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Pamplona, the capital of Navarre province in northern Spain, is renowned for offering a high quality of life to its residents and internationals. It boasts good public services, such as health, transport, and education, making it an ideal city to live in. However, make sure you are aware of the cost of living in Pamplona before moving there.
Living expenses are a huge concern for any expat or student planning to move abroad. Pamplona offers a high quality of life with a relatively affordable cost of living compared to other nearby cities. Proper budgeting is crucial for ensuring a comfortable stay here. In this blog, we will discuss in detail the average cost of living in Pamplona that you can expect to bear while staying in the city. Without further ado keep reading the blog!
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Cost of Living in Pamplona: Overview
The average cost of living in Pamplona for one person, including housing rent, is approximately EUR 1234, according to LivingCost. When factoring in apartment rent, expenses range from EUR 500 to EUR 616. However, living costs in Pamplona can vary based on lifestyle, location, and personal preferences.
For international expatriates, the cost of living in Pamplona includes expenses such as housing rent, food, groceries, utilities, transportation, and entertainment. Below is an overview of the average costs across various categories for those considering a move to Pamplona:
Also Read: Cost of Living in Cambodia: Updated Prices, Comparison with Other Cities
Costs of Accommodation in Pamplona
Calculating the cost of living in Pamplona involves considering accommodation as a significant factor. Housing costs vary depending on where you live, the size of the place, and the type of housing you choose. For instance, a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre of Pamplona, the capital city, can cost around EUR 875.
It’s wise to research and compare different accommodation options in Pamplona to find one that fits your needs and budget. Larger apartments or those with extra amenities may come with higher costs. Below, we’ve compiled average housing costs for various apartments both within and outside Pamplona’s city centre for your convenience.
| Type of Apartmnets | Average Costs |
| Apartment (1 bedroom) in City Centre | EUR 875 |
| Apartment (1 bedroom) Outside of Centre | EUR 750 |
| Apartment (3 bedrooms) in City Centre | EUR 1175 |
| Apartment (3 bedrooms) Outside of Centre | EUR 975 |
Cost of Grocery in Pamplona
Now that you have seen the cost of dining at restaurants, it’s a wise idea for students to consider cooking at home. By buying groceries from local markets, students can save money. Grocery prices in Pamplona are relatively high compared to many major cities in Spain with high quality. It is essential to compare prices to get the best value for your money.
Local markets offer fresh produce at lower prices than supermarkets. The cost of groceries can significantly impact the overall cost of living in Pamplona. The table below lists the average grocery expenses in the Pamplona city:
| Grocery Item | Average Costs |
| Milk (regular), 1 liter | EUR 1.19 |
| Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g) | EUR 0.97 |
| Rice (white), 1kg | EUR 1.24 |
| Eggs (regular, 12) | EUR 2.66 |
| Local Cheese (1kg) | EUR 12.27 |
| Milk (regular), 1 litre | EUR 2.35 |
| Banana (1kg) | EUR 2.11 |
| Oranges (1kg) | EUR 1.53 |
| Tomato (1kg) | EUR 1.86 |
| Potato (1kg) | EUR 1.33 |
| Onion (1kg) | EUR 1.17 |
| Lettuce (1 head) | EUR 0.86 |
| Water (1.5 liter bottle) | EUR 0.79 |
Costs of Dining in Pamplona
Pamplona offers diverse dining options, from local eateries to upscale restaurants. Dining out can be pricier than cooking in your room and it may impact your overall budget for the cost of living in Pamplona. While dining expenses might be a bit higher compared to other places, the variety and quality of food choices make it worth spending on a great dining experience. The table below shows the average restaurant costs you can expect to bear in Pamplona:
| Type of Restaurant | Approx Cost of Meal in Restaurant |
| Meal for 2 person (in a Mid-range Restaurant) | EUR 50 |
| Meal at an inexpensive restaurant | EUR 12 |
| Equal meal. to McDonald’s | EUR 8.50 |
| (Regular Coffee) Cappuccino | EUR 2.08 |
Costs of Utility in Pamplona
The monthly utility cost for a one-bedroom apartment in Pamplona is usually around EUR 126. This expense can vary based on usage and the apartment’s size. When budgeting your monthly living expenses in Pamplona, it’s essential to consider utility costs, as they cover a significant portion of your cost of living in Pamplona. Below is a table offering an overview of the average utility bills in Pamplona: Here are the average utility costs in the city:
| Type of Utility | Approx Cost |
| Basic Utility Cost (Heating, Electricity, Cooling, Water, and Garbage) for 85m2 Apartment | EUR 126 |
| Monthly Plan of Mobile Phone with Calls and 10GB+ Data | EUR 20 |
| Internet (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL) | EUR 44 |
Cost of Transportation in Pamplona
Pamplona boasts an efficient public transportation system, offering affordable travel options. You can travel around Pamplona by car, bus, train, tram, or boat. A monthly transport pass costs approximately EUR 33, and a single ticket for local public transport is about EUR 1.50. Taxis start with a base fare of EUR 3.00, with additional charges per kilometre.
