Spain vs Italy: Which Is Cheaper?
Spain is the cheaper country overall — about 3% less than Italy, or roughly $1,994 versus $2,049 a month for a single person (population-weighted across 10 and 9 cities). A city-centre one-bedroom averages $1,403 in Italy against $1,457 in Spain. Spain rates higher on safety (75 vs 70/100). Internet is faster in Spain (255 vs 101 Mbps). Healthcare scores 79 vs 66/100, favouring Spain.
Spain vs Italy at a glance
| Metric | Spain | Italy |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of living / mo | $1,994 | $2,049 |
| Rent (1BR, centre) / mo | $1,457 | $1,403 |
| Safety | 75/100 | 70/100 |
| Internet | 255 Mbps | 101 Mbps |
| Healthcare | 79/100 | 66/100 |
| Walkability | 82/100 | 80/100 |
| English spoken | 28% | 34% |
| Avg temperature | 74°F | 71°F |
| Digital nomad visa | Yes | Yes |
Figures are population-weighted averages across 10 cities in Spain and 9 in Italy.
Cost range by country
In Spain, monthly costs run from Granada at $1,476 up to Barcelona at $2,217.
In Italy, monthly costs run from Naples at $1,741 up to Milan at $2,421.
Spain vs Italy FAQ
Is Spain or Italy cheaper to live in?
Spain is cheaper — about $1,994 a month for a single person versus $2,049 — roughly 3% less.
Is Spain or Italy safer?
Spain scores higher on safety: 75/100 versus 70/100.
Is Spain or Italy better for retirement?
Spain is the stronger pick for retirees — both cheaper ($1,994/mo) and higher on healthcare (79/100).
Which is better for digital nomads, Spain or Italy?
Spain — it pairs faster internet (255 Mbps) with the lower cost of living ($1,994/mo), the combination most remote workers want.
Is Spain or Italy better to visit?
Spain is the more budget-friendly trip at roughly $1,994 a month for day-to-day costs, and it also rates higher on safety (75/100). Both offer plenty of variety — 10 cities in Spain and 9 in Italy.
Which should you choose?
On balance, Spain comes out ahead — it leads on a lower cost of living, higher safety, faster internet and is the cheaper of the two at $1,994/mo.
Choose Spain for
- a lower cost of living
- higher safety
- faster internet
- better healthcare
- better walkability
Choose Italy for
- cheaper rent