San Sebastián, a stunning coastal city in Spain’s Basque Country, is renowned for its picturesque beaches, world-class cuisine, and vibrant cultural scene. But what does it cost to live in this elegant destination? Using the latest data from Numbeo, this blog post explores the cost of living in San Sebastián 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 San Sebastián.
Overview of Living Costs in San Sebastián
San Sebastián is one of Spain’s pricier cities, reflecting its status as a premium coastal destination, though it remains more affordable than cities like London or Singapore. A single person’s estimated monthly expenses, including rent, are around €2,450 ($2,630), while a family of four can expect to spend approximately €5,500 ($5,900). These figures assume a comfortable lifestyle in the city center, but costs can be reduced by choosing less central areas or adopting local habits. San Sebastián is 4.1% more expensive than Bilbao and 14.3% more than Málaga but 12.2% cheaper than Barcelona.
Housing: The Largest Expense
Housing is the most significant expense in San Sebastián, driven by its popularity among tourists and affluent residents. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center averages €1,400 per month, while outside the center, rents drop to around €1,000–€1,200. For comparison, rents in Vigo are 25.1% lower. A three-bedroom apartment in the city center costs around €2,000–€2,500. For buyers, the average price per square meter is €4,500, higher than Málaga (€2,390) but comparable to Madrid (€4,109). Neighborhoods like Gros or Amara offer slightly more affordable rentals.
For retirees budgeting €900–€1,300 for rent, areas like Egia or Intxaurrondo provide apartments under €1,100. Initial rental costs include a deposit (2–3 months’ rent), agency fees (€1,200–€2,000), and the first month’s rent, totaling around €4,500 for a €1,300 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 Zarautz or Irun for lower rents with good train access.
Food and Groceries
Grocery costs in San Sebastián are moderate, with a single person’s monthly bill averaging €250–€300. Common items include:
- Milk (1 liter): €1.05
- Bread (500g loaf): €1.40
- Eggs (12): €2.70
- Chicken breast (1kg): €7.50
- Apples (1kg): €2.10
Dining out reflects San Sebastián’s culinary prestige. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs €15, while a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant averages €60. The “menu del día” (set lunch menu) offers value at €12–€18, and pintxos (Basque tapas) range from €2–€5 each. High-end dining, like at Michelin-starred restaurants, can cost €100–€300 per person.
Transportation
San Sebastián’s public transport is efficient, with a single bus ticket at €1.85 and a monthly pass costing around €43. The Euskotren connects to nearby towns like Bilbao for €5–€10. The city’s compact size and bike-friendly paths make cycling popular, with bike rentals widely available. Taxis to Bilbao’s airport cost €80–€100, while buses are €7–€15. Many residents walk or bike, reducing the need for a car, though fuel costs €1.70 per liter.
Utilities and Other Expenses
Utilities (electricity, gas, water, internet) for a small apartment average €110 per month for a single person, slightly higher than Sevilla’s €85. Private health insurance ranges from €45–€90 monthly, while public healthcare is free for residents with a valid permit. Leisure costs, such as a gym membership (€40/month) or cinema ticket (€8), add €150–€250 to monthly expenses, depending on lifestyle.
Salaries and Affordability
The median after-tax salary in San Sebastián is €2,000, covering a single person’s expenses for about 0.8 months due to higher costs. For a family of four, a net income of €4,500–€5,500 is recommended for a comfortable lifestyle, especially with children in international schools (€7,000–€12,000/year). San Sebastián is 7.3% more expensive than Madrid and 21.9% more than Santander, but 46.3% cheaper than London.
Quality of Life for Families and Retirees
San Sebastián offers a high quality of life, with a Quality of Life Index of 175.62, a safety index of 68.45, and a climate index of 90.12, thanks to its mild, coastal climate. Families benefit from quality public schools, though international schools are costly. Retirees with a monthly income of $3,000 (€2,800 after taxes) can cover rent (€900–€1,300) and living expenses (€1,050 without rent) comfortably. The city’s beaches, cultural festivals like the San Sebastián Film Festival, and safe environment enhance its appeal.
Neighborhood Recommendations for Retirees:
- Gros: Trendy, with more affordable rents and beach access.
- Amara: Residential, with rents under €1,100.
- Antiguo: Quiet, near Ondarreta Beach, ideal for a relaxed lifestyle.
Tips for Saving Money
- Shop at Markets: Visit Mercado de la Bretxa for fresh, affordable produce.
- Use Public Transport: Opt for a monthly pass or Euskotren for savings.
- Dine Local: Choose pintxos bars or “menu del día” over high-end restaurants.
- Explore Free Attractions: Enjoy La Concha Beach, Monte Urgull, and free cultural events.
Final Thoughts
San Sebastián offers a premium lifestyle with stunning scenery and culinary excellence, but its higher costs require careful budgeting. While more expensive than Sevilla, Málaga, or Toledo, it’s more affordable than many global cities. Use tools like Numbeo’s Cost of Living Estimator or Idealista to plan your move and embrace life in this Basque gem.
Source: Numbeo, Cost of Living in San Sebastián, last updated May 2025.
