The Affordable Minimalist Lifestyle in Northern Spain: Costs, Tips, and Advice

Living a minimalist lifestyle in northern Spain can be both accessible and rewarding, offering a lifestyle that is both budget-friendly and sustainable. Costs can vary significantly based on the specific city or region, but a general estimate based on typical expenses as of 2023 provides a good starting point for planning.

Living Costs

The cost of living a basic minimalist lifestyle in northern Spain can vary. However, a general estimate based on typical expenses can provide a clear picture:

Rent

Basic Apartment:
Meaning a one-bedroom apartment in the city center in cities like Bilbao or San Sebastián, the cost might range from €800 to €1200 per month. Smaller towns or rural areas can see this drop to €400 to €700 per month.

Food

Groceries:
A budget for groceries for one person can range from €200 to €350 per month, depending on dietary preferences and shopping habits. This amount would cover staple items like bread, rice, vegetables, fruits, meat, and dairy.

Utilities and Other Expenses

Utilities:
Expect to pay around €100 to €150 per month for electricity, heating, water, and garbage.

Internet:
A monthly internet subscription costs around €30 to €50.

Transportation:
Public transport, if relied upon, can budget about €30 to €50 per month.

Total Estimated Monthly Costs

Combining these estimates:
For an urban area like Bilbao or San Sebastián, the monthly cost for a minimalist lifestyle might range from €1200 to €1800, including rent, food, utilities, internet, and transportation.

For a more affordable lifestyle in rural areas, the total might drop to between €800 and €1200 per month.

My Personal Experience in Infiesto, Asturias

I currently live in Infiesto, a town in northern Spain located about 45 km from Oviedo and 50 km from Gijón in Asturias. Housing is particularly affordable here:

A one-bedroom apartment in my town costs €185 to €250 per month. In Oviedo and Gijón, an apartment can range from €300 to €400, depending on location and whether the apartment is furnished. Renting a room in Oviedo and Gijón can also be in the range of €185 to €250.

Food is similarly inexpensive, with €25 per week being sufficient, depending on your preferences.

I exist on a budget where I don't spend any money, living here for free for over a year. I participate in a program called , where I volunteer five hours a day, five days a week, in exchange for meals, a free room, and usually free internet.

Through this program, I don't need a phone contract and instead connect to Wi-Fi and use WhatsApp for texts and FaceTime for calls. You can check out for housing, which is similar to Craigslist in the US.

These experiences can be useful for those looking to start a minimalist lifestyle in northern Spain.

Closing Thoughts

Living a minimalist lifestyle in northern Spain is both achievable and sustainable, thanks to affordable housing and budget-friendly food options. By considering these costs and staying flexible, you can enjoy a simple, cost-effective lifestyle in one of Europe's most scenic regions.