Campus Life In Spain: Where Do Students Live?

Spain is a popular destination for international students due to its vibrant cities, beautiful architecture, and relatively low cost of living. With 55 universities in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025, students have a wide range of options to choose from. When it comes to accommodation, there are several options available, including on-campus dormitories, off-campus residence halls, shared flats, student flats, homestays, and private rentals. The availability and cost of accommodation vary depending on the location and type of housing. It is recommended to start researching accommodation options early, as competition can be high, especially in popular cities like Madrid and Barcelona. Understanding the different neighbourhoods, transport links, distance from campus, and amenities can help students make an informed decision about where to live.

University residence halls

Residence halls typically offer individual rooms or shared flats/studios to students at reasonable rates. Some may even provide access to dining halls, while others may include kitchenettes and laundry facilities within the apartments. These halls are a great way to meet other students and live affordably, as they are often cheaper than renting private accommodation.

If you're considering this option, it's important to inquire directly with your university to see if renting a room through them is possible. Additionally, it's worth noting that the earlier you start your search, the better, as student housing in Spain can be competitive, especially during peak times such as the beginning of academic semesters.

When researching and comparing your options, consider factors such as the neighbourhood, transport links, distance from campus, and nearby amenities like grocery stores and pharmacies. It's also a good idea to familiarise yourself with rental laws and your rights as a tenant in Spain, as well as be cautious of potential scams or fake listings.

Shared accommodation

A shared house, or shared flat, is when a group of students (or other young people) rent a property together, each having their own room, but sharing communal areas such as the kitchen, bathroom, living room and garden.

Compared to the rest of Europe, Spain offers some of the cheapest accommodation for students. Shared houses are one of the most economical options, and prices vary depending on location. For example, a shared house in the centre of Madrid or Barcelona will be considerably more expensive than a modest private studio outside of one of Spain's major cities. In Madrid and Barcelona, a shared house will cost around 600€ per month per person, whereas in Granada, it will be around 350€ per month.

There are several ways to find a shared house in Spain. You could use a global accommodation website such as Uniplaces, Flatio, HousingAnywhere, or Student.com, which all have listings for shared accommodation in Spain. There are also localised websites, such as Madrid Easy, which specialises in the Spanish capital, or the Mestral Group, which provides "Boutique University Residences" in Barcelona.

Facebook groups can also be a good source of information on shared accommodation, and your university's Facebook page is a good place to start. You could also join a public or private group dedicated to sharing student housing.

As well as being a budget-friendly option, shared houses are a great way to meet people and improve your Spanish, especially if you choose to live with native Spanish speakers. Most shared houses are furnished, which reduces the cost of moving in, and you will only be responsible for paying a portion of the rent and utility bills.

Living in a shared house means you will have less privacy than if you lived alone, and you will need to be considerate of your housemates. You may also have less flexibility with choosing your food or organising communal areas.

Student flats

Renting a room in a shared flat is the most popular form of accommodation for international students in Spain. In a shared flat, you will live with other students, sharing a kitchen, bathroom, and living room. This is usually in a 3-5 bedroom apartment.

The cost of renting a room in a shared flat varies depending on the location and the city. For example, in Barcelona, the average rental rate for a one-bedroom apartment is around 850 Euros per month, while in Madrid, the same apartment would cost around 1000 Euros per month.

University Accommodation

Many universities in Spain offer on-campus accommodation or university-provided accommodation off-campus. For example, the Autonomous University of Barcelona offers a residential complex, the Villa Universitaria, that can accommodate over 2,000 students in individual rooms, shared flats, and studio apartments at reasonable rates.

The University of Seville also provides a designated Accommodation and Housing Exchange service, which helps students find shared flats or houses to rent with other students.

Accommodation Websites

There are several websites that offer student accommodation in Spain, such as:

• Uniplaces: A website that provides fast, simple, and safe accommodation for every budget.
• Flatio: A website with flexible lease choices, fully furnished apartments, and verified property listings.
• HousingAnywhere: A global accommodation website that offers luxury apartments, basic rooms, and shared student housing.
• Idealista: A website that offers properties in larger cities such as Barcelona, Seville, Madrid, and Alicante, with the option to buy or rent.
• Casita: A global student accommodation service that allows you to search for properties by city or university.
• Student.com: A website that matches students with accommodation worldwide, including many options in Spain.

Localised Accommodation Websites

Using localised accommodation websites or local estate agents can be beneficial as they have more specific knowledge about the area. For example:

• The Mestral Group in Barcelona offers "Boutique University Residences" in the city.
• Madrid Easy is an accommodation broker specialising in the Spanish capital, offering rooms in shared housing, apartments, and whole houses.

