As many as 350,000 Brits are registered as officially living in Spain, making it the most popular country in Europe for British expats. And it’s easy to see why, with endless sunshine, sprawling beaches, a laid-back lifestyle and affordable living. But with so many diverse cities and sleepy seaside towns in beautiful España, how do you decide where to move? Here, we’ll walk you through the best places to live in Spain.
Our List of the Top 10 Places to Live in Spain
Different regions of Spain offer different benefits, so we’ll break down the benefits of living in the most popular areas!
Barcelona – The Cosmopolitan Hotspot
If you’re seeking a hub for creatives, young professionals and digital-savvy nomads, Barcelona would be the ideal location for you. With a dazzling mix of art, buzzing nightlife, laid-back beachy vibes and plenty of stunning architecture, there’s plenty on offer in Barcelona.
Pros: Fantastic public transport, a thriving global job market and plenty of international schools for families with children. Cons: Heavy tourism year-round and higher costs of living compared to other areas of Spain.
Madrid – Spain’s Capital City
Madrid attracts professionals, families and culture lovers alike. As a capital city, it’s popular for many professionals, offering plenty of job opportunities and lots of things to do and see.
Pros: Top-tier healthcare, schools and transport, as well as fascinating museums and culture. Cons: Long, hot summers and high congestion in central areas.
Valencia – Striking a Beautiful Balance
If you’re looking for the perfect blend of city living and playful beach moods, Valencia is it. The city also boasts an affordable lifestyle with a family-friendly atmosphere.
Pros: Modern infrastructure, green spaces and good value for money when it comes to living. Cons: Smaller job market for expats compared to other cities like Madrid and Barcelona.
Malaga – Fun, Sun and Expat Friendly
One of the most popular places for British expats to live is Malaga, which offers beautiful coastlines and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. As the home of Pablo Picasso, the arts and culture community here is strong.
Pros: Warm, sunny weather all year round, vibrant old town and fantastic airport connections. Cons: Very crowded during tourist seasons.
Alicante – Affordable Coastal Living
If you want to enjoy seaside living at a lower premium, consider Alicante. This is a top choice for those seeking affordability without losing access to sun, surf, sea and the stunning historical Mediterranean port!
Pros: Affordable living, strong British expat community. Cons: Some areas of the city depend on tourism, meaning there are fewer amenities in winter for locals.
San Sebastián – Style in the North
Located in the beautiful and culturally rich Basque Country, San Sebastián is well-known for its Michelin-starred food scene, local wines and stunning beaches. The picturesque city is ideal for those who want to live in a cultural hub of beauty.
Pros: Cooler weather, active lifestyles on offer, and plenty of cultural richness to explore.
Cons: For a smaller city, housing costs are higher than you might expect.
Palma de Mallorca – Dream Island Life
Popular amongst expats, many people flock to Palma de Mallorca to take advantage of the relaxed pace of life, combined with stunning natural beauty. The amenities in the area are of good quality, as well.
Pros: Well-connected airport, beautiful beaches and plenty of hiking. Cons: The logistics of living on an island can affect the availability and cost of some services.
Granada – Culture at an Affordable Price
For those who enjoy wandering historic streets and are seeking a low cost of living, consider Granada! The area is also very popular with creative types and students, no doubt due to the highly affordable living.
Pros: Amazing tapas, unforgettable Alhambra views and affordable housing.
Cons: Limited international job market.
Bilbao – Urban Life Meets the Basque Country
For those seeking a modern lifestyle with strong job prospects and established transport links, Bilbao could be the perfect match. The charming old town is full of picturesque streets and enjoyable nightlife options.
Pros: Strong healthcare, plenty of attractions to explore, and close to the French border, making for more travel opportunities.
Cons: Wetter climate than southern Spain.
Marbella – Luxury on the Costa del Sol
A glamorous resort town with breathtaking beaches and a luxury atmosphere, Marbella is ideal for those looking to escape to an optimal Mediterranean upscale haven. The Costa del Sol is a highly sought-after area, known for its beautiful coastline and rich culture.
Pros: International appeal, elite school options and the height of luxury living.
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