Last Updated on January 19, 2026 by Emily Hopkins
Spain is all about diversity! With a wide range of charming cities to suit different budgets, it’s an attractive destination for expats and travelers alike. From the vibrant coastal town of Valencia to the historic city of Salamanca, these locations offer a high quality of life without straining your finances. In this article, we’ll highlight the 15 most affordable cities to live in Spain!
Whether you’re looking for an urban center or a quaint town, Spain has a city that fits every preference. In this guide, we’ll explore the 15 cheapest cities to live in Spain, highlighting their unique charms. We’ll also delve into the affordable cost of living and what makes them ideal for a fulfilling life in Spain.
Why are expats moving to Spain?
In recent years, Spain has become increasingly popular among expats worldwide. According to the latest population data, in 2025, the country was home to 49,128,297 inhabitants. Foreigners made up 14.1% of this population.
But why are people choosing Spain as their preferred destination? The answer to this question is multifaceted; for some, it is the allure of the beautiful beaches and warm weather. Others cannot resist the exceptional quality of life, emphasizing work-life balance, an excellent healthcare system, and renowned cuisine.
Another key reason expats are choosing Spain is its cost of living. Spain ranks among the most affordable countries globally while still offering an excellent quality of life. And that’s just the beginning, there’s so much more to explore. You need to visit this remarkable Mediterranean nation to understand why it captivates so many people.
Read also: Best Places To Live In Spain for Expats
Best 15 cheapest cities to live in Spain
Spain has plenty of beautiful destinations that you will be spoilt for choice. If you are on a tight budget, here is a list of the cheapest cities to live in Spain. Remember, cheap doesn’t always mean bad; most destinations on this list have unique charms, making them appealing places to live.
Without wasting much time, let’s explore some of the fun cities to live in Spain.
Seville
The capital of Andalucia, Seville, had to make it on the list of the cheapest cities to live in Spain. The city offers a unique blend of modern amenities and historic charm with its stunning architecture, bustling markets, and lively festivals. Speaking of architecture, the impressive Cathedral of Seville and the beautiful Plaza de España have a historical charm.
Life in Seville is vibrant yet relaxed, with plenty of activities for students and families. The city features beautiful green spaces, such as Parque de María Luisa, located next to Plaza de España, offering lush gardens, tranquil ponds, and scenic pathways. With up to 300 days of sunshine each year, the weather is another reason to enjoy life in this charming city.
| About Sevilla | Values |
|---|---|
| Population | 1,949,558 |
| Foreign population | 80,150 |
| Single-person estimated monthly cost without rent | €691.3 |
| Cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment | €836.67 |
Read also: Living in Seville: The Pearl of Andalusia
All table data is from Numbeo and INE.es (as of January 2026).
Granada
Granada is another great choice for those who love the Andalucía region but want an alternative to Seville. It’s especially appealing for expats seeking a slightly cooler destination. With hot summers and mild winters, Granada offers a comfortable climate year-round.
Like Seville, Granada is famous for its architecture, culture, and history. One of the standout features that speaks to the rich history and architecture of the city is the iconic Alhambra.
This stunning Moorish palace and fortress complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Spain’s most visited attractions. Granada is home to one of the largest universities in Spain (University of Granada). It contributes to its youthful and vibrant atmosphere.
As a result, there are plenty of affordable accommodation options aimed at students. These are ideal for expats on a budget.
| About Granada | Values |
|---|---|
| Population | 934,072 |
| Foreign population | 69,157 |
| Single-person estimated monthly cost without rent | €669.4 |
| Cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment | €736.86 |
Valencia
With a population of 2,656,841 people, Valencia is the third largest city in Spain. Don’t let the size deceive you; this is one of the most affordable big cities in the country.
In fact, it is a good destination for anyone who loves the big city vibes without the Madrid or Barcelona budget. Housing, transportation, and daily expenses are generally more budget-friendly than other big cities.
No overview of Valencia would be complete without highlighting its beach lifestyle. The city is home to several beautiful beaches, including Malvarrosa and El Cabanyal, featuring golden sands and clear waters, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or strolling along the promenade.
Living in Valencia allows you to enjoy these stunning beaches, which contribute to the city’s vibrant culture and status as a thriving port city.
Valencia’s beach lifestyle extends beyond the summer months, as the coastal city enjoys a mild climate throughout much of the year.
| About Valencia | Values |
|---|---|
| Population | 2,656,841 |
| Foreign population | 304,795 |
| Single-person estimated monthly cost without rent | €702.2 |
| Cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment | €1,137.50 |
Read Also: Cost Of Living in Valencia: Cost Estimates for Expats
Alicante
If you are drawn to the coastal lifestyle, then Alicante is a good destination for you. Besides the coastal lifestyle, this coastal city is an excellent choice for individuals seeking a place to reside in with affordable cost. The rent, utilities, and other daily necessities are generally lower than in other bigger cities in Spain.
Alicante’s beautiful sandy beaches are among the city’s most popular attractions. The historic center, especially Plaza de Santa María, showcases stunning architecture that reflects the region’s rich Spanish culture. Life along these beaches allows you to fully embrace the local lifestyle, and the city offers surprisingly affordable options compared to larger Spanish cities.
