New York vs Madrid

Cost of living comparison for 2026. Madrid is roughly 62% more affordable than New York (index 38 vs 100, New York = 100). Data sourced live via AI — updated regularly.

Madrid
More affordable overall
62% cheaper than New York · Cost index: 38 vs 100

Head-to-Head Stats

100Cost Index38
5,344Median Income /mo3,150
72Safety Index65
37Income Tax %25
450Internet (Mbps)95
400Coworking /mo250

Price Breakdown

New YorkCategoryMadrid
$5,161/month
1-BR Apartment (Center)
77% ← cheaper
$1,210/month
$5.43/liter
Meal for One
82% ← cheaper
$1/liter
$18/meal
Restaurant (Mid-range)
17% ← cheaper
$15/meal
$120/month
Monthly Transit Pass
50% ← cheaper
$60/month
$275/month
Utilities (Monthly)
40% ← cheaper
$165/month
$200/visit
Doctor Visit
65% ← cheaper
$70/visit

Digital Nomad Profile

New York

Internet450 Mbps
Coworking$400/mo
Café WiFiexcellent
Englishhigh
Communitylarge
Walkability89/100

Madrid

Internet95 Mbps
Coworking$250/mo
Café WiFiexcellent
Englishmoderate
Communitylarge
Walkability82/100

Frequently Asked Questions

Is New York cheaper than Madrid?

Madrid is cheaper than New York. Madrid has a cost of living index of 38/100 compared to 100/100 for New York (New York = 100), making it roughly 62% more affordable overall.

How much cheaper is Madrid than New York?

Madrid is approximately 62% cheaper than New York based on cost index scores (38 vs 100, where New York = 100). A person spending $3,000/month in New York could live a similar lifestyle for roughly $1,140/month in Madrid.

What is the rent comparison between New York and Madrid?

In New York, a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $5,161/month. In Madrid, the equivalent is around $1,210/month.

Which city is better for digital nomads — New York or Madrid?

Both cities have nomad infrastructure. New York offers 450 Mbps internet and coworking at ~$400/month. Madrid offers 95 Mbps and coworking at ~$250/month. Madrid has a cost advantage of 62%.

What is the average income in New York vs Madrid?

The median net monthly salary in New York is approximately $5,344 USD, compared to $3,150 USD in Madrid.

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