Top Cities in Spain for Expats

Spain attracts expats from all over the world with its climate, cultural heritage, exquisite cuisine, and hospitality. The country offers many opportunities for work and leisure, and Spanish, one of the most widely spoken languages in the world, makes it easier to adapt and communicate with the locals. Therefore, many people wish to move to Spain for permanent residence.

Key Pros and Cons

The country is renowned for its unique charm and beautiful architecture. However, living in different regions of Spain comes with both advantages and disadvantages. Let's explore the cost of moving to Spain and what expats can expect.

Barcelona

The capital of Catalonia is famous for its mild Mediterranean climate, sunny days, and moderate winters. This major metropolis is filled with an atmosphere of joy and fun, with narrow streets full of cozy cafes and restaurants. Located by the sea, Barcelona offers beautiful beaches where you can relax, sunbathe, swim, or simply take a stroll along the shore. It is fair to say that everything in Barcelona is amazing, from the works of Gaudí to the city's market— the best supplier of the most unexpected delicacies. Historical quarters and medieval architectural monuments blend perfectly with fashionable boutiques. Thanks to the entrepreneurial spirit and innovative environment, the city attracts talented professionals. It’s home to thriving industries such as information technology, tourism, and more, drawing young entrepreneurs and investors.

Housing Costs

The approximate monthly cost of living (excluding rent) for a family of four is €2635.6, and for a single person, it’s about €756.7. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city center costs about €1200. In quieter residential areas, housing will cost around €850. A small three-bedroom apartment in the central part will cost around €1500, while in other districts, it’s about €1300. Barcelona is one of the most popular tourist destinations, which brings a large number of visitors throughout the year. As a result, the city can be noisy, especially in the center where many entertainment venues stay open late into the night. Additionally, the influx of tourists leads to long lines at museums and tourist attractions. Another major downside is the high rate of pickpocketing. Therefore, one must be extremely vigilant and cautious to avoid run-ins with thieves. Due to the high population density, heavy traffic, and industrialization, the air here is quite polluted. Many people in Barcelona speak Catalan, and those who don’t know it may face communication challenges, especially in official institutions.

Madrid

The capital city blends ancient monuments with modern buildings. This vibrant metropolis is located almost at the heart of the Iberian Peninsula and is the third-largest city in the European Union. It’s full of bustling energy and life that doesn't quiet down even at night. Countless bars, clubs, restaurants, and other establishments are open 24/7, offering entertainment for every taste.

Advantages of Living in Madrid

1. Cultural Heritage: Residents can enjoy works by world-renowned artists, stroll through historic streets and squares, and experience the spirit of old Spain. Famous spots include Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor, the Prado Museum, the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, the Temple of Debod, and the Royal Monastery of Descalzas Reales.
2. No Job Issues: Madrid is economically developed and home to major companies, banks, and more. It attracts foreign professionals due to its openness to different cultures.
3. Developed Sports Culture: Fans from all over the world come to watch Real Madrid play. The city also offers parks, running tracks, sports clubs, and swimming pools, promoting an active lifestyle for its residents.
4. Convenience for Family Living: The infrastructure is well-developed with schools, hospitals, playgrounds, parks with scenic alleys and ponds.

Disadvantages of Living in Madrid

1. Hot summers with temperatures averaging 30-35°C
2. Overcrowded public transport
3. Noise and hustle
4. Lack of seaside beaches
5. Polluted air

Costs for a Family: €2533.8. Costs for a Single Resident: €795.4 per month (excluding rent). Renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city center costs around €1100, and outside the center, it’s about €750. A three-bedroom apartment in the city center costs around €1750, and in other areas, it’s about €1250.

