Moving from the UK to Spain is a big step considered by countless families, retirees and everyone in between. The country has much to offer in terms of unique culture, beautiful landscapes and a wide variety of attractions. But when it comes to relocating, most Brits want to know about the cost of living in Spain vs the UK. If you are planning on taking that step, we have all the information you’ll need about how the cost of living in Spain compares to the UK.
As a leading Spanish property expert, Welcome Estates has over 20 years of experience helping people to relocate from the UK to Spain. We have compiled some comparative information about the cost of living in Spain vs UK to help you to make the right decision.
Is it Cheaper to Live in Spain Than in The UK?
You’ll be pleased to know that the short answer is yes! On average, consumer prices in Spain are 18.6% lower than in the United Kingdom. With a desirable property market amidst beautiful scenery, it’s no wonder so many UK citizens decide to buy a home in Spain. Let’s take a deeper look at how affordable it is to live in Spain compared to the UK.
Is Food Expensive In Spain Compared To The UK?
When comparing Spain with the UK, generally, food is less expensive in Spain for both eating out and grocery shopping. Fast food is relatively similar in price but the cost of a 3-course meal for two in a mid-priced restaurant in Spain is around 29% cheaper than dining in the same type of restaurant in the UK. The price of food in Spain is also lower in supermarkets. Your average monthly shopping bill could be around 15% lower when you move to Spain.
When Compared to the UK, Is Childcare in Spain Affordable?
If you plan to move to Spain with small children, the cost of childcare may be important to you. With compulsory education in Spain not starting until age 6, many childcare providers offer preschool education. On average, childcare in Spain is 68.9% less expensive than in the UK. If we go further and compare cities like Alicante and London, childcare costs in Alicante are on average a whopping 84% less expensive than in London. The average monthly rate for one child in a private full-time daycare facility would be around £1528 in London compared to £254 in Alicante. If you choose to send your child to a private school in Spain, the fees for one academic year are around 51.6% cheaper than private primary schools in the UK.
Are Utilities In Spain Expensive Compared To The UK?
With most of us feeling the effects of the current cost of living crisis in the UK, the cost of utilities is often the topic of the day. When comparing utility bills in the UK to the cost of utilities in Spain, expats spend on average around 40.1% less on basic utilities when they emigrate to Spain. You may find internet and mobile phone tariffs are similar or slightly more expensive than in the UK. These days, many apps allow you to make free calls online allowing you to save money when contacting loved ones overseas.
What is The Cost of Transportation in Spain vs The UK?
If you’re moving to Spain, getting around will be important whether you need to travel to school, work or enjoy the many attractions your new home has to offer. If you choose to buy an average-sized new car, it’ll cost you around 8.5% less in Spain than it would in the UK. Luckily, if you don’t drive, you’ll have plenty of ways to get around. When you live in Spain, you can choose to make the most of one of the most efficient public transport systems in the world. Buying a monthly travel pass in Spain is around 46% cheaper than in the UK while the average cost of a one-way ticket on public transport will set you back around £1.27.
Is Property Expensive In Spain Compared to The UK?
House prices in Spain will vary depending on where you choose to live and the style of property you buy. In Spain, much like anywhere else, property prices in the city may be higher than in rural areas but in Spain, mortgage rates are lower than UK mortgage rates. For example, if you were moving to Alicante from London, your mortgage rates could be 37.7% cheaper. The price per square metre of a city-centre-based apartment in Spain is on average 34.4% cheaper than in the UK. Lower property tax could also make buying a house in Spain more affordable.
If you want to talk to professionals about house prices in Spain and buying Spanish property, Welcome Estates can help. We have an in-depth knowledge of properties in the Costa Blanca region and we can help you to find the perfect home in Spain. For more information, contact our friendly team of sales consultants.
