Spain enjoys a predominantly Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters. Regional variations include oceanic climate in the north and subtropical in the Canary Islands. Over 300 days of sunshine annually in most regions.

☀️Summer Average

25-35°C (77-95°F)

❄️Winter Average

8-15°C (46-59°F)

Seasonal Overview

Spring (March - May)

Pleasant temperatures, blooming landscapes, perfect weather

Summer (June - August)

Hot and dry, beach season, siesta time during midday

Autumn (September - November)

Warm temperatures, harvest season, ideal weather

Winter (December - February)

Mild and sunny, occasional rain, perfect for outdoor activities

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Cost of Living

70/100

Cost Index

Relative to global average70/100

Spain offers excellent value for money with significantly lower costs than northern Europe. Regional variations exist, with Madrid and Barcelona being most expensive, while southern and inland cities offer great affordability.

Rent (1-bedroom city center)

Madrid/Barcelona most expensive, smaller cities 40-60% cheaper

€600-2,800/month

Food & Groceries

Fresh Mediterranean diet, excellent markets, affordable dining

€200-350/month

Transportation

Good public transport, affordable intercity travel

€40-80/month

Utilities

Moderate costs, air conditioning needed in summer

€80-150/month

Healthcare

Excellent public healthcare, low private insurance costs

Low out-of-pocket

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Work Culture

Spanish work culture emphasizes personal relationships, work-life balance, and social interaction. Traditional siesta culture is evolving, but long lunch breaks and late working hours remain common. Family and social life are highly prioritized.

Working Hours

40 hours/week, often 9am-2pm, 5pm-8pm split schedule

Vacation Days

22-30 days/year minimum plus public holidays

Key Characteristics

•Strong emphasis on work-life balance

•Personal relationships crucial in business

•Long lunch breaks (2-3 hours) traditional

•Late working hours (until 8pm common)

•Social interaction and networking important

•Family time highly prioritized

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Visa Information

As an EU member, Spain offers easy access for EU citizens. Non-EU citizens can apply for various visa types including non-lucrative visas, work visas, and the popular Golden Visa program for investors.

Processing Time

1-3 months for visa, immediate for EU citizens

Validity

1-5 years renewable, pathway to permanent residence after 5 years

Requirements

✓Valid passport

✓Proof of accommodation

✓Financial resources proof (€2,400/month for non-lucrative)

✓Health insurance

✓Clean criminal record

✓Medical certificate

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Healthcare System

Sistema Nacional de Salud (SNS)

Spain has an excellent universal healthcare system ranked among the world's best. Free healthcare for residents and EU citizens, with world-class medical facilities and highly trained professionals.

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Coverage

Universal coverage for residents, EU health card for visitors

Key Features

✓Universal healthcare for all residents

✓EU Health Insurance Card accepted

✓World-class hospitals and specialists

✓Low-cost or free medical treatments

✓Excellent emergency services

✓Private healthcare also affordable

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Digital Nomad Friendliness

9/10

Nomad Score

Digital Nomad Friendliness9/10

Internet Speed

100-300 Mbps average

Coworking Spaces

400+

Highlights

•Excellent internet infrastructure

•Growing coworking spaces ecosystem

•Perfect climate for year-round living

•Affordable cost of living

•Rich cultural experiences

•Strong expat and nomad communities

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Taxes

Progressive income tax 19%-47% plus regional taxes

Top Rate

47% (above €300,000) plus regional supplements

VAT

21% standard VAT (reduced rates 10% and 4%)

Beckham Law available for new residents; regional tax variations; EU tax treaties

Sources: www.hacienda.gob.es, sede.agenciatributaria.gob.es

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Language & Safety

Language

Spanish (Castilian)

English

Moderate - improving in cities and tourism, Spanish essential for integration

Safety

Very safe

Holidays

~14 public holidays plus strong vacation culture with August holidays traditional

Low crime rates; excellent emergency services; some pickpocketing in tourist areas; very safe for solo travelers

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Payments

Good - contactless growing, cash still common

Common apps: Apple Pay, Google Pay, Bizum, PayPal

Cash culture still strong; cards accepted most places; Bizum very popular for local transfers

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Mobile & Internet

5G Coverage

Good in cities, expanding to rural areas

Carriers

Movistar, Vodafone, Orange, MásMóvil

Good coverage overall; competitive pricing; EU roaming included

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the siesta culture real?

Traditional siesta is evolving - many businesses now work continuous hours, but long lunch breaks (2-3pm) and late dinners (9-11pm) remain common.

How important is Spanish language?

Essential for daily life, work, and integration. English works in tourist areas and some international companies, but Spanish opens all doors.

Best regions for different lifestyles?

Madrid/Barcelona for careers; Valencia for balance; Andalusia for culture; Basque Country for industry; Coast for beach lifestyle.

Healthcare quality for expats?

Excellent - universal system ranked among world's best. EU citizens get immediate access; others need insurance initially but can access public system as residents.

Cost of living compared to other EU countries?

Very affordable - 30-50% cheaper than Germany/France/UK while maintaining high quality of life and excellent climate.

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