The best places to live in Spain revealed - as underrated seaside destination takes the crown

Daily Mail​

07-05-2025

From golden beaches to cheap tapas and sunny weather, it's no surprise that Spain is one of the world's top destinations for British expats.
But where are the country's best places to live?
A new ranking from the expat experts at Nomad Capitalist has revealed the best places to live in Spain.
From holiday islands to seaside cities, here's the company's ranking of Spain's best destinations for expats...
11. Zaragoza
It might not be one of Spain's most well-known destinations but Zaragoza is actually the country's fifth largest city.
Situated in northern Spain, Zaragoza is the capital of the Aragon region and has cobbled streets which 'offer a journey back in time' says Nomad Capitalist.
It's one of Spain's oldest cities and has a long history that dates back to the Roman Empire.
As it's an inland city, Zaragoza is a 'world away from the sunny Spain depicted on postcards' so a good idea for expats who prefer the city life.
10. Ibiza
Famed for its legendary parties, Ibiza is the top-rated Balearic island in the ranking.
Nomad Capitalist recommends exploring the island's 'relaxed and mystical interior' which is a world away from its party-loving coast.
The island tends to be busy during the spring and summer months but expats will find it much quieter in the winter season.
The expat experts add: 'Despite its small size - Ibiza supports diverse and unique ecosystems, earning it UNESCO World Heritage status in 1999.'
9. Bilbao
The largest city in Spain's northern Basque region, Bilbao offers easy access to the north coast's unspoiled and wild beaches.
Nomad Capitalist explains that the 'mid-sized' city feels 'more manageable' than a large, crowded spot like Madrid or Barcelona.
However, expats are warned that Bilbao is one of Spain's 'more expensive' cities with property prices generally higher than on the south coast.
It's a great option for culture vultures as it's home to the Guggenheim art gallery, one of Spain's most iconic art destinations.
8. Granada
Home to the iconic Alhambra Palace, Granada has a 'smaller expat community' than other Spanish cities says Nomad Captialist.
The company explains that this offers expats who do move there the chance to 'tap into authentic Spanish culture'.
Although expats will face extremely high temperatures in summer, they will also have easy access to skiing in the Sierra Nevada mountains during winter.
And the experts add: 'Eating out in Granada is more reasonable compared to other cities in Spain.'
7. San Sebastian
Often considered to be the foodie capital of Spain, San Sebastian also has one of the country's 'most beloved urban beaches'.
Seashell-shaped Playa de la Concha has previously been named one of the best beaches in the world.
Nomad Capitalist says: 'Formerly the summer residence of the Spanish royal family, it remains a stylish resort.'
It adds that nothing is 'further than a 15 minute walk from the station' and expats will enjoy a 'slower pace of life'.
6. Valencia
Spain's third-largest city, Valencia has a 'lower cost of living compared to other large cities', according to Nomad Capitalist.
It adds: 'As the urban heart of the Costa Blanca, Valencia offers easy access to beautiful sandy beaches, all within walking distance.'
Despite the dish gaining popularity all across Spain, Valencia is the real home of paella. It's enjoyed at lunch rather than dinner by locals.
Expats who live in Valencia will also have easy access to high-speed rail connections to other areas of Spain.
5. Seville
Seville sits at the heart of Spain's Andalucian region in the south of the country. It's a popular tourist destination with 'plenty of al fresco entertainment'.
Nomad Capitalist adds: 'One of the most celebrated events is the Feria de Abril (April Fair) which transforms 75,000 square metres of the city centre into a lively fairground.'
However, Seville's popularity does mean that it tends to get a bit overcrowded in summer.
Expats will also need to contend with hot temperatures with the heat sometimes soaring beyond 40 degrees in August.
4. Barcelona
'A favourite with digital nomads', Barcelona is Spain's second-largest city and has a 'diverse range of expats', says Nomad Captialist.
It explains: 'You don't have to leave town to find a stretch of sand, with Sant Sebastia beach conveniently located in the central La Barceloneta neighbourhood.'
However as a top tourist destination, Barcelona has higher 'food costs' than other Spanish cities, warn the experts.
Despite this, the expat guide says the city is one of the best places in Spain to enjoy international cuisine.
3. Madrid
Spain's capital city, Madrid is a fantastic destination for expats who want to frequently visit family at home.
The city has a well-connected airport while its train station offers fast access to other major hubs in Spain.
Nomad Capitalist says: 'More and more expats are relocating to Madrid for new job opportunities.'
As the capital city, expats can expect to find higher prices in Madrid than in smaller cities in Spain.
2. Sotogrande
According to Nomad Capitalist, 'luxury living is the name of the game' in sunny Sotogrande.
The gated community in Andalucia offers easy access to golf courses while many residents also take part in equestrian activities.
Nomad Capitalist says: 'Sotogrande is home to an international community who have made a new life abroad.'
As might be expected in a luxury area, property prices are high in Sotogrande and it's not a destination for expats on a budget.
1. Malaga
Residents 'enjoy a relaxed lifestyle' and the wider region has a 'thriving expat community', says Nomad Capitalist
Top of the ranking is Malaga, the heart of Spain's sunny and popular Costa del Sol region.
Residents 'enjoy a relaxed lifestyle' and the wider region has a 'thriving expat community', says Nomad Capitalist.
While Malaga is primarily popular for its beaches, the city also has easy access to national parks.
It's also well connected to the UK with plenty of budget direct flights on offer for expats who need to visit home.