Cost of Living in Barcelona for Students in 2025 

Thinking about studying in Barcelona? You’re in for a treat! Whether you’re sipping coffee in El Raval or biking to class through tree-lined streets, this city blends quality education with an affordable lifestyle. In 2025, the average monthly cost of living in Barcelona for students ranges between €850 and €1,400, depending on where you stay, how you eat, and what your social life looks like. The good news? There are plenty of ways to save, from discounted transport passes and shared flats to budget-friendly tapas and free cultural events. This guide covers everything—from tuition fees and rent to your weekend plans—so you can plan smart and enjoy every moment.

How Much Does It Cost to Live in Barcelona as a Student in 2025?

Barcelona is a top pick for international students who want quality education at an affordable price. In 2025, living in Barcelona as a student will cost you between €850 and €1,400 per month, depending on your lifestyle and housing choice. If you’re smart with budgeting—think about having shared housing, meal prepping, and using a T-usual transport pass. On the flip side, if you go for a private studio near the city center and eat out frequently, you’ll have to spend more. Barcelona stands out because it offers:

• World-class universities at relatively low tuition fees
• Affordable student housing compared to Paris or Amsterdam
• Plenty of low-cost entertainment options like free beaches, music festivals, and museum days
• A great walkable and bike-friendly infrastructure

Whether you’re here for a semester or a full degree, you’ll enjoy a student lifestyle that blends education, social life, and culture—without going broke. Below are the average monthly expenses for students living in Barcelona:

What Is the Average Tuition Fee for International Students in Barcelona?

Barcelona is one of the most sought-after study destinations in Europe. Whether you’re planning to study business, technology, arts, or health sciences, the cost of studying in Barcelona in 2025 remains comparatively lower than in countries like the UK, US, or even parts of Northern Europe. The city is home to several top-ranked public universities—like the University of Barcelona (UB) and Pompeu Fabra University (UPF)—that follow the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS).

Fees at public universities are usually calculated per credit, which typically totals 60 ECTS credits per academic year. This gives flexibility, especially for part-time students. On the other hand, private universities in Barcelona charge a fixed annual fee and often cater to an international crowd with smaller class sizes, modern facilities, and a wide selection of English-taught programs in fields like business, design, marketing, and international relations. Below is an overview of tuition Fee in Barcelona:

How Expensive Is Student Accommodation in Barcelona in 2025?

Barcelona remains one of the most vibrant and desirable cities for international students in Europe. With its sunny climate, excellent public transport, world-class universities, and buzzing student life—it’s no surprise students from all over the globe choose to live here. That said, Barcelona’s popularity has led to a steady rise in student housing prices, especially in central districts like Eixample, El Born, and Ciutat Vella.

In 2025, the average monthly rent for students ranges from €400 to €1,900, depending on factors like location, privacy, included amenities, and contract flexibility. The good news? There’s a wide range of student accommodation options in Barcelona, from affordable shared flats to high-end residences with gyms, co-working spaces, and cleaning services. Whether you’re on a tight budget or prefer a premium living experience, there’s something for everyone. Below are the various student accommodation costs in Barcelona:

What Is the Average Cost of Food and Groceries in Barcelona for Students?

If you’re studying in Barcelona and worried about food costs—relax! Barcelona is one of the more affordable cities in Europe when it comes to eating well on a student budget. In 2025, the average student spends around €200 to €250 per month on groceries if they cook regularly. On the other hand, if you eat out frequently or order takeout often, your monthly food cost can rise to €300–€350 or more. 

The city offers a wide variety of budget-friendly supermarkets such as Lidl, Mercadona, Carrefour, Dia, and Alcampo, which are well-stocked with fresh produce, pantry essentials, and even affordable pre-cooked meals. If you’re someone who enjoys fresh food from local markets, Mercat de Sant Antoni, Mercat de la Concepció, or La Boqueria offer high-quality ingredients at reasonable prices—especially in the late afternoon when vendors often mark items down. Following are the key details of Food & Grocery Costs for Students in Barcelona: 

How Much Should Students Budget for Transport in Barcelona?

Getting around in Barcelona as a student is simple, affordable, and efficient. Thanks to an extensive and well-connected public transport system, students can travel across the city by metro, bus, tram, and train with minimal hassle. The most popular option for students is the T-usual card, which offers unlimited travel in Zone 1 (the central area) for just €40/month. Many students only travel within this zone, as most major universities—like the University of Barcelona (UB), Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), and ESADE—are located centrally. 

