A detailed breakdown of living costs in Benidorm, from rent and utilities to groceries and entertainment.
One of the most compelling reasons people choose to relocate to Benidorm is the significantly lower cost of living compared to Northern Europe. While the Costa Blanca offers world-class beaches, excellent weather, and outstanding quality of life, the expenses required to enjoy this Mediterranean lifestyle remain remarkably affordable. This comprehensive guide breaks down exactly what you can expect to spend as a resident of Benidorm, helping you plan your budget and understand why your money stretches so much further in this sunny corner of Spain.
Overview: What Does It Cost to Live Well in Benidorm?
A retired couple can live very comfortably in Benidorm on a budget of €1,800-2,500 per month, which covers all essentials plus dining out, entertainment, and leisure activities. This budget provides a quality of life that would be simply unattainable on the same income in cities like London, Amsterdam, Stockholm, or Munich. Single individuals can manage well on €1,200-1,600 monthly, depending on lifestyle choices.
These figures assume a modest but comfortable lifestyle – not cutting corners, but not excessive luxury either. Those seeking more upscale living can spend more, while budget-conscious residents can live on less. The key point is that Benidorm offers flexibility and value at every budget level.
Housing: Rent and Purchase Options
Housing represents the largest expense for most residents, but also offers the greatest savings compared to Northern Europe.
Long-term rental prices in Benidorm vary by location and property type. A one-bedroom apartment in a central location near the beaches typically costs €500-700 per month on an 11-month contract. Two-bedroom apartments suitable for couples or small families range from €650-900 monthly. Three-bedroom properties for larger families or those wanting extra space run €800-1,200.
Location significantly impacts pricing. Properties directly on Levante Beach command premium rents, while equally comfortable apartments a few blocks back cost considerably less. The Rincon de Loix neighborhood offers excellent value, with prices 15-20% lower than prime beachfront locations while remaining just a 10-minute walk from the sea.
Long-term contracts (11 months or more) offer the best value and most stability. Short-term or tourist rentals carry significantly higher nightly rates and are subject to seasonal fluctuations. When searching for long-term housing, work directly with Spanish estate agents or established expat networks to find the best deals.
For those considering property purchase, Benidorm offers options at various price points. Modest apartments in good locations start around €100,000-130,000. Sea-view properties begin at €150,000-200,000. Spacious modern apartments or townhouses typically run €200,000-350,000, while luxury properties and villas exceed €400,000.
Community fees (comunidad) for apartment buildings typically range from €50-150 monthly, covering building maintenance, communal areas, pools, and often water. IBI (property tax) adds €300-800 annually depending on property value.
Utilities: Electricity, Water, and Communications
Utility costs in Benidorm run significantly lower than Northern Europe, particularly for heating – which is barely needed in this mild climate.
Electricity represents the main utility expense, averaging €60-100 monthly for a typical apartment. Summer months see higher bills due to air conditioning use, potentially reaching €120-150 during July and August if cooling is used extensively. However, the mild winters mean heating costs are minimal – many apartments require no heating at all, or just occasional use of portable heaters during brief cold snaps.
Water bills are modest, typically €20-35 monthly for a couple. Gas is rarely needed in Benidorm apartments, as most cooking is electric and heating isn't required.
Internet and communications have become highly competitive in Spain. Fiber optic packages with speeds of 300-600 Mbps cost €30-40 monthly. Combined packages including television and mobile phone service run €50-70. For those who primarily use streaming services, standalone internet without TV packages offers the best value.
Mobile phone contracts with generous data allowances cost €15-25 monthly. Pay-as-you-go options suit light users, with SIM cards readily available from providers like Orange, Vodafone, and Movistar.
Groceries and Food Shopping
Grocery costs in Spain are notably lower than Northern Europe, and Benidorm residents have access to excellent supermarkets and fresh markets.
A couple can eat very well on €300-400 monthly, shopping at popular supermarkets like Mercadona (the local favorite for quality and value), Lidl (excellent for bargains and quality German products), Carrefour (wide selection including international items), and Aldi (another budget-friendly option).
Fresh produce deserves special mention. Spanish fruits and vegetables are exceptional quality and remarkably affordable – often half the price of Northern European equivalents. Oranges, tomatoes, peppers, and seasonal produce are particularly outstanding and inexpensive.
The Mercado Municipal (central market) and various local markets offer fresh fish, meat, cheese, and produce at competitive prices. Saturday morning markets in surrounding towns provide additional shopping opportunities with excellent value.
For British expats missing home comforts, Iceland supermarket stocks familiar UK brands, while various smaller shops cater to international tastes. These imported products carry premium prices, but having the option provides peace of mind during the transition.
