeropuerto): €5.00, 24 hours, 40 minutes to Atocha
- Taxi: €30 (fixed rate to city center)
- Uber: €25-€35
Language: Spanish Immersion
Madrid offers better Spanish language immersion than Barcelona.
Spanish Language in Madrid
Madrid is 100% Spanish-speaking:
- No competing language like Catalan (in Barcelona)
- Less English spoken outside tourist/business areas
- Immersive Spanish environment accelerates learning
Do You Need to Speak Spanish?
For Daily Life: Yes, highly recommended
- Grocery stores, markets, neighborhood shops
- Landlords, utility companies, bureaucracy
- Making local friends, dating
For Work:
- English sufficient in multinationals, tech companies
- Spanish required for local companies, government, customer-facing roles
- Spanish significantly increases job opportunities
For Bureaucracy: Essential
- All government paperwork in Spanish
- Banks, healthcare, tax office
- Having Spanish-speaking friend or lawyer helps
Spanish Language Schools in Madrid
Spanish Schools:
- Enforex Madrid: €200-€350/month (20 hours group classes)
- Don Quijote Madrid: €250-€400/month
- Tandem Madrid: €180-€300/month
- Inhispania: €220-€380/month
Language Exchanges:
- Free language exchange events (bars, cafés)
- Apps: Tandem, HelloTalk, Conversation Exchange
- Intercambio events every night (check Meetup)
Social Life and Expat Community
Madrid has a large expat community (~15% foreign-born population), with authentic Spanish social life.
Expat Groups and Networking
Meetup Groups:
- Madrid Language Exchange
- Madrid Social
- Madrid Hiking & Adventures
- Madrid Tech Meetups
- Madrid Expats
InterNations Madrid:
- Large expat network (10,000+ members)
- Monthly events, activity groups
- Membership: Free (basic) or €70/year (premium)
Facebook Groups:
- “Expats in Madrid”
- “Madrid International Community”
- “Madrid Language Exchange”
Social Activities
Nightlife (Madrid Never Sleeps):
- Malasaña: indie bars, craft beer
- Chueca: cocktail bars, LGBTQ+ scene
- La Latina: tapas bars (Cava Baja street)
- Clubs: Kapital (7 floors), Teatro Barceló, Mondo Disko
Cultural Events:
- San Isidro Festival (May, Madrid patron saint)
- Suma Flamenca (flamenco festival, May-June)
- Veranos de la Villa (summer cultural program)
- Madrid Pride (Orgullo, June/July - one of Europe’s largest)
Parks and Outdoor:
- Retiro Park (125 hectares, rowing boats, monuments)
- Casa de Campo (massive park, cable car, zoo)
- Temple of Debod (Egyptian temple, sunset views)
- Sunday strolls (paseos) in parks
Day Trips:
- Toledo (UNESCO city, 30 min train)
- Segovia (Roman aqueduct, castle, 30 min train)
- Ávila (medieval walls, 1.5h train)
- Salamanca (university city, 1.5h train)
Sports:
- Real Madrid (Santiago Bernabéu) - tickets €40-€200
- Atlético Madrid (Wanda Metropolitano) - tickets €30-€100
- Running in Retiro Park, Casa de Campo
Learn more: Remote Work in Spain
Healthcare and Education
Healthcare
Public Healthcare:
- Free if you work in Spain and contribute to Social Security
- High quality, but wait times 2-4 weeks for specialists
- Need to register at local health center (centro de salud)
Private Healthcare:
- €60-€120/month (ages 30-50)
- English-speaking doctors available
- Faster appointments (same day to 1 week)
- Recommended insurers: Sanitas, Adeslas, ASISA, DKV
Hospitals:
- Hospital Universitario La Paz (public, excellent)
- Hospital 12 de Octubre (public)
- Hospital Universitario Gregorio Marañón (public)
- Hospital Quirónsalud Madrid (private)
Learn more: Spanish Healthcare Guide
Education (for Families)
Public Schools:
- Free for residents
- Taught in Spanish
- Good quality, especially in middle-class neighborhoods
Private Spanish Schools:
- €300-€700/month per child
- Spanish curriculum, smaller classes
International Schools:
- €8,000-€20,000/year per child
- Taught in English (or other languages)
- Follow UK, American, or IB curriculum
- Popular: American School of Madrid, British Council School, King’s College
Climate and Lifestyle
Madrid’s Continental Climate:
- Spring (March-May): 10-20°C, pleasant
- Summer (June-September): 25-40°C, hot and dry (July-August peak heat)
- Fall (October-November): 10-20°C, mild
- Winter (December-February): 0-10°C, cold (can drop below freezing)
Saying: “Nueve meses de invierno, tres meses de infierno” (9 months winter, 3 months hell)
Lifestyle:
- Late dining (10 PM-midnight)
- Late nightlife (2 AM-6 AM)
- Sunday family meals, paseos (strolls) in parks
- Siesta culture less common in modern Madrid (though some shops close 2-5 PM)
Madrid vs. Barcelona Climate:
- Madrid: Cold winters (0-10°C), hot dry summers (30-40°C), landlocked
- Barcelona: Mild winters (10-15°C), hot humid summers (25-30°C), beach access
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Madrid a good city to live in?
