Spain at a Glance

Country Overview

Spain has long been one of Europe’s most desirable destinations. Retirees, early retirees, and remote workers flock here for sunshine and a slower pace of life.

• Main Draw. Modern amenities, sunshine, and international community.
• Geography. Spain’s landscape is diverse with mediterranean beaches, atlantic coastline, interior plains, and mountains.
• Climate. Much of Spain is sunny and dry, especially along the southern and eastern coasts. The north is cooler, greener, and rainier.

Spain offers the perfect blend of modern conveniences and old world charm.

Best for

Spain is ideal for Americans seeking an affordable European lifestyle. It is a good fit for

• Retirees
• Early Retirees
• Remote Workers
• Slow Travelers

Snapshot

No country is perfect for everyone. The snapshot below highlights key factors such as cost of living, climate, safety, and healthcare to help you determine whether the destination deserves a place on your shortlist.

Why consider moving to Spain?

• Good healthcare that is affordable
• Warm climate and outdoor lifestyle
• Modern infrastructure and transportation
• Rich culture and regional diversity
• Many pathways for long term stays

Potential Challenges

• Bureaucracy can be slow and frustrating
• Housing costs are rising in popular areas
• English language barrier outside tourist areas
• Higher taxes than some expat destinations
• Tourism crowds in major destinations

Where to Live

Where you choose to live in Spain depends on your desired lifestyle and priorities. Larger cities offer modern conveniences with a higher cost of living. Coastal areas offer a slower pace of life and are more affordable.

Madrid. Spain’s capital and largest city. Madrid has excellent transportation connections, healthcare, and cultural attractions. It is a practical choice for expats seeking a urban living and modern amenities.

Barcelona. Located on the Mediterranean coast. Barcelona has historic architecture, excellent public transportation, and a thriving cultural scene. It attracts expats seeking easy access to beaches and city amenities.

Valencia. Spain’s third-largest city. Valencia offers a balance of affordability, modern infrastructure, and Mediterranean living. Valencia offers beaches, walkable neighborhoods, and a growing international community.

Málaga. Located on the Costa del Sol. Málaga’s international connections and beautiful coastline make it a popular choice.

Alicante. Coastal city with a relaxed pace of life. Alicante has beaches and modern amenities. It’s popular among retirees and expats seeking Mediterranean living at an affordable price.

Best Residency Pathways

Americans who want to live in Spain have several options available. Of note, the non-lucrative visa allows access for retirees and expats who don’t need to work. Spain also offers solid options for entrepreneurs and digital nomads.

Discover Your New Home

Want to move abroad and don’t know where to go? This post is part of our Country at a Glance series, which provides snapshots of top expat destinations to help you narrow down your search and create a shortlist of countries to explore further.

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Hi, I’m Leigh. In 2021, I moved abroad for a temporary work assignment and discovered that living overseas didn’t have to wait until retirement. Now I’m building a plan to leave my career behind and create a long-term life outside the United States. Through Next Act Abroad, I’m documenting the journey and sharing what I learn along the way.