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Digital Nomad Guide to Madrid, Spain | Digital Nomad Exchange
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Plaza Mayor in Madrid

Digital Nomad Life in Madrid

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Summary: Digital nomads like living in Madrid, Spain because it is a vibrant and culturally rich city with a great quality of life. Madrid is a great place to live for digital nomads because it is a hub for tech startups, has a great public transportation system, and is home to a large international community. The best neighborhood to live in Madrid for digital nomads is Malasaña, which is known for its vibrant nightlife, trendy restaurants, and hip cafes. The approximate population of Madrid, Spain is 3.2 million people. The weather in Madrid, Spain is generally mild with temperatures ranging from an average low of 40°F (4°C) in the winter to an average high of 86°F (30°C) in the summer. The monthly cost of living for a digital nomad in Madrid is approximately $1,500 USD. This includes rent, food, transportation, and entertainment. The cost to rent a centrally located, one-bedroom apartment with high-speed internet access in Madrid is approximately $1,000 USD per month.

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How do I meet people in Madrid?

When we asked people living in Madrid about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Expats in Madrid often join clubs and activities such as language exchanges, sports teams, and cultural activities. Expats can also meet people by attending local events such as festivals, concerts, and art exhibitions. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups related to their interests. Finally, expats can also meet people by simply exploring the city and talking to locals in cafes, parks, and other public spaces," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Madrid.

What is life like in Madrid?

When we asked people living in Madrid what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"Living in Madrid as an expat or digital nomad can be an exciting and rewarding experience. The city is full of vibrant culture, delicious food, and friendly locals. Expats and digital nomads can find plenty of coworking spaces, cafes, and other places to work and socialize. The city also offers a wide range of activities and attractions, from art galleries and museums to parks and nightlife. Madrid is a great place to live for those who want to experience a different culture and lifestyle. The cost of living is relatively low compared to other European cities, making it an attractive option for those looking to live abroad," said one expat who made the move to Madrid.

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William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

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Where should I live in Madrid?

We asked digital nomads and expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Madrid is to use online rental websites such as Idealista, Fotocasa, and Habitaclia. These websites allow you to search for rental properties in Madrid by location, price, and other criteria. Additionally, you can contact local real estate agents who specialize in renting properties in Madrid. They can provide you with more information about the local rental market and help you find a place that meets your needs. Finally, you can also look for rental postings on social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Madrid.

"Looked through a bunch of apartments mostly near the center. Asked around a bit at work as well. Found a flat in a good, central party area. It is small but I don't mind and I live with great people. A co-worker of mine found a place a week later 10 min away from me. for only 100euro more he gets a huge room, huge 2 story apartment with 2 balconies," explained one person living in Madrid, Spain.

What do I need to know before moving to Madrid?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Madrid, they said:

"Before retiring in Madrid, expats should familiarize themselves with the local language, Spanish. It is also important to research the cost of living in Madrid, as it can be quite expensive. Additionally, expats should research the healthcare system in Madrid, as well as the availability of public transportation. It is also important to research the local culture and customs, as well as the climate in Madrid. Finally, expats should research the visa requirements for living in Madrid, as well as the process for obtaining residency," said one person in Madrid.

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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William RussellWilliam Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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What do people appreciate most about the culture in Madrid?

"History.... And the seniors who had a lot to say about the past and the present....," said one person in Madrid.

"Expats in Madrid appreciate the city's vibrant culture, which is full of art, music, and history. They also enjoy the city's lively nightlife, with its many bars, clubs, and restaurants. Additionally, expats appreciate the warm and welcoming atmosphere of the city, as well as the friendly locals who are always willing to help. Madrid is also known for its excellent cuisine, with a variety of traditional dishes and international flavors. Finally, expats appreciate the city's mild climate, which allows them to enjoy outdoor activities year-round," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Madrid.

William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

Learn MoreGet Quote

William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

Learn MoreGet Quote

What do people find most challenging about the culture in Madrid?

"Understand their ways..... Just because is an industrialized country doesn't mean USA...," said one expat who made the move to Madrid.

"Expats in Madrid often find the Spanish language to be the most challenging aspect of the local culture. Additionally, the Spanish way of life can be difficult to adjust to, as it is quite different from other cultures. For example, the siesta, or afternoon nap, is a common practice in Spain, and can be difficult for expats to get used to. Additionally, the Spanish are known for their relaxed attitude towards time, which can be difficult for those used to a more punctual lifestyle. Finally, the Spanish are known for their strong sense of community and family, which can be difficult for expats to adjust to if they are not used to such close-knit relationships," explained one foreigner living in Madrid, Spain.

What residency documents or visas did I need if I will be in Madrid for a while?

"If you plan to stay in Madrid for a while, you will need to apply for a long-term visa or residency permit. Depending on your nationality, you may need to apply for a Schengen visa, a student visa, a work visa, or a family reunification visa. You will also need to provide proof of sufficient funds, a valid passport, and a valid health insurance policy. Additionally, you may need to provide proof of accommodation, a criminal background check, and a valid return ticket," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Madrid.

William RussellWilliam Russell
Get Quote

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William RussellWilliam Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in Madrid?

We asked people in Madrid if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. They wrote:

"It is important to be aware of the cultural norms in Madrid. It is considered rude to be late for social engagements, so it is important to arrive on time. It is also important to dress appropriately for the occasion, as dressing too casually or too formally can be seen as disrespectful. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local customs when it comes to dining etiquette, such as not eating with your hands or talking with your mouth full. Finally, it is important to be respectful of the local language and to avoid speaking English unless it is necessary," said one person in Madrid.

"Thank God no! But my daughter, who is very polite, provoke a few laughs for using to much "please" and "thanks"," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Madrid.

William RussellWilliam Russell
Get Quote

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William RussellWilliam Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

What are healthcare services like in Madrid?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Madrid, they replied:

"Madrid offers a wide range of healthcare services to its citizens. The public healthcare system is managed by the Ministry of Health, Social Services and Equality and is available to all residents of Madrid. The public system provides access to general practitioners, specialists, hospitals, and emergency services. Private healthcare is also available in Madrid, with a variety of private clinics and hospitals offering a range of services. Private healthcare is often more expensive than public healthcare, but it can provide more personalized care and shorter wait times. Madrid also has a number of specialized healthcare centers, such as the National Center for Oncological Research, which provides cancer treatment and research. Additionally, Madrid has a number of mental health services, including counseling and therapy," said one member in Madrid.

William RussellWilliam Russell
Get Quote

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William RussellWilliam Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

What are the pros and cons of living in Madrid?

"We love Madrid, it has been more open than a lot cities during COVID times. Food is great, museums are open and public transportation is wonderful. I love I can walk my dog and see people walking and eating. I walk a lot more than in the US, I don t have a car and love it. I want to find a place in the US where where I can walk to many restaurants and stores. I feel safe, I see a lot of police around. The winter was cold, I would prefer a warmer climate," said one member in Madrid.

"Expats and digital nomads often appreciate the vibrant culture and nightlife of Madrid. They also enjoy the city's rich history, architecture, and art. Additionally, the city's excellent public transportation system makes it easy to get around. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads may find the cost of living in Madrid to be quite high. Additionally, the city can be quite crowded and noisy, which can be a bit overwhelming for some," explained one expat in Madrid.

William RussellWilliam Russell
Get Quote

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William RussellWilliam Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

William Russell
William Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
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William RussellWilliam Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
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William Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
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William RussellWilliam Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
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Contribute to Spain Network Contribute
Help others in Spain by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Spain.

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Balcells Group Lawyers

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