Finding a budget-friendly place to stay as a digital nomad in Spain isn’t always easy. You want flexibility, fast WiFi, and a cozy space to call home 🏡—all without breaking the bank! Luckily, Spain has plenty of great options, from vibrant coliving spaces to short-term rentals and long-term apartments.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through your options and guide you on the best ways to find affordable accommodation, save money, and dodge common pitfalls. Whether you’re staying for a few weeks or settling in for months, these tips will help you feel at home without overspending. Let’s dive in! 💼✈️
Best Types Of Accommodation Options for Digital Nomads in Spain
Finding the right accommodation is key to making your experience as a digital nomad in Spain comfortable and affordable. Here is an overview of the most popular accomodation options for remote workers in Spain, each with its benefits and drawbacks.
🏠 Coliving Spaces: A Ready-Made Community
Coliving spaces are a great option if you want to live with like-minded people while enjoying shared amenities. They can also be a great starting point for making friends and connections. These spaces often include coworking areas, networking events, and flexible rental terms. While generally layed out for short-term rentals, several coworking spaces also offer long-term options.
✅ Benefits:
- All-Inclusive Rent – Wi-Fi, utilities, and sometimes meals included.
- Community Vibe – Great for networking with fellow digital nomads.
- Flexible Leases – Stay for a few weeks or months, depending on your needs.
⚠️ Drawbacks:
- Higher Cost – Can be more expensive than traditional rentals.
- Less Privacy – Shared living spaces and common areas.
- Availability – Limited in smaller cities.
⚠️ Note: Some places require a proof of remote work for the rental.
🏡 Short-Term Rentals: Flexibility at Your Fingertips
Short-term rentals offer flexibility, privacy, and convenience for digital nomads in Spain. With fully furnished spaces, Wi-Fi, and utilities included, they provide a hassle-free stay for days, weeks, or even a couple of months, making it easy to find a home that fits your lifestyle.
✅ Benefits:
- Flexible Rental Duration – Rent by the day, week, or month.
- Fully Furnished – Wi-Fi, utilities, and basic amenities included.
- Variety of Options – Choose from apartments, studios, or houses depending on your needs.
⚠️ Drawbacks:
- Price Fluctuations – Rates can rise during peak tourist seasons.
- Additional Fees – Booking fees, cleaning charges, and security deposits.
- Short-Term – Not ideal for those wanting long-term stability.
💡 Tip: Some options offer for long-term discounts or special offers on monthly stays.
🏨 Budget Hotels & Hostels: Short-Term Convenience
Budget hotels and hostels offer an affordable and hassle-free stay for digital nomads needing short-term accommodation in Spain. They are ideal when you only need a place to crash for a few nights because your on the move or are still searching for an apartment. While hotels provide more privacy, hostels are great for meeting fellow travelers, with options ranging from dorm beds to private rooms.
✅ Benefits:
- Affordability – Ideal for short stays and budget-conscious nomads.
- Nomad-Friendly – Many places offer Wi-Fi and communal workspaces.
- Central Locations – Located in the heart of Spain’s top cities.
⚠️ Drawbacks:
- Shared Spaces – Dormitory-style rooms unless you opt for a private room.
- Noisy Environment – Not necessarily ideal if you need a quiet place to work.
- Less Comfort – Basic amenities and shared bathrooms.
💡Tip: Look for nomad-friendly hostels offering Wi-Fi and quiet spaces.
⚠️ Note: Minimum stay may apply during peak season.
📜 Traditional Apartment Rentals: A Long-Term Solution
Traditional apartment rentals are a great choice for digital nomads planning to stay in Spain long-term (meaning a couple of month or more). They offer more privacy, a stable home base, and lower monthly costs compared to short-term options, making it easier to settle into local life.
✅ Benefits:
- More Privacy – Rent a full apartment or house.
- Cost-Effective for Longer Stays – More affordable on a per-night basis.
