15 Best Places to Live in Spain for Expats

Warm, always-sunny Spain is a dream of a country. With its affordable cost of living, tight-knit communities, friendly locals, advanced healthcare, and endless work opportunities, Spain attracts expats from all around the world.

What are the most popular cities, and which one is best for you? Is health insurance recommended in Spain? Here, Pacific Prime has compiled the top 15 best locations for expats to live in Spain so you can decide which place is the most compatible with your lifestyle.

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The Best Places to Live in Spain

Spain has plenty to offer, whether you are a single professional or retiree or a family. From laidback coastal towns to bustling metropolitans, Spain’s diversity accommodates every lifestyle need. Ready to choose your new home?

Here’s an overview of why Spain is one of the best places to live in Europe:

• Art and culture scene
• Work opportunities
• Food haven
• English accessibility 
• Massive expat community
• Low cost of living
• Warm climate
• Well-developed transportation system

Barcelona: Startup City

Barcelona, the second biggest city in Spain, is brimming with gorgeous architecture like the Sagrada Família. It is also a massive hub in Europe for budding entrepreneurs. Are you more of a city dweller or do you prefer to relax by the coast? The city offers expats the perfect mix of both.

What is Barcelona Known For?

1. Expat communities: Newcomers rejoice! The expat communities here are huge and thriving. English is widely spoken across the city, so it’s easy to reach out on social media platforms to find like-minded individuals.
2. Nightlife: Transportation is fabulous, with trains, metro, and buses running late into the night. Traveling between cities is not only safe but also a breeze.
3. Work opportunities: Co-working spaces are a dime a dozen in Barcelona. Expats and digital nomads will be pleased to find that there are plenty of work opportunities in the city, especially for startups.
4. Location and Lifestyle: Barcelona has its own beaches, unlike Madrid, which is just as popular among expats. There is also a wide range of outdoor sports opportunities, including hiking, stand-up paddle, and swimming.

Madrid: the Art and Culture Capital

The sunny Capital of Spain has something for everybody, whether you’re an art enthusiast, an expat with a family, or a working professional. Similar to Barcelona, Madrid is big on culture and boasts a massive expat population.

What is Madrid Known For?

1. Lifestyle: You will never be short on entertainment and food options. Nightlife in Madrid is characterized by a bustling entertainment district offering a wide variety of shows and concerts. Bars and restaurants are also open late into the night.
2. Art and Culture: Madrid is home to three of Spain’s most renowned art museums, which provide free entry every night of the week to historical art pieces, sculptures, and more.
3. Family-friendliness: Families will fall in love with this city and its plethora of beautiful parks and gardens. Compared to other Spanish cities, both Madrid and Barcelona have a higher cost of living. Nonetheless, housing is affordable the further you move away from the city center.
4. Transportation System: The constantly improving and heavily funded public transportation makes it easy for expats and families to traverse the city. What’s more, visiting satellite cities is incredibly convenient, so go ahead and add weekend trips to your list!

Valencia: Beautiful Mediterranean Beaches

Valencia is a coastal city perfect for expat families with everything the bigger cities offer and a remarkably lower cost of living. Located in the Mediterranean, it is famous for its beautiful beaches and a more relaxed vibe.

What is Valencia Known For?

1. Family-friendliness: The expanding real estate market coupled with a lower cost of living makes Valencia an ideal place to purchase your new home compared to cosmopolitan hubs like Madrid and Barcelona.
2. Growth: Valencia is a dynamic city that has grown in popularity among digital nomads and expats in the last few years. The expat community will only increase in size from here.
3. Lifestyle: From a vibrant nightlife and cultural gems to a robust healthcare system, this coastal city is characterized by friendly and welcoming people without being overrun by too many tourists.
4. Art and Culture: Valencia is home to the renowned Museum of Las Artes y las Ciencias and the Tomatina Festival. This festival was where paella was first made, a fact locals are proud of.
5. Location: The city’s proximity to mountains and beaches lends itself well to picturesque hikes in the summer and snowboarding in the winter.
6. Walkable City: Valencia is extremely walkable, and most places are within walking distance. The ever-expanding underground rail network ensures that expats and families will have no problem going places, whether it’s the popular pop-up parks or their offices.

