Comparing Rental Prices: Madrid vs. Barcelona

Madrid vs. Barcelona: Which City Has the Better Rent Prices?

Madrid and Barcelona are Spain’s two largest cities, both offering unique lifestyles, job opportunities, and vibrant cultures. If you’re thinking about moving to Spain, you might be wondering: Which city is more affordable when it comes to renting a room?

To help you decide, we’ll break down the key differences in rental costs, utilities, and overall affordability between Madrid and Barcelona. BeRoomie makes it easy to compare listings in both cities, so you can find the best deal based on your budget and preferences.

1. Average Rent Prices: Madrid vs. Barcelona

Rent prices fluctuate depending on the neighborhood and demand. Here’s what you can expect when looking for a room in a shared apartment in each city:

Madrid

• City Center (Malasaña, Chueca, Salamanca): €500 – €800/month
• Trendy Areas (Lavapiés, La Latina, Arganzuela): €400 – €700/month
• Budget-Friendly Neighborhoods (Carabanchel, Vallecas, Usera): €300 – €600/month

Barcelona

• City Center (Eixample, Gràcia, El Born): €550 – €900/month
• Trendy Areas (Poble-sec, Poblenou, Sant Antoni): €450 – €750/month
• Budget-Friendly Neighborhoods (Horta-Guinardó, Sant Martí, Sants): €350 – €600/month

Key takeaway: Rent in Barcelona tends to be slightly more expensive than Madrid, particularly in the city center. However, both cities have affordable options if you look outside the most popular districts.

🔹 Use BeRoomie to compare room listings in Madrid and Barcelona and find the best value.

2. Utility Costs

On top of rent, you’ll need to budget for electricity, water, and internet. Here’s what you can expect to pay in each city:

• Madrid: €50 – €80 per person/month
• Barcelona: €60 – €90 per person/month

Key takeaway: Barcelona’s utility costs can be slightly higher due to increased energy prices and coastal humidity, which may require more heating or cooling.

3. Public Transport Expenses

Both cities have excellent public transport systems, but Madrid’s is generally more affordable:

• Madrid Transport Card: €20 (for under 26s), €55 for regular users
• Barcelona Transport Card: €20 (for under 30s), €40 – €55 for regular users

Key takeaway: Public transport in Madrid is slightly cheaper than in Barcelona, especially for those who need a full-zone pass.

🔹 Choosing a room close to public transport using BeRoomie can help cut commuting costs.

4. Lifestyle & Cost of Living

Apart from rent and transport, here’s how general living costs compare:

• Groceries: Similar in both cities (€150 – €300/month)
• Eating Out: Barcelona tends to have slightly cheaper menu options, especially for seafood and tapas.
• Entertainment & Nightlife: Madrid has more affordable nightlife options, whereas Barcelona’s club scene is pricier.

Key takeaway: Daily expenses are comparable, but Madrid offers more budget-friendly nightlife, while Barcelona has cheaper food options.

5. Which City Should You Choose?

✅ Choose Madrid if you want:

• A slightly cheaper cost of living
• A more affordable nightlife scene
• A well-connected public transport system

✅ Choose Barcelona if you want:

• To live by the beach
• A city with a slightly warmer climate
• A diverse mix of international expats

🔹 No matter which city you choose, BeRoomie helps you find the best rental options with verified listings and direct connections to listers.

Conclusion

Both Madrid and Barcelona offer amazing lifestyles, but Madrid is generally cheaper for rent and nightlife, while Barcelona’s coastal charm comes with slightly higher housing costs.

If you’re still deciding where to live, browse available rooms in both cities with BeRoomie and find a home that matches your budget and lifestyle!