OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to assess the economical impact of the CAP patients identified through the study period. METHODS: Retrospective review of medical records of all patients ≥18 years old diagnosed with CAP from January 1, 2008 to December 31, 2009 belonging to Badalona (population ≥ 18 years: 90,315) and attended by 6 primary care centres and 2 hospitals (68,274 patients seen throughout the study period, 6 months). Economical analysis (resource utilization and direct/indirect associated cost) is presented. Statistical analysis was performed through a regression model and Bonferoni-adjusted ANCOVA; p<0.05. RESULTS: Among the 581 patients identified [55.6% males, mean age 57.5 (SD 19,1)],  41.5% (241) were hospitalized. Total cost per patient was 1365.97€ (85.2% related to health care direct costs and 14.8% to non-health care costs due to sick leaves). Ambulatory care accounted for 154.24€ (13.25%) and hospital care 1010.25€ (86.75%) of the direct costs; p<0.001. Greater impact was due to hospitalization length of stay (71.47%), primary care pharmacological costs (13.24%) and specialist visits (11.42%). CAP costs were related to age (r=0.303); Fine scale score (r=0.437) and re-hospitalization (r=0.667); p<0.001. Overall cost per patient increased with age (1138€ in patients < 65 year-old vs. 1716€ in ≥ 65 year-old; p<0.001). CONCLUSIONS: CAP is still associated with high economic burden in our country which is mainly due to hospital care cost (almost one out of two patients were hospitalized). New preventive measures under development could reduce this impact.