Best places to live in Spain

Known for its stunning coastline, the Costa Blanca is a popular destination for expatriates. Charming coastal villages like Moraira and Calpe offer a beachside lifestyle and plenty of restaurants and activities for families and retirees.

Whether you want to spend time with other English speakers or join in with local life, such as each town’s fiestas, this part of Spain is ideal if you want to set up your family in Spain or retire here.
Families will find local schools in all towns and villages offering free education for residents, while there is also a selection of fee-paying international schools.

Cities such as Alicante and Valencia are popular for remote workers wanting to be part of a vibrant cultural scene while smaller towns like Javéa and Dénia have a selection of co-working offices.
Property in the Alicante region is some of the cheapest in Spain, where the average price is €1,375 per m2 while in Valencia it’s €1,870 per m2.

Malaga, on la Costa del Sol, combines beautiful beaches with a charming old town and a welcoming feel for anyone who wants to combine authentic Spain with a contemporary lifestyle.

There are several golf courses in this region, making it popular with retirees.

The urban sophistication of Malaga is attractive to digital nomads, who will find plenty of cafés with an Internet connection to work from.

Malaga is also suitable for families, with plenty of watersports and outdoor activities to keep everyone entertained. Plus, there are schools, parks and family-friendly housing urbanisations.
Prices to buy tend to be higher in Malaga as it’s considered a prime location. It will cost you £1,850 (€2,225) per m2 to buy.

The Costa Brava is home to a breathtaking coastline, traditional fishing villages and the art of Salvador Dalí. Away from the tourist spots you’ll discover the coastal town of Cadaqués, while Girona is a popular choice for city lovers.

This part of Catalonia offers an inland way of life, where small villages, churches and vineyards seem to have stood still in time. If you’re a retiree searching for an authentic Spanish lifestyle with easy access to the Mediterranean beaches the Costa Brava could be for you.

The Costa Brava is also suitable for families who want to immerse themselves in the Spanish culture. The main language in local schools is Catalan, with Castilian Spanish being taught second. If you want your children to grow up as virtual Spaniards this is the region to choose, whether a small village or a city like Girona. If you want to buy property in Girona the current price is £1,950 (€2,400) per m2.

A buzzing city where the contemporary meets a mix of diverse architecture, Barcelona offers stylish urban living.

Barcelona’s Mediterranean climate, bustling beaches, and lively street culture is perfect for digital nomads if you want a coastal setting whilst still being in a city. Each district has its own character, whether you prefer the trendy vibes of Gràcia or the elegance of Eixample and there are lots of coworking spaces where you can set up your laptop.

With its stunning architecture, from Gaudí’s masterpieces to the Gothic Quarter, the city is also ideal for retirees who prefer the culture of a city. With easy access to the surrounding countryside, when you wish to escape, Barcelona offers a vibrant lifestyle.
Property in Barcelona comes with a hefty price tag – £3,052 (€3,670) per m2 to buy in the city.

At the heart of Spain, Madrid offers an exceptional quality of life. The city’s grand boulevards, beautiful parks such as the famous El Retiro, and diverse barrios (districts) make the Spanish capital a wonderful place to call home for all ages.

Whether you want to retire to a Spanish city, work remotely or move your family to the capital, Madrid has something for everyone.

The tapas bars of La Latina are a great place to spend an evening with friends, while bars and restaurants all over the city welcome children.

Families will find a choice of international and local schools, in addition to several universities.
The price to buy property in Madrid is similar to Barcelona, at £3,023 (€3,635) per m2.

The basic cost of living expenses, such as food, eating out and utilities are much cheaper in Spain than the UK, meaning you’ll have more to spend on enjoying life in the sun.

For example, the cost of living is 54.6% higher in London compared to Madrid. If you include rent then living in London is 72.5% more expensive than Madrid.

Comparing coastal towns, such as Javea on the Costa Blanca and Bournemouth in the UK, dinner for 2 in a mid-range restaurant will cost you 43.7% less in Javea and renting a 3-bedroom apartment 70% less in Javea.

Whichever part of Spain you choose to live in, and whatever your circumstances, iad Overseas can help you find your perfect property. Whether you’re looking for a villa with pool by the sea, an inland finca, a traditional Spanish townhouse or a modern apartment, get in touch with us – we’ll help you find your dream home in Spain.