By Alice Sjoberg

Copyright manchestereveningnews

As the autumn season arrives and temperatures drop, many Brits are bracing themselves for the inevitable rise in energy bills. The increased use of gas and electricity to heat homes often leads to a spike in costs, prompting some to consider relocating to escape the financial burden. As of 2024, Statista reports that 403,925 UK nationals are registered as residents in Spain . While the allure of sunnier climes is undoubtedly a draw, the prospect of lower living costs may also be a significant factor. This was the case for Jodie Marlow, a mother who relocated to Murcia, Spain, four years ago with her partner and their two children. Not only has the family enjoyed the sunny lifestyle, but they’ve also found relief from hefty energy bills . In a revealing TikTok video, Jodie shared the details of her monthly household expenses, claiming it’s cheaper than in the UK. The family owns their property outright, eliminating the need for rent or mortgage payments. Even better, the value of houses on their street has doubled since they purchased their home. When it comes to electricity, Jodie revealed that switching to a more affordable provider has made a big difference. Their bill for the previous month came to a mere €37 (£32). Despite recently starting to use their air conditioning overnight, the family’s electricity bill only increased to €55 (£48), which she considered ‘nothing’ given that her two sons had it on every night. The family’s water bill comes to around €99 (£86.41) every three months, equating to roughly €33 (£28.80) per month. “Our house actually runs off of a gas bottle,” Jodie revealed. “I thought it was really odd at first, but it’s quite common in Spain. And a gas bottle costs about €16 (£13.97).” These bottles last a considerable amount of time, particularly during warmer periods when they’re not taking as many hot showers. Instead of using the gas hob, Jodie often opts to cook on the barbecue that has a hob, as well as in an air fryer which also helps her save on gas. Jodie added: “So that gas bottle honestly could last us three months.” For the equivalent of council tax , Jodie pays €250 (£218.24) annually, which is approximately €21 (£18.33) a month. She continued: “So again, not a lot. I know some people who pay that literally a month what I pay a year.” Wi-Fi costs are €24.99 (£21.81) per month, while sim cards are €12.99 (£11.34). As for home insurance, they are covered for €250 (£218.24) per year, which works out to about €22 (£19.21) per month. People were taken aback by how much cheaper things were in Spain and expressed their surprise in the comments section. One viewer was stunned by the electricity bill, commenting: “60 Euros a month! ! we spent £40 per week for a 4 bed house in England.” Nevertheless, other British expats residing in Spain proceeded to reveal that their bills were more expensive. Another viewer disclosed: “I live in Malaga, my electric is around €180 a month, water for the last three months was €1260 and we use gas bottles €200 for three, so not cheaper than the UK.” In response, Jodie replied: “I guess depends where in the uk the same as where in Spain as Malaga is more than where I live. It’s all relative.”