Cost comparison

We have stayed in both countries. We agree w the prior poster. Spain is MUCH cheaper, the food is better, the weather is heavenly in comparison w Old Albion. Trains are also twice as expensive in England as in Spain, tho only half as good

Here's a rule of thumb that works most of the time....In Europe, as you travel south, so do the prices.

I agree with the poster 'Paul n Sara'. Recently, prices in Spain (and Portugal) have begun to close the gap but Spain is still a better value. Particularly in regard to food and wine, Spain offers a much better buy. I'm not sure but I believe that gasoline is also less expensive in Spain.

If you've not been to Spain, try it. I think you'll be pleased.

I don't know about England, but I haven't see too much of a difference between cost of living in Barcelona and that of Rome or Amsterdam. However, other parts of Spain are significantly less expensive. Here's a brief summary of some current prices:

Diesel fuel: €0.97/l
Chicken breast (in market): €6.75/kg
Typical monthly electrical (2BR apt. without central heating or a/c. Gas range and hot water heater.) €60-90
Milk: €1/l
Apples: €1.5/kg

My family (2 adults and one toddler) usually spend approx. €450/month on groceries. Hope that helps.

I like Frank II's rule.

In my (far from scientific) experience. Most expensive to least would be Scandinavia, Switzerland, England, Ireland (used to be cheaper), France (with ultra expensive pockets), Germany, Austria, Italy (with ultra expensive pockets), Spain and Portugal.

If your place is paid for your next biggest expense is food. I expect Food in Spain will be much cheaper than England.