As an international student looking to move to Barcelona for your studies, knowing what the cost of living is like will help you plan your move accordingly.

The quality of your lifestyle in Barcelona will largely depend on how well you can navigate the city's costs of living. Barcelona is quite affordable, and it is very possible to live a luxurious life as a student there.

This post will provide a rough overview of the cost of living in Barcelona.

Key Takeaways

• Barcelona is the second-most expensive city in Spain after Madrid. However, compared to other European cities, Barcelona is quite affordable. Some of the main costs that affect students are accommodation, transportation, tuition, and other miscellaneous costs.

• While some students may need to save and budget more to live comfortably in Barcelona, affluent international students will probably have an easier time navigating the costs of living in the city compared to other parts of Europe.

• For wealthy international students who want a luxurious approach to living in Barcelona, you can opt for luxury Barcelona student accommodation instead of on-campus options or PBSAs. You can find the best luxury international student accommodations in Barcelona on Student Luxe. You can Explore the different accommodation options and see what’s included with every stay.

Cost of Housing in Barcelona

Barcelona offers different housing options to suit different lifestyles and budgets, making it one of the most dynamic cities for international students.

Whether you prefer the comfort and luxury of premium student apartments or are looking for more budget-friendly shared flats, understanding the cost of housing is crucial for financial planning. Here’s a detailed look at what you can expect:

Luxury Student Apartments

For those seeking premium accommodation, Barcelona has several high-end student apartments designed with top-notch amenities. These accommodations typically feature spacious living areas, modern furnishings, 24/7 security, fitness centres, and even concierge services. Luxury student apartments in Barcelona are usually located in prime neighbourhoods such as Eixample, Gràcia, and Sarria-Sant Gervasi, which are known for their proximity to major universities and amenities.

• Average Rent: €1,200 to €2,500 per month, depending on the size of the apartment, location and specific amenities offered.

• Popular Options: Student Luxe

Why Choose Luxury Student Apartments?
They offer a higher standard of living, an excellent location, and additional services that make transitioning to student life in a new city easier and more enjoyable. They are ideal for affluent students who value comfort and convenience.

Regular Student Housing

Standard student housing options include on-campus accommodations, shared flats, and PBSAs that cater to a wider range of budgets. These accommodations are often shared with other students and are usually more cost-effective, although amenities and space may be more limited compared to luxury options.

• Average Rent: €600 to €1,200 per month for shared flats or smaller studio apartments.

• Popular Areas: El Raval, Poble Sec, and Sant Antoni offer more affordable rent options while maintaining good access to universities and public transport.

Why Choose Regular Student Housing?
If you’re looking to balance comfort with affordability, regular student housing is a great choice. It allows you to live in the heart of the city without breaking the bank, and shared flats offer a chance to build a social circle with other students.

The amount you spend on accommodation will largely depend on the kind of residence you choose. Luxury apartments in the city centre will cost significantly more than regular shared residences in other areas.

Grocery Prices in Barcelona

Spain mostly grows its own food, especially in Barcelona, so the cost of groceries is lower compared to other parts of the country and Europe. However, the costs may vary depending on the type of store you shop from. For example, supermarkets like Mercadona, Carrefour, and Lidl offer competitive pricing, whereas organic stores like Veritas are more expensive.

Average Grocery Costs for Basic Items

Below is a breakdown of average prices for common grocery items in Barcelona:

On average, students can expect to spend between €150 and €300 per month on groceries, depending on whether they buy standard or organic items. Cooking at home and buying in bulk are effective ways to save money. If you prefer organic products, expect a slightly higher monthly budget, ranging from €250 to €400.

Transportation Costs in Barcelona

Getting around Barcelona is convenient and affordable. The city has an extensive network of public transport options that include buses, trams, and the metro. For students and residents, public transportation is the go-to choice for both affluent students and those on a budget.

The cost of transportation can vary based on the type of pass or ticket you purchase. Below are some common options:

• Single Ticket: €2.40 per ride. Ideal for occasional travel.

• T-Casual Card: €11.35 for 10 journeys. This is a popular option among frequent travellers, offering savings compared to single tickets.

• Monthly Pass (T-Usual): €40.00 per month, offering unlimited travel across Barcelona’s public transport system.

• Student Discounts: Students under 25 can opt for a special three-month T-Jove pass, which costs € 80.00 and provides unlimited travel on buses, trams, and the metro.

For those who prefer to drive, fuel costs around €1.65 per litre, and car owners should also factor in parking fees, which can range from €2 to €3 per hour in the city centre. Alternatively, cycling is a great way to explore Barcelona, and the city has a robust bike-sharing system called Bicing, with an annual membership costing about €50.

Utility Costs in Barcelona

Utility costs in Barcelona can vary based on the size of your accommodation and personal consumption habits. On average, here’s a breakdown of typical monthly utility expenses for a standard apartment:

• Electricity: €60 - €100. This cost can fluctuate depending on the season, especially during the summer months when air conditioning is frequently used.

• Water: €30 - €50. Water bills generally remain stable, as they depend on consumption and the number of residents in the apartment.

• Gas: €30 - €60. If your apartment uses gas for heating, cooking, or hot water, expect to budget for this cost as well.

• Internet: €30 - €50. High-speed internet is widely available, with most providers offering competitive pricing.

Utility costs can range from €150 to €260 per month, depending on usage. If you live in a luxury apartment, Student Luxe includes some or all utility costs in the rent, so it’s essential to clarify what is included in your lease agreement when considering housing options.

Miscellaneous Expenses

In addition to housing, groceries, transportation, and utilities, there are several miscellaneous expenses that students living in Barcelona should consider when budgeting. Here’s a breakdown of common costs:

• Dining Out: Restaurant prices can vary widely. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant typically costs around €12, while a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant can set you back about €50.

• Entertainment: Movie tickets usually cost around €10, while entry to clubs or concerts can range from €15 to €30. Many museums offer discounted or free entry on certain days, so be sure to take advantage of these opportunities.

• Fitness: Gym memberships in Barcelona typically range from €30 to €50 per month, depending on the facilities offered. Some luxury apartments in Barcelona have on-site gyms that students who live there can use for free.

• Healthcare: If you're an EU student, you may be eligible for public healthcare. Non-EU students should budget for private health insurance, which can cost around €40 to €100 per month, depending on coverage.

• Mobile Phone Plans: A mobile phone plan typically costs between €10 and €30 per month, depending on the provider and data package chosen. Prepaid options are widely available, providing flexibility for students.

Wrapping Up

By carefully planning and budgeting (if applicable), you can fully enjoy the Barcelona living experiences without necessarily breaking the bank. Embracing the rich culture, history, and lifestyle of Barcelona is a rewarding aspect of studying in this beautiful city, making the investment in your education worthwhile.

For affluent international students who only want luxury experiences, living in a luxury student accommodation in Barcelona will provide a great start to an incredible experience while living in Barcelona. You can find the most exclusive luxury apartments in Barcelona on Student Luxe.

About Us

Student Luxe are the preferred choice for guests seeking superior comfort, flexibility & service for their studies - providing some of the most luxurious and private student accommodation Barcelona has to offer.

Most of these apartments are in the best parts of the city, with amazing on-site amenities and flexible booking perks.

If we can assist with your apartment search in any way, please let our experts know.

We look forward to hosting you soon.