Madrid vs Dhaka: Cost of Living Comparison 2026

Is Madrid more expensive than Dhaka?

Yes, significantly. On average, the cost of living in Madrid is approximately 150% to 200% higher than in Dhaka. However, this figure is nuanced by the concept of Local Purchasing Power. According to Numbeo data, while prices are higher in Madrid, the average salary in the Spanish capital allows for a much higher standard of living than the average salary in Dhaka.

How does purchasing power compare?

Purchasing power in Madrid is roughly 300% higher than in Dhaka. This means that while a resident in Madrid pays more for a cup of coffee or rent, their relative income covers these expenses more easily than a typical professional in Dhaka. Expats earning in USD or EUR while living in Dhaka will find their money stretches exceptionally far, often affording a luxury lifestyle that would be cost-prohibitive in Madrid.

Getting Around: Infrastructure vs. Affordability

Madrid boasts one of the best public transport systems in the world. The Metro de Madrid is efficient, clean, and affordable. Dhaka is famous for its intense traffic congestion, though the recent opening of the Dhaka Metro Rail is beginning to transform commutes.

• Public Transit: A monthly pass in Madrid is roughly $60 (with various subsidies available), while in Dhaka, commuters rely on a mix of rickshaws, buses, and the new Metro, often spending less than $25 a month.
• Private Transport: Gasoline in Madrid is roughly $1.85 per liter, whereas in Dhaka it is closer to $1.15. However, car ownership in Dhaka is subject to extremely high import duties.
• Taxis/Ride-sharing: Uber is available in both cities, but a 5km trip in Dhaka is roughly 75% cheaper than in Madrid.

Utilities, Wellness, and Leisure

While the basic cost of utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water) for an 85m2 apartment in Madrid averages $180, Dhaka can fluctuate wildly depending on AC usage during the humid summer months, averaging around $80.

• Fitness: A monthly gym membership in a prime Madrid neighborhood costs $45. A similar high-end facility in Dhaka costs about $30.
• Entertainment: An international cinema release costs $10 in Madrid and $6 in Dhaka.
• Internet: High-speed fiber is widely available in Madrid for $35/month. In Dhaka, stable high-speed connections are available in major areas for approximately $20/month.

Utilities, Wellness, and Leisure

While the basic cost of utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water) for an 85m2 apartment in Madrid averages $180, Dhaka can fluctuate wildly depending on AC usage during the humid summer months, averaging around $80.

• Fitness: A monthly gym membership in a prime Madrid neighborhood costs $45. A similar high-end facility in Dhaka costs about $30.
• Entertainment: An international cinema release costs $10 in Madrid and $6 in Dhaka.
• Internet: High-speed fiber is widely available in Madrid for $35/month. In Dhaka, stable high-speed connections are available in major areas for approximately $20/month.

Utilities, Wellness, and Leisure

While the basic cost of utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water) for an 85m2 apartment in Madrid averages $180, Dhaka can fluctuate wildly depending on AC usage during the humid summer months, averaging around $80.

• Fitness: A monthly gym membership in a prime Madrid neighborhood costs $45. A similar high-end facility in Dhaka costs about $30.
• Entertainment: An international cinema release costs $10 in Madrid and $6 in Dhaka.
• Internet: High-speed fiber is widely available in Madrid for $35/month. In Dhaka, stable high-speed connections are available in major areas for approximately $20/month.

Utilities, Wellness, and Leisure

While the basic cost of utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water) for an 85m2 apartment in Madrid averages $180, Dhaka can fluctuate wildly depending on AC usage during the humid summer months, averaging around $80.

• Fitness: A monthly gym membership in a prime Madrid neighborhood costs $45. A similar high-end facility in Dhaka costs about $30.
• Entertainment: An international cinema release costs $10 in Madrid and $6 in Dhaka.
• Internet: High-speed fiber is widely available in Madrid for $35/month. In Dhaka, stable high-speed connections are available in major areas for approximately $20/month.

Utilities, Wellness, and Leisure

While the basic cost of utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water) for an 85m2 apartment in Madrid averages $180, Dhaka can fluctuate wildly depending on AC usage during the humid summer months, averaging around $80.

• Fitness: A monthly gym membership in a prime Madrid neighborhood costs $45. A similar high-end facility in Dhaka costs about $30.
• Entertainment: An international cinema release costs $10 in Madrid and $6 in Dhaka.
• Internet: High-speed fiber is widely available in Madrid for $35/month. In Dhaka, stable high-speed connections are available in major areas for approximately $20/month.

Travel Between Madrid and Dhaka

There is currently no direct flight route between Madrid (MAD) and Dhaka (DAC). Travelers typically connect through major hubs in the Middle East or Turkey.

• Common Connections: Flights via Istanbul (Turkish Airlines), Doha (Qatar Airways), or Dubai (Emirates) are the most frequent.
• Duration: Total travel time usually ranges from 13 to 18 hours depending on layover length.
• Travel Tips: If you find yourself with a long wait, check out our Madrid Layover Guide or the Dhaka Layover Guide to make the most of your transit.

The Final Verdict

For Digital Nomads: Madrid is the winner for those who value infrastructure, high-speed internet, and a vibrant social scene. However, for those on a strict budget who want to maximize their savings while experiencing a unique culture, Dhaka offers an unbeatable cost-to-benefit ratio.

For Families: Madrid is generally recommended due to superior healthcare, public safety, and educational institutions. Dhaka is better suited for families with expat contracts that include housing and private school allowances, allowing for a luxurious lifestyle with domestic help that would be unaffordable in Europe.