Alicante, a vibrant coastal city on Spain’s Costa Blanca, is known for its sandy beaches, historic castle, and sunny Mediterranean climate. But how much does it cost to live in this popular expat destination? Using the latest data from Numbeo, this blog post explores the cost of living in Alicante as of June 2025, covering housing, food, transportation, and more. Whether you’re planning to relocate, retire, or study, this guide will help you budget for life in Alicante.
Overview of Living Costs in Alicante
Alicante is one of Spain’s most affordable cities, offering lower living costs than Barcelona, Málaga, or Valencia. A single person’s estimated monthly expenses, including rent, are around €1,578, while a family of four can expect to spend approximately €3,142. These figures reflect a comfortable lifestyle in the city center, with opportunities to save by choosing suburban areas or embracing local habits.
Housing: The Primary Expense
Housing is the largest expense in Alicante, but it’s significantly cheaper than in larger Spanish cities. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center averages €751 per month, while outside the center, rents drop to around €600–€700. For buyers, the average price per square meter is €2,026, much lower than Barcelona’s €3,995 or Valencia’s €2,187. Neighborhoods like San Vicente del Raspeig or Vistahermosa offer budget-friendly options.
For retirees budgeting €600–€900 for rent, areas like El Campello or Gran Alacant provide apartments under €650. Initial rental costs include a deposit (2–3 months’ rent), agency fees (€700–€1,000), and the first month’s rent, totaling around €2,500 for a €750 apartment.
Tips for Renting:
- Use platforms like Idealista, but verify listings to avoid scams (up to 20% may be fraudulent).
- Non-Spanish speakers may benefit from a local agent to navigate contracts.
- Consider nearby towns like Santa Pola for lower rents with easy access to Alicante.
Food and Groceries
Grocery costs in Alicante are very affordable, with a single person’s monthly bill averaging €200–€250. Common items include:
- Milk (1 liter): €0.90
- Bread (500g loaf): €1.05
- Eggs (12): €2.20
- Chicken breast (1kg): €6.30
- Oranges (1kg): €1.00 (Alicante’s local produce keeps prices low).
Dining out is budget-friendly at local spots. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs about €11, while a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant averages €40. The “menu del día” (set lunch menu) is a great deal at €9–€13, and tapas range from €6–€10.
Transportation
Alicante’s public transport is efficient and inexpensive, with a single bus ticket at €1.45 and a monthly pass costing around €30. The TRAM system connects Alicante to nearby towns like Benidorm, and walking is practical in the compact city center. Bike rentals are also popular, and a taxi to the airport costs around €15–€20, while public transport options are under €2.
Utilities and Other Expenses
Utilities (electricity, gas, water, internet) for a small apartment average €80 per month for a single person. Private health insurance, if needed, ranges from €35–€70 monthly, while public healthcare is free for residents with a valid permit. Leisure costs, such as a gym membership (€30/month) or cinema ticket (€7), add €100–€200 to monthly expenses, depending on lifestyle.
Salaries and Affordability
The median after-tax salary in Alicante is €1,500, covering a single person’s living expenses for about 1.4 months. For a family of four, a net income of €2,800–€3,500 is recommended for a comfortable lifestyle, especially if children attend international schools. Alicante is 11.1% cheaper than Valencia, 18.8% cheaper than Málaga, and 24.1% cheaper than Barcelona, making it a cost-effective choice.
Quality of Life for Families and Retirees
Alicante offers a high quality of life, with a Quality of Life Index of 171.23, a safety index of 67.89, and a climate index of 95.12, thanks to its 300+ days of sunshine. Families benefit from quality public schools, though international schools can be costly. Retirees with a monthly income of $2,500 (€2,300 after taxes) can cover rent (€600–€900) and living expenses (€546 without rent) comfortably.
Neighborhood Recommendations for Retirees:
- Playa de San Juan: A beachside area with affordable rentals and a relaxed vibe.
- Vistahermosa: Quiet, residential, and budget-friendly.
- Alicante Centro: Vibrant but slightly pricier, ideal for urban enthusiasts.
Tips for Saving Money
- Shop at Markets: Visit Mercado Central for fresh, affordable produce.
- Use Public Transport: Opt for a monthly pass or TRAM for savings.
- Dine Local: Choose tapas bars or “menu del día” over touristy restaurants.
- Explore Free Attractions: Enjoy Alicante’s beaches, Santa Bárbara Castle, and free museum days.
Final Thoughts
Alicante combines affordability, a sunny climate, and a welcoming expat community, making it an ideal destination for retirees, families, and students. Its lower housing costs compared to Barcelona, Málaga, or Valencia, paired with a rich cultural scene, make it a standout choice. Use tools like Numbeo’s Cost of Living Estimator or Idealista to plan your move and enjoy life on the Costa Blanca.
Source: Numbeo, Cost of Living in Alicante, last updated June 2025.Show in sidebar
