Last Updated on November 6, 2024 by Laila Oliveira
It’s never just about the visa process – there’s so much to consider when you’re deciding where to relocate to. Sometimes, it makes sense to go on a scouting trip first. But when there are two countries you’re trying to choose between, it’s a whole different ballgame altogether. If you’re confused between Spain or Germany, this guide will clear your most important questions!
Researching about the culture, the cost of living, and rental properties is great. But on a more practical note, you’ll want to learn about the climate, transport options, immigration law, and taxes.
Follow along for a detailed analysis of what life is like for expats who choose to live in either Spain or Germany! Happy reading!
Spain or Germany? Why do expats choose them?
There are a number of popular reasons, but they may be a little different than yours!
Over the last couple of years, Spain’s affordable living costs and high quality of life have made it an ideal destination for expats. Its major cities, like Madrid and Barcelona, have lower costs of living than other areas of Western Europe. And they are often the top choices for digital nomads who want to be around a community.
Apart from the living costs, friendly locals, vibrant lifestyle, and community-focused culture make expats feel welcome. This isn’t just true for remote workers but also for retirees looking for a peaceful life.
Pairing all of this with a sunny climate and stunning nature all around, there are enough perks to convince Spain to settle in the country.
On the other hand, Germany’s strong economy and various career opportunities have made it popular among expats. Its job stability and security have inspired youth from all over the world to choose Germany.
In recent years, the country has attracted many international students thanks to its advancement in technical fields. This is another reason why Germany is highlighting its name internationally.
Additionally, the country is famous for its efficient public services. Healthcare services, a social security system, and an excellent public school system explain why this country is a great option for expats.
At the end of the day, it really depends on why you want to move and what you’re looking for. Whether it’s Spain or Germany, they both have cities that suit every age group and expat profile.
Let’s examine the main differences in more detail to help you understand what life is like in each country.
Differences between the countries
Work culture, language, social life, and living costs are some prominent differences between Spain and Germany.
In terms of work, Spain has relatively flexible working hours, allowing people to enjoy a good work-life balance. Siesta time is an important part of the culture and you will often find shops closed between 2pm to 6pm as part of afternoon lunch breaks. But this isn’t common in corporate companies.
In contrast, Germany focuses on more efficient and productive outcomes with rigid working hours. Finding a job here could open up a world of opportunities for your professional life. The minimum wage in Germany is €2,149, and Spain’s is €1,134. It’s important to take into account that Germany is also a lot more expensive.
Another major cultural difference is how close the society is. Spanish people are more social; they love to arrange and enjoy public gatherings. As a result, expats find it easier to adjust to the Spanish culture as compared to German. Germans prefer living in a well-structured manner and may not be as open to new expats.
Interested in a bit more detail? Let’s compare each important aspect!
Cost of living in each country
As mentioned above, the minimum wage in Germany is far higher than in Spain. But that also means that living costs are equally high.
Munich is one of the most expensive cities in Europe, with rent going up to €1,440 for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center.
Recently, rental prices for apartments in Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia have also gone up by quite a bit. But there are other less popular options that expats still love. Some options are Seville, Malaga, Alicante, and Granada. Check out our article on The 15 Cheapest Cities To Live In Spain In 2024!
Take a look at the average cost of living:
| Expense | Cost in Spain | Cost in Germany |
|---|---|---|
| Apartment Rent (1 bedroom) in City Centre | €966 | €886 |
| A Single person estimated monthly costs (without rent) | €713 | €996 |
| Apartment (3 bedrooms) in City Centre | €1,522 | €1,670 |
| Family of four estimated monthly costs (without rent) | €2,515 | €3,386 |
Renting a property in Spain or Germany
Thanks to Spain’s lower living costs, renting a property here is comparatively cheaper. However, these prices can vary depending on the location. Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia are three of the most expensive cities to rent an apartment.
In June 2024, the possibility of banning tourist rentals in Barcelona was discussed. This was because they had become unaffordable for residents. Housing is said to be one of the biggest problems in Barcelona, and strict measures will be taken to ensure that residents can afford a home.
German cities like Munich also have higher rental rates, making it the most expensive in Europe. A three-bedroom apartment can easily reach €1,700 if it’s in the city center or €1,300 if it’s outside the city center.
In Spain, a three-bedroom apartment outside the city center can cost around €1,000, which is a lot more affordable for a family of four.
Labor market in Spain and Germany
Germany is known for its strong economy and diverse job opportunities for expats. Technology and engineering fields are on the rise. You may also be able to land opportunities with multinational companies even if you don’t speak German. Although it is recommended that you learn the language if you’re planning on staying in the country.
In contrast, Spain’s job market is characterized by growth in sectors like tourism and service. More than 85.1 million tourists visit Spain each year, contributing to economic development.
