The pros<\/h3>\n\n\n\n\n- Spain’s economic powerhouse<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- One of the sunniest capitals in Europe<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- A lifestyle typical of Madrid culture, with the \u2018hora del almuerzo<\/strong>\u2019 (the famous lunchtime) which can last up to 2 hours, the afternoon \u2018siesta\u2019 and the morning caf\u00e9s con leche<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- A lower cost of living than in other neighbouring capitals<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- A warm and welcoming population<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- A language often studied at secondary school and fairly accessible to English speakers<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n
The Cons<\/h3>\n\n\n\n\n- The cost of housing is on the rise<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Very hot summers (up to 40\u00b0C during heatwaves)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- The city is far from the sea<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
![\"Aerial](\"https:\/\/www.foyerglobalhealth.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/seyfettin-dincturk-3hnVKdWveT4-unsplash-1024x491.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nAdministrative procedures for living in Madrid<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
As a French or European Union citizen, you do not need a visa to move to Spain. However, there are two mandatory administrative formalities when you move to Madrid:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
1. Submit an application for a Certificado de Registro de Ciudadanos Miembros de la Uni\u00f3n<\/h3>\n\n\n\n\n\nTo live in Spain<\/a> for more than 3 months, you must obtain the Certificado de Registro de Ciudadanos Miembros de la Uni\u00f3n<\/strong> (EU citizen registration certificate). This document is mandatory for all your administrative procedures in Spain.<\/p>\n\n\n\nTo obtain it, you must make a cita previa<\/strong> (appointment) at the Madrid police station via the dedicated website of the Spanish government<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThis procedure cannot be done online, so remember to make an appointment before you move abroad or within 3 months of your arrival in Spain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
At the end of the procedure, you will also obtain an NIE (Num\u00e9ro d’Identification d’\u00c9tranger<\/strong>), which is compulsory for many formalities (opening a bank account, purchasing property, taxation, etc.).<\/p>\n\n\n\nPlease note<\/strong>: the NIE is valid for a period of 5 years and is renewable.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n![\"Puerta](\"https:\/\/www.foyerglobalhealth.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/alvaro-bernal-TDq7Eqgk9SU-unsplash-768x1024.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n2. Empadronamiento, to register as a resident of the city<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Once you have found accommodation or settled in, the second step is to register with the Madrid town hall<\/strong>. Empadronamiento or \u2018padr\u00f3n<\/strong>\u2019 is compulsory for both expats and Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\nTo do this, you must go to the town hall with your identity card and proof of your residential address.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n \n \n \n Looking for health coverage abroad?<\/span>\n \n \n \n Discover today our plans in just a few clics.<\/h2>\n \n <\/div>\n\n \n \nget a free quote<\/a><\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nFinding accommodation in Madrid<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Madrid is a huge city, and the rental market offers a lot of accommodation, although some neighbourhoods are saturated due to high demand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You can start by looking for accommodation in Madrid on Spanish property websites<\/strong>, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n- Idealista<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Fotocasa<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Indomio.es<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Spotahome (property website specialising in medium to long-term rentals)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
If you live in France<\/a>, consider the option of spending a few days in Spain to visit properties and find accommodation before you move.<\/p>\n\n\n\nNeighbourhoods to prioritise<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
There isn\u2019t a dedicated “English Quarter” in Madrid, but certain areas are popular with British expats. The neighborhoods with the highest concentration of Brits include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\nChamart\u00edn \u2013 Especially El Viso<\/strong>: A well-off area with international schools, embassies, and a mix of expats, including Brits. El Viso is particularly sought after by professionals and families.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\nSalamanca<\/strong>: One of Madrid\u2019s most exclusive districts, Salamanca attracts expats looking for upscale living, luxury shopping, and fine dining. While not British-dominated, it’s a favorite for wealthier expats.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\nChamber\u00ed<\/strong>: A charming, traditional neighborhood with a mix of locals and foreigners, including many British professionals and retirees. It’s known for its elegant architecture and relaxed vibe.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.foyerglobalhealth.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/pexels-felipepelaquim-2007528-1024x683.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\nMoncloa & Aravaca<\/strong>: Popular with international students and families due to its proximity to universities and good schools. There are many British expat families in Aravaca, which has a more suburban feel.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\nPozuelo de Alarc\u00f3n (Just Outside Madrid)<\/strong>: A wealthy suburb where many British families live, mainly because of the British Council School, one of the top international schools in Spain.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nFor British pubs, shops, and a community feel, areas around Sol, Huertas, and Malasa\u00f1a have a mix of British expats and visitors, with pubs like O’Connell St., James Joyce, and The Irish Rover catering to the crowd..<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The budget to be planned for accommodation<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.foyerglobalhealth.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/this-is-kitchen-happy-couple-together-their-new-house-conception-moving-1024x683.jpg\")
