Athens vs Barcelona — Cost of Living Comparison

Updated March 2026 · Monthly costs in EUR
Barcelona is 55.9% more expensive than Athens
Based on rent, groceries, dining, transport, utilities, and internet

Side-by-side monthly costs

CategoryAthensBarcelonaDifference
Rent (city centre)€650€1,200+84.6%
Rent (outside centre)€450€850+88.9%
Groceries€260€290+11.5%
Restaurant (meal for 2)€35€50+42.9%
Public transport€30€52+73.3%
Utilities€140€150+7.1%
Internet€25€35+40.0%
Total monthly€1,140€1,777+55.9%

Barcelona is 55.9% more expensive than Athens overall. The biggest difference is in rent, where Barcelona costs significantly more. Keep in mind that tax rates differ between Greece and Spain, so your take-home salary may shift the real comparison further.

Monthly budget comparison

Athens, Greece
€1,140/mo
Barcelona, Spain
€1,777/mo

These figures cover a single person renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre, buying groceries, eating out occasionally, using public transport, and paying for utilities and internet. Actual costs vary depending on lifestyle.

See what your salary is really worth after tax

Compare any two European cities side by side