Cost of Living: Bilbao vs Florence (2026)
Spain vs Italy — relocation comparison
Settler Essentials
Sources: EIU · Freedom House · Startup Genome · IEA · official immigration portals
The Short Version
- •Rent is 4% cheaper in Bilbao ($1259/mo vs $1316/mo for a 1BR city centre).
- •Summers are noticeably warmer in Florence (30°C vs 25°C).
- •Bilbao scores higher on democracy (8.1 vs 7.6 / 10 EIU).
- •Street-level English is easier in Bilbao (38/100 vs 29/100).
Bilbao vs Florence — Common Questions
Is Bilbao cheaper than Florence?▾
Bilbao is cheaper. A 1-bedroom apartment in city centre costs around $1259/month in Bilbao vs $1316/month in the other city (Numbeo data).
Which is safer, Bilbao or Florence?▾
Florence is statistically safer based on UNODC homicide data. Bilbao has a rate of 0.69 per 100,000 and Florence has 0.55 per 100,000.
Should I move to Bilbao or Florence?▾
Bilbao and Florence are almost suspiciously well-matched. Flip a coin. See the full comparison above for rent, safety, internet speed, climate, and democracy scores to decide which city fits your priorities.
Is it easier to get residency in Bilbao or Florence?▾
Bilbao: no specific remote work visa. Florence: Italy Digital Nomad Visa (moderate requirements, 1 year (renewable)). See each city's profile page for full requirements.
Which has better weather, Bilbao or Florence?▾
Florence is warmer in summer (30°C vs 25°C). Bilbao has milder summers, which suits those who prefer cooler weather. Climate preference is personal — use the weather section above to compare seasons.
Can I live in Bilbao or Florence without speaking the local language?▾
Bilbao is easier for street-level English (38/100) than Florence (29/100). That's the score that matters for doctors, landlords, and bureaucracy. Office English can still run higher than street English in both cities.
Don't agree? Take the quiz and see what fits you.
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