Money
How Much Money Do You Need to Move to Spain?
Your first month in Spain costs far more than a normal month. Here’s where the money goes, so you arrive with enough.
By
How to Live in Spain
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2 min read
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Most people budget for their monthly cost of living in Spain and forget the start-up costs. Between temporary housing, rent upfront and paperwork, your first month can cost several times a normal one.
Housing is the big one
Plan for two to six weeks of temporary accommodation while you view flats in person. For a long-term flat, expect up to four months’ rent upfront: the first month, a one-month deposit and up to two months of extra guarantee. You shouldn’t pay agency fees, because on long-term homes the landlord pays them. Unfurnished flats often have no fridge or washing machine, so check the inventory.
Fees and paperwork
Official fees are modest: the NIE is €9.84, a first TIE €16.08 and EU registration €12, and the padrón is free. Apostilles, sworn translations and photos for every family member add up faster.
Insurance, phone and daily life
Private no-copay health insurance costs roughly €60 to €80 a month for adults under 40, a SIM starts at about €3 a month and fibre at €10 to €30 with budget operators (October 2026). Monthly transport passes are good value, and the menú del día at lunch keeps food costs down. Then add 10 to 20% for the things you didn’t expect.
Build your own budget with our first-month budget checklist.
Budget for two to six weeks of temporary housing
Expect up to four months’ rent upfront
Landlords pay agency fees on long-term rentals
Official fees are small; documents add up
Add a 10–20% buffer
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