Austin vs Madrid

Cost of living comparison for 2026. Madrid is roughly 31% more affordable than Austin (index 38 vs 55, New York = 100). Data sourced live via AI — updated regularly.

Madrid
More affordable overall
31% cheaper than Austin · Cost index: 38 vs 55

Life Power at $3,000/mo

The same salary ranks differently depending on where you live — from Beggar to King.

Head-to-Head Stats

55Cost Index38
5,438Median Income /mo2,200
68Safety Index71
12Income Tax %22
184Internet (Mbps)271
350Coworking /mo200

Price Breakdown

AustinCategoryMadrid
$1,800/month
1-BR Apartment (Center)
33% ← cheaper
$1,200/month
$1.35/liter
Meal for One
19% ← cheaper
$1.1/liter
$18/meal
Restaurant (Mid-range)
33% ← cheaper
$12/meal
$33.25/month
Monthly Transit Pass
31% cheaper →
$48/month
$165/month
Utilities (Monthly)
15% ← cheaper
$140/month
$110/visit
Doctor Visit
45% ← cheaper
$60/visit

Digital Nomad Profile

Austin

Internet184 Mbps
Coworking$350/mo
Café WiFigood
Englishhigh
Communitylarge
Walkability65/100

Madrid

Internet271 Mbps
Coworking$200/mo
Café WiFigood
Englishmoderate
Communitygrowing
Walkability75/100

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Austin cheaper than Madrid?

Madrid is cheaper than Austin. Madrid has a cost of living index of 38/100 compared to 55/100 for Austin (New York = 100), making it roughly 31% more affordable overall.

How much cheaper is Madrid than Austin?

Madrid is approximately 31% cheaper than Austin based on cost index scores (38 vs 55, where New York = 100). A person spending $3,000/month in Austin could live a similar lifestyle for roughly $2,082/month in Madrid.

What is the rent comparison between Austin and Madrid?

In Austin, a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $1,800/month. In Madrid, the equivalent is around $1,200/month.

Which city is better for digital nomads — Austin or Madrid?

Both cities have nomad infrastructure. Austin offers 184 Mbps internet and coworking at ~$350/month. Madrid offers 271 Mbps and coworking at ~$200/month. Madrid has a cost advantage of 31%.

What is the average income in Austin vs Madrid?

The median net monthly salary in Austin is approximately $5,438 USD, compared to $2,200 USD in Madrid.

Compare Austin with…

Popular head-to-heads — see exactly where Austin wins or loses.

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