- Jacques Paillard
At the InterNations Events, I didn't only enjoy dancing the night away at some great venues, but I also got to know some great friends.
Living in Madrid: Essential Info for Expats, By Expats
Madrid is calling all expats! It’s a vibrant city waiting for you to jump right in. (Trust us, the energy is contagious.) Considering a move? We know you’ve got a million questions — from housing and healthcare to what the daily grind in Madrid is like. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. From pros and cons to an essential Q&A, we’ve created a handy “expat-approved” overview. And don’t miss out on InterNations events, designed to help you connect with fellow expats here. Read on and get ready for your Madrid adventure!
Living in Madrid: Your Questions, Answered
If you're a new or soon-to-be expat in Madrid, you might have questions about life in this vibrant city. To help you get a better understanding of what to expect, we've answered seven common questions expats often ask. For more specific questions or to share your own experiences, consider joining InterNations, a community of expats who enjoy supporting one another.
1. Is it necessary to speak the local language?
While it's possible to get by with English in Madrid, learning Spanish can make your life much easier and help you connect with the local community. Many locals do speak English, especially in the service industry and among younger generations, but knowing Spanish can help you navigate daily life and feel more at home.
2. What are the average rent prices in popular expat districts?
Chamberí:
- Single-room flat: 800–1,200 EUR (950–1,425 USD) per month
- Three-bedroom flat: 1,800–2,800 EUR (2,140–3,325 USD) per month
Salamanca:
- Single-room flat: 1,000–1,600 EUR (1,190–1,900 USD) per month
- Three-bedroom flat: 2,500–4,000 EUR (2,975–4,750 USD) per month
Retiro:
- Single-room flat: 750–1,200 EUR (890–1,425 USD) per month
- Three-bedroom flat: 1,600–2,800 EUR (1,900–3,325 USD) per month
3. What is the minimum monthly salary needed to live comfortably in Madrid?
To live comfortably in Madrid, you would need a minimum monthly salary of around 2,000–2,500 EUR (2,380–2,970 USD). However, to not worry about money and enjoy a more upscale lifestyle, you would need a monthly salary of around 4,000 EUR (4,750 USD) or more.
4. How safe is Madrid for expats?
Madrid is considered a safe city for expats. As with any large city, it's essential to stay aware of your surroundings and take common-sense precautions, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping your belongings secure. Petty crime, like pickpocketing, can occur in tourist-heavy areas, so it's essential to remain vigilant.
5. What are the best modes of transportation in Madrid?
Madrid has an excellent public transportation system, including buses, trains, and a metro system. Many residents rely on public transport as their primary means of transportation, as it is affordable, efficient, and well-connected. Additionally, Madrid is a walkable and bike-friendly city, with many pedestrian zones and bike lanes. Owning a car is not necessary for most people living in Madrid.
6. How can I open a bank account in Madrid?
To open a bank account in Madrid, you'll typically need your passport, proof of address, and a Spanish tax identification number (NIE). Some banks may also require proof of employment or a minimum initial deposit. Be sure to check with your chosen bank for specific requirements.
7. How is the healthcare system in Madrid?
Madrid has a high-quality healthcare system, including both public and private facilities. As an expat, you may be eligible for public healthcare if you are a legal resident and contribute to the Spanish Social Security system. Alternatively, many expats opt for private health insurance, which offers additional benefits, such as shorter waiting times and access to a broader range of
Why you'll love InterNations in Madrid
and countless possibilities for fun and friendship!
The pros & cons of life in Madrid
Discover the highlights and lowlights you can expect in Madrid — backed by real expat feedback and the latest stats — according to our 2023 Expat Insider survey, where over 12,000 expats shared their insights on living and working in 49 cities worldwide.
Pros:
Great weather & quality of life: With its sunny climate, Madrid ranks 3rd for quality of life. It tops the ranking for leisure options, including culture and nightlife (1st), culinary variety (4th), and recreational sports (7th). It also ranked 8th for healthcare.
Digital life: In 10th place, digital life is not something expats complain about. Highlights include ease of cashless payments (6th), access to high-speed internet at home (6th), and unrestricted access to online services (7th).
Personal finances: Expats in Madrid are quite happy when it comes to their finances, as the city ranks 10th for personal finance.
Public transportation: Madrid ranks 5th for travel & transit. What’s more, 94% of expats in Madrid are happy with the affordability of public transportations (vs. 71% globally).
Many international people: Madrid is home to many expats, making it a great city for social experiences. And when it comes to settling in, Madrid ranks 8th out of 49 cities in our survey.
Spanish cuisine: Of course, we have to mention the food! According to our survey, 94% of expats rate the culinary variety & dining options in Madrid favorably (vs. 77% globally).
