Moving to Madrid
The country’s royal city is a highly cosmopolitan place with no shortage of social activities and employment opportunities on offer. Here’s a few other things you need to know about it as you start planning your move…
Is Madrid expensive compared to the UK?
Madrid has some of the most expensive properties in all of Spain, and the highest average rental prices, but it’s still cheaper than the UK. Prices are typically 30% lower than in the UK, and while wages tend to be lower too, the housing market in Spain is picking up which means the value of your new home could soon go up significantly faster than your other costs of living. This makes buying a more attractive proposition than renting because it allows you to get in on the ground floor early and see real growth in terms of your personal finances.
What is the Madrid jobs market like?
Like all major European capital cities Madrid offers a wide range of employment opportunities. Staple forms of employment like healthcare and teaching are always available, while high-paying roles in law, media, finance and government are also popular choices with the city’s residents. To work in Madrid you will need a working visa and living permit to enable you to pay your tax and register for social security. If you’re moving from the UK with a local employer willing to sponsor your application this rarely becomes little more than a formality.
How safe is Madrid?
Madrid has the highest level of investment in policing, healthcare and infrastructure in the whole of Spain. This makes it a safe and peaceful city known for cleanliness, order and access to high grade services covering every want and need. It also means that you can get ready access to schooling and education without having to worry about catchment areas and competing education authorities. There are also a variety of private schooling and healthcare options for those looking to invest a little more than just their monthly tax deductions. Many employers will also give professionals added benefits which allow them to pay a percentage of these types of private provisions.
Does Madrid have a specific culture?
If you head to the centre of the city you’ll find most people get around on public transport due to the high density of people and buildings. Monthly discount passes on trains and buses make the morning commute cost as little as a few Euros depending on where you’re going. This approach to getting from A to B also allows you to immerse yourself in the cafe culture the city is known for. Getting a coffee on the way to work is a great way to learn your new language one step at a time and feel like you’re part of the city from your first day there.