Spain continues to be one of the top choices for people moving abroad out of the UK. With its sunny climate, rich culture, and diverse regions, there’s a corner of Spain for every lifestyle. Whether you’re retiring, moving as an expat, relocating as a couple, or planning the perfect family base, Spain offers plenty of attractive options. Here’s a closer look at some of the best areas to live in Spain, tailored to different needs.
Retirement in Spain
Spain’s warm climate, slower pace of life, and excellent healthcare system make it particularly attractive for retirees.
Costa del Sol
– Costa del Sol (Marbella / Málaga) is the classic retirement destination. The Mediterranean climate, world-class golf courses, and thriving expat communities create a familiar yet exciting lifestyle. With excellent hospitals and international airports, it’s easy to stay connected to home. However, some say that popular hotspots can be crowded and more expensive.
Valencia
Valencia strikes a balance between city buzz and seaside living. It offers a lower cost of living compared to Madrid or Barcelona, plus great healthcare and efficient public transport. Its City of Arts and Sciences, lively food scene, and nearby beaches mean there’s always something to do. The main adjustments here for Brits are humid summers and fewer English speakers in the area – though many quickly get used to this.
The Canary Islands
The Canary Islands (Tenerife and Gran Canaria) are ideal for those who want year-round spring-like weather. Life is slower-paced and affordable, and retirees enjoy strong local healthcare facilities in larger towns. Hiking through volcanic landscapes or relaxing by the ocean, this is Spain at its most laid-back. The only drawback is being further from the mainland, but for many, this is also a highlight!
Spain for Expats
For expats, work opportunities, schools, and international connections are the top priorities when looking for a new place to live.
Madrid
Madrid, the capital of Spain, offers the biggest job market, particularly in finance, technology, and consulting. It’s also home to international schools and excellent public services. The trade-off in this city is the high housing costs and demand for accommodation, as well as the hustle and bustle of big city life.
Barcelona
Barcelona is Spain’s cosmopolitan hub and one of Europe’s top destinations for startups and creatives, so it is the place for entrepreneurs. The city blends beach life with vibrant urban culture, and English is more widely spoken than in any other location in Spain. On the other hand, housing is expensive, tourism dominates the city centre, and adapting to the Catalan language may still be necessary.
Alicante
Alicante and the wider Costa Blanca area are popular with remote workers and those seeking a relaxed life in their free time. It’s more affordable than the big cities and has a strong expat community. With easy airport access, it’s also practical. The main downside is fewer high-paying roles locally, which usually makes it better suited to freelancers, entrepreneurs, or retirees, or those willing to commute for work.
Spain for Couples
Couples moving abroad often look for culture, entertainment, and a balance between romance and lifestyle.
Seville
Seville is one of Spain’s most romantic cities. Known for its flamenco, historic architecture, and lively festivals like Feria de Abril, it’s perfect for couples who love culture. It’s also more affordable than Madrid or Barcelona when it comes to rent, bills and amenities. The catch? Summers can be sweltering – often reaching highs of 45 degrees, and it is very popular with tourists.
Mallorca
Mallorca in the Balearic Islands offers stunning beaches, mountain villages, quiet retreats, and lively nightlife. Couples can enjoy sailing, hiking, and fine dining. Housing in the most sought-after areas can be pricey, and tourism is heavy in summer, but generally, the lifestyle makes up for it!
Bilbao
Bilbao, in northern Spain, is perfect for couples who value food, art, and cooler weather. The Guggenheim Museum, pintxos bars, and easy access to both mountains and the sea create a lifestyle rich in culture and nature. Winters are wetter and cooler, but for many, that’s a welcome change from southern heat.
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Spain for Families
Families need good schools, safe communities, and plenty to keep children entertained, and many areas of Spain deliver.
Valencia
Valencia stands out as one of the most family-friendly cities. It combines affordable housing with excellent schools (including bilingual and international options), safe neighbourhoods, and lots of green space like the Turia Gardens. The city’s cultural events and beaches add to its appeal. The downside to Valencia is its hot and humid summers. It can also be hard to find property in Valencia, particularly rental apartments, due to a high demand from many tenants for every available good property.
Costa Blanca/Alicante
Costa Blanca/Alicante region has long been a favourite for families moving from the UK. It offers affordable housing, bilingual schools, and safe, community-focused towns. The coastal lifestyle and outdoor activities are a huge plus for children. Tourist influxes in summer are the main drawback, but during this time, you could visit some of the quieter areas of the Costa Blanca region, such as Altea, Albir, Moraira, and Jávea, if you find it too overwhelming.
Catalonia’s Girona and Costa Brava
Catalonia’s Girona and Costa Brava are perfect for families who want a mix of lifestyle and strong infrastructure. Beautiful beaches, countryside, and proximity to Barcelona’s hospitals and international schools make this area attractive. Costs can be higher in popular areas, and an understanding of the Catalan language is often required in schools.
Making Your Move to Spain
Spain offers something for everyone, from the sun-soaked golf courses of the Costa del Sol to the cultural heart of Seville, the buzzing streets of Madrid, and the family-friendly lifestyle of Valencia. Wherever you choose, it’s important to plan your move carefully, from logistics to paperwork, so you can start your new chapter smoothly.
At Eurogroup, we’ve been helping people relocate internationally for over 30 years. Whether you need help shipping belongings, moving vehicles, or even relocating pets, our dedicated Move Managers ensure that every detail is covered. Contact a member of our team for more information or to schedule a survey to get your move started!