Granada: Social Hub

Smaller in size but no less charming, Granada is an affordable hidden gem of a city. It is home to a spectacular UNESCO heritage site, the Alhambra. This city also makes for a solid base for expats and digital nomads looking to travel to other southern regions of Spain.

What is Granada Known For?

1. Location and lifestyle: Moving to Granada means that you’ll be optimally located to enjoy all types of outdoor activities, with mountains to the north and beaches to the south.
2. Community: With friendly locals and a tight-knit expat community, there are socials happening every day of the week in Granada. Join in on the fun as people chat away at bars and restaurants on gorgeous cobbled streets. Granada is also popular with students and is an incredibly walkable city.

Seville: a Laidback Lifestyle

Seville is your answer if you’re in love with the small-town feel but also enjoy the fast pace of a metropolis. The capital of Andalucia is a city where expats can soak in the romantic traditions of Moorish architecture, flamenco shows, and horse-drawn carriages. It is also great for families.

What is Seville Known For?

1. Family-friendliness: Seville is perfect for expats and their families. The cost of living is reasonable here, hence the sizable expat population. In terms of education options, Seville is home to two universities and several German, English, and American schools.
2. Lifestyle: With that being said, it might take you some time to adjust to the relaxed, in-the-moment lifestyle of southern Spain. You will find that it’s normal for locals to nap in the afternoon and have drinks before dinner in the warmest city in Europe.
3. Transportation: Seville has its own airport and two bus depots as well as train stations linking to various parts of the country. Adding to that, its proximity to beaches and mountains makes Seville attractive to expats looking to travel. It also boasts a stunningly bike-friendly city.

Bilbao: Alternative Urban Hub

Looking for a quiet alternative to the frantic hubs of Madrid and Barcelona? Bilbao is your city. Located in northern Spain along the Atlantic Ocean, Bilbao is rich in culture. Professionals, retirees, and families will enjoy its endless food and shopping options.

What is Bilbao Known For?

1. Art and Culture: Expats can experience Spain’s cultural diversity in Bilbao, the Capital of the Basque country. The riverside city’s industrial past is apparent with shipyards and old factories found side by side with beautifully modern architecture, such as the Guggenheim Museum.
2. Food and Wine: Are you a foodie? If so, you’ll love exploring the world’s biggest covered market with a spectrum of produce on offer here in Bilbao. Besides delicious cuisine and a thriving coffee shop scene, Navarro, a local region, is also known for its growing Rosé wine industry.
3. Peace and Quiet: Bilbao is located in Northern Spain, where days aren’t always sunny and warm. That’s why tourists tend to shy away. It is also one of the most expensive cities in Spain, which means Bilbao appeals to a considerably smaller number of expats.

Malaga: Lively Port City

Malaga is the very picture of a stereotypical Mediterranean coastal city. Full of hotels and resorts, this populous city is where expats from all over the globe get their fill of sunshine and adventures. Malaga has a great range of neighborhoods to accommodate different expat needs.

The city attracts many tourists, professional expats, and retirees keen to get their share of sunshine and an exciting Mediterranean lifestyle.

What is Malaga Known For?

1. Liveliness: Cruise ships and droves of tourists are a mainstay of the capital of Costa de Sol. Malaga is lively with a magnificent coast that stretches across the city. You’ll find tourists eager to explore the old city everywhere you look and events around every corner.
2. Food and Wine: A spectrum of top-notch cuisines befitting of an international city is always available to tourists and expats alike in Malaga. So, indulge away, food and wine lovers!
3. Weather: Malaga is famous for its everlasting sunshine and warm climate. It’s a dream for professionals, retirees, and families who dread the cold.
4. Neighborhoods: Malaga accommodates the housing needs of all expats spectacularly. Go for Cerrado de Calderon or Limonar if you prefer a quiet, suburban area. If you have kids, La Malagueta is a favorite for its great schools and proximity to various amenities.
5. Cost of living: Pensioners will be pleased to learn that living in Malaga is a lot cheaper than in cosmopolitan cities like Barcelona and Madrid. In addition, the standards of living remain high, which makes Malaga an attractive retirement location.

