Where are the best places to live in Spain? Whether you’re studying or working abroad alone, with a partner, or a family, Spain always has something for you. As one of the developed countries in Europe, Spain offers warm weather and relatively affordable accommodation. If you once heard about the beautiful scenery and comfortable weather of Spain, please read on and find great places to live in Spain.
Why Living in Spain?
Spain has been listed among the top five destinations for expats by many platforms. Here are some advantages of living in Spain.
- Complete Facilities: Spain has sound infrastructure, with more than 17,000 kilometers of expressways, and more than 4,000 kilometers of high-speed railways. The country’s 49 airports are connected to the world, and the port system is improved, so as to help international trade. In recent years, the digital infrastructure in Spain has been constructed, and the data centers are also developed rapidly.
- Comfortable Weather: The weather in Spain is diverse, mainly Mediterranean climate in the coastal zone. It is hot and dry in summers, warm and humid in winters. Overall, Spain has sufficient sunshine and four distinct seasons, providing visitors with various travel experiences.
- Excellent Education: The Spanish higher education system is complete, with many prestigious universities, such as Complutense University of Madrid, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, and University of Navarra. Spanish universities are international, focus on practice and innovation, and offer a variety of scholarships, especially in the fields of natural sciences, engineering and the arts.
- Diverse Cultures: The Spanish culture is diverse and unique, combining European, African and American cultural elements. Its architecture is also varied. The famous flamenco dance is passionate, and its cuisine is delicious and multicultural. In Spain, people value family, and prefer a slow pace of life. People celebrate numerous festivals, and always have a fun atmosphere.
If you live in Spain, you can enjoy a pleasant climate, a friendly society, well-developed infrastructure, relatively low living costs, and a rich and diverse culture. Now, let’s check the top 10 best places to live in Spain! In case you are going to rent a house in Spain, uhomes.com will provide the average rental price for you!
List of Best Places to Live in Spain
If you are considering moving to Spain, please check the following table. Here is the list of top 10 best places to live in Spain.
| Rank | Best Places to Live in Spain |
|---|---|
| 1 | Madrid |
| 2 | Barcelona |
| 3 | Valencia |
| 4 | Málaga |
| 5 | Alicante (Alacant) |
| 6 | Seville |
| 7 | Marbella |
| 8 | Mallorca |
| 9 | Granada |
| 10 | San Sebastian |
Top 10 Best Places in Spain
1. Madrid
Welcome to Madrid, the capital of Spain. It is also the most populous city in Spain. This city is home to more than 520,000 expats, ranking as the 10th best expat city in the world. With a strong economy, an excellent healthcare system, and a vibrant cultural scene, it provides residents with a fulfilling and secure living environment. Besides, the city’s safety index is high. Madrid also boasts several prestigious universities that rank among the top globally. Complutense University of Madrid, for instance, is Spain’s oldest and largest university. When it comes to Madrid housing, you can easily find a house that suits your needs.
| Type of Accommodation | Rental Price |
|---|---|
| Apartment | € 1,500 |
| Private Room | € 575 |
| Studio | € 990 |
2. Barcelona
Are you going to visit Barcelona? This city serves as the hub of Catalan culture and one of the largest cities in Spain. It is also one of Spain’s most cosmopolitan cities. The city’s healthcare system is renowned for its high standards. Coupled with Barcelona’s excellent infrastructure and safety record, its healthcare system makes it an attractive destination for families and individuals seeking a high-quality living environment. Renting an apartment in Barcelona, particularly in the city center, can be a little more expensive. However, there are more affordable options available on the outskirts of the city, allowing residents to balance their budget while still enjoying the city’s amenities.
| Type of Accommodation | Rental Price |
|---|---|
| Apartment | € 1,550 |
| Private Room | € 633 |
| Studio | € 1,000 |
3. Valencia
Valencia is definitely one of the best areas of Spain to live. It is the urban hub of the Costa Blanca and the third largest city in Spain. It is also a UNESCO-listed Old Town that showcases magnificent Gothic and Baroque architecture. This city holds a prestigious reputation globally for its culinary culture. Additionally, many students study and live here. Notable universities in Valencia including the Universitat Politècnica de València and the University of Valencia. Housing in Valencia is generally more reasonable than in Spain’s larger cities, though prices vary depending on location and type of accommodation.
| Type of Accommodation | Rental Price |
|---|---|
| Apartment | € 1,400 |
| Private Room | € 375 |
| Studio | € 836 |
4. Málaga
Have you ever been to Málaga, the best area of Spain to live in Southern Spain? In fact, Málaga was named the 2nd best city for expats by InterNations. For those moving to Spain for the high quality of life, the lower cost of living in Málaga is definitely going to appeal to you. Also, finding a rental in Málaga is very budget-friendly.
| Type of Accommodation | Rental Price |
|---|---|
| Apartment | € 780 |
| Private Room | € 340 |
| Studio | € 670 |
5. Alicante (Alacant)
Alicante is the best region to live in Spain and one of the most popular places among Brits. If you’re a Brit or an English speaker, you’ll easily fit in in Alicante. Thanks to the huge expat population of the city, you’ll be exposed to the Spanish way of life without too much of a cultural shock. But it’s not just the English; citizens from Germany, Sweden, Italy, etc., also choose Alicante as their new home. Besides, it’s one of the cheapest places to live in Spain.