Source: Freepik<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\nThe cost of housing in Madrid is among the highest in Spain, along with Barcelona.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For a studio apartment in the city centre, expect an average monthly rent of 1,000 to 1,700 euros<\/strong>. In the outlying districts, the budget is 800 to 1,200 euros<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nFor a three-bedroom apartment, a family should budget for a rent of 1,800 to 3,000 euros<\/strong> per month in the centre of Madrid, compared with 1,200 to 2,000 euros<\/strong> in the surrounding areas.<\/p>\n\n\n\nIf you want to become a homeowner, the average price per square metre is 3,800 to 6,550 euros<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nThe cost of living in Madrid<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Madrid is one of the most expensive cities in Spain, along with Barcelona<\/a>. However, life in Madrid is still more affordable than in other European capitals, such as Paris (35% more expensive) or London<\/a> (60% more expensive).<\/p>\n\n\n\nIf you are interested in the subject or are undecided about other Spanish cities, check out our guide on the cost of living in Spain<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThe main expenses to plan for<\/h3>\n\n\n\n\n\nAn expat living alone in Madrid should budget for an average of 1,930 euros<\/strong> per month. A family of four should budget for around 5,000 euros<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThese averages take into account the main items of expenditure:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u25cf Housing and energy costs<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u25cf Groceries<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u25cf Healthcare<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u25cf Schooling<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u25cf Transport<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u25cf Entertainment and leisure<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.foyerglobalhealth.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/pexels-jack-sparrow-4199116-683x1024.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nWhat salary do you need to live well in Madrid?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
According to the National Institute of Statistics<\/a>, the current average salary in Madrid is slightly over 2,500 euros <\/strong>per month.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThis salary is enough to live well alone or with a partner in the capital, but it all depends on your consumption habits. If you move to an upmarket neighbourhood with high rents, you will need a higher salary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Getting around the Spanish capital<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n\nMadrid has a very comprehensive public transport network (metro, bus, trams, etc.).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Cons<\/h3>\n\n\n\n\n- The cost of housing is on the rise<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Very hot summers (up to 40\u00b0C during heatwaves)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- The city is far from the sea<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nAdministrative procedures for living in Madrid<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
As a French or European Union citizen, you do not need a visa to move to Spain. However, there are two mandatory administrative formalities when you move to Madrid:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
1. Submit an application for a Certificado de Registro de Ciudadanos Miembros de la Uni\u00f3n<\/h3>\n\n\n\n\n\nTo live in Spain<\/a> for more than 3 months, you must obtain the Certificado de Registro de Ciudadanos Miembros de la Uni\u00f3n<\/strong> (EU citizen registration certificate). This document is mandatory for all your administrative procedures in Spain.<\/p>\n\n\n\nTo obtain it, you must make a cita previa<\/strong> (appointment) at the Madrid police station via the dedicated website of the Spanish government<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThis procedure cannot be done online, so remember to make an appointment before you move abroad or within 3 months of your arrival in Spain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
At the end of the procedure, you will also obtain an NIE (Num\u00e9ro d’Identification d’\u00c9tranger<\/strong>), which is compulsory for many formalities (opening a bank account, purchasing property, taxation, etc.).<\/p>\n\n\n\nPlease note<\/strong>: the NIE is valid for a period of 5 years and is renewable.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n2. Empadronamiento, to register as a resident of the city<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Once you have found accommodation or settled in, the second step is to register with the Madrid town hall<\/strong>. Empadronamiento or \u2018padr\u00f3n<\/strong>\u2019 is compulsory for both expats and Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\nTo do this, you must go to the town hall with your identity card and proof of your residential address.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n \n \n \n Looking for health coverage abroad?<\/span>\n \n \n \n Discover today our plans in just a few clics.<\/h2>\n \n <\/div>\n\n \n \nget a free quote<\/a><\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nFinding accommodation in Madrid<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Madrid is a huge city, and the rental market offers a lot of accommodation, although some neighbourhoods are saturated due to high demand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You can start by looking for accommodation in Madrid on Spanish property websites<\/strong>, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n- Idealista<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Fotocasa<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Indomio.es<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Spotahome (property website specialising in medium to long-term rentals)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
If you live in France<\/a>, consider the option of spending a few days in Spain to visit properties and find accommodation before you move.<\/p>\n\n\n\nNeighbourhoods to prioritise<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
