Cost of Living: Madrid vs Perth (2026)
Spain vs Australia — relocation comparison
For the Kids
Schools, pediatric care, and whether your children can actually enroll
Sources: OECD PISA 2022 · Wikipedia · Numbeo · official health systems
Settler Essentials
Sources: EIU · Freedom House · Startup Genome · IEA · official immigration portals
The Short Version
- •Rent is 18% cheaper in Madrid ($1498/mo vs $1821/mo for a 1BR city centre).
- •Summers are slightly warmer in Madrid (31°C vs 29°C).
- •Perth scores higher on democracy (8.7 vs 8.1 / 10 EIU).
- •English is easier to get by in Perth (95/100 vs 62/100 English proficiency).
Madrid vs Perth — Common Questions
Is Madrid cheaper than Perth?▾
Madrid is cheaper. A 1-bedroom apartment in city centre costs around $1498/month in Madrid vs $1821/month in the other city (Numbeo data).
Which is safer, Madrid or Perth?▾
Madrid is statistically safer based on UNODC homicide data. Madrid has a rate of 0.61 per 100,000 and Perth has 0.83 per 100,000.
Should I move to Madrid or Perth?▾
Too close to call — 69 vs 66. Madrid has a slight edge, but Perth might suit you better depending on your priorities. 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 Madrid or Perth?▾
Madrid: Spain Digital Nomad Visa (moderate requirements, 1 year (renewable to 5)). Perth: no specific remote work visa. See each city's profile page for full requirements.
Which has better weather, Madrid or Perth?▾
Madrid is warmer in summer (31°C vs 29°C). Perth 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 Madrid or Perth without speaking the local language?▾
English is easier to get by in Perth (EF EPI score: 95/100) than in Madrid (62/100). In Perth, daily life and professional settings often work in English. In Madrid, learning some of the local language will make long-term settlement significantly smoother.
Don't agree? Take the quiz and see what fits you.
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