Madrid hooks you fast: relentless culture, characterful neighborhoods, and serious pace. For a comfortable life, expect €1,200–€1,900/month per person (rent included), depending on area and lifestyle.
Housing
- Central studio (Malasaña/Chueca/La Latina): €1,000–€1,400/month.
- 1-bed in well-connected areas (Delicias, Arganzuela, Tetuán): €1,100–€1,600/month.
- Room in shared flat: €450–€750/month.
- Upfront costs: 1–2 months’ deposit + agency fee in some cases.
Pro tip: prioritize Metro lines 1, 3, 6, 10 for a strong price/time balance.
Transport
- Monthly pass (zone A, 26–30 yrs): ~€20–€35 with discounts; standard adult: ~€54–€60.
- Single ticket (Metro/Bus): €1.50–€2.00.
Quick math: with daily commuting, the monthly pass pays for itself in under 2 weeks.
Groceries & eating out
- Monthly groceries (1 person): €180–€300.
- Weekday set lunch (menú del día): €12–€15.
- Casual dinner: €15–€25 per person.
Good value markets: Maravillas (Tetuán), Antón Martín (Centro), Vallehermoso (Chamberí).
Utilities & internet
- Electricity + gas + water (small flat): €90–€140/month (more in winter/summer).
- Fiber internet 300–600 Mbps: €25–€40/month.
Leisure & health
- Cinema: €7–€10.
- Gym: €25–€55/month.
- Private GP: €40–€70/visit; health plans from €25–€50/month.
Monthly budget snapshot
| Profile | Rent | Essentials (groceries, utilities, pass) | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shared room | €600 | €350–€420 | €950–€1,020 |
| Central studio | €1,200 | €430–€520 | €1,630–€1,720 |
| 1-bed (non-hyper-central) | €1,350 | €430–€520 | €1,780–€1,870 |
Neighborhood cheat-sheet
- Urban energy: Centro, Malasaña, Lavapiés, Chueca.
- Value + connectivity: Arganzuela, Tetuán, Carabanchel (north), Vallecas (north), Usera (select areas).
- Quieter/family-friendly: Moratalaz, Ciudad Lineal, Vicálvaro, Moncloa-Valdezarza.