- Stable Option – Ideal if you’re staying for 3+ months.
⚠️ Drawbacks:
- Long-Term Commitment – Requires a lease, often 6-12 months.
- Language Barriers – Rental contracts may be in Spanish.
- Additional Costs – Utilities often not included.
💡 Tip: If you don’t speak Spanish, a rental agency can help but may charge a fee.
⚠️ Many landlords require a NIE (Foreigner’s Identification Number), proof of income, and a deposit.
🐾 House Sitting: Live Rent-Free with Some Responsibility
House sitting is a fantastic way to live rent-free in Spain while looking after someone’s home and, often, their pets. In exchange for basic responsibilities like watering plants or pet care, you get a comfortable place to stay, making it a budget-friendly option for digital nomads.
✅ Benefits:
- Free Accommodation – In exchange for caring for someone’s home and pets.
- Live Like a Local – Stay in residential neighborhoods, often more affordable.
- Unique Experience – Offers a great opportunity to live in diverse regions of Spain.
⚠️ Drawbacks:
- Limited Availability – Not all homeowners need house sitters year-round.
- Responsibilities – You’re expected to care for pets, plants, and the home.
- Not Ideal for Working – Does not necessarily include a perfect homeoffice space.
⚠️ Note: Can be competitive. A strong profile and positive reviews increase your chances.
🔄 Home Exchange: Cost-Free Way to Live Like a Local
Home exchange lets you swap homes with someone in another location, giving you a free place to stay while experiencing life like a local. It’s a great option for open-minded digital nomads looking for a cost-effective and comfortable way to live in Spain without rental fees.
✅ Benefits:
- Free Accommodation – Swap homes with someone for no cost.
- Authentic Experience – Live like a local in a variety of Spanish cities and regions.
- Flexible – Can swap for a weekend, week, or longer.
⚠️ Drawbacks:
- Limited to Available Homes – You can only swap when the perfect match is available.
- Not Ideal for Busy Cities – Some smaller cities or rural areas usually have fewer options.
- Insurance – May require additional coverage for both parties.
💡Tip: Swap with other remote workers or digital nomads for a better experience.
How to Find Affordable Accommodation in Spain: Step-by-Step Guide
Finding affordable accommodation in Spain as a digital nomad doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By knowing where to look, what to consider, and how to secure the best deals, you can find a comfortable and budget-friendly place to stay. This step-by-step guide will help you navigate the process with ease.
Step 1: Define Your Budget and Preferences
Before you start searching for accommodation, it’s important to have a clear understanding of your budget and what you’re looking for. This will help narrow down your options and ensure you find the right fit.
Set a Realistic Budget
- Assess Your Finances: Determine how much you can comfortably spend on rent each month without stretching your budget too thin. Don’t forget to account for other living expenses like food, transportation, and entertainment.
- Consider Extra Costs: Some rental options may have additional fees, such as cleaning charges, utilities, or service fees. Make sure to factor these into your budget.
List Your Must-Haves
- Location: Do you want to be in a bustling city center or a quieter neighborhood? Consider proximity to coworking spaces, public transportation, or amenities like cafes and grocery stores.
- Size and Type: Are you looking for a private apartment, a shared room, or a co-living space? Think about how much space you need to live comfortably and whether you’re okay with shared living arrangements.
- Amenities: Make a list of essentials like Wi-Fi, a workspace, air conditioning, or a fully equipped kitchen. Prioritize what matters most to you.
By defining your budget and preferences upfront, you’ll save time and avoid getting distracted by options that don’t align with your needs.
Step 2: Use the Right Platforms and Search Tools
Finding affordable accommodation for remote work in Spain is easier when you know where to look. Below is a list of the best platforms for different types of accommodation, so you can quickly find the perfect fit for your budget and preferences.
1. Co-living Space Platforms
- CoLiving.com: A dedicated site for co-living spaces designed with digital nomads in mind.
- NomadaGo: Contains a list of coliving spaces suitable for remote workers in Spain by city.