Valencia

The municipality is located on the Mediterranean coast and is known for its beaches, architectural masterpieces, and tourist attractions. Active leisure activities include sailing, horseback riding, and cycling. Almost every town (Villarreal, Benidorm, Denia, and others) has several dozen golf courses. In Alicante and Castellon, you can also visit medieval castles, Valencian museums, and cathedrals. The advantages of Spain for relocation also include:

1. mild climate
2. affordable living expenses
3. abundance of green spaces
4. gastronomic variety
5. excellent investment opportunities

Despite the significant advantages, Valencia has some drawbacks worth noting for those planning to move to Spain. One of them is the low prevalence of English. There are also limited job opportunities. Another relative downside is the calm and measured pace of life, which might seem unusual. High humidity in the summer months also has a negative impact. The lack of school facilities can create certain challenges. For a family, the average monthly expenses are around €2314.5, excluding rent. For a single person, the monthly costs are around €662.7. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in central areas is €900, and outside the center, it is €600. A three-bedroom apartment in the city center costs about €1350, while in other areas, it’s about €900.

Malaga

Founded in the 8th century BC, this port is considered one of the oldest on the Mediterranean, located in the tourist region of Costa del Sol in the heart of Andalusia. It attracts visitors with its landscapes, beaches, and sea. One of its main advantages is the favorable climate. The beaches of Malaga are very popular with tourists. Compared to other EU cities, food and transport prices are relatively low. Therefore, if you are considering relocating to Spain permanently, this city is worth a closer look. Thanks to its location and attractive conditions, Malaga is becoming an increasingly popular destination for foreigners wishing to settle in Spain. The city has a well-developed international community, which promotes the exchange of cultural values and creates a friendly and tolerant atmosphere. You can also enjoy Andalusian cuisine, local delicacies, and Spanish wine. The city is also famous for its numerous museums. Streets are adorned with ancient buildings, churches, and fortresses. The main drawbacks are:

1. Many residents do not speak English
2. Difficulties with employment
3. Slow pace of life
4. High humidity
5. Heavy tourist traffic

For a family, the cost of living is approximately €2288.9 per month, excluding rent. For a single person, monthly expenses are around €660.4. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city center costs €792.21 per month, while outside the center, prices are slightly lower (€619.41). A three-bedroom apartment costs €1328.57, while in more distant areas, the price is €1011.76.

Sevilla

The ancient capital of the Andalusian autonomous region is known for its many attractions, including the famous Cathedral, the magnificent Alcazar Palace, and the historic streets of the Santa Cruz district. Seville is known as a place where family values are highly cherished. There are many parks and squares where children can play and enjoy nature. The city also boasts a number of schools with high educational standards. Housing is relatively affordable. Those wishing to move to Spain will be able to find both apartments and spacious country homes with gardens. The city is surrounded by picturesque landscapes with olive groves, orange orchards, and mountain chains. It’s an ideal place for walks and outdoor picnics. The city also has special bike paths and bike parking. Seville is famous for its cultural events and festivals. The most famous of them is the annual fair that showcases Spanish culture in all its glory. In addition, there are many concerts, exhibitions, festivals, and theatrical performances. One of the outstanding features of the local population is their passion for thrilling spectacles, particularly bullfighting. Despite centuries of debate over this tradition, it remains not only an exciting activity but also an important national tradition. The drawbacks include:

1. Hot summers
2. Low prevalence of English
3. Employment issues
4. Slow pace of life
5. Large number of tourists

Approximate living costs for expats in Spain:

1. Family: €2302.2 for 30 days, excluding rent
2. Single person: €658.2
3. One-bedroom in the city center: €652.93, outside the center: €466.89
4. Three-bedroom: up to €1033.33 in the center, €767.5 in other areas

Unique culture, magnificent nature, and a variety of entertainment opportunities make Spain an attractive place for expats. When choosing a city to move to, it’s important to consider not only the unique characteristics of each but also your own desires and needs. Barcelona is known for its limitless opportunities for self-realization, Madrid offers an extensive cultural program, Valencia attracts food lovers, and Seville boasts a unique atmosphere and rich history. When deciding whether to move to Spain from Russia, it is recommended to spend some time living in the potential location to understand if it meets your expectations. It’s also important to take into account cultural features, climate, and other factors. If you decide to move to Spain, the El Relocator team will do everything to make the process quick and easy for you. For more details about immigration to Spain, you can read reviews from happy expats and our clients.