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Study in Spain: Housing & Living Costs

One of the most important things for students in Spain is finding adequate housing. However, finding the right place to call home while you study is not easy. It’s important that you look around, weigh pros and cons, and that you’re aware of your options. Read on to find out how to find the right accommodation for students in Spain.

Jun 9, 2017

One of the most important things for students in Spain is finding adequate housing. However, finding the right place to call home while you study is not easy. It’s important that you look around, weigh pros and cons, and that you’re aware of your options. Read on to find out how to find the right accommodation for students in Spain. 

Student accommodation is generally provided by Spanish universities in student residence halls (Colegios Mayores) or student apartments. Rent and accommodation costs vary depending on the location you choose, amenities offered and other factors. In general, if you pick Madrid or Barcelona, the prices are a bit higher than in other cities. Typically, an apartment in Barcelona is around €850, while in Madrid the one bedroom apartment costs around €1000 per month.

Besides the rent, you should think of the cost of public transportation, food, and other utilities when picking the right student accommodation.

Good news is: there are many accommodation options available so we highly recommend starting your research as early as possible and considering all options before making a final decision.

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Want to study in Spain? Find & compare programs

Types of Student Accommodation in Spain

  • Host families welcome students to live with them throughout Spain, providing a highly rewarding and immersive experience for your education in Spain. You can study, learn Spanish in a natural environment and get first-hand experience in Spanish culture.
  • Studio apartments are a more independent housing option but tend to be a little more costly than other forms of housing. They are usually smaller and you don’t have to share a room with other students. As mentioned, however, they are usually more expensive, especially the closer they are to the centrum.
  • Finding a roommate is also a great and cost effective accommodation option for those students wanting a sociable living arrangement. A lot of students opt for this choice because it is more affordable to split the cost and you are bound to meet new people easier. So if you’re looking to pay less and get a friend included.
  • Apartments, flats and townhouses are also available as a means of student housing. It is however difficult to obtain these and they are usually more expensive. It is best to contact an agent if you prefer to choose this.

Student accommodation is generally provided by Spanish universities in student resident halls (Colegios Mayores) or student apartments. Rent and accommodation costs vary depending on the location you choose, amenities offered and other factors. In general, Madrid and Barcelona are more expensive than other cities. There are many accommodation options available so we highly recommend starting your research as early as possible and considering all options before making a final decision.

Useful student housing & accommodation websites

Casita helps university students from all around the world find the best home in over 30 countries in North America, Europe, Asia and Oceania. Casita offers high quality and trusted accommodation options that are built and managed for University students. Find you student accommodation in Spain.


HousingAnywhere is partnered with 170+ universities across 65 countries to help their students find accommodation abroad. In addition, they incentivize students to sublet their rooms and apartments to incoming students whilst they are away. Find affordable accommodation in BarcelonaMadrid and Valencia.


Uniplaces is a housing portal that offers a fresh approach to booking student accommodation online. It’s fast to book, safe to pay, and lets you browse through thousands of trusted properties in Europe’s best student cities, including BarcelonaMadrid and Valencia.


Student.com logo

Student.com offers over 1 million beds in Spain and other countries around the world. Their website is free to use and offers a dedicated team of expert accommodation consultants and price match comparisons. They also have formal contractual relationships with every landlord on their site for an added layer of security for you!


Facebook Groups

The many Facebook groups dedicated to student accommodation in Spain are also great resources for people looking to find accommodation at competitive prices. Just be careful of scammers and never make any payments without seeing the place first!

Living Costs in Spain

Wondering how much it will cost you to live in Spain as an international student? We've compiled some of the most common costs encountered by students studying abroad below.

If you're deciding between studying in two different Spanish cities, use this handy comparison tool to see how living costs compare! 

Meal10 €
Coffee1.70 €
Beer2.50 €
Cinema Ticket8.00 €
Monthly Rent673.23 €
Monthly Transport44.00 €

Overview of Spain

Over 60,000 international students choose Spain as their study abroad destination every year. Click here to learn why.

Education System

Want to learn about how the higher education system works in Spain? Spain is a popular study abroad destination for international students, given its laid-back lifestyle, high quality education, and its vibrant culture and history. Take a minute to find out more about the structure of the education system in Spain!

Student Visas

Do you need a visa to enter Spain to study? Learn more about the student visa process, and what you need to enter the country, depending on if you're an EU national or not. Discover what you need to stay in Spain to study abroad!

Tuition Fees & Scholarships

Tuition fees for degree programs in Spain may vary, but are amongst the lowest in Europe. To cover the rest of the costs, there are plenty of scholarship opportunities available.

Language & Culture

Spain boasts a rich history and culture. Find out more about Spain's famous vibrancy!

Application Process

All countries have specific admissions requirements for students to gain acceptance into a university. Learn more about the ins and outs of admission to programs in Spain, and what you need to apply, depending on your citizenship.

Programs

Ready to look at education in Spain? Use our search engine to find and compare top programs in Spain today!

Keystone Team

Author

The Keystone Team is comprised of experienced educators and advisors dedicated to providing valuable resources and advice to students all over the world.