Yes, Madrid offers authentic Spanish culture, excellent public transit, strongest job market in Spain, world-class museums, vibrant nightlife, and central location for Spain travel. Downsides: extreme temperatures (cold winters, hot summers), no beach, less English spoken than Barcelona.
How much does it cost to live in Madrid?
€2,000-€3,200/month for a single person living comfortably, €3,200-€4,500/month for a couple. Rent for 1-bedroom: €900-€1,400/month. Madrid is 10-15% cheaper than Barcelona but similar quality of life.
Do I need to speak Spanish to live in Madrid?
Yes, highly recommended. Madrid is less international than Barcelona. Spanish needed for daily life (shopping, landlords, utilities), bureaucracy, and most jobs. English sufficient in multinationals and tech companies. Madrid offers better Spanish immersion than Barcelona.
What are the best neighborhoods for expats in Madrid?
Chamberí (authentic, residential), Salamanca (upscale, business), Malasaña (hip, nightlife), Chueca (LGBTQ+, central), Retiro (families, park access). Avoid: Outer suburbs (Vallecas, Carabanchel) unless seeking very affordable housing.
Is Madrid safe?
Yes, Madrid is generally safe with low violent crime. Petty theft (pickpocketing) occurs in tourist areas (Sol, Gran Vía, metro). Use bags with zippers, watch belongings on terraces. Most neighborhoods safe day and night.
Can I find a job in Madrid without speaking Spanish?
Possible in multinationals, tech, English teaching, and finance. However, Spanish significantly increases opportunities and is essential for local companies, government, and customer-facing roles. Madrid requires more Spanish than Barcelona for work.
Is Madrid better than Barcelona?
Madrid pros: Authentic Spanish culture, stronger job market, better salaries, cheaper (10-15%), central for Spain travel, better Spanish immersion. Barcelona pros: Beach access, milder winters, more international, Mediterranean lifestyle. Choose based on priorities (culture/career vs. beach/international).
How do I find an apartment in Madrid?
Use Idealista, Fotocasa, SpotAhome, Facebook groups, or hire a real estate agent. Visit Madrid first (Airbnb 2-4 weeks), view apartments in person, have NIE and proof of income ready. Expect to pay 3-5 months rent upfront (first month + 1-2 months deposit + agency fee if applicable).
Do I need a car in Madrid?
No. Madrid has Spain’s best public transit (metro, bus, cercanías) for €54.60/month unlimited. The city center is walkable. Car ownership expensive (€100-€200/month parking) and unnecessary for city living. Rent cars for weekend trips.
What visa do I need to live in Madrid?
Non-EU citizens need a visa for stays over 90 days. Options: Non-Lucrative Visa (retirees, €28,800/year savings), Digital Nomad Visa (remote workers, €28,008/year income), Work Visa (Spanish employer sponsorship), or Student Visa (enrolled in Spanish institution).
Is Madrid expensive compared to other European cities?
Madrid is mid-range for Western Europe: cheaper than London, Paris, Amsterdam, Barcelona (10-40% cheaper), but more expensive than Lisbon, Athens, Prague (15-30% more expensive). Similar cost to Rome or Berlin.
What’s the expat community like in Madrid?
Large expat community (~15% foreign-born), but less international than Barcelona. Expat groups (InterNations, Meetup) active. More integration with Spanish locals due to language immersion. Diverse nationalities (Latin American, European, Asian, North American).
Next Steps: Moving to Madrid
Immediate Actions:
- Visit Madrid for 2-4 weeks to explore neighborhoods
- Research visa options based on your situation (work, retirement, digital nomad)
- Start learning Spanish (3-6 months before moving, essential for Madrid)
- Budget €8,000-€12,000 for move (visa, flights, deposits, first 2 months)
- Join Madrid expat Facebook groups to ask questions and network
Resources:
- Cost of Living in Spain
- Moving to Spain Guide
- Spain Work Visa Guide
- Digital Nomad Visa Guide
- NIE Number Application Guide
Need Help? Consider hiring:
- Relocation Agents Madrid for housing and setup (€800-€2,000)
- Immigration Lawyers for visa applications (€500-€1,500)
- Real Estate Agents Madrid for apartment search
- Language Schools Madrid for Spanish classes
¡Bienvenido a Madrid!
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