- Coworker: While mainly for finding coworking spaces, it also lists co-living options.
2. Short-Term Rental Platforms
- Airbnb: Offers a wide variety of properties, from apartments to shared rooms.
- Booking.com: Great for booking short stays and has a large selection of rentals.
- Vrbo: Known for vacation homes and private spaces.
- Expedia: A popular site for booking hotels and short-term rentals.
💡Tip: Look for monthly discounts on platforms like Airbnb or Vrbo, which often offer lower rates for longer stays.
3. Buget Hotel & Hostel Platforms
- Hostelworld: Specializes in affordable hostels with various amenities, including private rooms and dormitories.
- Booking.com: Features budget hotels and hostels, with user reviews to help guide your decision.
- Hotels.com: Offers a wide range of budget-friendly hotels, often with discounts for longer stays.
4. Long-Term Rental Platforms
- Idealista: One of Spain’s largest rental platforms for apartments and houses.
- Fotocasa: A popular site offering both long and short-term rental listings.
- Pisos.com: Offers a wide variety of apartments for long-term rental.
- Spotahome: Specializes in medium to long-term rentals with video tours of properties.
5. House Sitting Platforms
- TrustedHousesitters: The most well-known house-sitting platform with global listings.
- HouseCarers: Another popular option for finding house-sitting opportunities.
- Nomador: Offers a range of house-sitting listings across Spain and worldwide.
6. Home Exchange Platforms
- HomeExchange: One of the most popular platforms for home swapping.
- Love Home Swap: Another great option for exchanging homes with others.
By using the right platforms for each type of accommodation, you’ll be able to find affordable and comfortable places to stay during your time in Spain. Whether you need a short-term rental, a co-living space, or even a house-sitting opportunity, the tools are available to make your search easier and more efficient.
Step 3: Filter Your Results Based on Your Needs
Once you’ve chosen the right platform, it’s time to refine your search and filter the results to match your specific requirements. This will help you save time and find the perfect place that suits your lifestyle, budget, and preferences. Here’s how you can effectively narrow down your options:
📍 Location
- Proximity to Work and Amenities: Look for places that are close to coworking spaces, cafes, or public transport. If you prefer a more relaxed lifestyle, you may want to consider quieter neighborhoods or smaller towns outside of city centers.
- Neighborhood Preferences: If you’re in a city, you may want to filter by specific neighborhoods. For example, if you’re in Barcelona, you might want to search specifically for places in El Raval or Eixample, depending on your vibe.
💰 Budget
- Monthly Rent: Most platforms allow you to filter by price range. Be realistic about your budget and don’t forget to include additional costs like utilities or cleaning fees.
- Utility-Inclusive Rentals: If you’re looking to avoid extra bills, filter your search to find listings that include utilities in the rent, especially important for long-term rentals.
🏠 Type of Accommodation
- Apartment, Room, or Shared Space?: Think about the type of accommodation that best suits you. If you’re looking for more privacy, choose a whole apartment or studio. If you’re okay with shared spaces, you may find better deals by renting a room or a co-living space.
- Furnished or Unfurnished: If you’re only staying for a few months, a furnished place is ideal. For longer stays, you might prefer unfurnished rentals where you can bring your own furniture.
💻 Essential Amenities
- Wi-Fi and Workspaces: As a digital nomad, reliable Wi-Fi and a quiet workspace are a must. Check the property details or filter by amenities like high-speed internet and a dedicated desk area.
- Other Must-Haves: Think about what other features are important to you. For example, air conditioning (especially in summer), pet-friendly spaces, access to a kitchen, or laundry facilities.
⭐ Reviews and Ratings
- Check Reviews: For platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com, and Hostels, reading previous guest reviews can give you valuable insight into the quality of the accommodation and the reliability of the host or landlord.
- Host/Owner Interaction: Pay attention to reviews that mention how responsive or helpful the host is, especially for long-term rentals where communication will be important.