The daily life here is perfect for beach lovers and would definitely choose this city over other cities. The required purchasing power is very pocket-friendly, regardless if you want to eat at a local restaurant or embark on a trip through the nearest train station.
Alicante is a small city, but don’t be fooled by its size. It has one of the busiest airports in Spain, Alicante Airport (ALC / LEAL), which offers both local and international travel. These two factors make Alicante an ideal destination for coastal living and short trips across Europe.
Alicante provides an exceptional standard of living at an affordable cost, thanks to its Mediterranean weather, gorgeous coastlines, and abundant cultural offerings.
| About Alicante | Values |
|---|---|
| Population | 1,955,268 |
| Foreign population | 388,748 |
| Single-person estimated monthly cost without rent | €701.8 |
| Cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment | €855.67 |
Read also: The Most Expensive And Cheapest Places To Rent A Property In Spain
Salamanca
Salamanca, located in western Spain, is a city steeped in history and culture, making it a great destination for expats. The city has a vibrant cultural scene, with numerous museums, art galleries, and theaters. It is also famous for its lively festivals and events, such as the Salamanca International Arts Festival.
The city is renowned for its well-preserved historic buildings and landmarks, including the magnificent Salamanca Cathedral and the historic University of Salamanca, one of the oldest universities in Europe. Thanks to its prestigious university, Salamanca exudes a vibrant academic and cultural atmosphere.
Salamanca is home to a large student population. This creates a dynamic and cosmopolitan atmosphere, making it easy for expats to integrate into the local community.
Its central location in Spain makes it an excellent base for exploring the rest of the country. Madrid is just a few hours away by train, making it easy to travel to other parts of Spain for work or leisure.
| About Salamanca | Values |
|---|---|
| Population | 327,089 |
| Foreign population | 15,856 |
| Single-person estimated monthly cost without rent | €702.3 |
| Cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment | €677.50 |
Cuenca
If you are looking for a small city tucked away peacefully in a high elevation, you will love Cuenca. The small, charming city of Cuenca is located between the rivers Huecar and Jucar. Although this city is small, it is quite impressive how much beauty is in such a small geographical area.
The city’s well-preserved medieval architecture, including its famous hanging houses (Casas Colgadas), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, provides expats with a unique living environment steeped in history and culture.
The cost of living in Cuenca is relatively affordable compared to Spain’s larger cities, with many goods and services often 10–20% cheaper. Due to its higher elevation, the climate differs from that of most Spanish cities: summers are hot and dry, while winters tend to be colder and wetter.
| About Cuenca | Values |
|---|---|
| Population | 198,436 |
| Foreign population | 22,723 |
| Single-person estimated monthly cost without rent | €431.7 |
| Cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment | €391.99 |
Tenerife
Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, is a popular vacation spot and an excellent place to reside. Its appealing climate, rich culture, and varied scenery make it an attractive destination for both expats and locals. Living in Tenerife offers a notable benefit: its climate. Referred to as the “Island of Eternal Spring,” Tenerife boasts a mild, subtropical climate, with temperatures seldom falling below 20°C. Residing in Tenerife offers a cultural fusion experience.
The island’s heritage reflects a blend of Spanish and indigenous Guanche influences, visible in its architecture, celebrations, and cuisine. Tenerife hosts numerous cultural festivities each year, including the famous Carnival of Santa Cruz, one of the largest street parties in the world.
This city is becoming increasingly popular among digital nomads. You can take advantage of plenty of co-working and co-living spaces in this cheap city.
| About Tenerife | Values |
|---|---|
| Population | 1,067,173 |
| Foreign population | 145,661 |
| Single-person estimated monthly cost without rent | €661 |
| Cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment | €716.67 |
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Mallorca
Mallorca, the largest of Spain’s Balearic Islands, is a sought-after destination for expats for several reasons. Its stunning Mediterranean landscapes, with beautiful beaches and mountains, offer a high quality of life.
The island’s pleasant climate, with mild winters and hot summers, is also a major draw. Mallorca offers economic stability, ensuring ease in finding reasonably priced housing and securing a mortgage if necessary.
Although Mallorca is a popular holiday destination, the cost of living is relatively lower than in other major cities like Barcelona or Madrid. The island also has a large expat community, making it easier for newcomers to integrate and feel at home.
The island’s diverse culinary scene, featuring fresh seafood and local specialties, is another highlight if you are looking to experience the best of Mediterranean cuisine.
| About Mallorca | Values |
|---|---|
| Population | 1,209,906 |
| Foreign population | 222,017 |
| Single-person estimated monthly cost without rent | €831.7 |
| Cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment | €1,216.36 |
Oviedo
While Spain’s northern region isn’t as popular as the south, it is home to some of the most affordable cities in the country. Oviedo, the capital of the Principality of Asturias, is a charming city with a rich cultural heritage, beautiful landscapes, and plenty of attractions for expats to explore.
Everything in this beautiful city screams quality life, right from the gracious squares to the meticulously maintained parks. Unlike other places in Spain, Oviedo has a rather cool climate. While the rest of the country is baking in the summer heat, this city has a lush green landscape and fresh, cold water.
