Bilbao, a vibrant city in Spain’s Basque Country, is renowned for its Guggenheim Museum, revitalized waterfront, and rich cultural heritage. But what does it cost to live in this dynamic urban hub? Using the latest data from Numbeo, this blog post explores the cost of living in Bilbao as of June 2025, covering housing, food, transportation, and more. Whether you’re planning to relocate, study, or retire, this guide will help you budget for life in Bilbao.
Overview of Living Costs in Bilbao
Bilbao is moderately expensive compared to other Spanish cities, less costly than San Sebastián but pricier than Toledo or Sevilla. A single person’s estimated monthly expenses, including rent, are around €1,917 ($2,058), while a family of four can expect to spend approximately €4,233 ($4,543). These figures reflect a comfortable lifestyle in the city center, with opportunities to save by choosing suburban areas or adopting local habits. Bilbao is 19.7% more expensive than Toledo but 21.8% cheaper than San Sebastián.
Housing: The Primary Expense
Housing is the largest expense in Bilbao, driven by its status as a cultural and economic hub. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center averages €990 per month, while outside the center, rents drop to around €750–€850. For comparison, San Sebastián’s city-center rents are 41.4% higher. A three-bedroom apartment in the city center costs around €1,400–€1,800. For buyers, the average price per square meter is €3,200, lower than San Sebastián’s €4,500 or Madrid’s €4,109.
For retirees budgeting €700–€1,000 for rent, neighborhoods like Santutxu or Basurto offer apartments under €800. Initial rental costs include a deposit (2–3 months’ rent), agency fees (€800–€1,500), and the first month’s rent, totaling around €3,100 for a €900 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 suburbs like Getxo or Barakaldo for lower rents with good metro access.
Food and Groceries
Grocery costs in Bilbao are reasonable, with a single person’s monthly bill averaging €220–€270. Common items include:
- Milk (1 liter): €1.00
- Bread (500g loaf): €1.30
- Eggs (12): €2.50
- Chicken breast (1kg): €7.00
- Apples (1kg): €2.00
Dining out is affordable at local spots. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs €12–€15, while a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant averages €50. The “menu del día” (set lunch menu) offers value at €10–€15, and pintxos (Basque tapas) range from €2–€4 each. Bilbao’s culinary scene is vibrant but less costly than San Sebastián’s high-end dining.
Transportation
Bilbao’s public transport is efficient, with a single metro or bus ticket at €1.60 and a monthly pass (Barik card) costing around €40. The metro and Euskotren connect to nearby towns like Portugalete for €3–€5. The city’s compact layout and bike-friendly paths make cycling popular, with rentals widely available. Taxis to Bilbao’s airport cost €20–€30, while buses are €1.50–€3.
Utilities and Other Expenses
Utilities (electricity, gas, water, internet) for a small apartment average €95 per month for a single person, lower than San Sebastián’s €110 but higher than Toledo’s €80. Private health insurance ranges from €40–€80 monthly, while public healthcare is free for residents with a valid permit. Leisure costs, such as a gym membership (€35/month) or cinema ticket (€7.50), add €120–€200 to monthly expenses, depending on lifestyle.
Salaries and Affordability
The median after-tax salary in Bilbao is €1,900, covering a single person’s expenses for about 1 month. For a family of four, a net income of €3,500–€4,200 is recommended for a comfortable lifestyle, especially if children attend international schools (€7,000–€11,000/year). Bilbao is 10.1% cheaper than Madrid, 5.7% cheaper than Málaga, and 28.1% cheaper than Barcelona, making it a balanced choice for affordability and quality.
Quality of Life for Families and Retirees
Bilbao offers a high quality of life, with a Quality of Life Index of 172.34, a safety index of 67.12, and a climate index of 88.76, thanks to its mild but rainy climate. Families benefit from quality public schools, though international schools are costly. Retirees with a monthly income of $2,500 (€2,300 after taxes) can cover rent (€700–€1,000) and living expenses (€927 without rent) comfortably. The city’s cultural attractions, like the Guggenheim, and safe, walkable streets enhance its appeal.
Neighborhood Recommendations for Retirees:
- Deusto: Affordable, with good amenities and rents under €800.
- Santutxu: Quiet, residential, and budget-friendly.
- Abando: Central and cultural, but slightly pricier.
Tips for Saving Money
- Shop at Markets: Visit Mercado de la Ribera for fresh, affordable produce.
- Use Public Transport: Opt for a Barik pass or bike rentals for savings.
- Dine Local: Choose pintxos bars or “menu del día” over upscale restaurants.
- Explore Free Attractions: Enjoy the Bilbao riverwalk, Casco Viejo, and free museum days.
Final Thoughts
Bilbao combines affordability with a vibrant cultural scene, making it an attractive destination for expats, students, and retirees. Its lower housing costs compared to San Sebastián or Madrid, paired with a high quality of life and excellent amenities, make it a standout choice in the Basque Country. Use tools like Numbeo’s Cost of Living Estimator or Idealista to plan your move and embrace life in this revitalized city.
Source: Numbeo, Cost of Living in Bilbao, last updated May 2025.