Cons:
Language barrier: A considerable 51% of expats feel that not speaking the local language(s) makes living in Madrid challenging, compared to a global average of 32%.
Working abroad concerns: Madrid ranks 38th for working abroad. Specific concerns include job security (42nd) and the local economy’s state (41st), indicating expats see room for improvement in the job market.
Noise levels: Depending on where you live, Madrid can be noisy. Whether it’s construction work or late-night partygoers, getting a good night's sleep can be tough, especially with windows open.
Overall, 85% of expats are satisfied with their life in Madrid. It’s clear that the city offers a rich mix of cultural and quality living experiences, despite some obstacles related to language and working abroad.
Meet expats at our events
Wondering how to forge new friendships in Madrid? Enter InterNations: your ultimate social connector. Our community is the best way to meet like-minded expats from across the globe through many fun-filled events and activities. Whether it’s chilling at laid-back hangouts or enjoying afterwork parties, you’re all set to build your network and make the most of living here.
Want to see all the upcoming events in Madrid?
Frequently asked questions about living in Madrid
Sun-drenched plazas, sizzling nightlife … and administrative hurdles? Moving to a new city can be a whirlwind. But don't worry. We’ve got the answers to your burning questions so you can hit the ground running when you arrive in Madrid.
Absolutely, Madrid is a fantastic place for expats! It’s one of those cities with a huge international crowd, making it super easy to meet people and build connections. Life in Madrid has a relaxed vibe you’ll start to love in no time. Plus, the city is bursting with culture and stunning art at every corner, and thanks to awesome public transport, getting around to soak it all in is both easy and affordable. And let’s not forget the sunny weather that keeps the city bright and warm. So, if you're wondering about moving to Madrid, it’s a thumbs up from here!
Expats in Madrid have lots of cool areas to choose from, each with its own vibe. Here’s the rundown:
Centro: Super international with lots of different restaurants and fun stuff to do. If you like being where the action is, this is the place.
Carabanchel: Perfect if you like parks and have pets. It’s green and laid-back.
Tetuan: This is the modern part of town with cool office buildings, markets, clubs, and restaurants. It’s lively and up to date.
Puente de Vallecas: A diverse neighborhood with a strong community feel.
La Latina: Known for its bohemian style, it’s great for creative types who love art and a quirky scene.
Wherever you decide to live in Madrid, you’ll find a spot that suits what you’re looking for.
Living in Madrid without speaking Spanish is doable, but it can complicate some activities, such as visiting the doctor, accessing public services, or grocery shopping. However, since the city is highly international, you’ll likely encounter English speakers, especially in tourist areas. To navigate life in Madrid smoothly, we recommend learning Spanish to at least an intermediate level. It makes everything easier and allows you to immerse yourself more fully in the local vibe.
Looking to dive into the buzzing expat scene and meet new faces? How about kicking back at an afterwork event at La Galeria Florida Retiro? Or, if you’re up for a wild night, nightclubbing events at LuLa Club draw party-goers ready to dance the night away.
InterNations fosters a friendly community right here in Madrid. We’re all about bringing international people together. By joining InterNations, you’ll be in the loop for all the cool expat gatherings — large and small — so you can mingle with like-minded people.
Madrid scores a solid 68 out of 100 with Travel Safe Abroad. Like any big city though, it has its share of small-time crime like pickpocketing or scams, especially in the touristy spots. The key? Stay sharp and keep an eye on your stuff to dodge these annoyances. And remember the basics: keep your bling to a minimum, stash your important docs safely at home, and stay smart about who’s around you.
Madrid’s mostly a safe bet, but there are a few spots you might want to avoid, especially after dark:
Gran Via: By day, it's all clear, but at nighttime, pickpockets come out to play. The side streets get quiet and dim, so it's better to stick to the bright and busy parts.
Lavapiés: It’s got a cool vibe, but after dark, it's wise to tread carefully. Small-time drug deals can happen, so hanging in well-lit, crowded spots is a smart move.
Puerta del Sol: Tourist central by day, pickpocket paradise by night. Keep your valuables close and your eyes open.
Usera: Despite its international flair, it’s got a bit of a rep for crime and occasional violence, so maybe not your first choice for a midnight stroll.
Orcasur: The area has gained notoriety for higher crime rates compared to other neighborhoods, so keep your guard up here.
Pan Bendito: It faces its share of challenges like unemployment and drug issues, making it a spot where caution is key.
Puente de Vallecas: Known for one of the highest crime rates in Madrid. Vigilance is your best friend in this area.
Just like in any big city, knowing where to be cautious helps you stay safe and enjoy the good stuff.
