Cost of living in Valencia: a guide for exchange students
Valencia, the third largest city in Spain, enchants with its futuristic architecture, stunning beaches and rich culture. For exchange students, understanding the local cost of living is essential. We will explore the various aspects of living in Valencia, from food to job opportunities for students, according to Numbeo.
Gastronomy and restaurants
Valencian cuisine is world famous, especially for its paella. Eating out in Valencia offers varied and tasty experiences:
- Meal at a budget restaurant: 10-20€, average 13.25€
- Dinner for two at a medium restaurant: 40-68€, average 50€
- Fast food menu: 9-12€, average 11€
Drinks and coffee:
- National beer (0.5L): 1.50-5€
- Imported beer (0.33L): 2-5€
- Cappuccino: 1.20-4€, average 2.11€
- Refrigerant: 1,50-2,86€
- Water (0.33 L): 1-2,50€
Market and food
Shopping at the local market is a great way to save money and try fresh produce:
Basic products:
- Milk (1L): 0.85-1.20€
- Fresh bread (500 g): 0.49-2.02€
- Rice (1 kg): 1-2€
- Eggs (12 units): 1,75-3,90€
- Regional cheese (1 kg): 7-18€
Meats:
- Chicken (1 kg): 4-9€
- Red meat (1 kg): 8-16€
Fruits and vegetables:
- Apples (1 kg): 1.19-3€
- Bananas (1 kg): 1.10-3€
- Oranges (1 kg): 0.60-4€
- Tomatoes (1 kg): 0.90-3€
- Potatoes (1 kg): 0.80-2€
- Lettuce (unit): 0.70-2€
Transportation
The public transport system in Valencia is efficient and relatively accessible:
- Single ticket: 1,50€
- Monthly pass: 30€
- Start of the taxi race: 2,25€
- Gasoline (1 liter): 1,58€
Many students choose bicycles or electric scooters to save on transportation.
Townhouse
The cost of housing varies significantly depending on the location:
- 1-bedroom apartment in the center: 1,062.65 €/month
- One-bedroom apartment outside the center: 802.62 €/month
- 3 bedroom apartment in the center: 1,658.30 €/month
- 3 bedroom apartment outside the center: 1,141.20 €/month
Many exchange students choose to share apartments to reduce costs.
Utilities and services
The monthly expenses for basic services for an 85m² apartment are around 136.50€, including electricity, heating, water and garbage collection.
Internet High-speed (60 Mbps or more) costs an average of 28.10€ per month, while a cell phone plan with calls and more than 10 GB of data costs about 15.61€ per month.
Leisure and education
Valencia offers several accessible leisure and education options for students:
- Monthly gym fee: 35.33€
- Cinema ticket: 8€
- Tennis court rental (1 hour on the weekend): 11,22€
Many universities offer free or discounted activities for students.
Wages for exchange students
International students in Valencia have the opportunity Study and Work in Spain, which can help cover part of the living costs:
- Students from outside the European Union can work up to 30 hours a week during term time.
- During official holidays, you are allowed to work full time.
- The minimum wage in Spain is around 1,080€ per month for full-time work.
- Typical part-time jobs for students (such as a waiter, private teacher, or store assistant) generally pay between 8€ and 12€ per hour.
It is important to remember that a student visa must be the main reason for staying in Spain, and work must be secondary to studies.
Learn more about the Top cities for students in Spain!
Valencia: the new hub for digital nomads
The remote work scene in Spain gained a new impetus with Visa for digital nomads, which offers a unique opportunity for international professionals. Approved in just 20 business days and valid for up to 3 years, this visa allows remote workers to keep their jobs abroad while enjoying the Spanish quality of life. In the midst of this context, Valencia stands out as an increasingly popular choice among digital professionals.
Why Valencia attracts digital nomads:
- Robust digital infrastructure, with high speed internet (300 Mbps average)
- Several coworking spaces starting at 150€ per month
- Growing international community of remote professionals
- Cost of living 30% lower than Madrid and Barcelona
Ideal work environment:
- Cafes with fast internet and a work-friendly environment
- Modern and well-equipped public libraries
- Regular networking events for remote professionals
- Easy integration with the local and international community
For professionals who need to travel frequently, the city offers excellent connectivity through its international airport and high-speed train station, allowing you to reach Madrid in 2 hours or Barcelona in 3 hours. In addition, with more than 300 days of sunshine a year and urban beaches, Valencia provides the perfect balance between work and quality of life.
The requirements for the digital nomad visa include a minimum monthly income of 2,646€ (approximately R$ 14,000) and an employment contract with a foreign company or proof of freelance work. With this documentation in order, professionals can enjoy all the benefits of living in a city that combines modernity, Mediterranean culture and affordable costs.
Be Easy
Living and studying in Valencia is a unique experience that combines quality of life, rich culture, and educational opportunities. A Be Easy Exchange is here to make that journey easier and more accessible. We offer personalized guidance on study programs, housing, and work regulations for international students. Count on us to fulfill your dream of studying in Valencia!
