Free Tool

Your Real Rental Budget

Most expats underestimate the upfront cost of renting in Spain. Use this calculator to see exactly what you'll need on signing day — no surprises.

What type of lease are you signing?

Your monthly rent €2,200 / mo
€500€4,000

Cost breakdown — step by step

1
First month's rent
Paid upfront, covers your first 30 days
€2,200
pending

How it works

Renting in Spain costs significantly more upfront than most people expect. Under Spanish rental law (Ley de Arrendamientos Urbanos, or LAU), the legal deposit (fianza) is 1 month's rent. Additional guarantees are capped at 2 months for standard vivienda leases, for a total guarantee value of up to 3 months. On top of that, you'll typically need to cover the first month's rent. For vivienda habitual (primary residence) leases, the landlord pays agency and contract formalisation costs by law (LAU Art. 20.1, as modified by Ley 12/2023). For seasonal or temporary contracts, the tenant may be charged. This tool calculates your realistic signing-day budget based on your specific situation. All calculations run in your browser. We do not store your inputs or share your data.

  • The legal deposit (fianza) is 1 month's rent. Additional guarantees are capped at 2 months for standard vivienda leases, for a total guarantee value of up to 3 months.
  • For vivienda habitual (primary residence) leases, the landlord pays agency and contract formalisation costs by law (LAU Art. 20.1, as modified by Ley 12/2023). For seasonal or temporary contracts, the tenant may be charged.
  • First month's rent - due on signing in most cases
  • Guarantor bond (aval bancario) - an optional bank-issued guarantee some landlords request
  • Utility connection deposits - electricity, water, and internet providers sometimes require a small deposit

FAQ

How much deposit can a landlord ask for in Spain?

Who pays the agency fee when renting in Spain?

What is a guarantor bond (aval bancario) in Spain?

Are rental prices regulated in Spain?

What is the minimum lease length for residential rentals in Spain?

Does this tool cover Portugal?

How often is this tool updated?

Tool data reviewed monthly. Last verified March 2026. This tool is for estimation purposes only - confirm final figures with a licensed advisor or lawyer.

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