Wine and beer are remarkably inexpensive. A decent bottle of Spanish wine costs €3-6 at the supermarket, with excellent options available at €8-12. Beer runs €0.50-1 per can. Those who enjoy wine with dinner will find their grocery bills pleasantly manageable.
Dining Out and Entertainment
Eating out in Benidorm offers excellent value, particularly if you follow local customs and seek authentic Spanish restaurants.
The traditional "menú del día" (menu of the day) represents Spain's great bargain. Available at lunch in most restaurants, this three-course meal with bread, drink, and sometimes coffee costs just €10-15. The quality is often excellent, as Spanish workers rely on these lunches and restaurants compete for their business. This tradition allows you to enjoy restaurant meals regularly without straining your budget.
Evening dining costs more but remains affordable. Main courses at mid-range restaurants typically run €12-20, with full meals including drinks costing €20-35 per person. Tapas culture offers an even more economical option – you can enjoy several small plates and drinks for €15-20 per person while experiencing authentic Spanish social dining.
The old town offers the best value and most authentic experience. Tourist-oriented restaurants along Levante Beach charge higher prices for lower quality. Seek out places where locals eat, particularly in the Rincon de Loix neighborhood and side streets away from the main promenade.
Coffee culture is affordable in Spain. A café con leche (coffee with milk) costs €1.20-1.80 in most local bars. A beer (caña) runs €1.50-2.50. These low prices make socializing in cafes and bars an everyday pleasure rather than an occasional treat.
Entertainment options include cinema (€8-10 per ticket, with discount days offering €5-6), bowling, mini golf, and various activities. Most expats find that the beach, promenade walks, and social gatherings provide ample entertainment at little or no cost.
Healthcare Costs
Spain's healthcare system consistently ranks among the best in the world, and costs for both public and private options remain reasonable.
EU citizens with the EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) or its replacement can access emergency healthcare. Those establishing residency can often access the public healthcare system (Sistema Nacional de Salud) which provides comprehensive coverage at no additional cost beyond standard contributions.
Private health insurance is popular among expats and offers quick access to English-speaking doctors and shorter waiting times. Costs vary by age and coverage level: - Under 50: €50-80 per month - 50-65: €80-120 per month - Over 65: €120-200 per month
Popular providers include Sanitas, Asisa, DKV, and Adeslas. Coverage typically includes GP visits, specialists, hospital care, and many medications. Pre-existing conditions may affect coverage and pricing.
Pharmacy costs in Spain are notably lower than Northern Europe. Many medications are available over the counter that would require prescriptions elsewhere, and prices for common medications are significantly reduced. Pharmacists are well-trained to advise on minor ailments, providing consultation at no charge.
Transportation
Benidorm is highly walkable, and many residents manage without a car. However, transportation options are available for those who need them.
The TRAM Alicante light rail connects Benidorm to towns along the coast, including Altea, Calpe, and Alicante city. Single fares range from €1.45-4.50 depending on distance, with multi-trip cards offering savings.
Local buses serve all areas of Benidorm at €1.50 per trip. Taxis are metered and reasonable, with typical trips within Benidorm costing €5-10.
Car ownership brings additional costs: insurance (€300-500 annually), fuel (currently around €1.50-1.70 per liter), ITV inspection (annual road safety test, €40-50), and parking fees if you lack private parking. Many residents find cars unnecessary for daily life but useful for exploring the wider region.
Budget Summary: Monthly Living Costs
For a couple living comfortably in Benidorm:
Essential Costs: - Rent (2-bedroom apartment): €700-850 - Utilities (electric, water, internet): €100-150 - Groceries: €350-450 - Healthcare insurance: €100-200 Total Essential: €1,250-1,650
Lifestyle Costs: - Dining out (moderate): €200-300 - Entertainment and activities: €100-200 - Transportation: €50-100 - Personal and miscellaneous: €100-200 Total Lifestyle: €450-800
Total Monthly Budget: €1,700-2,450
This budget provides a genuinely comfortable lifestyle with regular restaurant meals, social activities, and the ability to enjoy everything Benidorm offers. Those watching their spending more carefully can live on €1,400-1,600, while those seeking more luxury might spend €3,000 or more.
Conclusion
Benidorm's cost of living represents exceptional value for the quality of life offered. The combination of affordable housing, inexpensive groceries, reasonable healthcare, and low entertainment costs allows residents to enjoy a lifestyle that would require substantially higher income in Northern Europe. Many expats report that their pension or investment income provides a more comfortable life in Benidorm than they could ever achieve in their home countries. The numbers tell the story: your money simply goes further in this sunny Mediterranean paradise.