Alicante: Old Town Vibe

A charming port city on Spain’s Costa Blanca, Alicante offers a perfect blend of history and modernity. Known for its beautiful beaches, iconic Santa Barbara Castle, and vibrant Old Town, it attracts expats with its pleasant climate and welcoming atmosphere.

The city’s active international community and relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle make it an ideal destination for newcomers.

What is Alicante Known For?

1. Beautiful coastline: The Costa Blanca offers a variety of coastal experiences, from bustling city shores to secluded coves, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. The promenade is ideal for leisurely walks and cycling, with numerous cafes and restaurants offering sea views.
2. Castle of Santa Barbara: A historic fortress perched atop Mount Benacantil offers panoramic views of the city and Mediterranean. Dating back to the 9th century, this well-preserved castle has witnessed various civilizations and now serves as a museum and cultural center.
3. Active expat community: Alicante has a large international population, making it easier for newcomers to integrate. Alicante hosts numerous expat clubs, language exchange groups, and international schools.
4. Mediterranean climate: Warm summers and mild winters, with over 300 days of sunshine per year, make Alicante a weather paradise. This favorable weather allows for year-round outdoor activities and contributes to the relaxed lifestyle Alicante is known for.
5. Old Town (El Barrio): Charming narrow streets, colorful houses, and lively nightlife give this neighborhood a unique personality. This historic district is a maze of winding alleys lined with traditional architecture, boutique shops, and tapas bars.

Palma de Mallorca: Yacht Paradise

Palma de Mallorca combines island living with urban sophistication. Its stunning Gothic cathedral dominates the skyline, while the surrounding old town exudes historic charm. With world-class marinas, beautiful beaches, and a thriving cultural scene, Palma offers a high quality of life.

The city’s excellent cuisine and year-round pleasant weather make it a favorite among expats and digital nomads.

What is Palma de Mallorca Known For?

1. Island lifestyle: It offers the perfect balance of laid-back island living and urban conveniences, with beautiful beaches just minutes from bustling city streets. Residents enjoy a high quality of life, with access to modern healthcare, international schools, and a range of cultural activities.
2. Gothic architecture: The stunning Palma Cathedral (La Seu) dominates the skyline. This masterpiece of Gothic architecture, built over three centuries, features one of the world’s largest rose windows.
3. Yachting and water sports: The world-class marina offers excellent conditions for sailing, windsurfing, and diving. Palma’s large natural harbor is a haven for boating enthusiasts, hosting international regattas and offering top-notch facilities for yacht owners.
4. Beaches: Beautiful nearby beaches like Playa de Palma and Cala Major offer golden sands and crystal-clear waters, complemented by excellent facilities and beachfront promenades.
5. Cultural scene: The city has numerous art galleries, museums, and the Es Baluard Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art. Palma’s rich cultural offerings reflect its diverse history, with influences from Roman, Moorish, and Spanish periods.

San Sebastián: Food Heaven

Nestled in Spain’s Basque Country, San Sebastián is a gastronomic paradise and coastal gem. Renowned for its pintxos bars and Michelin-starred restaurants, it’s a food lover’s dream. The city’s beautiful La Concha beach, Belle Époque architecture, and strong Basque identity create a unique atmosphere.

With its rich culture, excellent surfing, and picturesque views, San Sebastián offers a distinctive living experience.

What is San Sebastián Known For?

1. Renowned gastronomy: San Sebastián boasts one of the highest concentrations of Michelin stars in the world. The city’s culinary prowess extends beyond fine dining to its pintxos culture, where bars serve exquisite bite-sized creations that showcase local ingredients and innovative techniques.
2. Basque culture: This area has a strong regional identity with a unique language and traditions. Annual events such as the Tamborrada Drum Festival and the Film Festival attract visitors from around the world, showcasing the region’s rich cultural offerings.
3. Surfing: Zurriola Beach offers consistent waves year-round, attracting both local and international surf enthusiasts. Surf schools and equipment rental shops line the beachfront, making it easy for beginners to try their hand at riding the waves of the Bay of Biscay.
4. Belle Époque architecture: San Sebastián’s architectural beauty is a result of its popularity as a resort town for royalty in the 20th century. Well-preserved buildings, featuring ornate facades and wrought-iron balconies, create a sophisticated ambiance that transports visitors to a bygone era.

