Best Student Accommodation in Madrid, Spain

Several universities in Madrid are featured in QS World University Rankings in Spain, including these four public universities:

Complutense University of Madrid

Complutense University of Madrid (UCM) is one of the largest and oldest universities in Spain and is consistently ranked among the country’s leading institutions in the QS World University Rankings. UCM offers a wide range of programmes in the humanities, social sciences, medicine, science and technology, along with specialised professional schools in law, teaching, and health. 

Autonomous University of Madrid

The Autonomous University of Madrid (UAM) is one of Spain’s leading research universities and is recognised for its international outlook. UAM offers many exchange programmes, international research collaboration, and study-abroad opportunities for students. The university offers various courses in science, law, medicine, psychology, business, economics, arts and humanities, education, and engineering.

Universidad Carlos III de Madrid

Universidad Carlos III de Madrid (UC3M) is one of the best public universities in Spain with a focus on internationalisation. It offers a wide range of English-taught programmes, particularly in business, economics, law, and engineering, making it a popular choice for international students in Madrid. UC3M emphasises career readiness, with strong links to industry and internships, and has a strong reputation for graduate employability and industry connections.

Technical University of Madrid

The Technical University of Madrid (UPM) is a top-ranked technical and engineering university in Spain, recognised for its expertise in engineering, architecture, and applied sciences. It offers programmes in fields such as civil engineering, aerospace, architecture, and IT. UPM stands out thanks to its strong reputation for innovation and hands-on learning, with close ties to industry and research centres, making it an excellent choice for students pursuing practical, career-focused technical degrees.

Student accommodation in Madrid includes various affordable, well-located housing options for different budgets, lifestyles, and university locations. Here are some recommendations, including en-suite, single, and studio options:

Best Student Accommodation in Madrid

• Micampus Foronda 7

• Nido Principe Pio

• Micampus Sancha 10

• Xior Madrid Retiro

Affordable Student Accommodation in Madrid

• BEN1 H.3 - BEN1 (2024)

• GRA18 H.6 - GRA18

• Room Calle Antonio Zamora

• Micampus Aranjuez

Embajadores

Embajadores is one of the more affordable neighbourhoods in central Madrid and among the most popular student neighbourhoods, as it combines modern and traditional vibes. Key highlights in Embajadores, such as El Rastro market, a local favourite flea market, and La Casa Encendida, a cultural and social centre hosting workshops, concerts, and art exhibitions, make the area a place where students can connect with Spanish culture.

Embajadores has excellent public transport connections, with nearby metro stations such as Lavapiés and La Latina, access to the Cercanías commuter rail at Embajadores station, and several bus routes connecting the neighbourhood to other parts of Madrid. Nearby universities include Universidad Carlos III de Madrid and Complutense University of Madrid.

Chamberí 

Chamberí is a traditional district directly north of the city centre that blends historic charm with a relaxed residential atmosphere. The area combines student-friendly amenities with green spaces.  The Andén 0 Metro Museum showcases the city’s historic metro lines, Parque de Santander is a green space perfect for study breaks and leisure, and the Chamberí Market is the spot for local and gourmet food. You can also explore Calle Zurbano to see what Madrid has to offer, from museums and mansions to shops and restaurants.

Chamberí is well connected by public transport, with several metro stations including Line 1, Line 5, and Line 7, and multiple bus routes linking the neighbourhood to other parts of the city. Nearby universities include Complutense University of Madrid and the Technical University of Madrid, making it convenient for commuting students.

Moncloa-Aravaca

Moncloa-Aravaca is one of Madrid’s main university districts and among its best, located next to Ciudad Universitaria, a large campus that hosts many institutions, making it ideal for those who choose to study in Madrid and prefer campus proximity. The area combines student-friendly amenities with green spaces like Parque del Oeste and the scenic Temple of Debod, offering a balance between campus life and leisure.

Moncloa-Aravaca has strong public transport links, with Moncloa station connecting several metro lines, including Line 3 and Line 6, as well as regional buses and routes directly to campus, giving students in Madrid easy access to universities while remaining close to central Madrid and cultural attractions. Nearby universities include Complutense University of Madrid, Technical University of Madrid, and the Autonomous University of Madrid.

La Latina

La Latina is a historic, popular neighbourhood in central Madrid, popular among students for its bustling streets and lively plazas. It’s famous for the charming Plaza de la Cebada, where you can soak in local culture and weekend markets, and Plaza de la Paja, where students can meet up and socialise.

La Latina is well connected by public transport, with La Latina metro station (Line 5) and nearby Tirso de Molina (Line 1) providing easy access to other parts of Madrid. The area is also within commuting distance to major universities, including Complutense University of Madrid and Technical University of Madrid, making it ideal for students who want both culture and convenience.

The cost of living in Madrid depends on your lifestyle, accommodation type, and your choice of neighbourhood, whether central or not.

According to Numbeo, the estimated monthly cost of living for a single student in Madrid is €819.90, excluding rent. Here’s an average monthly breakdown for student expenses in Madrid:

Student Accommodation

Groceries

Utilities

Many purpose-built student accommodation options include utility bills and Wi-Fi within the rent.

Transportation

Madrid’s public transport, managed by the Consorcio Regional de Transportes de Madrid (CRTM), integrates metro, buses, and commuter trains for easy student travel. Services are operated by providers such as Metro de Madrid, EMT Madrid, and Renfe Cercanías, making it easy for students to travel across the city and to university campuses.

Metro 

Madrid’s metro system is ideal for students commuting in Madrid as it has over 300 stations and consists of 12 metro lines, the Ramal line linking Ópera and Príncipe Pío, as well as three light rail (Metro Ligero) lines. 

Bus

Madrid’s extensive bus network is operated by EMT Madrid, with routes that reach areas directly served by the metro and run night lines, which is great for evening classes or social life.

Commuter Trains

Commuter trains in Madrid connect central Madrid with the the suburbs, with 9 train lines. 

Bike

Bikes are an option for students on short trips around the city, commuting between nearby neighbourhoods or campus and home. Madrid has a city bike-sharing programme called BiciMAD, offering electric and regular bikes for short trips across the city.

• Plaza Mayor: Madrid’s historic central square, lined with cafes, shops, and arcades.

• Royal Palace of Madrid: Spain’s grand official palace, showcasing lavish rooms and royal history.

• Retiro Park: A green space perfect for relaxing, rowing, and cultural strolls.

• Prado Museum: World-renowned art museum housing masterpieces by Goya, Velázquez, and El Greco.

• Temple of Debod: An ancient Egyptian temple offering scenic sunset views over the city.

• Chocolatería San Ginés: Famous café serving classic churros with thick, rich chocolate.

• Gran Vía: Main avenue full of shops, theaters, and city life.