Living in Spain
A Lifestyle That Sells Itself
Spain offers one of the most enviable lifestyles in Europe where over 300 days of sunshine a year, exceptional healthcare, and a culture built on family and community create a quality of life that’s hard to match.
Whether you’re relocating permanently, spending part of the year abroad, or investing in a second home, Spain provides the perfect balance between comfort, opportunity, and relaxation.
The Spanish Way of Life
Life in Spain moves at a calmer, more deliberate pace. Days begin with outdoor cafés, long lunches are shared with friends and family, and evenings stretch late into the warm Mediterranean night.
From the cosmopolitan energy of Valencia and Alicante to the relaxed elegance of Marbella, every region offers a distinct lifestyle shaped by sunshine, cuisine, and community.
Spain’s strong infrastructure, low crime rate and welcoming atmosphere make it a favourite for families, retirees, and professionals alike. English is widely spoken, and many areas have long-established international communities.
Popular Regions for UK Buyers
Valencia – A vibrant, cultural city surrounded by beautiful beaches, world-class architecture, and an ever-growing expat community. Valencia offers outstanding international schools and an affordable cost of living, making it ideal for families and remote professionals.
Costa Blanca – Known for its affordability, safety, and friendly environment. Towns such as Alicante, Moraira, and Villamartin attract thousands of British buyers looking for sunshine and value.
Costa del Sol – A cosmopolitan hub offering golf courses, marinas, fine dining and international schools. Areas like Marbella, Estepona and Benahavís are particularly popular with luxury buyers and investors.
Each area offers something unique from bustling cities to tranquil coastal villages, allowing you to choose the lifestyle that suits you best.
Education and Family Life
Spain’s education system is excellent, diverse, and inclusive. Families can choose from:
- Public schools – Free and Spanish-speaking, ideal for full integration.
- Private bilingual schools – Combining English and Spanish teaching.
- International schools – Many following British or IB curriculums, widely available in major cities and coastal areas.
Spanish society places strong emphasis on family life, outdoor activities, and community spirit. Children grow up with access to clean beaches, parks, and year-round sunshine.
Healthcare and Wellbeing
Spain’s healthcare system is consistently ranked among the best in the world.
Residents can access either the public Seguridad Social system or private healthcare, both of which offer high standards of care.
Private health insurance is affordable and often required for residency applications. English-speaking doctors and clinics are common, particularly in areas popular with international residents.
Cost of Living
Spain remains one of Europe’s most affordable Western countries to live in.
Everyday expenses from groceries to dining out are considerably lower than in the UK, while property prices and running costs remain competitive.
Average monthly costs for a family of four are often 25–35% less than comparable UK cities, with utilities, transport and leisure activities all providing excellent value.
Connectivity and Remote Working
With excellent internet infrastructure, Spain has become a hub for remote workers and digital professionals.
The newly introduced Digital Nomad Visa allows non-EU citizens to live and work in Spain while benefiting from favourable tax arrangements.
Frequent flights from Valencia, Alicante, and Málaga make travel between Spain and the UK quick and affordable, allowing families and business owners to maintain close connections to both countries.
Retirement in Spain
Retirees are drawn to Spain for its safety, climate, and sense of community.
Residency routes for retirees are well established, with options such as the Non-Lucrative Visa offering the ability to live comfortably without local employment.
With mild winters, affordable healthcare and a social culture that embraces older generations, Spain remains one of the most desirable retirement destinations in the world.
Community and Integration
Spain’s warmth extends far beyond the weather. Newcomers are welcomed into local life, and expat communities across Valencia, Alicante and Málaga provide support, social events, and friendship.
Learning basic Spanish helps day-to-day life, but many services from healthcare to banking are available in English, making integration straightforward and stress-free.
Support from Auckland Estates
Through our International Department, Auckland Estates provide more than property advice — we help clients transition smoothly into their new lives abroad.
We assist with:
- Residency and NIE registration
- Introductions to schools, doctors, and relocation experts
- Setting up utilities, insurance, and local banking
- Property management and letting arrangements
Our UK and Spanish teams work closely together to make your move practical, compliant, and enjoyable — so you can focus on living the life you’ve been planning.
Contact Us
To learn more about relocating to Spain or finding the right area for your lifestyle, contact our International Department today.