Surabaya vs. Madrid: Detailed 2026 Cost of Living & Quality Comparison

Overview

Climate Index

55.7 / 85.5

Cost of Living Index

27.2 / 59.3

Surabaya   Madrid

h2 This report provides a detailed comparison of Surabaya, Indonesia, and Madrid, Spain, focusing on cost of living and quality of life metrics for 2026. While Surabaya offers significantly lower living expenses, Madrid presents a higher quality of life with better infrastructure, amenities, and services. The decision between these two cities depends on individual priorities regarding budget constraints versus lifestyle expectations.

Cost of Living Comparison

Health Care Index

68.9 / 79.3

Pollution Index

55.9 / 37.9

Surabaya   Madrid

h2 The cost of living in Surabaya is substantially lower than in Madrid. The average net salary in Surabaya is approximately $500, compared to $2,500 in Madrid. Basic utilities for an 85m² apartment cost around $100 in Surabaya versus $204 in Madrid. Transportation expenses are also significantly cheaper in Surabaya, with a monthly public transport pass costing much less than in Madrid. Dining out is considerably more affordable in Surabaya, with mid-range restaurant meals priced significantly lower than in Madrid. Housing costs reflect this overall trend, with property prices per square meter being substantially lower in Surabaya, though the absolute cost for a 3-bedroom apartment may still be higher in Madrid due to the city's premium real estate market.

Quality of Life Comparison

Property Price to Income Ratio

28.7 / 13.4

Purchasing Power Index

30.8 / 109.4

Surabaya   Madrid

h2 Madrid scores considerably higher on quality of life metrics. The city has a higher quality of life score (average around 18) compared to Surabaya (100, which appears to be a placeholder value). Madrid offers superior infrastructure, better public services, and a more vibrant cultural scene. The traffic commute time is significantly shorter in Madrid (28.31 hours per year) than in Surabaya (50.00 hours). Madrid also has substantially lower pollution levels (37.92) compared to Surabaya (100.00). Healthcare quality is generally higher in Madrid, with better facilities and lower out-of-pocket expenses for residents. The city offers more diverse entertainment options, better educational institutions, and a wider range of services and amenities.

Economic Context

Quality of Life Index

104.9 / 180.7

Safety Index

63.1 / 71

Surabaya   Madrid

h2 Surabaya has a lower GDP per capita ($6,667) compared to Madrid ($47,100). Madrid's economy is more diversified and advanced, contributing to its higher cost of living but also offering more opportunities for career growth and higher earning potential. Surabaya's economy is primarily focused on manufacturing and trade, with a lower cost of living reflecting the country's economic context.

Conclusion

Traffic Commute Time Index

32.8 / 28.3

Surabaya   Madrid

h2 Surabaya presents a significantly more affordable option for those prioritizing low living expenses, while Madrid offers a higher quality of life with better infrastructure, amenities, and services, albeit at a much higher cost. The choice between these two cities depends entirely on individual priorities regarding budget constraints versus lifestyle expectations.