There isn\u2019t a dedicated “English Quarter” in Madrid, but certain areas are popular with British expats. The neighborhoods with the highest concentration of Brits include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\nChamart\u00edn \u2013 Especially El Viso<\/strong>: A well-off area with international schools, embassies, and a mix of expats, including Brits. El Viso is particularly sought after by professionals and families.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\nSalamanca<\/strong>: One of Madrid\u2019s most exclusive districts, Salamanca attracts expats looking for upscale living, luxury shopping, and fine dining. While not British-dominated, it’s a favorite for wealthier expats.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\nChamber\u00ed<\/strong>: A charming, traditional neighborhood with a mix of locals and foreigners, including many British professionals and retirees. It’s known for its elegant architecture and relaxed vibe.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\nMoncloa & Aravaca<\/strong>: Popular with international students and families due to its proximity to universities and good schools. There are many British expat families in Aravaca, which has a more suburban feel.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\nPozuelo de Alarc\u00f3n (Just Outside Madrid)<\/strong>: A wealthy suburb where many British families live, mainly because of the British Council School, one of the top international schools in Spain.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nFor British pubs, shops, and a community feel, areas around Sol, Huertas, and Malasa\u00f1a have a mix of British expats and visitors, with pubs like O’Connell St., James Joyce, and The Irish Rover catering to the crowd..<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The budget to be planned for accommodation<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n\nSource: Freepik<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\nThe cost of housing in Madrid is among the highest in Spain, along with Barcelona.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For a studio apartment in the city centre, expect an average monthly rent of 1,000 to 1,700 euros<\/strong>. In the outlying districts, the budget is 800 to 1,200 euros<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nFor a three-bedroom apartment, a family should budget for a rent of 1,800 to 3,000 euros<\/strong> per month in the centre of Madrid, compared with 1,200 to 2,000 euros<\/strong> in the surrounding areas.<\/p>\n\n\n\nIf you want to become a homeowner, the average price per square metre is 3,800 to 6,550 euros<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nThe cost of living in Madrid<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Madrid is one of the most expensive cities in Spain, along with Barcelona<\/a>. However, life in Madrid is still more affordable than in other European capitals, such as Paris (35% more expensive) or London<\/a> (60% more expensive).<\/p>\n\n\n\nIf you are interested in the subject or are undecided about other Spanish cities, check out our guide on the cost of living in Spain<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThe main expenses to plan for<\/h3>\n\n\n\n\n\nAn expat living alone in Madrid should budget for an average of 1,930 euros<\/strong> per month. A family of four should budget for around 5,000 euros<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThese averages take into account the main items of expenditure:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u25cf Housing and energy costs<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u25cf Groceries<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u25cf Healthcare<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u25cf Schooling<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u25cf Transport<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u25cf Entertainment and leisure<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nWhat salary do you need to live well in Madrid?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
According to the National Institute of Statistics<\/a>, the current average salary in Madrid is slightly over 2,500 euros <\/strong>per month.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThis salary is enough to live well alone or with a partner in the capital, but it all depends on your consumption habits. If you move to an upmarket neighbourhood with high rents, you will need a higher salary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Getting around the Spanish capital<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n\nMadrid has a very comprehensive public transport network (metro, bus, trams, etc.).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nAdministrative procedures for living in Madrid<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
As a French or European Union citizen, you do not need a visa to move to Spain. However, there are two mandatory administrative formalities when you move to Madrid:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
1. Submit an application for a Certificado de Registro de Ciudadanos Miembros de la Uni\u00f3n<\/h3>\n\n\n\n\n\nTo live in Spain<\/a> for more than 3 months, you must obtain the Certificado de Registro de Ciudadanos Miembros de la Uni\u00f3n<\/strong> (EU citizen registration certificate). This document is mandatory for all your administrative procedures in Spain.<\/p>\n\n\n\nTo obtain it, you must make a cita previa<\/strong> (appointment) at the Madrid police station via the dedicated website of the Spanish government<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThis procedure cannot be done online, so remember to make an appointment before you move abroad or within 3 months of your arrival in Spain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
