Verified Facts

Official NameGibraltar
CapitalGibraltar
Population38,000
Area6.0 km²
LanguagesEnglish
CurrencyGibraltar pound (£)
TimezoneUTC+01:00
RegionEurope / Southern Europe
Drives onRight
Source: REST Countries API

Gibraltar is a very expensive territory to live in or visit, with a high cost of living due to its unique location and limited space, making it one of the most expensive places in Europe.

Quick Facts

Cost LevelVery Expensive
Daily Budget (Backpacker)$80-120 USD
Daily Budget (Mid-Range)$150-250 USD
Daily Budget (Comfort)$300-500 USD
CurrencyGIP
Tipping Customexpected (5-10%)

How Expensive Is Gibraltar?

Gibraltar is a British Overseas Territory located on the Iberian Peninsula, bordered by Spain, and its unique location and limited space contribute to its high cost of living. The territory has a strong economy, driven by financial services, tourism, and shipping, which attracts a high number of visitors and expats, driving up prices. Compared to its neighbor Spain, Gibraltar is significantly more expensive, with prices comparable to those in London or other major European cities. The cost of living in Gibraltar is also affected by its limited size, with a total area of only 6 km², which can lead to higher prices for accommodation, food, and other essentials.

The high cost of living in Gibraltar is also due to its dependence on imports, as the territory has limited agricultural land and natural resources, making it reliant on external sources for food, fuel, and other essential goods. This, combined with its unique location and strong economy, makes Gibraltar one of the most expensive places to live in Europe. Visitors and expats should be prepared for high prices, especially when it comes to accommodation, food, and transportation.

Accommodation Prices

TypePrice Range (USD/night)Notes
Hostel/Budget$40-80basic rooms with shared facilities
Mid-Range Hotel$120-2003-star hotels with private facilities
Luxury/Resort$250-4005-star hotels with high-end amenities
Apartment Rent (monthly)$1,500-3,000city center, 1-bedroom apartment
Apartment Rent (monthly)$1,000-2,000outside city center, 1-bedroom apartment

Food & Dining Prices

Meal TypePrice Range (USD)
Street Food / Local Eatery$10-20
Casual Restaurant$20-40
Mid-Range Restaurant (2 people)$50-100
Fine Dining$100-200
Beer (local)$5-10
Coffee$3-5
Water (1.5L bottle)$2-3

Transport Costs

TransportCost (USD)
Local bus/metro ride$2-3
Taxi (per km)$2-3
Domestic flightN/A
Fuel (per liter)$1.50-2.50

Monthly Budget Breakdown

CategoryBudget ($)Mid-Range ($)Comfortable ($)
Rent1,0001,5003,000
Food5008001,200
Transport100200300
Utilities150250400
Entertainment200400600
Total2,0503,2505,500

Money-Saving Tips

  • Consider sharing an apartment or house with others to reduce rent costs
  • Take advantage of the territory's duty-free status to save on shopping and alcohol
  • Eat at local eateries or street food stalls instead of mid-range or fine dining restaurants
  • Use public transportation instead of taxis to get around
  • Shop at local markets or supermarkets for groceries instead of convenience stores
  • Avoid visiting during peak season (June to September) when prices are highest, and consider visiting during the shoulder season (April to May or September to November) for better deals.