Roquetas de Mar vs. Guelph: Detailed 2026 Cost of Living & Quality Comparison

This analysis provides a detailed comparison of the cost of living and quality of life between Roquetas de Mar, a coastal town in Spain, and Guelph, a city in Canada. The comparison covers key aspects such as housing, income, transportation, healthcare, and environmental factors, based on available data for 2026.

Roquetas de Mar offers significantly lower housing costs compared to Guelph. The average price per square meter for an apartment in Roquetas de Mar is approximately €300, while in Guelph, it is around CAD $4,983. Additionally, the property price to income ratio in Roquetas de Mar is 3.5, which is considerably lower than Guelph's ratio of 7.94. Rent for a 3-bedroom apartment in Roquetas de Mar averages €800-€1,000 per month, whereas in Guelph, it ranges from CAD $2,000 to $2,150.

Guelph has a higher average monthly net salary, with residents earning approximately CAD $3,140 compared to the average €1,800 in Roquetas de Mar. The GDP per capita in Guelph is CAD $55,900, significantly higher than Roquetas de Mar's GDP per capita of €22,000. Guelph also has a lower unemployment rate, reflecting stronger economic opportunities and job stability.

Transportation costs differ substantially between the two locations. Public transport in Guelph is more affordable, with a monthly pass costing CAD $62 compared to the data not being available for Roquetas de Mar. Fuel costs are lower in Guelph (CAD $1.07 per liter) than in Roquetas de Mar (€1.45 per liter). Monthly utility bills for a standard apartment are slightly higher in Guelph (approximately CAD $126) than in Roquetas de Mar (€80-€100).

Both locations have comparable safety indices (66.17 for Guelph and 66.17 for Roquetas de Mar). Healthcare quality differs significantly, with Guelph having a higher health care index (65.53) compared to Roquetas de Mar's index of 60. Guelph offers more comprehensive healthcare services and better access to medical facilities.

Guelph has a more favorable climate index (53.74) compared to Roquetas de Mar's index of 65. Pollution levels are considerably lower in Guelph (index of 23.26) than in Roquetas de Mar (index of 55). Guelph also offers more diverse recreational activities, with higher monthly gym membership fees (CAD $57.90) and more extensive public parks and cultural amenities.

While Roquetas de Mar offers significantly lower costs of living, particularly for housing, Guelph provides higher income potential, better healthcare access, and a more favorable environmental quality. Residents seeking economic affordability might prefer Roquetas de Mar, while those prioritizing income potential, healthcare quality, and environmental factors should consider Guelph.