Toledo: The Historic Enclave

This ancient city, once the capital of Spain, is a captivating blend of Christian, Jewish, and Moorish influences that can be seen in its winding streets and timeworn monuments. Expats who appreciate history and culture will fall in love with Toledo’s storied past and vibrant present.

What is Toledo Known For?

1. Heritage: Wander through centuries-old streets where every corner tells a story, with landmarks such as the Alcázar and the Cathedral of Toledo.
2. Cultural Fusion: A melting pot of traditions, Toledo showcases a unique blend of architectural styles and cuisines from different cultures.
3. Small-Town Charm: Enjoy a slower pace of life in a city that offers both modern amenities and old-world allure.
4. Artistic Inspiration: The city’s creative vibe and numerous artisan shops make it a haven for artists and history buffs alike.

Córdoba: Moorish Elegance

In Córdoba, Moorish architecture meets contemporary living. This enchanting city is renowned for its breathtaking Mezquita, a testament to its rich Islamic heritage. Córdoba’s intimate atmosphere and relaxed pace make it an ideal destination for expats seeking a blend of tradition and modernity.

What is Córdoba Known For?

1. Architectural Wonders: The stunning Mezquita-Catedral and charming courtyards (patios) are iconic symbols of the city’s cultural legacy.
2. Cultural Festivals: Annual festivals and local events celebrate Córdoba’s diverse history, offering a vibrant community life.
3. Gastronomy: Savor traditional Andalusian cuisine in atmospheric taverns and local eateries.
4. Expat Community: A growing network of expats enjoys the warm, welcoming environment and laid-back lifestyle.

Zaragoza: Riverside Cultural Hub

Zaragoza, situated along the banks of the Ebro River, is a dynamic city that offers the perfect blend of cultural heritage and modern urban living. As a major commercial center in northeastern Spain, Zaragoza attracts professionals, families, and retirees alike.

What is Zaragoza Known For?

1. Historical Landmarks: Home to the stunning Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar and ancient Roman ruins that echo the city’s storied past.
2. Vibrant Lifestyle: Enjoy a rich array of cultural events, bustling markets, and lively street festivals throughout the year.
3. Connectivity: With excellent transportation links, navigating the city and exploring surrounding regions is both convenient and enjoyable.
4. Balanced Living: Zaragoza combines urban sophistication with a relaxed pace, making it a great choice for both work and leisure.

A Coruña: Atlantic Coastal Charm

Nestled along Spain’s rugged Atlantic coast, A Coruña is a maritime city that effortlessly combines industrial heritage with seaside elegance. With its iconic Tower of Hercules and breathtaking ocean views, A Coruña offers a unique lifestyle for expats who crave coastal living with a twist.

What is A Coruña Known For?

1. Maritime History: Explore the ancient Roman lighthouse, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and a symbol of the city’s long seafaring tradition.
2. Seaside Lifestyle: Enjoy endless coastal walks, fresh seafood, and the invigorating Atlantic breezes that define life here.
3. Modern Amenities: A blend of historical charm and contemporary urban facilities ensures that expats have all the comforts of modern living.
4. Cultural Scene: A Coruña’s lively arts and music scene, alongside festivals celebrating its maritime heritage, make it an exciting place to call home.

Santander: Elegant Seaside City

Santander, the capital of Cantabria, offers an upscale yet relaxed coastal lifestyle with a touch of elegance. Known for its pristine beaches and sophisticated charm, Santander is perfect for expats looking to combine work, leisure, and an active cultural scene in one picturesque setting.

What is Santander Known For?

1. Beaches and Bay Views: With expansive sandy shores and stunning bay vistas, Santander provides a serene environment for both relaxation and outdoor activities.
2. Cultural Richness: The city boasts a variety of museums, galleries, and theaters that celebrate its rich artistic heritage.
3. Gastronomic Delights: From traditional seafood to innovative cuisine, Santander’s dining scene caters to every palate.
4. Family-Friendly Atmosphere: With excellent schools, parks, and a strong sense of community, Santander is an ideal destination for families and professionals alike.

