How much does a local resident spend per month in Spain on the Costa Blanca? After a series of crises, these figures have been steadily rising all over the world, and Spain is no exception. The increase in prices in Spain has become especially noticeable due to higher electricity and fuel tariffs and, as a result, higher prices for most goods and services. The province of Alicante is considered one of the more affordable regions within Spain itself, so let us break down what an average resident of Torrevieja or Orihuela Costa actually spends each month.
Our team at Granfield Estate has been living on the Costa Blanca for years, so these aren’t abstract numbers for us — they’re our own grocery bills, utility payments, and restaurant tabs. Here’s a realistic breakdown based on actual 2026 costs.
We will not take housing into account, as the property can be owned outright, mortgaged or rented, and monthly payments to the bank or landlord can differ hugely. So we will leave this item aside and look at everything else.
Utilities and Monthly Bills
Regardless of whether you own or rent, utility bills will definitely be part of your expenses. For electricity, water, gas, phone, internet and rubbish collection, a reasonable level of consumption will cost around 70–120 € per month. Electricity bills today are a significant part of the budget. Depending on your tariff and usage, the amount can easily reach 100 € even for a small flat if you use air conditioning or heating heavily in season, but in comfortable weather conditions it may be as low as 40 € for a family.
- Internet: approximately 25 € per month in Torrevieja
- Water: around 8 € per month per person
- Rubbish collection: about 22 € every six months (often paid by the property owner if renting)
Food and Groceries
Food prices in Spain have risen significantly in recent years. A basic food basket for one person will come to around 200 € per month — not including alcohol, delicacies or household chemicals. This is assuming that you cook at home. If you enjoy dining out, a set lunch in a restaurant starts at about 10 € without drinks, and a dinner for two can easily reach 50–70 €. Fresh produce markets (mercados) offer excellent value, especially for fruit, vegetables, fish and meat.
Transport and Car Costs
In Torrevieja a single bus ticket costs around 1.5 €. However, even with a bus pass, getting from the outlying areas into the town centre can be a challenge. For example, from Punta Prima to the centre of Torrevieja it takes about 7 minutes by car — and 45 minutes by bus (with buses running once an hour or less). A taxi for the same route will cost about 15 € one way, which adds up quickly.
That is why most residents of Torrevieja and Orihuela Costa have a car. With moderate usage, fuel and running costs will take around 160–200 € a month. Don't forget annual car insurance (around 400–600 € per year depending on the vehicle and coverage) and ITV (Spanish MOT, every two years for vehicles under 10 years old).
Healthcare
Health is, of course, an aspect you should not skimp on. Many foreigners living in the region who are not entitled to free public healthcare take out private health insurance in Spain, which costs around 40–50 € per month (approximately 480–600 € per year). This gives access to private doctors and clinics without waiting lists, and can include dental coverage for an additional premium.
Children, Education and Other Expenses
If you have children, that is a completely separate budget item. Buying school supplies at the beginning of the academic year will cost about 70–100 €. Other school-related expenses include the canteen (around 90–100 € per month) and the school bus (about 60 € per month). Spanish state schools are free; private and semi-private schools (concertados) range from 200 to 800 € per month depending on the school.
Beyond these basics, hairdressing, cosmetics, household appliances, a new phone, sports equipment and leisure activities will all depend on your lifestyle and preferences. Ultimately, the cost of living in Spain, as in any other country, depends on your income level and spending habits. But one thing is certain: the sun, the sea and the warm climate on the Costa Blanca are still free — and that counts for a lot.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much money does a person need to live in Torrevieja per month?
Excluding housing — from 800 to 1,200 € per month for one adult with a moderate lifestyle. This includes: utilities (70–120 €), food (250–350 €), transportation (50–100 €), restaurants and leisure (100–200 €), clothing and other expenses (100–200 €). A couple usually spends not twice as much, but 1.5 times more due to shared expenses.
How much cheaper is Torrevieja compared to Moscow or other large cities?
Grocery prices in supermarkets — comparable or slightly cheaper. Restaurants — significantly cheaper (menu of the day with 3 courses and a drink — 10–12 €). Utilities — more expensive if air conditioning is included. Transportation — cheaper if you have a car. Rental housing — comparable in high season, cheaper in low season.
How much does food cost in Spain per month?
A family of two adults shopping at Mercadona, Lidl, or Aldi spends 300–500 € per month on groceries, including fresh fruits, vegetables, fish, and meat at affordable prices. Local markets (mercados municipales) offer the freshest products at prices often lower than supermarkets. Dining in restaurants — 10–20 € for lunch, 20–40 € for dinner with wine.
Is it expensive to own a car in Spain?
Gasoline — about 1.6–1.8 € per liter. Mandatory insurance (seguro) — 300–600 € per year. Annual technical inspection (ITV) — 40–60 €. Vehicle tax (IVTM) — 50–200 € per year depending on power and municipality. Parking in many areas of Torrevieja is free or cheap. Overall, maintaining a mid-range car costs about 150–250 € per month.
Our team at Granfield Estate lives and works on the Costa Blanca year-round. If you’re considering a move to Spain or looking for property in the area, we’re happy to share our local knowledge — get in touch for a free consultation.
Granfield Estate
Av. Bélgica 1, C.C. Parquemar, La Mata, 03188 Torrevieja (Alicante)
Tel: +34 865 44 33 33
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