📜 Rental Terms
- Length of Stay: Many platforms let you filter by the length of stay. If you’re looking for a place for a few days, short-term rental platforms like Airbnb or Booking.com are great. For longer stays, filter by monthly or long-term rental options.
- Flexible Terms: If you’re unsure of your exact plans, look for properties that offer flexible cancellation policies or month-to-month lease options.
📆 Availability
- Check Dates: Before you get too excited about a property, make sure it’s available during your preferred stay period. Use the platform’s calendar feature to see if the property is available for your exact dates.
- Instant Booking or Contacting Hosts: If you’re looking for immediate confirmation, filter for listings with instant booking options. For other listings, you may need to contact the host to confirm availability and get more details.
✨ Additional Features
- Pet-Friendly: If you’re traveling with pets, be sure to filter for pet-friendly accommodations. Many platforms now allow you to specifically search for places that welcome animals.
- Safety Features: Check if the accommodation has safety features like a secure building, lockboxes, or 24-hour security, especially if you’re staying in a shared or unfamiliar area.
By customizing your search with these filters, you’ll find options that truly match your lifestyle and needs, making the process of securing accommodation in Spain quicker and more efficient. This step ensures you don’t waste time browsing through listings that don’t meet your criteria, helping you focus on finding your ideal home away from home.
Tips to Save Money on Accommodation in Spain
Finding affordable accommodation is key to making your digital nomad lifestyle sustainable. Whether you’re staying short-term or settling in for a few months, there are plenty of ways to cut costs without sacrificing comfort. These practical tips will help you save money while securing a great place to stay.
1. Book Early to Lock in Lower Prices
Why it Works: Booking your accommodation in advance gives you more options at lower rates. Many platforms offer discounts for early bookings, especially in off-peak months.
2. Travel Off-Peak
Why it Works: Prices tend to drop during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) when fewer tourists are visiting. You’ll avoid price hikes during the busy summer months like July and August.
3. Negotiate with Hosts or Landlords
Why it Works: Many hosts or landlords are open to negotiating rates, especially for long-term stays. Politely ask for a discount or inquire about special offers for digital nomads.
4. Look for Utility-Inclusive Rentals
Why it Works: Utility costs (electricity, water, Wi-Fi) can add up quickly, so finding a rental that includes these costs can save you money and keep things simple.
5. Use Local Facebook Groups & Forums
Why it Works: Many expats and locals post rental listings in Facebook groups, where you can often find better deals and avoid hefty service fees from major platforms. Search for Facebook groups like “Digital Nomads Spain” or “Expats in Barcelona” to discover hidden gems.
Legal and Practical Considerations When Renting Accommodation in Spain
Understanding the legalities of renting in Spain is crucial for a smooth experience. This section provides an overview of what digital nomads need to know.
1. Rental Contracts
- Standard Contracts: In Spain, rental contracts usually last for 1 to 5 years, but many landlords are open to shorter terms for foreigners or digital nomads. Read the contract carefully to avoid surprises.
💡Tip: If you’re renting long-term, ask for a flexible contract with a shorter lease term or the possibility to break it with minimal penalties.
2. NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero)
- What It Is: The NIE is a foreigner identification number, required for many activities like signing rental agreements, opening bank accounts, and more.
💡 Tip: Apply for your NIE as soon as possible to avoid delays when renting long-term.
3. Rent Deposits and Payments
- Deposits: Most landlords require a security deposit (usually one or two months’ rent), which is refundable if there is no damage to the property.
- Payments: Rent is typically paid monthly. Be sure to understand the payment process and whether utilities are included or separate.
4. Insurance
- Why It’s Important: In Spain, rental insurance isn’t always required, but it can protect you from unexpected damages to the property or loss of personal belongings.
💡 Tip: Consider getting renters’ insurance or home contents insurance for peace of mind.