Healthcare & Insurance in Spain for Expats

Expats living in Spain can better access healthcare through private health insurance plans. Some visas to Spain, including the Digital Nomad Visa, require proof of health insurance coverage in order for the visa application to be accepted. 

Healthcare in Spain for Expats 

Healthcare in Spain is of high quality, and the system features both private and public facilities. Expats can use the public healthcare system for their medical needs, but unless they are covered by Spain’s public health insurance, they will pay out of pocket for their services. 

Healthcare costs in Spain are lower than in other countries and regions, such as the United States, Singapore, and Hong Kong. Wait times are typically longer in public healthcare facilities than in private ones. Expats working in Spain can register with the Spanish National Health System. 

Health Insurance in Spain for Expats

Expats moving to Spain can purchase health insurance from local or international health insurance providers. Many expats choose international health insurance providers due to their globally portable plans that they can take with them on their travels. 

Popular International health insurance plans for Spain can be purchased from providers like Cigna, Allianz Care, AXA, and April International. Many of these plans are customizable, allowing expats to choose the benefits they need and not pay for the ones they don’t. 

International health insurance can help cover the cost of healthcare services in Spain and grant expats access to private hospitals and clinics. International health insurance for Spain can cover a variety of healthcare services, such as: 

• Inpatient and day-patient treatment
• Surgical costs
• Physician visits
• Mental health treatment 
• Vaccinations
• Prescription drugs
• Medical evacuation and repatriation
• Repatriation of remains
• Dental and vision coverage
• Maternity coverage

If you’re interested in learning more about recommended health insurance companies for Spain, read our article Top 10 Health Insurance Providers for Expats in Spain! If you’d like to begin comparing health insurance plans on your own, use our free quote tool. 

Frequently Asked Questions:

Where do most expats live in Spain?

Madrid and Barcelona are the cities most loved by expats in Spain. Thousands of expats and digital nomads find their home here every year. There are plenty of work opportunities in Madrid and Barcelona for those looking to relocate to Spain.

Where is the safest city to live in Spain?

Seville, the capital of Andalusia, is considered to be the safest city in Spain, with its relaxed, coastal lifestyle. Granada comes in a close second.

Where do British expats live in Spain?

While British expats can be found in multiple cities across Spain, they are especially drawn to Costa de Sol, Barcelona, Madrid, and Seville.

What are the most popular cities for expats in Spain?

Many people across the world love Madrid. Thousands of expats visit Madrid every year for its attractive employment opportunities, culture, nightlife, and accessibility to other cities in Spain and other parts of Europe.

Which city has the friendliest people in Spain?

Spain is an expat-friendly country with its international universities and multinational companies. Bilbao, Cordoba, Salamanca, and Toledo have some of the friendliest people in Spain.

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Conclusion

Now that we’ve gone through the top 10 best places to live in Spain for expats, it’s time to prepare for the move. Securing an international health insurance plan is one of the first steps you should take for yourself and your loved ones.

Getting comprehensive health insurance coverage in Spain is crucial as it opens up the gateway for expats to access top-notch private healthcare. It ensures that you’ll be well-protected whenever unexpected illnesses strike.

Talk to our team of experienced advisors today for a free quote and impartial advice!

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Serena Fung

Head of Content at Pacific Prime

Serena Fung is the Head of Content at Pacific Prime, a global insurance brokerage and employee specialist serving over 1.5 million clients in 15 offices across the world. With 6+ years of experience writing about the subject, she aims to demystify the world of insurance for readers with the latest updates, guides and articles on the blog.

Serena earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from the University of British Columbia, Canada. As such, she is an avid advocate of mental health and is fascinated by all things psychology (especially if it’s cognitive psychology!).

Her previous work experience includes teaching toddlers to read, writing for a travel/wellness online magazine, and then a business news blog. These combined experiences give her the skills and insights she needs to explain complex ideas in a succinct way. Being the daughter of an immigrant and a traveler herself, she is passionate about educating expats and digital nomads on travel and international health insurance.

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