How much do you need to retire comfortably in Spain?

Spain continues to attract many expatriates looking to retire, with its favorable climate, picturesque coastline, and vibrant culture. However, rising living costs, including soaring housing prices, inflation, and increased taxes, have led to concerns about the true affordability of retiring in this popular destination.

A recent study by the renowned IESE Business School, spearheaded by Professor Javier Díaz-Giménez, sheds light on the financial requirements for a comfortable retirement in Spain. The study suggests that individuals should aim for approximately €120,000 in savings, in addition to their monthly pension, particularly if they are relying on the relatively low Spanish pension system.

Currently, the minimum pension for those aged 65 and older is set at €12,241.60 per year, increasing to €15,786.40 for individuals with dependents. This suggested savings amount, equivalent to around £100,000 or $129,000, would provide an additional €1,000 per month for at least a decade, allowing retirees to enhance their quality of life through travel, dining, and entertainment.

An alternative approach to calculating retirement savings is the 'Greene formula,' developed by Kimmie Greene. This method considers two key variables: gross annual salary and age, divided into four stages of savings throughout a worker's life. The initial goal is to save an amount equal to one’s annual salary by age 30. Subsequently, individuals should aim to save one gross annual salary every five years. By age 65, the savings goal should reach the equivalent of eight gross annual salaries.

It is essential to note that salaries in expatriates' home countries may differ significantly from those in Spain. The Spanish National Institute of Statistics reports that the average annual salary in Spain is €25,896.82. Thus, by age 50, an individual should have saved approximately €129,484.10, and by age 65, around €207,174.56—figures notably higher than the initial €120,000 benchmark suggested by the IESE study.

Financial institution BBVA recommends that potential retirees save between €100,000 and €150,000 above their pension to ensure a good standard of living.

Before making the decision to retire in Spain, prospective retirees are encouraged to visit the country to gain firsthand experience of the actual living expenses. Utilizing cost comparison platforms like Numbeo and Expatistan can provide insights, but nothing compares to experiencing the local economy firsthand.

Spending time in Spain as if you were already retired—avoiding tourist traps and focusing on everyday living expenses—can provide valuable perspective on monthly costs, including groceries and dining out. Engaging with locals to learn about their monthly expenses can also be beneficial.

One common surprise for many newcomers to Spain is the comparatively high tax rates, which often exceed those in countries like the UK and the US. It's crucial to understand that pensions will be subject to taxation in Spain. Future retirees should consult a tax professional to navigate their specific financial circumstances accurately.

For those who have worked and will receive a Spanish pension, the figures provided are reflective of average salaries and living costs in Spain, thus offering a realistic framework for financial planning.