Centro or Retiro: where to live?
A data comparison of Centro and Retiro: the average rent from Idealista's latest public report and the transport, safety and amenities scores the site calculates, home by home.
In short
- Renting in Retiro is 8% cheaper than in Centro: 24.0 €/m² vs 26.1 €/m².
- Centro does better on transport: 9.8 vs 8.9.
- Retiro does better on safety: 7.4 vs 3.1.
- Retiro does better on green space: 8.6 vs 6.5.
- Retiro does better on families: 7.5 vs 6.0.
- Centro has more nightlife: 9.6 vs 5.1.
- Similar on walkability.
- Their centres are about 2.4 km apart as the crow flies.
Head to head
| Indicator | Centro | Retiro |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | 26.1 €/m² | 24.0 €/m² |
| 60 m² flat (estimate) | €1,566/mo | €1,440/mo |
| Transport | 9.8/10 | 8.9/10 |
| Safety | 3.1/10 | 7.4/10 |
| Green space | 6.5/10 | 8.6/10 |
| Families | 6.0/10 | 7.5/10 |
| Walkability | 9.6/10 | 9.5/10 |
| Nightlife | 9.6/10 | 5.1/10 |
Scores are indicative: they summarise public data and are no substitute for visiting the area. The 60 m² flat is an estimate based on the average price per m². How each score is calculated
What Centro is like
Madrid's historic old town, with narrow streets and round-the-clock nightlife — the highest-rated in the city. Everything is within walking distance: museums, markets, tapas and drinks just steps away. Rent is expensive and flats are old and small. Noise at night and mass tourism are constant companions. A good fit for those who prioritise location and atmosphere over quiet and square footage.
Full page for CentroWhat Retiro is like
Stately district centred on the parque del Retiro. Wide streets, historic facades and constant residential tranquillity. Very safe, with well-regarded schools and a good food offering on calle Ibiza. Prices are stable and high; nightlife is scarce and peripheral areas are more car-dependent. Ideal for established families and senior profiles with a comfortable budget.
Full page for RetiroOther comparisons
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