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The Comprehensive Guide to the Cost of Living in Bilbao, Spain

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Written by Kittenproperties

20.06.2023

Introduction

So, you're considering a move to the scenic city of Bilbao in Spain? Before packing your bags, you might be wondering about the cost of living there. This comprehensive guide covers all aspects - from everyday needs and rent, to purchasing property and transportation.

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Cost of Everyday Needs in Bilbao, Spain

Groceries and Dining

The cost of groceries in Bilbao is quite affordable, especially when compared to major cities. On average, a month's groceries for a single person could range between €150-€200. Dining in a mid-range restaurant might set you back around €30 for a three-course meal.

Utility Bills

Utility bills including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage, for an 85m² apartment, could cost you around €100 to €150 per month.

Housing in Bilbao, Spain

Rental Costs

The cost of renting in Bilbao varies based on location. A one-bedroom apartment in the city centre averages €600 per month, whereas in the outskirts, it could be around €450.

Cost of Buying Property

Property prices depend on many factors such as location, size, and the age of the property. As of now, the average price per square meter in the city centre is around €2,500.

Transportation Costs in Bilbao

Public Transport

The public transport system in Bilbao is efficient and affordable. A monthly transport pass typically costs around €40.

Cost of Owning a Car

The cost of owning a car includes initial purchase, insurance, maintenance, and fuel. On average, you could expect to spend around €5000 on a second-hand car. The price of gasoline as of now is around €1.5 per litre.

Health and Fitness Expenses in Bilbao

Healthcare

Spain boasts a high-quality healthcare system. However, private health insurance is recommended, which may cost around €400 annually.

Gym Membership

The average cost for a monthly gym membership in Bilbao is around €30-€50.

Leisure and Entertainment in Bilbao

Cinema Tickets

An evening at the cinema might cost you around €8 for a ticket.

Outdoor Activities

Bilbao offers a plethora of free outdoor activities like visiting parks, hiking trails, and beautiful beaches.

Cost of Education in Bilbao

Public Schools

Public education in Spain is free.

Private Schools

Private school tuition varies greatly, but on average, it can range from €5000 to €8000 annually.

Detailed Breakdown of Everyday Needs

Food and Groceries

While prices for groceries are relatively affordable in Bilbao, it's worth mentioning that fresh produce markets are a common way of shopping. Markets such as the Mercado de La Ribera offer a variety of fresh goods at reasonable prices. An average monthly grocery bill for a single person is roughly €150-€200.

Clothing and Personal Care

Shopping for clothing and personal care items varies greatly depending on personal preferences and lifestyle. However, on average, a pair of jeans might cost you around €60-€80, and a pair of running shoes can cost anywhere from €60 to €100.

A Deeper Look at Housing in Bilbao

Rental Costs by Area

Rent can be a significant portion of your monthly expenses. A one-bedroom apartment in Bilbao's city centre can cost around €600 per month. If you're willing to live a bit further out, the cost decreases significantly, with averages around €450 per month.

Buying Property – A Great Investment?

Bilbao's real estate market has been growing steadily. While the cost of buying property can be high, it is a sound investment considering the potential for value growth. For a standard apartment in the city centre, expect to pay around €2,500 per square meter.

Transportation – Getting Around in Bilbao

Public Transport versus Private Vehicles

Bilbao boasts a well-connected public transport network, which includes buses, trams, and a metro system. A monthly transport pass typically costs around €40. However, if you prefer driving, be prepared for the costs associated with vehicle ownership. This includes the cost of the car, insurance, maintenance, and fuel, which can average around €1.5 per litre.

Staying Healthy in Bilbao

Healthcare System in Spain

Spain has a well-respected healthcare system that provides free care to its residents. However, many expats choose to invest in private health insurance for more immediate access to medical services. This can cost approximately €400 annually.

Fitness and Recreation

Maintaining an active lifestyle in Bilbao doesn't have to break the bank. Gym memberships range from €30 to €50 per month, depending on the facilities. Additionally, the city's abundance of parks, beaches, and hiking trails provide numerous opportunities for free, outdoor physical activity.

Leisure Activities and the Cost of Entertainment

Enjoying Life in Bilbao

Living in Bilbao isn't just about the essentials – it's also about enjoying the local culture and entertainment. A night out at the cinema costs approximately €8 per ticket. Furthermore, the city hosts numerous cultural events and festivals throughout the year, many of which are free to attend.

Education Costs in Bilbao

Investing in Education

While public education in Spain is free, private and international schools are also available. These offer different curriculums and may be a better fit for families moving from abroad. However, tuition can be a significant expense, averaging between €5000 to €8000 per year.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the cost of living in Bilbao, Spain, can be quite reasonable, especially if you're coming from a major city. The most substantial expense will likely be your housing, followed by everyday needs and transportation. However, keep in mind that these are average costs, and personal expenses can vary depending on lifestyle and personal choices.Taking into account all of these factors, the cost of living in Bilbao, Spain, offers a good balance between affordability and quality of life. While housing is the largest expense, many other aspects, like food, transportation, and healthcare, are reasonably priced.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is it expensive to live in Bilbao, Spain?

It depends on your lifestyle and spending habits. However, when compared to other cities, the cost of living in Bilbao is relatively affordable.

2. What is the average cost of rent in Bilbao?

The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre is around €600 per month.

3. How much does a meal cost in Bilbao?

A three-course meal in a mid-range restaurant may cost around €30.

4. How much does public transportation cost in Bilbao?

A monthly transport pass typically costs around €40.

5. Is healthcare in Bilbao expensive?

Public healthcare is free in Spain. However, private health insurance is recommended, which may cost around €400 annually.

6. How much can I expect to pay for utilities in Bilbao?

For an 85m² apartment, utilities can cost between €100 to €150 per month.

7. Are clothes expensive in Bilbao?

The price of clothing varies greatly depending on the brand and store, but on average, a pair of jeans might cost around €60-€80, and running shoes around €60 to €100.

8. How much does a gym membership cost in Bilbao?

The average cost for a monthly gym membership in Bilbao is around €30-€50.

9. Is property expensive in Bilbao?

Property prices vary by location and size, but you can expect to pay an average of €2,500 per square meter in the city centre.

10. How affordable is healthcare in Bilbao?

Public healthcare is free in Spain. However, private health insurance, which many expats choose for more immediate access to medical services, can cost approximately €400 annually.

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