Madrid vs Berlin

Cost of living comparison for 2026. Berlin is roughly 9% more affordable than Madrid (index 35 vs 38, New York = 100). Data sourced live via AI — updated regularly.

Berlin
More affordable overall
9% cheaper than Madrid · Cost index: 35 vs 38

Life Power at $3,000/mo

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

Head-to-Head Stats

38Cost Index35
2,200Median Income /mo2,900
71Safety Index75
22Income Tax %28
271Internet (Mbps)109
200Coworking /mo250

Price Breakdown

MadridCategoryBerlin
$1,200/month
1-BR Apartment (Center)
22% cheaper →
$1,533/month
$1.1/liter
Meal for One
8% cheaper →
$1.19/liter
$12/meal
Restaurant (Mid-range)
$12/meal
$48/month
Monthly Transit Pass
44% cheaper →
$86/month
$140/month
Utilities (Monthly)
66% cheaper →
$411/month
$60/visit
Doctor Visit
8% cheaper →
$65/visit

Digital Nomad Profile

Madrid

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

Berlin

Internet109 Mbps
Coworking$250/mo
Café WiFigood
Englishhigh
Communitylarge
Walkability75/100

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Madrid cheaper than Berlin?

Berlin is cheaper than Madrid. Berlin has a cost of living index of 35/100 compared to 38/100 for Madrid (New York = 100), making it roughly 9% more affordable overall.

How much cheaper is Berlin than Madrid?

Berlin is approximately 9% cheaper than Madrid based on cost index scores (35 vs 38, where New York = 100). A person spending $3,000/month in Madrid could live a similar lifestyle for roughly $2,735/month in Berlin.

What is the rent comparison between Madrid and Berlin?

In Madrid, a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $1,200/month. In Berlin, the equivalent is around $1,533/month.

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

Both cities have nomad infrastructure. Madrid offers 271 Mbps internet and coworking at ~$200/month. Berlin offers 109 Mbps and coworking at ~$250/month. Berlin has a cost advantage of 9%.

What is the average income in Madrid vs Berlin?

The median net monthly salary in Madrid is approximately $2,200 USD, compared to $2,900 USD in Berlin.

Compare Madrid with…

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

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