Spain’s healthcare system is excellent. It’s also inclusive, meaning you’ve got access to top-notch medical care without needing to be a Spanish citizen. All you need to do is sign up and get your healthcare card. This card gets you either free or affordable healthcare services, covering everything from doctor visits to meds, and even hospital stays.
Now, if you’re looking to level up your healthcare experience, going private is another route for expats. Private healthcare in Madrid means faster appointments, a wider range of services, and more one-on-one care. It’s pricier than the public system, with plans starting at around 50 EUR a month, but the cost varies depending on how plush you want your coverage.
Generally speaking the metro is your best bet — it’s fast, dependable, and has one of the biggest networks in Europe, hooking up the whole city and even some suburbs. A ride in the main zones costs 1,50 – 2 EUR, while a combo ticket costs up to 3 EUR. You can also get a 10-trip pass for between 6 and 10 EUR, making it very affordable.
The bus network is easy on the wallet, too. Just a heads-up: if you’re new in town, figuring out bus connections might take you a while. Luckily, the EMT app and Google Maps can help you navigate the system more easily. And taxis? They're surprisingly affordable. A ride from the airport to the city center will cost around 30 EUR.
Connect with Like-Minded Expatriates in Madrid
Meet other expats like you in Madrid
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Explore your hobbies & interests in our groups
Whether you’re into business networking, cultural adventures, family activities, sports, or just hanging out, there’s an InterNations Group just for you! Led by enthusiastic hosts, or Consuls, our groups are your ticket to continuing your favorite hobbies — and maybe even picking up some new ones. Don’t just move to Madrid … jump into life here with both feet!
Share your hobbies and interests with expats in Madrid
Get Started with Your Expat Life in Madrid
Once arrived, you'll soon find that Madrid has as much to offer as any other city in the world. Our Madrid Community is just as amenable to new arrivals, and is always happy to help you get settled and enjoy your new life in Madrid. English is not widely spoken in Madrid and throughout the country, so learning some Spanish is essential to communicate. Life in Madrid is often more affordable than other big cities such as Zurich, Munich, or London, with cuisine to rival Rome, a public transport network as reliable as Berlin, and culture to compare with Paris. There is plenty of expatriates here taking advantage of a city that brings high culture while remaining affordable and hugely welcoming and friendly to people from all over the globe. Leisure options and entertainment are one of the best reasons for expats coming to Madrid and you can look forward to cervezas, tapas and fiesta! There are so many things to enjoy in Madrid that your expat life is bound to be an amazing experience. The city has a lot to offer, including many museums and galleries, plenty of bars and restaurants, as well as an exciting nightlife and an affordable, high-quality lifestyle among other things. It is true that Spain's economy has been experiencing some difficult years recently. However, its economy has slowly but surely improved with the assistance of the European Union. As the major financial center of Spain, many of the main international corporations are located there, attracting expats from all over the world. The healthcare in Spain is one of the best in Europe and available for the EU citizens, while expats might apply for local insurance through your MNC. Other than insurance, if you’re worrying about education for your children, there are some great international schools to be found in Madrid. Madrid holds a Mediterranean climate with very hot summers and mild winters, snowfall is rare but it can occur. Nevertheless, for expats who are wishing to escape from the northern winter, Madrid is a great choice. When looking for accommodation, just make sure that your "piso" or "piso compartido" has air conditioning.
InterNations is the largest global network for expatriates, with communities in 420 cities around the world. Meet fellow global minds in your city of residence or get to know local expatriates before you're moving or traveling abroad and never feel like a stranger. InterNations makes it easy for you to stay in touch with your expat friends, both online and offline, so you can grow your network of friends and contacts from all over the world. Whether they live in Dubai or Shanghai, InterNations allows you to be close to them even if they are miles away.
Take Advantage of Our Local Expat Community in Madrid
Our members come from a broad range of backgrounds, countries, and fields of work, but all have gone through our approval process to ensure any interactions you have with our network is safe, our members courteous, and the information on the platform reliable. Whether your query is about potentially complex practical issues like work permits or tax advice, or just about where to get the best cocktails, our members are always happy to help. You're free to take your interaction offline, too — our members have organized a variety of groups for activities in the city, whether your passion is for cinema, opera, or taking advantage of the glorious food and wine offered in the Spanish capital. Our larger InterNations Official Events also take place frequently and allow you to meet some of the most interesting people from around the globe.
- Jacques Paillard
At the InterNations Events, I didn't only enjoy dancing the night away at some great venues, but I also got to know some great friends.
- Katharina Berbner
Thanks to InterNations, I found a good language school for expats to take intensive classes in Spanish and socialize a bit more.