This also means that there are limited opportunities for career growth. However, with the right skills and qualifications, you can find something in the following sectors too:
- Education;
- Information Technology;
- Healthcare;
- International Business.
Work hours tend to average around 39.1 hours per week in Spain, compared to 39.5 in Germany.
| Data | Spain | Germany |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Wage (2024) | €1,134 | €2,149 |
| Unemployment Rate (2023) | Around 12.4% | Around 5.5% |
| Work-Life Balance | More relaxed | More rigid |
Transport
As an expat, you can’t ignore the need for public transport services in a new country. Spain has a well-developed metro system in only major cities, while rural areas rely more on private transport options.
Apart from the metro lines, the extensive network of buses, trams, and trains ensures that you can get by pretty easily.
In contrast, Germany has a more efficient and extensive public transport network. And the system is celebrated for its punctuality and reach. The “Deutschlandticket” is the transport card, available for €49, which is a good deal for frequent travelers.
This high-speed network connects urban and rural areas seamlessly. Germany is also introducing new cycling-friendly policies. Covering long distances is much more convenient in Germany than in Spain.
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- What is the Public Transport In Spain like? Learn all about it.
Climate
If you love the sun, Spain is a clear winner! The country receives over 300 days of sunshine, and the weather is pleasant most of the year.
Barcelona and Valencia enjoy hot, dry summers and mild winters. Generally, Spain is popular for outdoor activities year-round, especially in coastal and southern regions.
Germany is quite the opposite. Summers are warm but rarely as warm as Spain. It is cooler, wetter, and receives significantly less sunshine.
Here’s what each season can look like throughout the year, temperature-wise.
| Country | Spring | Summer | Autumn | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spain | 13.7 ºC (56.2 ºF) | 23.8 ºC (74.9 ºF) | 17.4 ºC (63.4 ºF) | 7.9 ºC (46.2 ºF) |
| Germany | 9.7 ºC (49.4 ºF) | 19.8 ºC (67.7 ºF) | 10.4 ºC (50.7 ºF) | 0.5 ºC (33 ºF) |
Culture
Spain’s cultural and social system has proven more acceptable for immigrants. The culture places a strong emphasis on community and family gatherings. People like to celebrate and bond over food and festivities.
The cuisine is centered around diverse tapas, seafood, and a Mediterranean diet. Spain’s welcoming atmosphere is shaped by its lively social gatherings, outdoor events, and relaxed lifestyle, all of which make newcomers feel at home.
On the other hand, German culture can appear more reserved compared to Spain. There is more focus on privacy, respect, and formality – which can seem as lack of social openness.
Germans may take longer to build friendships and often value deeper, long-term connections over casual acquaintances. In personal settings, they do enjoy gatherings, festivals, and local clubs. Cities like Berlin, Munich, and Hamburg have a much more welcoming community of expats that can help you feel at home.
Security
Both Germany and Spain are generally safe for expats, but they have different safety profiles. Germany ranks as the 20th safest country, while Spain ranks as the 41st safest country in the world.
Germany has lower crime rates and a well-functioning police system that focuses on public safety. Spain also offers a safe environment, particularly in tourist areas. However, some Spanish cities can experience higher rates of petty crime, such as pickpocketing.
Both countries provide a safe living environment, but Germany is often considered slightly safer in terms of crime rates and public safety measures.
Immigration Law
A complete understanding of all immigration laws of a country is important to ensure seamless migration. Compared to Spain, Germany has more structured and favorable immigration policies for expats looking for work. Spain, on the other hand, is great for retirees and passive income earners.
The country has also implemented various programs, such as the EU Blue Card, to attract highly qualified professionals from non-EU countries.
Types of Visas for Spain:
- Business Visa
- Work Visa
- Study Visa
- Non-Lucrative Visa
- Golden Visa
Types of Visas for Germany:
- Business Visa
- Work Visa
- Study Visa
- Residence Permit for the Purpose of Retirement
- Read Also: Types Of Visas For Spain: All Options For Expats.
Taxes
The tax systems in different countries can significantly impact an expat’s goals for settling in a new country. Further, individual circumstances, such as specific income levels and regional taxes, significantly affect the overall tax rates for expats.
Spain’s progressive tax system rates vary from 19% to 47%. And the corporate tax rate is 25%, with reduced rates for startups and new businesses.
Germany also has a progressive tax system with rates from 0% to 45%. Unlike Spain, Germany has fewer regional variations in personal tax rates.
The standard corporate tax rate in Germany is around 15%, but with additional trade taxes, the effective corporate tax rate can be up to 30%.
Bottom Line: Spain or Germany?
Did the comparison give you any clarity on which country makes the most sense for you? Don’t worry if you cannot understand straight away. Choosing a place to relocate to is a tough one, even if you’re divided between two cities.
Looking for expert advice on the visa process? Contact our team of professionals at Viv Europe!
From visa applications to settling in, we’re here every step of the way.
