How to find student accommodation in Madrid: 2025 guide for internationals

Introduction

Finding a place to live in a new city can be exciting—but for many international students, it’s also one of the most daunting parts of moving abroad. If you’re planning to study in Madrid in 2025, securing the right student accommodation early on is key to starting your academic journey smoothly.

Madrid offers a vibrant mix of neighborhoods, housing options, and lifestyles. But with so many choices—and legalities to navigate—it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s why we’ve created this practical guide to help you:

• Understand the best student-friendly neighborhoods in Madrid
• Learn about average rent prices and budgeting for student life
• Discover top platforms to search for housing
• Get insider tips to avoid common pitfalls
• See how the European School of Economics (ESE) supports you every step of the way

Live in Madrid? Best areas in 2025

Madrid is a city of neighborhoods—each with its own character, pace, and perks. As an international student, your choice of where to live will shape your daily routine, social life, and even your academic performance. The good news? There’s something for everyone.

Here are some of the best areas for students in 2025, based on accessibility, safety, affordability, and proximity to the ESE Madrid campus:

1. Salamanca

One of Madrid’s most elegant districts, Salamanca offers a safe, residential vibe with tree-lined boulevards and upscale shops. It’s well-connected by metro and just a short commute to ESE. Expect slightly higher rent, but excellent quality of life.

2. Chamberí

Classic and quiet, Chamberí is popular among local families and students alike. The area combines traditional architecture with modern amenities and boasts a relaxed, authentic feel. You’ll find cozy cafés, libraries, and easy metro access.

3. Moncloa / Argüelles

Located near several major universities, these neighborhoods are packed with student housing, affordable eateries, and bookstores. A lively yet manageable student vibe makes this a popular pick—especially for younger students seeking a social atmosphere.

4. Lavapiés & Malasaña

For students looking for creativity and affordability, Lavapiés and Malasaña are among the trendiest districts in Madrid. These central neighborhoods offer a bohemian lifestyle with access to international food, coworking spaces, and art events. Be mindful, though—some areas can be noisier than others.

5. Retiro / Atocha

Close to Madrid’s largest park, ESE, and cultural landmarks, this area blends nature with convenience. Retiro is ideal for students who enjoy calm, green surroundings, while Atocha is a hub for transportation and museums, with a slightly more urban feel.

Each of these neighborhoods brings something different to the table. Your decision will likely depend on your budget, lifestyle, and preferred commute time. 

Average rent prices and budgeting tips

Rent in Madrid varies by area and housing type. Here’s a quick overview of what students typically pay:

Tips:

• Utilities may add  up to €100/month if not included.
• Central areas are pricier—living near a metro line can save money.
• Ask if the place is furnished and what the deposit terms are.

Start your search early—2–3 months ahead is ideal.

For student housing

To make your housing search easier, we’ve compiled a list of the most reliable platforms for finding student accommodation in Madrid. These are trusted by both locals and international students and are updated regularly with new listings:

Idealista

Spain’s most popular real estate platform. Offers filters by price, neighborhood, type of property, and more. Available in English and widely used by both private landlords and agencies.

Spotahome

Ideal for international students. Features virtual video tours and verified listings, which is helpful if you’re unable to visit in person before moving.

Uniplaces

Student-focused booking platform offering short- and long-term rentals. They also provide customer support in multiple languages and offer discount codes for verified students.

Facebook Groups

Search for groups like “Madrid Student Housing”, “Erasmus Madrid 2025”, or “International Students Madrid”. These communities often post last-minute offers, room swaps, or private listings not found elsewhere.

HousingAnywhere & Erasmusu

Popular among exchange students and internationals. These platforms also provide helpful city guides and reviews.

Pro Tip: Bookmark your favorite listings, and set up alerts for new options in your preferred neighborhood. The best places tend to go fast—especially between May and August.

ESE’s student services: how we help you dind the right home

At the European School of Economics (ESE) Madrid, we understand how important it is to feel settled and safe when moving to a new country. That’s why our Student Services Department offers personalized support to help every enrolled student find the right place to live—based on your budget, preferences, and lifestyle.

Here’s how we support you:

• 1-on-1 Housing Consultations: Once you’re officially enrolled, our team will contact you to understand your needs—whether you prefer a residence, private room, or shared apartment.
• Curated Housing Options: We present you with a selection of verified housing options, taking into account your budget and desired location.
• Exclusive Residence Partnerships: We have partnerships with several trusted student residences and housing platforms, including Spotahome and DoveVivo, offering exclusive discounts and verified accommodation options for ESE students. For the most up-to-date list of our housing partners, you can visit the ESE Madrid page on our website.
• Help with Documents & Contracts: Our staff assists you with understanding Spanish rental agreements, preparing any necessary paperwork, and navigating communication with landlords or agencies.
• Local Tips & Advice: Not sure where to live or what to look out for? We provide insider insights to help you make a confident decision.
  Moving abroad doesn’t have to mean figuring everything out on your own. ESE is here to support you from the moment you secure your place at the school to the day you move in.

Finding student accommodation in Madrid might seem challenging at first—but with the right information, tools, and support, it’s a smooth and rewarding process. From trendy districts like Malasaña to the elegant streets of Salamanca, Madrid offers housing options for every type of student.

With the dedicated help of ESE’s Student Services team, verified accommodation partners, and a proactive approach to planning, you’ll be ready to start your studies with confidence—and a key in hand.

Have questions or need help getting started? Contact our team at ESE Madrid and we’ll guide you through every step of your relocation journey.