At the end of the procedure, you will also obtain an NIE (Num\u00e9ro d’Identification d’\u00c9tranger<\/strong>), which is compulsory for many formalities (opening a bank account, purchasing property, taxation, etc.).<\/p>\n\n\n\nPlease note<\/strong>: the NIE is valid for a period of 5 years and is renewable.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n2. Empadronamiento, to register as a resident of the city<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Once you have found accommodation or settled in, the second step is to register with the Madrid town hall<\/strong>. Empadronamiento or \u2018padr\u00f3n<\/strong>\u2019 is compulsory for both expats and Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\nTo do this, you must go to the town hall with your identity card and proof of your residential address.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n \n \n \n Looking for health coverage abroad?<\/span>\n \n \n \n Discover today our plans in just a few clics.<\/h2>\n \n <\/div>\n\n \n \nget a free quote<\/a><\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nFinding accommodation in Madrid<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Madrid is a huge city, and the rental market offers a lot of accommodation, although some neighbourhoods are saturated due to high demand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You can start by looking for accommodation in Madrid on Spanish property websites<\/strong>, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n- Idealista<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Fotocasa<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Indomio.es<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Spotahome (property website specialising in medium to long-term rentals)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
If you live in France<\/a>, consider the option of spending a few days in Spain to visit properties and find accommodation before you move.<\/p>\n\n\n\nNeighbourhoods to prioritise<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
There isn\u2019t a dedicated “English Quarter” in Madrid, but certain areas are popular with British expats. The neighborhoods with the highest concentration of Brits include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\nChamart\u00edn \u2013 Especially El Viso<\/strong>: A well-off area with international schools, embassies, and a mix of expats, including Brits. El Viso is particularly sought after by professionals and families.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\nSalamanca<\/strong>: One of Madrid\u2019s most exclusive districts, Salamanca attracts expats looking for upscale living, luxury shopping, and fine dining. While not British-dominated, it’s a favorite for wealthier expats.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\nChamber\u00ed<\/strong>: A charming, traditional neighborhood with a mix of locals and foreigners, including many British professionals and retirees. It’s known for its elegant architecture and relaxed vibe.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\nMoncloa & Aravaca<\/strong>: Popular with international students and families due to its proximity to universities and good schools. There are many British expat families in Aravaca, which has a more suburban feel.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\nPozuelo de Alarc\u00f3n (Just Outside Madrid)<\/strong>: A wealthy suburb where many British families live, mainly because of the British Council School, one of the top international schools in Spain.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nFor British pubs, shops, and a community feel, areas around Sol, Huertas, and Malasa\u00f1a have a mix of British expats and visitors, with pubs like O’Connell St., James Joyce, and The Irish Rover catering to the crowd..<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The budget to be planned for accommodation<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n\nSource: Freepik<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\nThe cost of housing in Madrid is among the highest in Spain, along with Barcelona.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For a studio apartment in the city centre, expect an average monthly rent of 1,000 to 1,700 euros<\/strong>. In the outlying districts, the budget is 800 to 1,200 euros<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nFor a three-bedroom apartment, a family should budget for a rent of 1,800 to 3,000 euros<\/strong> per month in the centre of Madrid, compared with 1,200 to 2,000 euros<\/strong> in the surrounding areas.<\/p>\n\n\n\nIf you want to become a homeowner, the average price per square metre is 3,800 to 6,550 euros<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nThe cost of living in Madrid<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Madrid is one of the most expensive cities in Spain, along with Barcelona<\/a>. However, life in Madrid is still more affordable than in other European capitals, such as Paris (35% more expensive) or London<\/a> (60% more expensive).<\/p>\n\n\n\nIf you are interested in the subject or are undecided about other Spanish cities, check out our guide on the cost of living in Spain<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThe main expenses to plan for<\/h3>\n\n\n\n\n\nAn expat living alone in Madrid should budget for an average of 1,930 euros<\/strong> per month. A family of four should budget for around 5,000 euros<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThese averages take into account the main items of expenditure:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u25cf Housing and energy costs<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u25cf Groceries<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u25cf Healthcare<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u25cf Schooling<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u25cf Transport<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u25cf Entertainment and leisure<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nWhat salary do you need to live well in Madrid?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
According to the National Institute of Statistics<\/a>, the current average salary in Madrid is slightly over 2,500 euros <\/strong>per month.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThis salary is enough to live well alone or with a partner in the capital, but it all depends on your consumption habits. If you move to an upmarket neighbourhood with high rents, you will need a higher salary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Getting around the Spanish capital<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n\nMadrid has a very comprehensive public transport network (metro, bus, trams, etc.).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