| Type of Accommodation | Rental Price |
|---|---|
| Apartment | € 800 |
| Private Room | € 340 |
| Studio | € 475 |
6. Seville
Let’s visit Seville! This city is a perfect amalgamation of academics, culture, and fun, making it the best city to stay in Spain. Seville bursts with energy and culture, with plenty of opportunities for you to have fun and explore. From flamenco dancing to tapas tastings, you’ll never be bored in Seville. You will find some of Spain’s prestigious universities, such as University of Seville and the Pablo de Olavide University here. It also offers some of the most comfortable Seville student accommodation with affordable price.
| Type of Accommodation | Rental Price |
|---|---|
| Apartment | € 400 |
| Private Room | € 190 |
| Studio | € 205 |
7. Marbella
Welcome to Marbella, one of the best places to live in Spain by the sea. If you decide to move to Marbella, you will have easy access to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Marbella is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars, clubs and restaurants. This means you’ll meet people from all over the world, which will allow you to learn about different cultures and make friends for a lifetime. And the rental price here is relatively affordable.
| Type of Accommodation | Rental Price |
|---|---|
| Apartment | € 750 |
| Private Room | € 380 |
| Studio | € 600 |
8. Mallorca
Mallorca is known for its affordable cost of living compared to other European cities. There are several universities and colleges that offer excellent academic programs in various fields of study. This city is surrounded by stunning beaches, mountains, and picturesque towns, making it attractive for students who want to explore and experience new things. And it also has a lively nightlife and a very happening social scene. If you are looking for affordable student accommodation, Mallora might be a good choice.
| Type of Accommodation | Rental Price |
|---|---|
| Apartment | € 850 |
| Private Room | € 300 |
| Studio | € 500 |
9. Granada
Let’s look at Granada. This city is located in the foothills of the Sierra mountain range. Living in this area, you can enjoy the blissful beauty of nature anytime you want. No wonder this city is one of the best areas to live in Spain. Granada is home to one of the oldest universities in Europe, University of Granada, which is renowned for its academic excellence, especially in the field of humanities. As a student, Living in Granada is a good choice as you can enjoy lower living costs which makes it a great option for those on a budget.
| Type of Accommodation | Rental Price |
|---|---|
| Apartment | € 500 |
| Private Room | € 150 |
| Studio | € 380 |
10. San Sebastian
San Sebastián may be known as the jewel of the Basque Country and the best region to live in Spain. With a population of just over 188,000, it’s only the 41st largest city in Spain. Formerly the summer residence of the Spanish royal family, it remains a stylish resort. Everyone moves at a slower pace, and there is very much a philosophy of working to live rather than living to work. That’s why people come to find residency in San Sebastián.
| Type of Accommodation | Rental Price |
|---|---|
| Apartment | € 900 |
| Private Room | € 400 |
| Studio | € 700 |
Other Best Places to Live in Spain
We’ve just taken a journey through 10 best places to live in Spain. Each city has its own charm. Here are more categories for you to know about other great places to live in Spain.
Best Places to Live in Spain for Expats
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. These two cities are also the most famous cities for foreigners.
Best Places to Live in Spain for History-lover
Lugo is a city in Galicia, northwest Spain. Spain is a country full of long history and cultures. Therefore, many history lovers are willing to live in Spain to experience another kind of life. Lugo is the province capital of the same name and has a population of around 98,000 inhabitants. It is famous for its Roman wall, which surrounds the historic centre and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Best Places to Live in Spain for Family
Best Places to Live in Spain for Safety
Cities like San Sebastián, located in the Basque Country, are often cited for their safety, low crime rates, and high quality of life. Other cities, such as Pamplona, located in the Navarre region, or smaller towns like Oviedo in Asturias, are also known for their safety and high living standards.
Conclusion
Best Places to live in Spain includes: Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, Malaga, Alicante, Seville, Marbella, Mallorca, Granada and San Sebastian. And you can find more cities that meet your needs. Trust that with a little research and some heartfelt exploration, you’ll stumble upon that cozy nest that feels just right for you. Contact uhomes.com for more information. We will help you find the ideal residency in Spain.
FAQ
Top 10 best places to live in Spain are listed here: Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, Malaga, Alicante, Seville, Marbella, Mallorca, Granada and San Sebastian.
First, let’s look at some things to consider when deciding where to live in Spain as an expat. The main factors that you have to consider when choosing Spain are listed:
- Proximity to amenities and services
- Expat community atmosphere
- Employment and education opportunities
- Lifestyle preferences
Cities like San Sebastián, located in the Basque Country, Pamplona, located in the Navarre region, or smaller towns like Oviedo in Asturias, are also known for their safety and high living standards.
- Marbella: The epitome of luxury living, Marbella boasts glamorous beaches, upscale resorts, and a vibrant nightlife scene.
- Sitges: Known for its picturesque beaches, cultural festivals, and LGBTQ-friendly atmosphere, Sitges offers a unique coastal experience.
What’s a good salary for a comfortable life in Spain? Considering the average cost of living in Spain, a good monthly net salary for a comfortable life in Spain is €2,700 for a single person or €4,000 for someone supporting their family.
There are plenty of job opportunites for expats in Spain, while Spain has one of the highest unemployment rates in the European Union (EU), with 11.27% in the second quarter of 2024.
The Spanish village of Rubia in Galicia also recently announced it would pay expats up to €150 a month to live there. The scheme was aimed particularly at families with the hope of increasing student numbers at local schools.