The transportation costs in Pamplona with public transportation are shown in the table shown below:
| Transportation | Approx Costs |
| Price of a One-way Ticket for Local Transport | EUR 1.50 |
| Regular Price of Monthly Pass | EUR 33 |
| Cost of Taxi Start (Normal Tariff) | EUR 3.00 |
| Cost of Taxi 1 km (Normal Tariff) | EUR 1.22 |
| Cost of Taxi 1 hour Waiting (Normal Tariff) | EUR 26.50 |
| Gasoline (1 liter) | EUR 1.62 |
Average Tuition Fees in Pamplona
Now that you are aware of the cost of living in Pamplona, another essential thing you need to know is the tuition fees of the universities of Pamplona. Public universities in Pamplona offer affordable education, while private institutions offer education at a higher cost. However, scholarships and financial aid can significantly help manage these expenses. This guide breaks down the average tuition fees in Pamplona to help you plan your studies better. The table below shows the tuition costs you can expect to pay at universities in Pamplona:
| Type of Courses | Average Annual Tuition Fees |
| Undergraduate Courses | EUR 10,006 to EUR 13,350 |
| Postgraduate Courses | EUR 9,600 to EUR 26,000 |
| PhD Courses | EUR 400 to EUR 3,500 |
Cost of Living in Pamplona Compared to Other Cities
The average cost of living in Pamplona is closely aligned with the global average cost of living. It ranks 44th out of 153 cities in Spain based on living expenses and standards according to LivingCost data. It combines affordability with a decent standard of living, which makes it an attractive choice for residents and students alike.
Compared to the cost of living in cities like Barcelona, Madrid, Valencia, Seville and Spain, Pamplona maintains a competitive edge with its moderate living expenses. To give you a clear idea of how Pamplona compares in terms of the cost of living with these cities, we’ve provided a detailed comparison below. Take a look:
| Cost of Living City Wise | Average Cost of living (including rent) | Approximately equal to Pamplona |
| Cost of Living in Barcelona | EUR 1632 | Lower than Pamplona |
| Cost of Living in Madrid | EUR 1589 | Lower than Pamplona |
| Cost of Living in Valencia | EUR 1323 | Lower than Pamplona |
| Cost of Living in Seville | EUR 1187 | Higher than Pamplona |
| Cost of Living in Spain | EUR 1273 | Approximatly equal to Pamplona |
Also Read: Cost of Living in Rotterdam: A Guide on Expected Expenses
Tips for Managing Cost of Living in Pamplona
Managing the cost of living in Pamplona while studying there can be challenging, but with careful planning and smart choices, you can make it more affordable. Here are some tips to help you manage your expenses:
1. Budget Wisely: Create a monthly budget that includes all your expenses, such as rent, groceries, transportation, and entertainment. Stick to this budget to avoid overspending.
2. Choose Affordable Accommodation: Look for affordable housing options, such as student dormitories or shared apartments. Living with roommates can significantly reduce your rent and utility costs.
3. Take Advantage of Student Discounts: Many shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions offer student discounts. Always carry your student ID and ask if discounts are available to save money on purchases and activities.
4. Limit Entertainment Expenses: While it’s important to enjoy your time in Pamplona, try to limit your spending on entertainment. Look for free or low-cost activities, such as visiting parks, museums, and attending community events.
5. Work Part-Time: Consider finding a part-time job or freelance work to supplement your income. Many students work part-time to help cover their living expenses without interfering with their studies.
6. Plan Ahead: Always plan your expenses ahead of time. Avoid last-minute purchases and impulse buying by making a shopping list and sticking to it. This helps you avoid unnecessary expenses and stay within your budget.
By following these tips, you can effectively manage your cost of living in Pamplona, making your study experience more enjoyable and financially sustainable.
Things to Know When Moving to Pamplona
After getting the idea of tips for managing the cost of living in Pamplona, one should consider some crucial facts about the city beforehand. So that they can enjoy the leisurely of a city. So, here are some of the things you should know before moving to this city:
Walkable Areas
Pamplona is known for its very walkable areas, particularly in the city centre. It is recommended that you should choose to walk wherever you can and use public transportation when necessary.
Affordable Transport
The transportation system in Pamplona is known to be very clean and affordable. The price of a one-way ticket for local transport like bus is just EUR 1.50.
One of Spain’s Greenest Cities
Pamplona is considered one of the greenest cities in Spain. If you are a nature lover, this city is heaven for you.
Why Choose Pamplona to Study Abroad
Before jumping into the cost of living in Pamplona, let’s understand why you should study here in the first place. So, here are some of the main reasons why you should study in this city:
Safe City
Pamplona is considered a safe city for students, boasting low levels of crime and a friendly local community. This makes it an ideal place to live, study, and work.
Great Public Transportation System
Pamplona has a strong public transportation system, which makes it easy for people to navigate and explore.
High Standards of Education
The city houses various top-notch universities known got their academic excellence. Some of the best universities in the city are:
- University of Navarra
- University of Pamplona
- UPNA
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FAQs on Cost of Living in Pamplona
Answer: The cost of living in Pamplona for a single person is approximately EUR 1234 per month. This includes various expenses such as accommodation, food, transportation, and other daily necessities.
Answer: To live comfortably in Pamplona, Spain, you would need approximately EUR 1,234 per month. This amount is equal to the average cost of living in Pamplona which covers various expenses such as accommodation, food, transportation, and other daily necessities.
Answer: Yes, Pamplona is known for offering a high quality of life at the affordable cost of living. The average cost of living in Pamplona for a single person is approximately EUR 1234 per month.
Answer: Pamplona is known for its San Fermin bullfighting festival, which is held every July.
So, this was all about the cost of living in Pamplona. Many Indian students dream of pursuing education in foreign nations due to the exposure and career growth they offer. Consider joining a free counselling session with Leverage Edu if you plan to study abroad.
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