If the idea of bright mornings, seafood lunches and a city layered with Roman ruins piques your interest, you’re in good company in Tarragona. The city’s compact centre, leafy plazas, and easy rhythm have been flying under the radar for a while, but expats and retirees are cottoning on to what makes living in Tarragona a genuine pleasure.
Tarragona sits right on the Costa Dorada alongside golden beaches and friendly local markets, just one hour from Barcelona. You’ll find all the Mediterranean atmosphere you could ask for, without the price tag or tourist crowds of Barcelona. Whether you’re hunting for a slower pace by the sea or a lively base for exploring Catalonia, Tarragona slips easily into the shortlist.
Is Tarragona a good place to live?
You’d be hard-pressed to wander through Tarragona’s sunny streets and not feel a little bit charmed. Living here means enjoying the kind of Mediterranean lifestyle people dream of—lazy afternoons on the Rambla Nova, casual coffees at street terraces, and ancient history practically on your doorstep. The Roman amphitheatre perched by the sea still steals the show, but locals will tell you it’s the small things—picking up fresh figs at Mercat Central, or dipping your toes in Miracle Beach after work—that really make it.
The city feels just the right size—big enough that there’s always something going on, but small enough that you'll soon start recognising friendly faces in your local bakery. There’s a genuine sense of community, and life ticks by at a speed that lets you actually enjoy it. Unlike some bigger cities, Tarragona isn’t swamped with expats (yet), giving it a local feel, but there are just enough newcomers that you won’t feel like a fish out of water.
Pros and cons of living in Tarragona
Tarragona isn’t shy about showing its true colours, and life here comes with plenty of high points as well as a few quirks to be aware of.
Some of the pros of life in Tarragona include:
- Lower cost of living and property prices than Barcelona.
- Picturesque Mediterranean coastline and year-round mild climate.
- A rich cultural scene, Roman history, and lively local festivals.
On the other hand, some cons include:
- Fewer international job prospects than in major Spanish cities.
- Language barriers if you don’t speak Spanish or Catalan, especially for dealing with bureaucracy.
Cost of living in Tarragona
The cost of living in Tarragona is one of its main attractions, especially for renters, buyers, and retirees. Groceries, transport, and eating out are generally very affordable compared to other Spanish cities. A meal in a mid-range restaurant is usually €12–18, a coffee at a local café costs around €2.50, and a local beer is typically €2–€3.
As of April 2025, property prices in Tarragona averaged around €2,116 per m², and rent prices in Tarragona averaged €11.1 per m². For an 80m² apartment, you can expect to pay roughly €888 per month—far less than you would pay for a similar home in Barcelona.
Best areas to live in Tarragona
Tarragona provides a range of appealing neighbourhoods, each offering something unique for new residents. Here’s a look at some of the most sought-after districts:
Part Alta
Tarragona’s historic old town is filled with Roman walls, medieval streets, and a lively atmosphere thanks to tapas bars, small local shops, and major landmarks right on your doorstep. Ideal for those who love character, culture, and walkability. Note that parking and modern amenities can be somewhat limited, and many homes are charmingly compact.
Eixample
Located just south of the old town, reaching Miracle beach, Eixample features wide boulevards, newer apartment blocks, and plenty of shops, cafés, and services. The area is well-connected, making it practical for families, students, and professionals. Flats here are typically larger, and public transport is excellent.
Llevant
Stretching eastward towards the sea, Llevant enjoys a peaceful, residential setting with proximity to green spaces and prestigious schools. Homes include villas with private gardens as well as newer apartment complexes. Its quiet character suits families and anyone seeking outdoor leisure or more space.
Serrallo
As Tarragona’s old fishing quarter and working port, Serrallo is distinctive for its seafood restaurants and strong local feel. Life revolves around the water, and housing here is generally traditional. The area is peaceful, with a unique atmosphere, ideal for those wanting a truly Catalan neighbourhood.
Expats in Tarragona
Tarragona’s expat community may be smaller than Barcelona’s or Valencia’s, but it’s steadily growing, with newcomers drawn by the city’s slower pace, open beaches, and reasonable living costs. You’ll find a mix of British, German, French, Dutch, and Latin American residents spread across the city, especially in central areas like Eixample, Part Alta, and seaside neighbourhoods. English isn’t as widely spoken in daily life as in larger Spanish cities, so having some Spanish—or even a little Catalan—will help enormously when dealing with local services and paperwork.
Many English-speaking expats in Tarragona connect through the Tarragona Expats Facebook group, which hosts regular social events, swap-meets, and informal meetups at bars or cafés. Language exchange events are popular for practising Spanish while meeting locals and other foreigners.
Families with children tend to favour the Llevant area for its quieter streets and proximity to international and bilingual schools—like Socrates Educa and the British School of Costa Dorada nearby.
Medical care is accessible, and while most GPs operate in Spanish and Catalan, several private clinics offer English-speaking staff and interpreters. Joining local clubs, from the Tarragona Tennis Club to yoga and hiking groups, is a great way to build friendships and integrate into the local lifestyle. Monthly wine tastings at nearby Priorat vineyards or the city’s annual Santa Tecla festival also provide opportunities for newcomers to feel at home and meet people from all walks of life.
Retire in Tarragona
Retiring in Tarragona has become increasingly popular, particularly among British, Dutch, and French nationals seeking sea views, sunshine, and a lower cost of living. The city’s manageable size makes daily life stress-free, with essential amenities, medical centres (such as Hospital Universitari Joan XXIII and several private clinics), and fresh produce markets all within easy reach.
Pensioners make the most of the city’s Mediterranean climate by walking the seafront promenades, joining local clubs, and enjoying discounted rates at municipal sports centres. English-speaking social groups, hobby classes, and friendly cafés in the old town help newcomers build connections quickly.
Beach life and leisure in Tarragona
Tarragona proudly boasts several gorgeous urban beaches, all within easy reach of the centre. Playa Miracle is the largest city beach, spanning a wide bay with lovely promenades and excellent public facilities. Playa Arrabassada is especially safe for families and popular for evening walks, while Playa Savinosa and Playa Llarga offer quieter coves and water sports.
Outdoor and leisure activities abound: hiking in nearby hills, sailing, paddleboarding, cycling along the coast, and regular food and wine festivals offer plenty to do. The local marina is also popular with those who love life by the water.
Living in Tarragona vs. living in Barcelona
Tarragona offers a slower pace, a smaller population, and quick escapes to natural parks and local vineyards. Barcelona is busier and more international, with broader work options, but daily living costs and competition can be high. Tarragona’s sense of tradition and community is a significant plus for many newcomers.
Is Tarragona cheaper than Barcelona?
Tarragona is noticeably more affordable than Barcelona, with the cost of living around 25% higher in Barcelona, and up to 40% higher when you include rent. You’ll spend less on everything from groceries and public transport to property purchases and rentals.
Property prices in Barcelona in April 2025 were, on average, €4,875 per m², and rent prices in the big city were around €23.8 per m². This means an 80m2 apartment may cost you €1,901 per month, roughly double the price in Tarragona.
While living in Barcelona boasts a more dynamic job market, international schools, and nightlife, Tarragona stands out for a quieter, less expensive, and more relaxed environment.
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