Barcelona is also highly walkable and bike-friendly, making cycling and walking great ways to cut costs and stay fit. The Bicing bike-sharing system is available citywide, and monthly passes cost as little as €20 if you’re using it for quick daily rides. Following are the transportation costs in Barcelona: 

Are Utility Bills and Internet Expensive for Students in Barcelona?

 Utility bills in Barcelona are usually manageable for students—especially if you’re living in student residences or university halls, where most utilities like water, electricity, heating, and Wi-Fi are bundled into the rent. This makes it easier to budget each month without worrying about surprise expenses. However, if you’re staying in a shared private apartment or renting a studio, you’ll likely need to pay your utilities separately, and costs can vary based on the season. For example, air conditioning in the summer or heating in winter can slightly raise your bills.

In 2025, the average monthly cost of utility bills (electricity, water, gas, and internet) ranges from €100 to €140 per person in private accommodation. On the plus side, internet packages in Barcelona are competitively priced, with major providers like Movistar, Orange, Jazztel, and Vodafone offering student plans that combine mobile data and high-speed Wi-Fi. Following are the key details of utility & internet costs for students in Barcelona:

How Much Does Entertainment and Social Life Cost in Barcelona?

Barcelona isn’t just about studying—it’s a city that comes alive with music, festivals, art, and nightlife. The best part? You don’t need a big budget to enjoy it all. In 2025, students can access a lively social scene with plenty of affordable entertainment options, from free museum days to open-air concerts and beach parties. On average, international students in Barcelona spend between €100 and €200 per month on entertainment and social activities.

This includes things like movies, night outs, gym memberships, concerts, and cultural attractions. But thanks to student discounts, happy hours, and low-cost local experiences, you can stretch your money much further. From sipping coffee in the Gothic Quarter to watching FC Barcelona play at Camp Nou (even the cheap seats are an experience!), you’ll find there’s no shortage of things to do without overspending. Following are the key details of entertainment & leisure costs for students in Barcelona:

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a student-friendly city that balances great academics, exciting culture, and affordable living, Barcelona ticks all the boxes. You’ll get access to top-ranked universities, a lively international student scene, and daily life that doesn’t cost a fortune (if you plan wisely). 

With flexible housing choices, public transport passes, and tons of free things to do—from beach hangouts to museum nights—Barcelona makes it easy to live well on a student budget. Whether you’re moving here for a semester or your entire degree, you’ll find that Barcelona offers not just a degree, but a lifestyle you’ll love. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Thinking about studying in Barcelona? You’re in for a treat! Whether you’re sipping coffee in El Raval or biking to class through tree-lined streets, this city blends quality education with an affordable lifestyle. In 2025, the average monthly cost of living in Barcelona for students ranges between €850 and €1,400, depending on where you stay, how you eat, and what your social life looks like. The good news? There are plenty of ways to save, from discounted transport passes and shared flats to budget-friendly tapas and free cultural events. This guide covers everything—from tuition fees and rent to your weekend plans—so you can plan smart and enjoy every moment.

How Much Does It Cost to Live in Barcelona as a Student in 2025?

Barcelona is a top pick for international students who want quality education at an affordable price. In 2025, living in Barcelona as a student will cost you between €850 and €1,400 per month, depending on your lifestyle and housing choice. If you’re smart with budgeting—think about having shared housing, meal prepping, and using a T-usual transport pass. On the flip side, if you go for a private studio near the city center and eat out frequently, you’ll have to spend more. Barcelona stands out because it offers:

• World-class universities at relatively low tuition fees
• Affordable student housing compared to Paris or Amsterdam
• Plenty of low-cost entertainment options like free beaches, music festivals, and museum days
• A great walkable and bike-friendly infrastructure

Whether you’re here for a semester or a full degree, you’ll enjoy a student lifestyle that blends education, social life, and culture—without going broke. Below are the average monthly expenses for students living in Barcelona:

What Is the Average Tuition Fee for International Students in Barcelona?

Barcelona is one of the most sought-after study destinations in Europe. Whether you’re planning to study business, technology, arts, or health sciences, the cost of studying in Barcelona in 2025 remains comparatively lower than in countries like the UK, US, or even parts of Northern Europe. The city is home to several top-ranked public universities—like the University of Barcelona (UB) and Pompeu Fabra University (UPF)—that follow the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS).

Fees at public universities are usually calculated per credit, which typically totals 60 ECTS credits per academic year. This gives flexibility, especially for part-time students. On the other hand, private universities in Barcelona charge a fixed annual fee and often cater to an international crowd with smaller class sizes, modern facilities, and a wide selection of English-taught programs in fields like business, design, marketing, and international relations. Below is an overview of tuition Fee in Barcelona:

How Expensive Is Student Accommodation in Barcelona in 2025?

