City Guide 2026
Spain
Living in Madrid
Everything you need to know about cost of living, visas, taxes, climate, and lifestyle in Madrid, Spain.
Monthly Cost (Solo)
$1,943
Rent + groceries + bills
Safety Score
71/100
Low crime
Avg Temperature
15°C
59°F average
Tourist Visa
90 days
DN visa available
Internet Speed
300 Mbps
Fast
Cost of Living in Madrid
Rent Prices (USD/month)
| Apartment | City Center | Outside Center |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Bedroom | $1,350 | $878 |
| 3 Bedroom | $2,900 | $1,885 |
Source: Numbeo, crowd-sourced data.
Groceries
$300/month
Healthcare
$85/month
Utilities
$173/month
Transport
$35/month
Climate in Madrid
Monthly Average Temperature (°C)
Jan
6.3°
Feb
7.8°
Mar
10.8°
Apr
12.8°
May
16.9°
Jun
22°
Jul
25.6°
Aug
25.1°
Sep
20.8°
Oct
15.6°
Nov
10.1°
Dec
7°
Air Quality (AQI)
42
Good
Avg Rain Days/mo
6
days per month
Beach Distance
300 km
to nearest coast
Mountains
50 km
to nearest range
Lifestyle in Madrid
Walkability
85/100
Internet Speed
300 Mbps
Cultural Score
77/100
Nightlife
85/100
Outdoor Activities
48/100
English Proficiency
80/100
Expat Community
large
Transit Quality
excellent
Coworking Spaces
3+
LGBTQ+ Friendly
excellent
Tax Overview in Spain
Tax System
Worldwide (taxes global income)
Tax residency threshold: 183 days/year · Treaty network: good
| Tax Type | Rate |
|---|---|
| Capital Gains (Long-term) | 19% |
| Capital Gains (Short-term) | 24% |
| Dividend Tax | 19% |
| Interest Income | 19% |
| Wealth Tax | 0.20% above $700,000 |
| Crypto Gains | 19% |
| Exit Tax | No |
| Estate Tax | No |
Special Regime: Beckham Law (Special Tax Regime for Inbound Workers)
Flat rate: 24%
Tax rates are estimates. Consult a qualified tax advisor for your specific situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to live in Madrid?
A comfortable solo lifestyle in Madrid costs approximately $1,943-3,109/month for a single person or couple, covering housing in the city center, groceries, healthcare, utilities, and transport. Rent for a 1-bedroom in the center averages $1,350/month.
Is Madrid safe for expats?
Madrid has a safety index of 71/100 (higher is safer). Madrid has moderate safety levels. Standard precautions are recommended, especially at night in less-trafficked areas. Healthcare quality is rated 84/100.
What is the weather like in Madrid?
Madrid has an average annual temperature of 15°C (59°F). The warmest months reach 25.6°C and the coolest drop to 6.3°C. Air quality is good with an average AQI of 42.
What is the internet speed in Madrid?
Average internet speed in Madrid is 300 Mbps, which is excellent for remote work and video calls. There are 3+ coworking spaces available.
What taxes will I pay living in Spain?
Spain uses a worldwide tax system. Capital gains are taxed at 19% (long-term) and dividends at 19%. There is a wealth tax of 0.20% on assets above $700,000. Tax residency kicks in after 183 days/year. A special regime (Beckham Law (Special Tax Regime for Inbound Workers)) may offer reduced rates.
Can I get a digital nomad visa in Madrid?
Yes, Spain offers a digital nomad visa valid for 36 months with a minimum income requirement of $3,000/month. The residency pathway is: 5 years of continuous legal residence.
Is Madrid good for digital nomads?
Madrid has fast internet at 300 Mbps, a large expat community, and 3+ coworking spaces. English proficiency is high at 80/100. The cost of living index is 48/100 (NYC = 100), making it moderately priced for remote workers.
Can You Retire on $X in Madrid?
Run the FIRE math for Madrid against the most-searched portfolio milestones — honest yes/no/tight verdicts with the numbers behind them.
Compare Madrid with other cities
See what your money actually buys across housing, food, healthcare, and more with our lifestyle purchasing power tool.