Renting in Spain: Everything you need to know (UK guide)

Spain offers something for every expat lifestyle, from buzzing cosmopolitan cities to quiet sunny villages. Its warm climate and high quality of life attract many UK expats, whether they’re retiring or moving for work.

If you’re thinking of a move to Spain for business or pleasure, your first priority will be finding a place to live. That’s why we’ve created a guide to renting in Spain, including popular destinations, average rent prices and an overview of the rental process.

We’ll also point out a cost-effective way to manage your money across borders from Wise. Open a Wise account and you can send large transfers between the UK and Spain for low fees* and at the mid-market exchange rate. This makes it a reliable option for secure international payments.

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Table of contents

Can a UK citizen rent property in Spain? Can you rent a flat without an NIE? How does the rental process work in Spain? How do I find a property to rent in Spain? Letting and rental agents Online property sites Types of property to rent in Spain Houses Apartments Holiday rentals Student accommodation Flatshares How much is rent in Spain? Utilities, internet and other costs when renting in Spain Paying for bills and rent in Spain What documents do I need to rent in Spain? Rental agreements and tenancy contracts in Spain Tenant laws and rights in Spain How to apply for a property to rent in Spain Things to consider when looking for a place to rent Tips for successfully renting in Spain What’s the best city to rent in Spain? Madrid Barcelona Valencia Helpful terms to related to renting in Spanish Save on your relocation costs with Wise

Can a UK citizen rent property in Spain?

UK citizens can rent property in Spain both on a short-term and long-term basis. However, make sure you’re aware of your rights and obligations since some tenancy laws in Spain are different from those in the UK.¹

Can you rent a flat without an NIE?

An NIE or Número de Identidad de Extranjero is usually required when drafting a tenancy agreement. In some cases, though, if the landlord agrees, you could use your passport instead.¹

How does the rental process work in Spain?

The rental process typically begins with searching for a property through online platforms or local real estate agents. Once you find a suitable home, you’ll usually be asked to provide documents such as your NIE or passport and your proof of income.

Once everything is agreed, you’ll sign a tenancy agreement with the landlord, usually for at least 12 months. You’ll then typically pay one month’s deposit and the first month’s rent. If you're renting through an agency, it's common for them to charge a fee.

How do I find a property to rent in Spain?

When renting in Spain, start by researching the area you want to live in and setting a clear budget. This will help narrow down your options and focus your search.

You can find properties online or work with a local letting agent who can guide you through the process. If you’re already in Spain, visiting neighbourhoods in person is also a good way to spot available rentals.

Letting and rental agents

Although it involves a fee, hiring a real estate agent is one of the most convenient ways to find a home in Spain. A local expert could help you avoid common pitfalls that can come with renting in Spain and find the property that fits your needs.

A real estate agency or inmobiliaria should be accredited in the Official School of Estate Agents or COAPI (Colegio Oficial de Agentes de Propiedad Inmobiliaria).²

Here are some popular real estate agencies in Spain:

• Engel & Volkers
• Kyero
• Lucas Fox
• Lusa Realty
• Moving2Madrid
• BCN Advisors
• Casamona²

When it comes to agency fees, they can either be fixed or a percentage of the rent. In most cases, the fee is between €250 and a full month’s rent.²

Online property sites

While rental agencies offer personalised support, rental websites allow you to browse listings at your own pace. You can compare prices across different areas, use search filters and have direct contact with landlords.

Popular platforms include:

• Fotocasa
• Idealista
• Habitaclia
• Enalquiler

Types of property to rent in Spain

When it comes to renting in Spain, there are several types of properties to choose from. Below is a brief overview of each, along with suggestions for who they might suit best.

Houses

In Spain, houses are usually detached or semi-detached. Detached homes (casa independiente) don’t share walls with other properties. Villas are a type of detached home with gardens, usually located outside towns.³

Semi-detached homes (casa pareada) share a wall with one neighbouring property. A dúplex is a type of semi-detached home with two flats, one above the other, each having its own entrance.³

Terraced houses (casas adosadas) form rows of connected homes. Traditional village houses (casas de pueblo) have several floors, no garden and open directly onto the street.³

Houses are suitable for families, those moving with pets or people wanting more space and a quieter environment.

