Many dream of living abroad, enticed by better weather and a seemingly more relaxed lifestyle, plus the cuisine that you just can’t re-create at home. However, one mum has shared perhaps one of the most enticing benefits of making such a move – bills.
Jodie Marlow, who has the TikTok handle @jodiemar1ow, documents her life as a mum in Spain, revealing surprising details about her expenses. She astounded many with the costs involved in running her house there. In a recent video, she disclosed that since she and her family own their property, they are free from paying any rent or mortgage.
She also boasts that the electricity bills are exceptionally reasonable, especially after switching suppliers. Jodie excitedly mentioned how affordable it is, saying: “Oh my gosh, amazing. Last month, before I really put the aircon on, was €37 (£30.82). This month I’ve had the aircon on nearly every night for the boys and, I think when I tried to look quickly because it’s not generated fully, it’s around €55 to €60 (around £45.82), which I think is nothing,” reports the Manchester Evening News.
She encouraged those in a similar situation to reach out to her. She said: “So, if anyone lives in Spain and pays their own electricity bills, you need to message me. I can’t believe how cheap it’s changed to.”
Topping off her rundown of low expenses, Jodie went on to discuss water bills and gas, saying: “Water is around €99 (£82.47) every three months, so that’s €33 (£27.49) every month. The house actually runs off a gas bottle. I thought it was really weird at first but, actually, it’s pretty normal in Spain, and a gas bottle costs around €16 (£13.33).”
Jodie revealed that the shower is not frequently used during hot weather, and she also relies on her outdoor barbecue and air fryer for cooking, which reduces her gas hob usage. As a result, a single gas bottle can last her family for approximately three months.
Her council tax amounts to around €21 (£17.49) per month, which she considers reasonable, and her home insurance premium is similarly low. Her video has garnered hundreds of views, with many people expressing astonishment at her low bills.
The comment section was filled with reactions, including one person who wrote: “60 Euros a month! We spend £40 per week for a four-bed house in England.”
Another commenter exclaimed: “Oh my god, your electric is so cheap. Ours is so much more! ” A third person added: “So cheap. My gas and electric is £250 together, and my council tax is like £180 a month.”