Sevilla, the vibrant capital of Andalusia, is celebrated for its flamenco, historic landmarks, and warm Mediterranean climate. But what does it cost to live in this culturally rich city? Using the latest data from Numbeo, this blog post explores the cost of living in Sevilla 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 Sevilla.
Overview of Living Costs in Sevilla
Sevilla offers a relatively affordable lifestyle compared to Spain’s larger cities like Madrid or Barcelona. A single person’s estimated monthly expenses, including rent, are around €1,600, while a family of four can expect to spend approximately €3,672. These figures reflect a comfortable lifestyle in the city center, with opportunities to save by choosing suburban areas or adopting local habits. Sevilla is 25.2% cheaper than Madrid and 22.9% cheaper than Barcelona.
Housing: The Primary Expense
Housing is the largest expense in Sevilla, though it’s more affordable than in Madrid or Barcelona. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center averages €825 per month, while outside the center, rents drop to around €600–€700. For buyers, the average price per square meter is €2,500, significantly lower than Madrid’s €4,109 or Barcelona’s €3,995. Neighborhoods like Triana or Los Remedios offer a balance of charm and affordability.
For retirees budgeting €600–€900 for rent, areas like Nervión or Bellavista provide apartments under €650. Initial rental costs include a deposit (2–3 months’ rent), agency fees (€700–€1,200), and the first month’s rent, totaling around €2,800 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 suburbs like Dos Hermanas for lower rents with good train access to Sevilla.
Food and Groceries
Grocery costs in Sevilla are budget-friendly, with a single person’s monthly bill averaging €200–€250. Common items include:
- Milk (1 liter): €0.92
- Bread (500g loaf): €1.10
- Eggs (12): €2.30
- Chicken breast (1kg): €6.50
- Oranges (1kg): €1.05
Dining out is affordable at local spots. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs around €11, while a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant averages €45. The “menu del día” (set lunch menu) is a great deal at €9–€13, and tapas range from €6–€10, especially in traditional bars in Triana.
Transportation
Sevilla’s public transport is efficient and affordable, with a single bus or tram ticket at €1.40 and a monthly pass costing around €35. The city’s flat terrain and bike-friendly infrastructure make cycling popular, with bike rentals widely available. The Cercanías train connects Sevilla to nearby towns like Utrera for €3–€5. Taxis to the airport cost €20–€30, while public buses are under €2.
Utilities and Other Expenses
Utilities (electricity, gas, water, internet) for a small apartment average €85 per month for a single person, lower than Madrid’s €100. Private health insurance ranges from €40–€75 monthly, while public healthcare is free for residents with a valid permit. Leisure costs, such as a gym membership (€30/month) or cinema ticket (€7.50), add €100–€200 to monthly expenses, depending on lifestyle.
Salaries and Affordability
The median after-tax salary in Sevilla is €1,600, covering a single person’s expenses for about 1.2 months. For a family of four, a net income of €3,200–€4,000 is recommended for a comfortable lifestyle, especially if children attend international schools (€7,000–€10,000/year). Sevilla is 8.8% cheaper than Málaga, 16.6% cheaper than Valencia, and 39.6% cheaper than Marbella, making it a cost-effective choice.
Quality of Life for Families and Retirees
Sevilla offers a high quality of life, with a Quality of Life Index of 170.45, a safety index of 66.78, and a climate index of 92.12, thanks to its sunny weather. 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 (€600–€900) and living expenses (€775 without rent) comfortably. The city’s cultural events, like Feria de Abril, and historic sites enhance its appeal.
Neighborhood Recommendations for Retirees:
- Triana: Vibrant and historic, with rents slightly below the city average.
- Nervión: Modern, affordable, with good amenities.
- La Macarena: Quiet and budget-friendly, ideal for a relaxed lifestyle.
Tips for Saving Money
- Shop at Markets: Visit Mercado de Triana for fresh, affordable produce.
- Use Public Transport: Opt for a monthly pass or bike rentals for savings.
- Dine Local: Choose tapas bars or “menu del día” over touristy restaurants.
- Explore Free Attractions: Enjoy Plaza de España, Parque de María Luisa, and free flamenco shows.
Final Thoughts
Sevilla combines affordability with a rich cultural heritage, making it an ideal destination for expats, students, and retirees. Its lower housing costs compared to Madrid, Barcelona, or Marbella, paired with a vibrant lifestyle and excellent climate, make it a standout choice. Use tools like Numbeo’s Cost of Living Estimator or Idealista to plan your move and embrace life in this Andalusian gem.
Source: Numbeo, Cost of Living in Sevilla, last updated June 2025.
