Exchange in Spain: is it possible to live on a minimum wage?
Dreaming of a study season in Spain is the first step in transforming your life and career. But a common question among exchange students is: is it possible to work for minimum wage and be able to support yourself during the exchange? The answer is: it depends on your lifestyle and the region you choose - but with proper planning, it's possible!
Spain has established itself as one of the preferred exchange destinations for Brazilians, combining high quality education, rich culture and a job market that welcomes international students. Let's explore how the Spanish minimum wage can suit different exchange student profiles.
The minimum wage in Spain in 2025
Spain continues to invest in the valuation of its workers, with the minimum wage reaching €1,381 per month in 2025 (considering 12 annual payments). This amount is the result of an adjustment to the official salary of €1,184, which in Spain is traditionally distributed over 14 payments throughout the year.
Quick comparison:
- Spanish minimum wage: €1,381/month (approximately R$ 8,458)
- Brazilian minimum wage: R$ 1,518/month
This significant difference already gives a clue as to how the financial experience in Spain may be more favorable than many Brazilians imagine, but it's important to consider your lifestyle and goals.
The real buying power of the exchange student in Spain
To understand whether you can live well with the Spanish minimum wage, we need to look beyond the nominal value. Purchasing power — what you can actually acquire with that money — is 3.37 times greater in Spain than in Brazil!
In practical terms, this means that even if you earn the minimum in Spain, your money yields much more than the minimum wage in Brazil. This is one of the reasons why the program Study and Work in Spain has attracted more and more Brazilians.
The cost of living in different Spanish cities
The cost of living varies significantly between Spanish cities. While Madrid and Barcelona are known for higher rents, other cities offer excellent quality of life at more affordable costs.
Madrid and Barcelona (more expensive cities):
- Shared room rental: €450-650
- Monthly food: €250
- Shipping: €30-40
Medium-sized cities (Valencia, Sevilla, Málaga):
- Shared room rent: €300-450
- Monthly food: €200-250
- Shipping: €25-35
Smaller cities (Granada, Salamanca, Alicante):
- Shared room rental: €250-350
- Monthly food: €180-230
- Shipping: €20-30
Be Easy tip: University cities such as Granada, Salamanca and Valencia offer excellent value for money exchange students, combining academic tradition, quality of life and affordable costs!
Is it possible to live on a minimum wage during the exchange?
The most accurate answer is: it depends on your lifestyle and the city you choose. Even working 20 hours a week (half full time), you will receive approximately €690 monthly. This amount can cover your basic expenses in many Spanish cities, but it's essential to consider:
- Your spending profile: If you go out a lot, dine out frequently, or travel on weekends, your budget may be tight
- The chosen city: In Madrid or Barcelona, even with a strict economy, it can be challenging; in smaller cities, the same amount allows for a more comfortable life
- Type of accommodation: Sharing an apartment significantly reduces your housing expenses
- Consumption habits: Cooking at home versus eating out, using public transport versus taxis
It is highly recommended to have a emergency reserve before starting your exchange. Ideally, this reservation should cover at least 3 months of basic expenses, ensuring peace of mind if you delay finding work or unforeseen events arise.
Strategies for living well on minimum wage in Spain
If you're determined to embark on this journey, some strategies can help balance your budget:
- Share apartment with other students to divide rental and utility costs
- Choose medium-sized cities with a more affordable cost of living
- Take advantage of student discounts in transportation, museums and cultural activities
- Cooking at home and limit dining out to special occasions
- Explore cost-effective transportation options Like biking or hiking
- Establish a strict monthly budget and track your spending regularly
- Search for opportunities in sectors with tips Like restaurants and bars
Study, work and still save in Spain
Depending on the region chosen and the lifestyle adopted, it is even possible to save money during the experience in Spain. This is especially so because:
- The euro is a strong currency that values your savings
- Job opportunities in sectors such as tourism and hospitality often include tips and additional benefits.
- O cost of education in Spain It is more accessible than in other European countries
Sectors that employ the most exchange students in Spain
Some sectors of the Spanish economy are particularly receptive to international students:
- Hospitality and tourism: hotels, restaurants, bars and tourist attractions
- Language teaching: high demand for native Portuguese teachers
- Technology and startups: especially for those with digital skills
- Multinational customer service: call centers and technical support
- Retail trade: shops and establishments in tourist areas
The starting salary is generally the minimum, but with the experience and development of specific skills, it is common to achieve salary progression.
How Be Easy can help you achieve your dream
A Be Easy Exchange is committed to making your dream of studying and working in Spain a reality! Our program Study and Work in Spain offers full support with course, accommodation, and guidance for entering the local labor market.
Our advisors help you choose the city that best fits your profile and financial objectives, ensuring realistic planning that considers your lifestyle and expectations. Contact us today and discover how to turn this opportunity into a game-changer in your international career!
