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What it's actually like here
Fancy calling the Basque Country home? This northern Spanish gem offers a genuinely affordable European base. Expect to pay around €850 for a 1-bedroom in the centre, or €650 just outside, which is a steal compared to bigger cities. Your money stretches further here, with monthly groceries averaging €280 and a cheap restaurant meal around €12. Who's it for? Those who appreciate good food, excellent healthcare (score of 82), and a high safety index (80). It particularly suits nomads who are comfortable with a smaller community and medium English proficiency. Internet speeds are solid at 160 Mbps, and there are 12 coworking spaces. The honest caveat? While the visa process is easy and the lifestyle score is high (78), the nomad community is definitely "small." If you thrive on a bustling, established digital nomad scene, you might find it a bit quiet. But if you're looking for an authentic, budget-friendly Spanish experience, it could be your perfect fit.
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Who this suits
Featured neighbourhoods
Neighbourhood guides coming soon for Bilbao.
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Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to live in Bilbao as a digital nomad?+
As of 2026, a 1-bedroom apartment in the centre of Bilbao averages around $850 per month, and the overall cost-of-living index sits at 62 (vs Switzerland = 101). Nomads typically budget extra for coworking, eating out, and travel.
Is Bilbao safe for digital nomads?+
Bilbao scores 80/100 on our composite safety index, which blends the Global Peace Index, crime stats and traveller-advisory data. Most nomad-friendly neighbourhoods feel comfortable to walk in day and night.
How fast is the internet in Bilbao?+
Headline average internet speed in Bilbao is around 160 Mbps based on Ookla Speedtest data. That's enough for video calls, large file uploads and most remote-work needs in central neighbourhoods — coworking spaces and serviced apartments usually run faster than that.
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