Zagreb vs Madrid

Cost of living comparison for 2026. Zagreb is roughly 47% more affordable than Madrid (index 20 vs 38, New York = 100). Data sourced live via AI — updated regularly.

Zagreb
More affordable overall
47% cheaper than Madrid · Cost index: 20 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

20Cost Index38
1,750Median Income /mo2,200
79Safety Index71
22Income Tax %22
150Internet (Mbps)271
220Coworking /mo200

Price Breakdown

ZagrebCategoryMadrid
$730/month
1-BR Apartment (Center)
39% cheaper →
$1,200/month
$0.95/liter
Meal for One
14% cheaper →
$1.1/liter
$12/meal
Restaurant (Mid-range)
$12/meal
$65/month
Monthly Transit Pass
26% ← cheaper
$48/month
$140/month
Utilities (Monthly)
$140/month
$75/visit
Doctor Visit
20% ← cheaper
$60/visit

Digital Nomad Profile

Zagreb

Internet150 Mbps
Coworking$220/mo
Café WiFigood
Englishhigh
Communitygrowing
Walkability72/100

Madrid

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Zagreb cheaper than Madrid?

Zagreb is cheaper than Madrid. Zagreb has a cost of living index of 20/100 compared to 38/100 for Madrid (New York = 100), making it roughly 47% more affordable overall.

How much cheaper is Zagreb than Madrid?

Zagreb is approximately 47% cheaper than Madrid based on cost index scores (20 vs 38, where New York = 100). A person spending $3,000/month in Madrid could live a similar lifestyle for roughly $1,588/month in Zagreb.

What is the rent comparison between Zagreb and Madrid?

In Zagreb, a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $730/month. In Madrid, the equivalent is around $1,200/month.

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

Both cities have nomad infrastructure. Zagreb offers 150 Mbps internet and coworking at ~$220/month. Madrid offers 271 Mbps and coworking at ~$200/month. Zagreb has a cost advantage of 47%.

What is the average income in Zagreb vs Madrid?

The median net monthly salary in Zagreb is approximately $1,750 USD, compared to $2,200 USD in Madrid.

Compare Zagreb with…

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