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. 

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.

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 Barcelona, Madrid 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 Barcelona, Madrid and Valencia.

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!