Thinking about spending a full month in Spain? Whether you are planning a long winter escape, testing out the expat lifestyle, or simply craving more than a two-week holiday, Spain offers a compelling mix of sunshine, culture, and affordability. The cost of living in Spain is genuinely lower than in many Northern European countries, but the exact figure depends heavily on where you stay, how you eat, and what kind of experience you are after. Here is a practical breakdown of what to expect.
What does it actually cost to live in Spain for a month?
A realistic monthly budget for living in Spain for a month as a visitor or long-stay traveller falls somewhere between €1,500 and €3,500, depending on your lifestyle and accommodation choice. Budget travellers sharing costs can get by on the lower end, while those seeking comfort, privacy, and a fuller experience will sit closer to the middle or upper range. The biggest variable, by far, is where you sleep.
How much does accommodation cost in Spain per month?
Accommodation is the largest line item in any monthly Spain budget. Rent in Spain for a furnished apartment in a coastal city like Alicante typically ranges from €700 to €1,400 per month, depending on size and location. Renting closer to the beach or in a well-connected area like Gran Alacant, Spain on the Costa Blanca naturally pushes that figure higher.
For groups or families, a private villa can actually offer better value per person than multiple hotel rooms or separate apartments. Monthly rates for villa rentals on the Costa Blanca vary widely, but splitting costs across four to eight people makes the per-person figure very competitive.
What are the average monthly food and grocery costs in Spain?
Food in Spain is one of the genuine pleasures of a long stay, and it does not have to be expensive. A well-stocked weekly grocery shop at a local supermarket typically costs between €60 and €100 per person. Spanish supermarkets carry excellent fresh produce, local cheeses, olive oil, and seafood at prices that feel refreshingly low compared to the UK or the Netherlands.
Eating out adds up, but it can be affordable. A three-course lunch menu (the menú del día) at a local restaurant often costs between €10 and €15 including a drink. Dinner at a mid-range restaurant runs €20 to €35 per person. Budget roughly €300 to €600 per month on food and dining, depending on how often you cook versus eating out.
How does the cost of living in Spain compare to the UK or Netherlands?
Spain consistently ranks as more affordable than both the UK and the Netherlands across most everyday categories. Groceries in Spain are typically 20 to 30 percent cheaper than in the UK. Eating out costs noticeably less, and utilities are generally lower too. For Dutch visitors, the gap is slightly smaller but still meaningful, particularly on fresh food, dining, and fuel.
For those considering Spain as a long-stay destination or testing out a semi-permanent lifestyle, the financial case is strong. You get more space, better weather, and a lower day-to-day spend, often simultaneously.
Is it cheaper to rent a villa or stay in a hotel for a month in Spain?
For a stay of four weeks or more, renting a private villa almost always works out cheaper than a hotel, especially for groups. Hotels charge per room per night, and costs accumulate quickly. A villa gives you a full kitchen, which cuts your food bill significantly, plus private outdoor space, a pool, and far more room to breathe.
When you divide villa costs across a group of six to ten people, the per-person nightly rate often beats a mid-range hotel room. You also avoid restaurant costs for every single meal, which adds up to a meaningful saving over a full month.
What hidden costs should you budget for when living in Spain?
A few costs catch first-time long-stay visitors off guard. Keep these in mind when planning your monthly expenses in Spain:
- Transport: Car hire or fuel if you plan to explore beyond your base. Budget €150 to €300 per month depending on usage.
- Activities and excursions: Day trips, boat tours, golf, and local experiences add up. Allow €100 to €200 per person.
- Health insurance: If you are not covered by a European health card, private travel insurance for a long stay is worth factoring in.
- Mobile data and connectivity: A local SIM or roaming plan for a month costs between €15 and €40.
- Cleaning and laundry: Some villa rentals include mid-stay cleaning; others charge separately. Confirm this before booking, or visit our frequently asked questions about villa stays for more detail.
How staying with us makes your long stay in Spain easier
We rent luxury villas in Gran Alacant, right on the Costa Blanca, just ten minutes from Alicante Airport. Our villas, Flamingo, Orange, and Dolphin, are designed for groups and families who want the full experience of living in Spain for a month without the logistical headaches.
Here is what makes a stay with our luxury villa rental company a smart choice for longer trips:
- Full kitchen included: Cook your own meals and cut your food budget significantly without giving up quality.
- Private pool and jacuzzi: No shared facilities, no hotel crowds. Your outdoor space is entirely yours.
- Space for up to 16 guests: Split the cost across a larger group and the per-person price becomes very competitive.
- Superfast WiFi and air conditioning: Work remotely, stay connected, and stay comfortable even in the summer heat.
- Personal contact throughout your stay: We are always reachable by phone or email. If you have questions about the area, local restaurants, or day trips, just ask.
- Ideal location: Shops, restaurants, and the Mediterranean coast are all within walking distance. Alicante city centre is just a short drive away.
If you are planning a longer stay on the Costa Blanca and want a home that genuinely feels like home, get in touch with us directly. We are happy to talk through availability, help you plan your trip, and make sure your month in Spain is one you will want to repeat.