Real Estate Agencies

Using a real estate agent can be helpful, especially if you are unable to visit the property before signing a contract. They can also act as a mediator if any issues arise. Some reputable agencies include:

• Engel & Völkers: A comprehensive residential property company with locations across Europe, including Valencia, Madrid, Barcelona, Tarragona, and Castellon.
• Lucas Fox: An agency with affordable options for students, including accommodations for those bringing their families.
• Spainhouses.net: A website that lists multiple accredited agencies in Spain.

Facebook Groups

Joining Facebook groups can be a great way to connect with other students and find accommodation. You can search for public groups or join your university's Facebook page to connect with other students who may be looking for roommates or have rooms available.

Other Options

There are also other creative ways to find student housing in Spain, such as housesitting or staying with a host family. Websites like TrustedHousitters and Mindmyhouse offer housesitting opportunities in Spain. Staying with a host family can be a great way to immerse yourself in the Spanish culture and language, and you may even be able to offer English lessons in exchange for accommodation.

Homestays

There are several organisations that offer homestay programmes in Spain, such as Lingoo, Nacel, and Homestay. These companies offer placements for students of all ages, from teenagers to adults, and can cater to specific needs and interests. For example, Lingoo allows students to select a host family based on criteria such as religion, diet, interests and hobbies, ensuring a good match and an enjoyable stay.

Homestay students will usually have their own room in the host family's home and will be provided with meals and an insider's guide to the local community. They may also receive language lessons from their host or a local teacher, allowing them to improve their Spanish skills quickly and effectively.

The cost of homestays can vary depending on the organisation and the length of stay. For example, Nacel offers a Summer Homestay Immersion programme for €2290 for 2-8 weeks, while Lingoo offers an annual membership with unlimited language trips included.

For international students, homestays can provide a supportive and welcoming environment to help them adjust to life in a new country. Host families can offer guidance and assistance, making the transition to student life in Spain smoother and more enjoyable.

Renting on your own

If you're an older or more independent student, you may want to rent an entire studio or apartment for yourself. This option will require you to search through listings and contact landlords directly. The process can be challenging, especially if you're an international student or new to the country. Here are some tips to guide you through the process of renting on your own in Spain:

• Start your search early: The competition for housing in Spain, especially in popular student cities like Madrid and Barcelona, can be intense. It's crucial to begin your search as early as possible to secure the best options.
• Consider your preferences: Think about the type of neighbourhood you want to live in. Do you prefer a lively area close to bars and restaurants, or a quieter, more residential neighbourhood? Also, consider the proximity to campus and transportation options.
• Understand the rental market: The cost of renting in Spain varies depending on the city and the specific neighbourhood. Be prepared for higher rents in popular student cities like Madrid and Barcelona. Research the average rental rates in your desired area to set realistic expectations.
• Utilize online resources: Several websites cater specifically to students looking for accommodation in Spain. Trusted sites like Idealista, Student.com, Uniplaces, HousingAnywhere, and Flatio offer a range of options for student housing. These platforms allow you to search by location, budget, and other criteria.
• Be cautious of scams: Unfortunately, scams targeting students are not uncommon. Never pay a deposit or send money before thoroughly inspecting the property. Use reputable websites and platforms specifically designed for student housing to minimize the risk of fraud.
• Consider using an agent: Renting in larger cities like Madrid can be challenging due to high demand. Consider engaging the services of a rental agent who can assist you in finding suitable options and navigating the rental process.
• Be prepared for extra fees: When renting on your own, be mindful of additional costs such as utility bills, rental deposits, application fees, and other hidden expenses. Read the rental agreement carefully to understand all the associated costs and your responsibilities as a tenant.
• Get to know the neighbourhood: Choose a neighbourhood that suits your lifestyle and budget. Consider factors such as safety, proximity to public transportation, and the availability of essential amenities like grocery stores and pharmacies.
• Learn some Spanish: While many Spaniards speak English, knowing some basic Spanish can be beneficial when communicating with landlords and neighbours, especially in smaller towns or when dealing with older generations.
• Understand the rental laws: Familiarize yourself with the rental laws in Spain to avoid being taken advantage of. Know your rights as a tenant and understand the regulations regarding deposits, fees, and other rental-related matters.
• Have a budget: Create a budget that includes not only the rent but also additional costs such as utilities, food, and other living expenses. It's always a good idea to have a little extra money set aside for unexpected expenses.
• Be patient and persistent: Finding the right accommodation can take time and effort. Don't be discouraged if you don't find your dream place immediately. Stay patient, keep searching, and don't settle for something that doesn't meet your essential criteria.

Remember that renting on your own in a foreign country can be challenging, but with thorough research, early planning, and a good understanding of the rental market and local laws, you can secure a comfortable place to call home during your studies in Spain.

Frequently asked questions