Oviedo’s food and dining scene receives consistently high praise from locals and expats alike, with numerous upscale and casual eateries that are truly noteworthy.
| About Oviedo (Principality of Asturias) | Values |
|---|---|
| About Oviedo (Principality of Asturias) | Values |
| Population | 1,006,060 |
| Foreign population | 45,630 |
| Single-person estimated monthly cost without rent | €751.9 |
| Cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment | €647.00 |
Santander
Santander, located on the northern coast of Spain, is a charming city that offers a high quality of life, making it a great place for expats. One of the main attractions of Santander is its stunning beaches, which are perfect for relaxing, swimming, and enjoying water sports. The city also boasts a rich cultural scene, with many museums, art galleries, and historic buildings to explore.
Santander is also renowned for its excellent cuisine, especially its seafood. The city offers numerous traditional restaurants and tapas bars where expats can savor local delicacies. Living in Santander is notably more affordable as well; expats report that it’s about 15% cheaper than Madrid.
| About Oviedo (Principality of Asturias) | Values |
|---|---|
| Population | 172,655 |
| Foreign population | 15,435 |
| Single-person estimated monthly cost without rent | €784.00 |
| Cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment | €737.50 |
Toledo
Toledo, Spain, is often ranked among the top places to live in the country and is also appealing to expats. Situated in central Spain, Toledo offers some of the most affordable property prices in the nation, making it an attractive option for families. Despite its small size, the city boasts a vibrant cultural and social scene, thanks to its moderate population density and tourism.
One of the main attractions of Toledo is its vibrant cultural scene, with numerous art galleries, museums, and cultural events throughout the year.
The city’s rich history is reflected in its diverse culinary scene, giving expats a taste of traditional Spanish cuisine with a unique local twist. Located just 70 kilometers from Madrid, the city offers easy access to the capital whenever you want a change of pace.
| About Toledo | Values |
|---|---|
| Population | 731,112 |
| Foreign population | 74,362 |
| Single-person estimated monthly cost without rent | €897.1 |
| Cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment | €763.98 |
Merida
Another strong contender for one of the cheapest cities to live in Spain is Mérida, especially for those who appreciate medieval history. Located in the southwest of the country, Mérida is renowned for its well-preserved Roman ruins and rich cultural heritage. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it offers expats a unique mix of ancient history and modern living.
The city’s Roman past is evident in its monuments, including the Roman Theatre, Amphitheatre, and the stunning Puente Romano (Roman Bridge) spanning the Guadiana River.
These archaeological treasures provide a fascinating glimpse into Mérida’s past as a flourishing Roman city.
Mérida’s charm goes beyond its Roman heritage, with a picturesque old town, vibrant plazas, and delectable local cuisine enhancing its appeal. The city also offers a high quality of life, featuring affordable living costs, excellent healthcare, and a pleasant, warm climate.
| About Merida | Values |
|---|---|
| Population | 59,563 |
| Single-person estimated monthly cost without rent | €611.2 |
| Cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment | €532.34 |
Ronda
If you’re looking for a rural town with a relaxed pace of life, Ronda should be at the top of your list. Nestled high on cliffs in the heart of Málaga, this small town is celebrated for its breathtaking scenery and well-preserved culture, making it a memorable experience for both expats and tourists.
While Ronda is quite popular among tourists, it is surprisingly quite cheap as far as the cost of livind. The cost of rent is still within a reasonable range, while the cost of groceries and utility bills is also low.
| About Ronda | Values |
|---|---|
| Population | 33,372 |
| Single-person estimated monthly cost without rent | €550 |
| Cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment | €400.00 |
Santiago de Compostela
The list of the cheapest cities to live in Spain will not be complete without mentioning the charming town of Santiago de Compostela. This is just the place for anyone searching for culture and a well-preserved history. This vibrant university town is widely visited by tourists and pilgrims trekking the Camino de Santiago to reach the iconic cathedral.
The historic city center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering numerous galleries and museums to explore. As a university town, it also features affordable student-style housing, making it an excellent option for those on a tight budget.
In addition, the city’s low rent prices make it one of the most affordable places to live in Spain, with the average rent outlined below.
| About Santiago de Compostela | Values |
|---|---|
| Population | 98,716 |
| Single-person estimated monthly cost without rent | €380 |
| Cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment | €8.8 /m2 |
Do you need help moving to Spain?
Do you need help moving to Spain?
There, you have a detailed look at some of the cheapest cities in Spain. If you’re thinking about relocating, we hope this guide helps you get closer to finding your ideal destination. Cities like Santiago de Compostela, Toledo, and Granada combine affordability with a high quality of life. Navigating immigration and relocation, however, can be challenging; that’s where Viv Europe can help.
With our expert immigration services, we can help make your move to Spain smoother and more efficient. From visa applications to finding accommodation, Viv Europe offers comprehensive support tailored to your needs.
Join our Facebook Group – All About Spain For Expats to connect with individuals already living in these affordable cities and beyond. Take this opportunity to book a consultation with Viv Europe and get ready for an exciting and seamless move to Spain.
