Barcelona's cost of living has steadily increased year after year. Though it is much more expensive than most other cities in Spain, it is still reasonable compared to many other European cities.
Use the Cost of Living calculator to help estimate costs.
Research, research, and introspection should define your pre-accommodation search. Familiarize yourself with the different areas and find where you want to live. Read blogs from the area, find official resources, visit the different areas. Ask yourself questions like:
How big a place do you want? A studio? A three room flat?
Where do you want to live? Somewhere close to your work? In the trendiest part of town? East or West?
What's your price range?
With answers to these important questions you can begin to think of a specific place.
Short-term accommodation can help you and your family get situated after the move without having to make any permanent decisions quite yet. They also offer the opportunity to get to know the area and your needs before picking permanent accommodations.
To find the perfect short-term rental, go to Subrent.
A flatshare is usually a great value and can provide an expat with an opportunity to get to know a new Barcelona with a local. A room in the center costs about 400€.
An important trait in any roommate situation is having boundaries and a clear understanding of what each roommate requires. To protect yourself against potential problems, make sure to have a contract that explicitly states rights and responsibilities.
Hostels are the cheapest option and can be a great place to meet other people and enjoy the boisterous environment. On the other hand, the prominence of Barcelona's club scene may mean that people are here to party rather than sleep.
Update 19/06/2012
Whether you are a student, an expat, or a business traveller, finding a suitable apartment in Barcelona isn't always easy. HOMELIKE provides furnished apartments across Europe.
Furnished accommodations are apartments which are fully equipped with everything you need to live in Spain: kitchen, wi-fi, workspace, washing machines or laundry service... etc. They can be rented over an extended period of time and fully equipped with all necessity.
HOMELIKE customers only need to bring their suitcases when moving to Barcelona. All apartments include bed linen, towels and daily necessities (soap, shampoo, spices, etc.). In addition they provide workspace, high-speed internet, washing machine or laundry service and final cleaning service, all included in the rental price.
30/03/2015