To live in Spain<\/a> for more than 3 months, you must obtain the Certificado de Registro de Ciudadanos Miembros de la Uni\u00f3n<\/strong> (EU citizen registration certificate). This document is mandatory for all your administrative procedures in Spain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n To obtain it, you must make a cita previa<\/strong> (appointment) at the Madrid police station via the dedicated website of the Spanish government<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This procedure cannot be done online, so remember to make an appointment before you move abroad or within 3 months of your arrival in Spain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n At the end of the procedure, you will also obtain an NIE (Num\u00e9ro d’Identification d’\u00c9tranger<\/strong>), which is compulsory for many formalities (opening a bank account, purchasing property, taxation, etc.).<\/p>\n\n\n\n Please note<\/strong>: the NIE is valid for a period of 5 years and is renewable.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Once you have found accommodation or settled in, the second step is to register with the Madrid town hall<\/strong>. Empadronamiento or \u2018padr\u00f3n<\/strong>\u2019 is compulsory for both expats and Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n To do this, you must go to the town hall with your identity card and proof of your residential address.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Madrid is a huge city, and the rental market offers a lot of accommodation, although some neighbourhoods are saturated due to high demand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You can start by looking for accommodation in Madrid on Spanish property websites<\/strong>, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you live in France<\/a>, consider the option of spending a few days in Spain to visit properties and find accommodation before you move.<\/p>\n\n\n\n There isn\u2019t a dedicated “English Quarter” in Madrid, but certain areas are popular with British expats. The neighborhoods with the highest concentration of Brits include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Chamart\u00edn \u2013 Especially El Viso<\/strong>: A well-off area with international schools, embassies, and a mix of expats, including Brits. El Viso is particularly sought after by professionals and families.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Salamanca<\/strong>: One of Madrid\u2019s most exclusive districts, Salamanca attracts expats looking for upscale living, luxury shopping, and fine dining. While not British-dominated, it’s a favorite for wealthier expats.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Chamber\u00ed<\/strong>: A charming, traditional neighborhood with a mix of locals and foreigners, including many British professionals and retirees. It’s known for its elegant architecture and relaxed vibe.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Moncloa & Aravaca<\/strong>: Popular with international students and families due to its proximity to universities and good schools. There are many British expat families in Aravaca, which has a more suburban feel.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Pozuelo de Alarc\u00f3n (Just Outside Madrid)<\/strong>: A wealthy suburb where many British families live, mainly because of the British Council School, one of the top international schools in Spain.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n For British pubs, shops, and a community feel, areas around Sol, Huertas, and Malasa\u00f1a have a mix of British expats and visitors, with pubs like O’Connell St., James Joyce, and The Irish Rover catering to the crowd..<\/p>\n\n\n\n The cost of housing in Madrid is among the highest in Spain, along with Barcelona.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For a studio apartment in the city centre, expect an average monthly rent of 1,000 to 1,700 euros<\/strong>. In the outlying districts, the budget is 800 to 1,200 euros<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For a three-bedroom apartment, a family should budget for a rent of 1,800 to 3,000 euros<\/strong> per month in the centre of Madrid, compared with 1,200 to 2,000 euros<\/strong> in the surrounding areas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you want to become a homeowner, the average price per square metre is 3,800 to 6,550 euros<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Madrid is one of the most expensive cities in Spain, along with Barcelona<\/a>. However, life in Madrid is still more affordable than in other European capitals, such as Paris (35% more expensive) or London<\/a> (60% more expensive).<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you are interested in the subject or are undecided about other Spanish cities, check out our guide on the cost of living in Spain<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n An expat living alone in Madrid should budget for an average of 1,930 euros<\/strong> per month. A family of four should budget for around 5,000 euros<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n These averages take into account the main items of expenditure:<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u25cf Housing and energy costs<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u25cf Groceries<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u25cf Healthcare<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u25cf Schooling<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u25cf Transport<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u25cf Entertainment and leisure<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n According to the National Institute of Statistics<\/a>, the current average salary in Madrid is slightly over 2,500 euros <\/strong>per month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This salary is enough to live well alone or with a partner in the capital, but it all depends on your consumption habits. If you move to an upmarket neighbourhood with high rents, you will need a higher salary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Madrid has a very comprehensive public transport network (metro, bus, trams, etc.).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n2. Empadronamiento, to register as a resident of the city<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Discover today our plans in just a few clics.<\/h2>\n \n <\/div>\n\n
Finding accommodation in Madrid<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Neighbourhoods to prioritise<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nThe budget to be planned for accommodation<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The cost of living in Madrid<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The main expenses to plan for<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nWhat salary do you need to live well in Madrid?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Getting around the Spanish capital<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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