Lately, I’ve seen many people asking what Barcelona is like now. As someone who has lived here for almost 6 years, I want to share my honest feelings. To be frank, the city has changed a lot, for better and for worse.
Cost of Living
Let’s start with the most practical issue: money. Rents in Barcelona have skyrocketed in recent years. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center now typically costs between €900 and €1,200, at least 30% more than in 2020. However, if you’re willing to live in neighborhoods a bit further out like Sants or Gracia, you can still find options for around €700. Grocery prices are reasonable; Mercadona and Lidl are priced similarly to Madrid, and €300 is enough for a month’s worth of groceries.
A Necessary Mention: The Safety Situation
This is a sensitive topic, but it needs to be discussed. Pickpocketing is a real issue on Las Ramblas and in the Gothic Quarter, especially during tourist season. I haven’t been a victim myself, but many of my friends have. Try to avoid walking alone in narrow alleys after 10 PM, particularly in the Raval area. Overall, though, as long as you’re mindful, it’s generally safe; violent crime isn’t a major concern here.
Job Opportunities and Income
For the tech industry, Barcelona is quite decent, with many startups and multinational companies. A junior developer can expect to earn around €25k-€35k a year, which is slightly lower than in Madrid. There are also plenty of jobs in the service industry, but the pay is average, with restaurant staff earning about €1,200-€1,500 per month. Knowing Catalan is definitely a plus for some jobs, though it’s not always required.
Here’s a comparison of a few major districts I’ve put together:
| District | Monthly Rent | Safety Score | Transport Links |
|---|
| Eixample | 1100€ | 8/10 | 9/10 |
| Gracia | 850€ | 9/10 | 8/10 |
| Raval | 700€ | 6/10 | 9/10 |
| Sants | 750€ | 8/10 | 9/10 |
Ultimately, whether Barcelona is still a great choice depends on what you’re looking for. If you love beaches, a mild climate, and a relatively relaxed pace of life, it’s still a fantastic place. But if you’re chasing a high salary or are particularly concerned about safety, Madrid or other European cities might be a better fit. Personally, I have no plans to leave. Despite its problems, the city’s charm endures.
One final piece of advice: if you’re really considering moving to Barcelona, I recommend visiting for a month or two to get a real feel for the city, beyond just attractions like its famous Barcelona players. Don’t make your decision based solely on online photos. Everyone’s experience is different; the best choice is the one that’s right for you.