Tips for Settling into Your New Home in Spain
Once you’ve found your accommodation, you’ll want to settle in and make the most of your experience in Spain. This section offers practical tips on making your new home feel like your own.
1. Get to Know Your Neighborhood
Exploring your surroundings will help you feel more at home and discover great spots for work, relaxation, and socializing. Visit local cafes, coworking spaces, and parks where you can meet other digital nomads and locals.
💡 Tip: Use apps like Google Maps and Tripadvisor to find hidden gems, the best-rated restaurants, and digital-nomad-friendly spots.
2. Set Up a Comfortable Workspace
If your accommodation doesn’t come with a dedicated workspace, carve out a productive area for yourself. A small desk or even a quiet corner with good lighting can make a big difference in maintaining focus. If working from home isn’t ideal, check out local coworking spaces.
💡 Tip: Invest in a good chair and desk setup for better posture. Many coworking spaces offer day passes or rental options for ergonomic office furniture.
3. Establish a Routine
Balancing work and leisure is key to making the most of your time in Spain. Having a structured daily routine can help you stay productive while allowing time for exploration. Try working in the morning and sightseeing in the afternoon or vice versa.
💡 Tip: Use apps like Trello or Notion to manage your schedule, track tasks, and stay organized while enjoying your new environment.
4. Meet Other Nomads
Building a social network is essential when living abroad. Attending local events, digital nomad meetups, and language exchanges can help you connect with like-minded people and expand your community.
💡 Tip: Use platforms like Meetup, Facebook groups, and Eventbrite to find digital nomad events, networking sessions, or even casual coffee meetups.
By integrating into your new environment, setting up a productive routine, and meeting fellow travelers, you’ll get the most out of your stay in Spain while enjoying a fulfilling work-life balance.
Conclusion: Finding Your Ideal Ditgital Nomad Base in Spain
Spain offers digital nomads a wide range of accommodation options, from short-term rentals to long-term stays, co-living spaces, and even cost-free solutions like house sitting and home exchanges. The best choice depends on your budget, lifestyle, and personal preferences:
✅ If you value flexibility, short-term rentals on Airbnb, Booking.com, or Vrbo allow you to move around easily.⏳
✅ If you’re looking for stability, long-term rentals on Idealista, Fotocasa, and Spotahomeoffer the best value for extended stays. 🏠
✅ For a social experience, co-living spaces found on CoLiving.com or NomadaGo provide a built-in community of like-minded professionals. 👫
✅ If you want to save on rent, house sitting (TrustedHousesitters, HouseCarers, Nomador) and home exchanges (HomeExchange, Love Home Swap) let you live for free with some responsibilities. 🐾🔄
✅ For short stays on a budget, hostels and budget hotels found on Hostelworld and Booking.com offer convenience and affordability. 💰
Once you’ve found the right place, use filtering tools, read reviews, and check for essential amenities like Wi-Fi and workspace options to ensure a smooth stay. By planning ahead and using the right platforms, you can find affordable accommodation that supports both your work and lifestyle in Spain. 🌍✨
No matter your choice, Spain has something for every digital nomad—from vibrant cities to tranquil coastal retreats. With the right accommodation, you’ll be set to enjoy the country’s culture, food, and relaxed way of life while staying productive. Safe travels and happy house-hunting! 🚀😊
What’s Your Go-To Accommodation as a Digital Nomad in Spain?
We’d love to hear from you! 🏡🌍
- Have you found an affordable place to stay in Spain?
- Which accommodation type worked best for you?
- Any tips or hidden gems for fellow digital nomads?
- What platforms or strategies helped you save the most money?
👉 Questions? Comments? Drop a comment below and share your experience! 👇
You want to work remotly from Spain but don’t know where to start? Check out our guide 4 Simple Steps to Become a Digital Nomad in Spain! 🚀 Whether you’re just starting out or already soaking up the Spanish sun, this guide will provide you with everything you need to navigate your digital nomad journey in Spain.
