Renting an apartment in Spain can be an exciting and rewarding experience, whether you're relocating for work, studying abroad, or just spending an extended vacation in one of Europe’s most beautiful countries. With its vibrant cities, charming coastal towns, and rich cultural heritage, Spain offers a wide variety of rental options. However, navigating the rental process can be challenging if you're unfamiliar with the local market, laws, and customs.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about renting apartments in Spain — from understanding the rental market to signing a lease and settling in.
1. Understanding the Spanish Rental Market
Spain’s rental market has grown significantly in recent years, especially in major cities like Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, and Seville. While urban centers tend to be more competitive and expensive, there are still affordable options, particularly in suburban areas or smaller towns.
There are two main types of rentals:
Short-term rentals: Typically used for stays up to 11 months, common among tourists, digital nomads, or students.
Long-term rentals (alquiler de larga duración): For stays of one year or more, ideal for expats and residents.
Long-term rentals often come with better prices per month and are more stable, whereas short-term rentals may come furnished but at a higher rate.
2. Popular Cities and Areas to Rent
Here’s a quick overview of what to expect in Spain’s major cities:
Madrid: The capital offers a fast-paced lifestyle, excellent public transport, and diverse neighborhoods. Popular areas include Salamanca (upscale), Malasaña (trendy), and Chamberí (family-friendly).
Barcelona: Known for its architecture, beach, and cosmopolitan vibe. Eixample, Gràcia, and El Born are favorite areas among expats.
Valencia: A coastal city offering lower rents than Madrid or Barcelona, with a mix of tradition and modernity.
Seville and Granada: Great choices for those seeking authentic Andalusian culture with more affordable living costs.
Malaga and Alicante: Ideal for retirees or digital nomads who prefer a Mediterranean climate.
3. How to Find Apartments in Spain
There are several ways to find apartments:
Online Portals: Some of the most popular websites include:
Idealista
Fotocasa
Habitaclia
Pisos.com
Real Estate Agencies: Especially helpful if you're not fluent in Spanish or want assistance with paperwork.
Local Listings & Facebook Groups: Many expats use social media groups to find shared apartments or short-term rentals.
Word of Mouth: Asking locals or colleagues can sometimes lead to better deals.
4. Average Rent Prices
Rent prices vary depending on the city and neighborhood. As of 2025, here are rough monthly averages:
Madrid: €1,200 – €2,000 for a 1-2 bedroom apartment in central areas
Barcelona: €1,000 – €1,800
Valencia & Seville: €700 – €1,200
Smaller towns: €500 – €900
Keep in mind that furnished apartments or those with sea views typically cost more.
5. Rental Requirements and Documents
When renting in Spain, landlords typically ask for:
Valid ID or passport
Proof of income or employment contract
NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero): A foreigner identification number required for most legal processes
Bank details
Security deposit (fianza): Usually 1 to 2 months’ rent
Some landlords may also ask for a guarantor or prepayment of several months' rent, especially for non-residents or freelancers.
6. Signing the Lease Agreement
Lease agreements in Spain must be in writing and generally include:
The rent amount and payment method
Duration of the lease
Conditions for renewal or termination
Utility and maintenance responsibilities
Be sure to read the contract carefully. If you don’t understand Spanish, it’s wise to have a translator or lawyer review the document.
Important: Since 2019, the minimum duration for long-term contracts is 5 years (or 7 years if the landlord is a company), unless agreed otherwise.
7. Understanding Utility Costs
In some rentals, utilities (electricity, water, internet, etc.) are included in the rent. However, in most long-term rentals, tenants must register and pay for their own utilities. The average monthly cost for utilities ranges from €100 to €150 depending on usage and location.
8. Tenant Rights and Legal Protections
Spain has tenant-friendly laws. Key points include:
Landlords cannot raise rent arbitrarily during the lease period unless indexed to inflation or agreed upon.
They must give proper notice (usually 30 days) for terminating a lease.
Tenants have the right to extend the lease up to five years.
If disputes arise, tenants can contact local rental mediation services or hire a lawyer.
9. Tips for a Smooth Renting Experience
Visit the property in person before committing, if possible.
Check the condition of appliances and furniture if renting furnished.
Document any pre-existing damages with photos.
Understand your neighborhood — noise, safety, transportation, and amenities matter.
Ask if pets are allowed if relevant.
10. Alternatives to Traditional Rentals
If traditional leases aren’t ideal for you, consider:
Co-living spaces: Fully furnished, community-based living with flexible contracts.
Serviced apartments: Great for professionals or short-term stays.
Room rentals (habitaciones): Renting a room in a shared apartment can save money and help you meet people.
Conclusion
Renting an apartment in Spain is a great way to experience the country's rich lifestyle and culture. While the process can be complex for newcomers, especially due to language barriers and local bureaucracy, careful research and preparation can ensure a smooth and successful rental experience.
Whether you're moving to Spain permanently or staying for a few months, understanding the market, knowing your rights, and planning your budget will help you find the perfect place to call home in Spain.