Paris vs Madrid

Cost of living comparison for 2026. Madrid is roughly 17% more affordable than Paris (index 38 vs 46, New York = 100). Data sourced live via AI — updated regularly.

Madrid
More affordable overall
17% cheaper than Paris · Cost index: 38 vs 46

Life Power at $3,000/mo

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

Head-to-Head Stats

46Cost Index38
3,290Median Income /mo2,200
64Safety Index71
28Income Tax %22
130Internet (Mbps)271
280Coworking /mo200

Price Breakdown

ParisCategoryMadrid
$1,650/month
1-BR Apartment (Center)
27% ← cheaper
$1,200/month
$1.15/liter
Meal for One
4% ← cheaper
$1.1/liter
$16/meal
Restaurant (Mid-range)
25% ← cheaper
$12/meal
$98/month
Monthly Transit Pass
51% ← cheaper
$48/month
$210/month
Utilities (Monthly)
33% ← cheaper
$140/month
$75/visit
Doctor Visit
20% ← cheaper
$60/visit

Digital Nomad Profile

Paris

Internet130 Mbps
Coworking$280/mo
Café WiFigood
Englishmoderate
Communitygrowing
Walkability85/100

Madrid

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Paris cheaper than Madrid?

Madrid is cheaper than Paris. Madrid has a cost of living index of 38/100 compared to 46/100 for Paris (New York = 100), making it roughly 17% more affordable overall.

How much cheaper is Madrid than Paris?

Madrid is approximately 17% cheaper than Paris based on cost index scores (38 vs 46, where New York = 100). A person spending $3,000/month in Paris could live a similar lifestyle for roughly $2,488/month in Madrid.

What is the rent comparison between Paris and Madrid?

In Paris, a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $1,650/month. In Madrid, the equivalent is around $1,200/month.

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

Both cities have nomad infrastructure. Paris offers 130 Mbps internet and coworking at ~$280/month. Madrid offers 271 Mbps and coworking at ~$200/month. Madrid has a cost advantage of 17%.

What is the average income in Paris vs Madrid?

The median net monthly salary in Paris is approximately $3,290 USD, compared to $2,200 USD in Madrid.

Compare Paris with…

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

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