Living in Bilbao
Cost of Living, Safety & Expat Guide (2026)
Country
Spain
Monthly Cost
$1,664
Internet
170 Mbps
Safety
5.1/10
Rent (1BR)
$1,181
Living in Bilbao — Quick Take
Best for: Those open to trade-offs
Cost level: Budget-Friendly ($1,664/mo)
Main downside: Requires neighborhood research
Quick Facts
$1,664/mo
Moderate5.1/10
Variable170 Mbps
Fast$1,181
Mid-range$2,292/mo
347K
Mid-sizeMonthly Living Cost Breakdown
Who Is Bilbao For?
Infrastructure and costs align well with remote work lifestyles.
Mid-range costs—not rock-bottom, but not painful either.
The cost and security balance could work for retirees.
Similar vibe? Check out Osaka.
Best Neighborhoods in Bilbao
4 neighborhoods rated for expats and digital nomads — Casco Viejo tops the list at /10
Bilbao’s charming old town filled with narrow streets, traditional architecture, local shops, and famous pintxos bars, offering a rich cultural and culinary experience.
Neighborhood ratings based on expat livability, cost, and lifestyle fit. Data reflects current conditions in Bilbao, Spain.
Pros and Cons of Living in Bilbao
Pros
- Reasonable cost of living compared to major Western cities
- Fast internet (170 Mbps) - great for remote work
- Affordable healthcare options available
Cons
- Safety concerns exist - research specific neighborhoods
Job & Income Overview
Avg Local Salary
$2,292/mo
Salary-to-Rent Ratio
1.9x
Local salaries struggle against housing costs here. International income makes a difference.
Local wages go reasonably far here—enough for a decent life with some cushion.
Cost Insight
Bilbao sits in the middle range cost-wise. Affordable without feeling like you're roughing it.
Housing takes up most of your budget here—about 71% of total costs. The rest is relatively cheap.
For comparison, Osaka runs about $1,207/month—38% less.
Common Questions About Bilbao
How much does it cost to live in Bilbao?
Expect roughly $1,664 monthly. This includes housing, groceries, transport, and utilities.
Is Bilbao safe for expats?
Bilbao is variable by neighborhood with a 5.1/10 safety score. Standard precautions apply.
Is Bilbao good for remote workers?
With 170 Mbps average speeds, Bilbao is excellent for remote work. Coworking options exist.
How much is rent in Bilbao?
A 1-bedroom averages $1,181/month. Prices vary by neighborhood and proximity to center.
Calculate Your Cost in Bilbao
Get personalized estimates based on your lifestyle
Explore More About Bilbao
NomadIQ Score
out of 10
Good
Quick Stats
Safety Score
5.1/10
Internet Speed
170 Mbps
Monthly Cost
$1,664
Explore Similar Cities
Final Thoughts
Bilbao is a solid choice for those seeking a change of scenery looking to relocate abroad. With a monthly cost of living around $1,664, a safety score of 5.1/10, and internet speeds of 170 Mbps, the city offers a balanced package for international residents. Whether you're drawn by the culture, the cost savings, or the lifestyle opportunities, Bilbao deserves a spot on your shortlist. We recommend visiting for a few weeks before making a long-term commitment to ensure it aligns with your personal and professional needs.
Data sources include public cost-of-living datasets, user-reported data, and internal analysis. Last updated: August 2026.
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