When you arrive in Madrid as an Erasmus student, one of the first (and biggest) decisions you’ll face is where to live. The two most popular options are residencias universitarias (residence halls) and pisos compartidos (shared flats). Both have advantages and drawbacks depending on your budget, lifestyle, and expectations. Here’s a full comparison to help you decide:
Residence Hall (Residencia Universitaria)
Pros:
Location: Many are near universities or have excellent metro/bus connections.
All-in-one living: Rent usually includes meals (half or full board), cleaning, laundry, Wi-Fi, and utilities.
Social life guaranteed: Easy to meet people quickly, since you’ll be surrounded by other students (local and international).
Great facilities: Gyms, study rooms, common areas, and sometimes even swimming pools or music rooms.
Cons:
Less cultural immersion: You’ll mostly interact with students, so it may feel like a bubble away from “real Madrid life.”
More expensive: Prices can range from €900 to €1,500 per month, depending on the location and services included.
Less independence: Curfews, rules about visitors, and shared schedules can feel restrictive.
Shared Flat (Piso Compartido)
Pros:
Flexibility: Easier to find something that fits your budget and preferred neighborhood.
Cheaper: Prices usually range between €400 and €700 per month (depending on neighborhood, size, and bills).
More independence: You set your own rules, choose your flatmates (sometimes), and live a “real” Madrid lifestyle.
Cultural exchange: Many shared flats include both Spanish students and internationals, so you can practice Spanish daily.
Cons:
Housing search stress: Finding a flat in Madrid (especially in September) can be competitive and stressful.
Extra responsibilities: You’ll need to manage bills, groceries, and cleaning (unless arranged with flatmates).
Flatmate lottery: If you don’t click with your roommates, it can affect your Erasmus experience.
So… Which One Should You Choose?
- If you want comfort, structure, and zero worries, go for a residence hall.
- If you prefer independence, flexibility, and saving money, a shared flat is the way to go.
Many Erasmus students start in a residence for the first months (to settle quickly) and then move to a shared flat once they know the city better.
You can find out about the best neighborhoods to live in Madrid on one of our blogs: The best neighborhoods for your Erasmus experience in Madrid