Back to Comparison Tool

Arequipa vs Madrid

Cost of Living, Safety & Expat Guide (2026)

Arequipa

Arequipa

Peru

$694/mo7/10
Madrid

Madrid

Spain

$1,971/mo6.9/10

Detailed Comparison

Factor
Arequipa
Madrid
Winner
Total Monthly Cost
$694
$1,971
Arequipa
Rent (1BR)
$352
$1,472
Arequipa
Groceries
$205
$300
Arequipa
Transport
$38
$55
Arequipa
Healthcare
$75
$110
Arequipa
Safety Score
5.7/10
7.1/10
Madrid
Internet Speed
70 Mbps
300 Mbps
Madrid
NomadIQ Score
7/10
6.9/10
Arequipa

Overall Winner: Arequipa

Based on our comparison, Arequipa wins 6 out of 8 categories.Madrid wins 2 categories.

Which city is better for digital nomads?

For digital nomads choosing between Arequipa and Madrid, the answer depends on your priorities. Here's our analysis:

Best for Budget

Arequipa

$694/mo

Best Internet

Madrid

300 Mbps

Best NomadIQ Score

Arequipa

7/10

Our Recommendation: Arequipa is the clear winner for digital nomads, offering both affordability and excellent nomad infrastructure.

Digital Nomad Analysis: Arequipa vs Madrid

When comparing Arequipa and Madrid for digital nomads, several factors come into play.

Cost of Living: Arequipa offers a more affordable lifestyle at $694/month compared to Madrid's $1,971/month.

Internet & Remote Work: Madrid provides faster connectivity at 300 Mbps compared to Arequipa's 70 Mbps.

Safety: With a safety score of 7.1/10, Madrid offers better security than Arequipa (5.7/10).

Overall: Arequipa earns a higher NomadIQ score of 7/10, making it slightly more suited for the digital nomad lifestyle.

Cost of Living Comparison

Arequipa is 65% cheaper than Madrid.

  • • Arequipa rent: $352/mo
  • • Madrid rent: $1,472/mo
  • • Difference: $1,120/mo

Safety Comparison

Madrid has a higher safety score (7.1/10) compared to Arequipa (5.7/10).

5.7/10

Arequipa

7.1/10

Madrid

Digital Nomad Friendliness

For remote workers, internet speed is crucial. Madrid offers faster internet at 300 Mbps vs 70 Mbps.

70 Mbps

Arequipa

300 Mbps

Madrid

Which City Is Better for Expats?

Based on our analysis, Arequipa edges out as the better choice for expats, winning 6 of 8 comparison factors.

Arequipa: Best for budget-conscious expats

Madrid: Best for those prioritizing amenities

Frequently Asked Questions: Arequipa vs Madrid