Written by Kittenproperties
22.06.2023
Have you ever daydreamed about living in a picturesque European city, where historic charm meets modern comforts? Girona, Spain, could be your ideal destination. But before you pack your bags, it's essential to understand the cost of living in this beautiful city. Let's break it down for you!
Renting is often the first option for newcomers in Girona. The rental market offers a range of options, from compact city-center apartments to spacious suburban homes. On average, you can expect to pay between €700 and €1,000 per month for a two-bedroom city center apartment. Outside the city center, the same could cost you around €500 to €700.
If you're planning to settle in Girona, buying property could be a smart investment. The average price per square meter in the city center is about €2,200. However, outside the city center, you can find property at a much lower price of around €1,500 per square meter.
Food is an essential part of the monthly budget. In Girona, a typical grocery basket including bread, milk, eggs, fruits, vegetables, and meat, will cost around €40 to €50 per week for a single person. Dining out occasionally will obviously add to this budget.
A monthly utility bill in Girona, which covers electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage, costs about €150 for an 85m2 apartment. Internet costs around €30 per month for a decent high-speed connection.
Girona's public transportation system is reliable and reasonably priced. A monthly pass for the bus system costs around €40.
Owning a car in Girona is a significant financial commitment. The cost of a new Volkswagen Golf 1.4, a popular model, is about €22,000. Moreover, gasoline prices hover around €1.50 per liter, which can quickly add up if you commute daily.
Girona has a robust public healthcare system, and residents contribute to it through their tax payments. Nevertheless, some services may require out-of-pocket expenses, so it's smart to budget around €50 per month for these costs.
Private healthcare offers a wider range of services and shorter waiting times. The cost of a private health insurance plan starts from around €20 per month.
Public education in Girona is free. However, international schools, which often appeal to expatriates, can be costly. Expect to budget around €5,000 to €10,000 per year per child for an international school in Girona.
Lastly, remember to budget for leisure and entertainment. Whether it's a coffee at a local café (€1.50), a dinner at a mid-range restaurant (€30 for two), or a cinema ticket (€7), these small costs can add up.
Understanding the cost of living index can provide additional insight into life in Girona. This index considers the costs of various goods and services, from groceries and dining out to fitness memberships and clothing. Compared to Lisbon, Spain's capital, Girona's overall cost of living index is approximately 10% lower.
If you own a home in Girona, don't forget the maintenance costs. These can range from €100 to €200 per month, depending on the size and age of the property.
Personal care items like toiletries average €30 per month, while a decent pair of jeans costs around €75 and a summer dress from a chain store is about €35.
Staying fit in Girona can be quite affordable, with monthly gym memberships averaging €40. For those who prefer outdoor activities, Girona's parks and trails offer free fitness opportunities.
Moving internationally can be expensive. The cost will depend on the volume of your belongings and your origin location. As a ballpark figure, shipping a 20-foot container from the US to Spain can cost between €3,000 and €5,000.
The average monthly net salary in Girona after tax is approximately €1,200. However, salaries can vary significantly depending on your industry and level of expertise.
Despite the costs, there are numerous ways to save money in Girona. Shopping at local markets, using public transport, and dining at smaller, family-run establishments can all help stretch your budget further.
When compared to other cities in Spain, Girona is relatively affordable. It's cheaper than Lisbon and Porto but slightly more expensive than smaller cities like Faro and Braga.
Living in Girona, Spain, can be a rewarding experience, but it's crucial to consider the various costs involved. While it's undoubtedly cheaper than many other European cities, having a clear understanding of the costs will ensure a more comfortable and stress-free experience.Life in Girona offers a balance between cost and quality of life. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and slower pace of life, it's an attractive destination for expats looking for an affordable yet fulfilling European living experience.
A single person can expect to spend around €1,200 to €1,500 per month, including rent, groceries, utilities, and transportation.
It depends on your long-term plans. If you plan to stay for a few years, renting might be more cost-effective. However, if you plan to settle in Girona, buying property could be a smart investment.
While public healthcare is mostly covered through taxes, budgeting around €50 per month for out-of-pocket expenses is a good idea. If you prefer private healthcare, the cost starts from around €20 per month.
Owning a car can be a significant expense, with the cost of a new car starting around €22,000, and gasoline prices around €1.50 per liter. However, Girona's public transport is reliable and affordable, making it a viable alternative.
Public education is free in Spain, but if you prefer international schools, expect to budget around €5,000 to €10,000 per year per child.
Girona is cheaper than major cities like Lisbon and Porto, but slightly more expensive than smaller cities like Faro and Braga.
Shopping at local markets, using public transport, and dining at smaller, family-run establishments can help save money.
The average monthly net salary in Girona after tax is approximately €1,200. However, this can vary significantly depending on your industry and level of expertise.
The cost will depend on the volume of belongings, distance, and mode of transportation. It's recommended to get quotes from moving companies to estimate the cost.
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