Barcelona remains one of the most vibrant and desirable cities for international students in Europe. With its sunny climate, excellent public transport, world-class universities, and buzzing student life—it’s no surprise students from all over the globe choose to live here. That said, Barcelona’s popularity has led to a steady rise in student housing prices, especially in central districts like Eixample, El Born, and Ciutat Vella.

In 2025, the average monthly rent for students ranges from €400 to €1,900, depending on factors like location, privacy, included amenities, and contract flexibility. The good news? There’s a wide range of student accommodation options in Barcelona, from affordable shared flats to high-end residences with gyms, co-working spaces, and cleaning services. Whether you’re on a tight budget or prefer a premium living experience, there’s something for everyone. Below are the various student accommodation costs in Barcelona:

What Is the Average Cost of Food and Groceries in Barcelona for Students?

If you’re studying in Barcelona and worried about food costs—relax! Barcelona is one of the more affordable cities in Europe when it comes to eating well on a student budget. In 2025, the average student spends around €200 to €250 per month on groceries if they cook regularly. On the other hand, if you eat out frequently or order takeout often, your monthly food cost can rise to €300–€350 or more. 

The city offers a wide variety of budget-friendly supermarkets such as Lidl, Mercadona, Carrefour, Dia, and Alcampo, which are well-stocked with fresh produce, pantry essentials, and even affordable pre-cooked meals. If you’re someone who enjoys fresh food from local markets, Mercat de Sant Antoni, Mercat de la Concepció, or La Boqueria offer high-quality ingredients at reasonable prices—especially in the late afternoon when vendors often mark items down. Following are the key details of Food & Grocery Costs for Students in Barcelona: 

How Much Should Students Budget for Transport in Barcelona?

Getting around in Barcelona as a student is simple, affordable, and efficient. Thanks to an extensive and well-connected public transport system, students can travel across the city by metro, bus, tram, and train with minimal hassle. The most popular option for students is the T-usual card, which offers unlimited travel in Zone 1 (the central area) for just €40/month. Many students only travel within this zone, as most major universities—like the University of Barcelona (UB), Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), and ESADE—are located centrally. 

Barcelona is also highly walkable and bike-friendly, making cycling and walking great ways to cut costs and stay fit. The Bicing bike-sharing system is available citywide, and monthly passes cost as little as €20 if you’re using it for quick daily rides. Following are the transportation costs in Barcelona: 

Are Utility Bills and Internet Expensive for Students in Barcelona?

 Utility bills in Barcelona are usually manageable for students—especially if you’re living in student residences or university halls, where most utilities like water, electricity, heating, and Wi-Fi are bundled into the rent. This makes it easier to budget each month without worrying about surprise expenses. However, if you’re staying in a shared private apartment or renting a studio, you’ll likely need to pay your utilities separately, and costs can vary based on the season. For example, air conditioning in the summer or heating in winter can slightly raise your bills.

In 2025, the average monthly cost of utility bills (electricity, water, gas, and internet) ranges from €100 to €140 per person in private accommodation. On the plus side, internet packages in Barcelona are competitively priced, with major providers like Movistar, Orange, Jazztel, and Vodafone offering student plans that combine mobile data and high-speed Wi-Fi. Following are the key details of utility & internet costs for students in Barcelona:

How Much Does Entertainment and Social Life Cost in Barcelona?

Barcelona isn’t just about studying—it’s a city that comes alive with music, festivals, art, and nightlife. The best part? You don’t need a big budget to enjoy it all. In 2025, students can access a lively social scene with plenty of affordable entertainment options, from free museum days to open-air concerts and beach parties. On average, international students in Barcelona spend between €100 and €200 per month on entertainment and social activities.

This includes things like movies, night outs, gym memberships, concerts, and cultural attractions. But thanks to student discounts, happy hours, and low-cost local experiences, you can stretch your money much further. From sipping coffee in the Gothic Quarter to watching FC Barcelona play at Camp Nou (even the cheap seats are an experience!), you’ll find there’s no shortage of things to do without overspending. Following are the key details of entertainment & leisure costs for students in Barcelona:

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a student-friendly city that balances great academics, exciting culture, and affordable living, Barcelona ticks all the boxes. You’ll get access to top-ranked universities, a lively international student scene, and daily life that doesn’t cost a fortune (if you plan wisely). 

With flexible housing choices, public transport passes, and tons of free things to do—from beach hangouts to museum nights—Barcelona makes it easy to live well on a student budget. Whether you’re moving here for a semester or your entire degree, you’ll find that Barcelona offers not just a degree, but a lifestyle you’ll love. 

Frequently Asked Questions