Apartments

Flats and apartments are the most common form of long‑term rentals in Spain. Apartments (pisos) may vary in size, but the term apartamento usually means a one-bedroom flat.³

You can find apartments in cities and villages, in high-rises or smaller buildings. Most of them have balconies and typically include two to four bedrooms, while the buildings have garages and sometimes communal gardens.³

Apartments are ideal for singles, couples or professionals who want to live close to city centres. They also usually require less external maintenance than houses.

Holiday rentals

Holiday rentals aren’t aimed at long-term tenants, but instead aimed at tourists and temporary visitors. They’re usually fully furnished and have everything you might need for a short stay.

Holiday rentals are perfect for travellers, remote workers needing a temporary base or anyone not ready to commit to a long-term tenancy. However, the government is considering imposing additional taxes and regulations on short-term rentals.⁴

Student accommodation

Many students in Spain live in on-campus dormitories, which tend to be the most affordable option. For more privacy and comfort, studio apartments are a good alternative. They typically include essentials like a kitchen and laundry facilities, and can be rented for periods ranging from 30 days to 12 months.⁵

Renting a regular apartment is also possible, though it’s usually more expensive and can be harder to secure as a student.

Flatshares

Sharing a flat is a great way to save money, especially if you’ve just moved to Spain or are a student. It can also make it possible to live in more expensive neighbourhoods at a lower cost. For expats, it’s a good way to meet new people and build friendships while settling in.

How much is rent in Spain?

Rent in Spain varies significantly depending on the city, neighbourhood and property quality. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre is around €883, while a three-bedroom averages €1,400. Living outside the centre can save you between €200 and €400 per month, depending on the location.⁶

The cost is much higher in major cities. In Madrid, for example, the average monthly rent for a central one-bedroom flat is over €1,300, while a three-bedroom in the same area can cost close to €2,500.⁷

Wondering how much that would cost in GBP? Check out this handy conversion calculator.

Utilities, internet and other costs when renting in Spain

When renting property in Spain, there are several additional costs that tenants are usually responsible for. For example, you’ll need to pay for utilities such as electricity, gas, water, waste collection and heating.

On average, utilities in Spain cost around €130 a month for an 85 m² apartment, but certain services may be more expensive in larger cities.² Some of the largest energy providers in Spain are Endesa and Iberdrola.⁸

Water supply in Spain is managed locally, so you can’t choose your provider. Some areas use public companies, others rely on private ones, and some have a mix of both. Major public providers include Aguas de Barcelona and Aqualia, while the largest private company is Canal de Isabel II.⁸

Another common monthly expense is internet connection, which costs around €30 on average.⁶ The most popular internet provider in Spain is Movistar, followed by Orange and Vodafone.⁹

Aside from the main expenses, you may also need to pay community fees, which can cover things like building cleaning, maintenance and lift usage. Depending on the property, these fees can be quite high, so it's important to budget for them separately.

Paying for bills and rent in Spain

There are several ways to pay rent and bills in Spain, such as direct debits and bank transfers. If you open a bank account in Spain, you can deposit euros and pay directly from there. Alternatively, if you’re able to keep your UK bank account, you can use it to send international transfers. However, with some banks this often comes with additional fees and unfavourable exchange rates.

Using money transfer services like Wise is one of the most convenient ways to manage monthly expenses. You can pay bills with Wise through manual transfers or set up direct debits, which is ideal for regular expenses. For rent and security deposits, Wise lets you send large amounts with low, transparent fees* at the mid-market exchange rate.

➡️ Sign up with Wise for free

What documents do I need to rent in Spain?

When renting in Spain, you will typically be asked to present the following documents:

• NIE or passport
• Proof of income (employment contract, certificate of studies etc.)
• Security deposit
• Rental guarantee (provided by a bank or a third party)
• Proof of a Spanish bank account (some landlords may accept an international account)¹⁰

Always check with the landlord or agency for the exact requirements.

