Is a student residence worth the money?

If convenience, security and an active social environment are important to you, many students find the extra cost worthwhile.

Are utility bills included in shared flats?

Not always. Some landlords include utilities in the monthly rent, while others charge them separately.

Which option is more popular with international students?

Shared flats are the most common choice among international students, particularly for master's programmes. Student residences are especially popular with first-year and exchange students.

When should I start looking for accommodation in Madrid?

Ideally, between 3 and 5 months before your arrival, especially if you're moving to Madrid for the September intake.

Student residences vs shared flats Madrid: Which Option Is Right for You?

Jul 20

4 min read

Updated: Jul 22

Not sure whether to choose a student residence or a shared flat in Madrid?

Compare prices, pros and cons, and find the best accommodation for your lifestyle and budget.

A split-screen image.

Left:
Modern student residence.

Right:
Bright shared apartment with students cooking together.

Introduction

Moving to Madrid is an exciting experience, but before packing your suitcase there's one important decision you'll need to make:

Where are you going to live?

For most international students, the two main options are student residences and shared flats.

Both offer very different experiences, budgets and lifestyles.

Some students love the convenience and social atmosphere of a residence, while others prefer the independence and affordability of sharing an apartment.

In this guide, we'll help you compare both options so you can choose the one that best matches your needs.

Student residences vs shared flats Madrid

Quick Comparison

	Student Residence	Shared Flat
Average Price	€900–1,500+	€600–1,000
Bills Included	Usually	⚠ Sometimes
Social Life	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐
Security	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐
Cleaning	Often included	Usually not
Meals	Sometimes included	No
Independence	⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Neighbourhood Choice	Limited	Very flexible

What Is a Student Residence?

modern residence lobby with international students

Student residences are purpose-built accommodation designed specifically for university students.

Most residences offer fully furnished rooms, study spaces, gyms, laundry facilities, common areas and organised social events throughout the academic year.

Many international students choose this option because everything is ready before they arrive in Spain.

Advantages

✅ Easy to book before travelling

✅ Fully furnished

✅ Bills usually included

✅ High level of security

✅ International community

✅ Social events

✅ Gym, study rooms and shared spaces

Things to Consider

❌ Higher monthly cost

❌ Less privacy

❌ Waiting lists

❌ Rules regarding visitors and quiet hours

Average Prices

Type	Average Price
Shared Room	€700–900
Private Room	€900–1,300
Premium Residences	€1,400–1,800+

💡 Living 360º Tip

The best student residences often fill up several months before September. If you're planning to study in Madrid, it's worth starting your search as early as possible.

What Is a Shared Flat?

bright apartment with students in the kitchen

A shared flat means renting your own bedroom while sharing common areas such as the kitchen, bathrooms and living room with other students or young professionals.

This is the most common accommodation option among international students in Madrid.

Advantages

✅ More affordable

✅ Greater independence

✅ More neighbourhood choices

✅ Live like a local

✅ Flexible contracts

Things to Consider

❌ Property quality varies

❌ Utilities may not be included

❌ Compatibility with flatmates

❌ More paperwork

Average Prices

Type	Average Price
Private Room	€600–900
Premium Room	€900–1,100
Studio Apartment	€1,100–1,800+

Which One Fits Your Lifestyle?

Student residences vs shared flats Madrid

Choose a Student Residence if...

✔ It's your first time living abroad.

✔ You want to make friends immediately.

✔ You prefer everything organised.

✔ You're happy paying more for convenience.

✔ You enjoy organised activities and student events.

Choose a Shared Flat if...

✔ You're on a tighter budget.

✔ You value independence.

✔ You already know other students.

✔ You want to experience everyday life in Madrid.

✔ You'd like to choose your neighbourhood.

Cost Comparison

Expense	Residence	Shared Flat
Rent	Higher	Lower
Electricity	Usually Included	Sometimes Extra
Internet	Included	Sometimes Extra
Cleaning	Often Included	Your Responsibility
Meals	Sometimes Included	Not Included

Which Option Is Better for International Students?

There isn't one correct answer.

The best option depends on your priorities.

If convenience, security and social life matter most, a student residence could be the perfect choice.

If your priority is saving money and enjoying more freedom, a shared flat is usually the better option.

At Living 360 Spain, we always recommend considering:

Your university
Your monthly budget
Your lifestyle
Your preferred neighbourhood
Your arrival date

before making a final decision.

How Living 360º Spain Can Help

Finding accommodation from another country isn't always easy.

At Living 360 Spain, we help international students compare verified accommodation options, avoid common scams and find the solution that best fits their university, budget and lifestyle.

Whether you're looking for a student residence or a shared apartment, we'll guide you every step of the way.

👉 Explore our Student Accommodation Services

Frequently Asked Questions

Are student residences worth the extra cost?
If convenience, security and an active social environment are important to you, many students find the extra cost worthwhile.
Are bills included in shared flats?
Not always. Some landlords include utilities in the monthly rent, while others charge them separately.
Which option is more popular in Madrid?
Shared flats are the most common choice among international students, particularly for master's programmes. Student residences are especially popular with first-year and exchange students.
When should I start looking for accommodation?
Ideally, between 3 and 5 months before your arrival, especially if you're moving to Madrid for the September intake.