When it comes to choosing a city to live in, the cost of living is a crucial factor that must be considered. Paris and Madrid are two of the most popular cities in Europe, attracting millions of tourists every year.
But which one is cheaper to live in? Let’s find out.
Housing
One of the biggest expenses when living in any city is housing. In Paris, the average cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is around €1,200-€1,800 per month. On the other hand, Madrid is relatively cheaper with an average rent of €700-€1,200 per month for a similar apartment.
Verdict: Madrid wins in terms of housing costs.
Food and Drink
Food and drink costs can vary widely depending on where you shop and eat. In Paris, eating out at a mid-range restaurant can cost you around €20-€30 per person while a three-course meal for two people at a higher-end restaurant can easily go up to €100 or more. Madrid offers more affordable food options with mid-range restaurants costing around €10-€20 per person while high-end restaurants can be found for around €60-€80 for two people.
Verdict: Madrid wins again in terms of food and drink costs.
Transportation
Getting around the city is another important factor to consider when calculating living expenses. In Paris, public transportation can be expensive with a monthly pass costing around €70. Madrid offers more affordable transportation options with a monthly pass costing around €54.
Verdict: Madrid wins once again in terms of transportation costs.
Entertainment
Both Paris and Madrid offer plenty of entertainment options ranging from museums to theaters to cinemas. The cost of entertainment largely depends on personal preferences but generally, Madrid is considered to be more affordable than Paris.
Verdict: Madrid wins in terms of entertainment costs.
Conclusion
Overall, it is cheaper to live in Madrid compared to Paris. While Paris has its own unique charm and appeal, the cost of living can be significantly higher than Madrid. However, it’s important to note that these costs can vary widely depending on personal lifestyle choices and preferences.