Rental agreements and tenancy contracts in Spain

A rental agreement or contrato de arrendamiento is considered short-term if it’s shorter than 12 months. If it’s signed for 12 months or more, it’s called arriendo de vivienda and it can be renewed annually.²

How long you can renew your rental agreement in Spain depends on the type of landlord. For private landlords, contracts can be renewed for up to five years. If the property belongs to a company, renewals can last up to seven years.²

If your landlord fails to give you at least four months’ notice before the contract ends, you are entitled to remain in the property for another three years. As a tenant, you must provide 30 days’ notice before moving out.²

Tenant laws and rights in Spain

In Spain, tenants are well protected by law, and landlords have clear legal duties. They must keep the property in good condition, carry out necessary repairs and cannot enter without notice and permission.²

If the landlord cuts off utilities, changes locks or disrupts your living conditions, you can end the contract. Evictions must go through the courts and only happen if you break the terms, like not paying rent or causing damage.²

Rent can only go up once a year and by no more than 3%. If the property is sold, you must be given 30 days’ notice and have the first right to buy it. If you don’t, your contract stays in place with the new owner.²

How to apply for a property to rent in Spain

Here’s a step-by-step guide to renting property in Spain:

• Search listings or hire a rental agent
• Contact landlords and arrange viewings
• Gather the necessary documents and create your application
• Submit application
• Negotiate rental agreement terms
• Sign the tenancy contract
• Pay the security deposit and first month’s rent

Things to consider when looking for a place to rent

Before signing a rental contract, it’s important to think beyond just the monthly rent. Here’s a checklist of important considerations:

• Location and proximity to public transport, supermarkets and other amenities
• Whether utilities are included in the rent
• Length of the lease and renewal terms
• If the property is furnished or you’ll need to invest in furniture
• How repairs and maintenance are handled
• Heating and air conditioning availability and quality
• Noise levels in the area and sound insulation
• Rules on subletting
• Access to on-site or nearby parking
• Pet policy
• Whether you’ll pay additional costs (rubbish tax, cleaning, garden maintenance etc.)¹¹

Tips for successfully renting in Spain

Here are some useful tips to help you rent successfully in Spain:

• Use trusted property websites and reputable agencies
• View the property in person
• Ask neighbours and locals about the noise and security
• Read the contract carefully
• Ask for an inventory list
• Take photos of the property’s condition when moving in and out
• Keep records of all payments

What’s the best city to rent in Spain?

Here are three popular cities to consider when renting in Spain:

Madrid

Madrid is known for its cultural scene, career opportunities and excellent international connections. It’s a vibrant place to live, but also one of the most expensive cities in Spain, with average rent for a one-bedroom flat in the centre exceeding €1,300 per month.⁷

Barcelona

Barcelona is a vibrant coastal city with a strong international community and plenty to offer. Rent prices are often similar to Madrid, with central one-bedroom apartments averaging around €1,300 per month.¹²

Valencia

Valencia offers a slower pace of life, high quality of living and fewer tourists than larger cities. Rent is more affordable too, with central one-bedroom flats averaging around €1,000, depending on the area.¹³

Helpful terms to related to renting in Spanish

Looking for an apartment in a foreign country can be challenging, especially with a language barrier. Here are some key terms when renting in Spain:

Spanish	English
Amueblado	Furnished
Sin amueblar	Unfurnished
Gastos incluídos	Utilities included
Fianza	Deposit
Gastos de comunidad	Community fees
Subarrendar	To sublet
Propietario	Landlord
Piso	Apartment
Apartamento	One-bedroom apartment
Ático	Penthouse

Save on your relocation costs with Wise

Renting in Spain means understanding the different property types, knowing what rental prices to expect and knowing your rights as a tenant. With a clear understanding of the process, it’s easier to navigate the Spanish housing market and avoid common issues.

If you’re looking for a simple way to manage your rental expenses, Wise can be a great option. Open a Wise account and you can send money between the UK and Spain for low, transparent fees* and at the mid-market exchange rate.

You can also spend in euros using your Wise card. It works in more than 160+ countries and automatically converts your pounds to the local currency, only adding a tiny, upfront currency conversion fee*.

➡️ Open a Wise account

Sources used:

1. Gov.uk - buying and renting property in Spain
2. Expatica - renting a home in Spain
3. thinkSPAIN - types of residential properties in Spain
4. Reuters - Spain considers new 21% VAT on short-tourism rentals
5. Studying in Spain - accommodation in Spain
6. Numbeo - cost of living in Spain vs the UK
7. Numbeo - cost of living in Madrid vs London
8. Expatica - setting up utilities in Spain
9. Expatica - setting up internet in Spain
10. Idealista - required documents
11. Idealista - community fees
12. Numbeo - cost of living in Barcelona
13. Numbeo - cost of living in Valencia

Sources last checked on date: 14-Nov-2025