Granada is one of Spain's most beautiful cities, offering exquisite tapas with your drink, abundant culture and a quality of life that many people crave. Living in this Andalusian city means sunny days spent in historic plazas, enjoying the bubbly student atmosphere and exploring the Sierra Nevada mountains that loom over the city.
Many choose to live in Granada thanks to its great Mediterranean weather, affordability and picture-postcard architecture that greets you around every corner.
Is Granada a good place to live?
Known for its stunning Moorish architecture, most notably the Alhambra, and its colourful cultural scene, Granada provides residents with plenty of history and art to explore.
The city has a relaxed lifestyle, an affordable cost of living compared to other Spanish cities, and a welcoming community. Its proximity to both the Sierra Nevada mountains and the Mediterranean coast offers many opportunities for outdoor activities year-round. The University of Granada is a popular choice for international students, and the lively tapas culture is another highlight of living here.
Pros and cons of living in Granada
It's a good idea to consider the advantages and disadvantages before choosing to move to a city like Granada.
Some of the perks to living in Granada include:
- The sunny climate: it rarely rains in Granada, so you can spend most of your time outdoors.
- Historical and cultural heritage: the Alhambra is a monument that attracts visitors from all over the world.
- Well-connected: the airport and train network make getting to other parts of Spain and beyond very easy.
- Nightlife: there's a wide range of bars and venues that open late into the night, hosting live music, social events and concerts.
However, like any city, Granada also presents some drawbacks:
- Housing market: especially in central areas and close to the university, it can be quite competitive. Although the supply is varied, prices can be high compared to other areas in the province.
- High tourism: the city can get crowded with tourists, especially during peak seasons.
Best places to live in Granada
Choosing a neighbourhood is an important factor when considering Granada as your next home. Each area has its own quirks and charms, offering a range of options for different lifestyles and budgets.
Albaicín
Historic Albaicín, with its maze-like streets and views of the Alhambra, is perfect for those looking to soak up the city's Moorish heritage. However, its popularity often means higher costs and limited vehicle access.
Zaidin
Neighbourhoods like Zaidin are quieter and more affordable, ideal for families and students who want to be close to university campuses and green areas.
Realejo
Realejo, formerly the Jewish quarter, is now a hub of cultural activity with a wide range of bars and restaurants. It's a very central area and is popular with university students.
Cost of living in Granada
Granada and the region of Andalusia in general tend to be more affordable than other parts of Spain, making it not too expensive to live in Granada. Property prices in Granada were, on average, €2,375 per m2 in April 2025, which is considerably lower than in Barcelona, for example, where the average property price was €4,875. Rent prices in Granada are also reasonable compared to other cities in Spain, with the prices averaging €10.2 per m2. This comes out as around just over €800 per month for an 80m2 apartment.
When it comes to eating out, living in Granada can be pretty affordable. A meal for two people in a mid-range restaurant costs around €40, and a beer shouldn't be much more than €3 or €4. A cup of coffee normally costs €2, and jumping on a bus should only set you back a couple of euros max.
Should I live in Granada or Malaga?
Deciding between Granada and Malaga depends on many factors, including lifestyle, cultural ambience and job opportunities. Granada, with its bohemian feel and rich history, offers a more relaxed lifestyle and is ideal for those seeking a deeper connection with Andalusian heritage. Meanwhile, Malaga is a more cosmopolitan and dynamic city, with a strong focus on technological development and a vibrant arts scene.
When comparing Granada and Malaga as possible locations to live in, analysing the cost of living in both cities is crucial. Granada stands out as a relatively low-cost city, especially compared to Malaga, which, due to its coastal location and popularity among tourists, tends to have higher housing and service prices. Property prices in Malaga were €3,381 per m2 in April 2025, and renting an 80m2 apartment in the city cost, on average, €1,232 per month - €400 more than in Granada.
Living in Granada as a student
Student life in Granada is an experience that combines quality education with a vibrant, multicultural environment.
- The city is home to the prestigious University of Granada, one of the oldest and most respected in Spain. With a wide range of academic degrees and a well-equipped infrastructure, the institution is an excellent place to study.
- Granada is an affordable place to live for students, with numerous accommodation options ranging from university halls of residence to shared flats.
- The city is known for its fun nightlife, cultural venues and food - all great draws for young students.
Living in Granada as an expat
Firstly, Granada’s friendly, laid-back atmosphere and the city’s walkability; everything from quaint local markets to the Mirador de San Nicolás viewpoint is easily reached on foot.
Thanks to Granada's international student population, you’ll find plenty of English spoken around the city centre, especially in cafes, bars, and among younger locals. Social integration is made easier by active international groups and meetups, including weekly intercambio (language exchange) nights, book clubs, and sports teams that welcome foreigners. English-speaking services are widely available, from medical clinics to real estate agents, easing the transition for newcomers.
The mild Mediterranean climate, rich Moorish heritage, and active outdoor life (from skiing in winter to beach trips in summer) make Granada a rewarding destination for expats seeking authentic Spanish living with an international touch.
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