Spain is one of the top destinations for retirement. Often referred to as the 'golden age,' retirement offers the opportunity to leave the world of work behind after years of contributions, with a pension that allows you to enjoy a relaxed, fulfilling life. However, many countries are facing a pension crisis, and the complexities arising from Brexit only add to the challenges. In spite of this, Spain is still one of the best places to retire in 2025.
We have put together a list of the best places to retire in Spain in 2025, taking into account the cost of living, safety, pensions, healthcare and visas amongst other factors, and Spain turns out to be one of the best countries to retire to – let’s have a look at which regions are best for retirement in Spain, and other important questions about retiring in Spain. From the best places to retire in Spain by the sea, to retirement villages and cities, there is somewhere for everyone.
- Best places to retire in Spain for expats
- The best coastal towns in Spain to retire
- Where do most British people retire in Spain?
- Where is the cheapest place to retire in Spain?
- How much do you need to retire comfortably in Spain?
- What about pensions if you’re thinking of retiring to Spain?
- Retiring to Spain after Brexit
- Pitfalls of retiring to Spain
- Is retiring to Spain a good idea?
Best places to retire in Spain for expats
The Costa del Sol: Retire by the sea
When talking about where to retire in Spain, no list would be complete without a trip to the Costa del Sol.
The Costa del Sol is one of the most important tourist areas in Spain, especially for people flying in from the U.K. and one of the best places to retire in Spain by the sea. The Costa del Sol has more than 1.3 million inhabitants, a large community of expats and English speakers that are spread throughout the area which is located in the Malaga region, from the luxurious Puerto Banús in Marbella, to the bustling beaches of Nerja, Benalmadena and Fuengirola.
The Costa del Sol is perfect for pensioners who want a lively and active lifestyle - especially for those who enjoy a round of golf, given the province's fame as home to some of the top golf courses in Spain and Europe. The region also has a range of smaller towns and villages which are great for pensioners and some of the best retirement villages in Spain.
The Costa de Azahar: Enjoy retirement on the Mediterranean
Moving up the coast, the lesser known Costa del Azahar, also known as the Orange Blossom Coast, is in the province of Castellón and is made up of 120 kilometres of stunning sandy beaches and coves. Another great option for those who wish to retire in Spain by the sea, and located just over one hour’s drive from Valencia, this golden coast gets some of the best weather in Spain and is a welcoming area for English speaking expats, as well as being an affordable option for pensioners.
The population in the Costa del Azahar is more scarce than in the Costa del Sol, meaning that even in the capital you’ll be in peace. The main cities of interest include Benicarló, Peñíscola, Torreblanca, La Llosa, Benicasim and Oropesa. And if you prefer life in a bigger city, you can also opt to retire in Valencia Spain just a short distance away.
Bilbao: A thriving expat community
The Spanish city of Bilbao, located in the Basque Country in Northern Spain, also makes our list of the best places to retire in Spain. This is perhaps a more surprising addition for some, as expats moving to Spain to retire tend to gravitate towards the southern coast. However, due to the high quality of life and low crime rate, it’s an ideal destination to those who don’t want to just spend their retirement on the beach, as well as a spot for enjoying mild summers without the intensity of the heat of the South and Mediterranean coasts. Bilbao is also known for having one of the best healthcare systems in Spain and also has a growing English speaking community, making it a worthy choice for your hard-earned retirement in Spain.
Madrid: the best quality of life for pensioners
According to a study by the British real estate company, Audley Village, Madrid is one of the best places to retire in Spain because of its high quality of life. Ideal for those who prefer to stay away from the coast, Madrid offers excellent transport links, a vibrant cultural scene, and a large English-speaking community, ensuring there’s always something to do. The city also boasts one of the highest life expectancy rates in Spain, with residents living to an average age of nearly 84. Additionally, Madrid has one of the longest retirement spans in Europe, with an average of 22 years. Its strong safety record further cements its position as one of the top cities to retire in Spain.
The best coastal towns in Spain to retire
Spain boasts several charming coastal towns that offer an idyllic setting for retirement:
- Sitges, along the Costa Dorada, provides a vibrant cultural scene and proximity to Barcelona.
- Nerja on the Costa del Sol charms with its beautiful beaches and mountain backdrop.
- Cadaqués, nestled on the Costa Brava, appeals with its artistic heritage and picturesque streets.
- Rota on the Costa de la Luz offers a tranquil lifestyle with sandy beaches and historic sites.
- Altea on the Costa Blanca features whitewashed houses and a mild climate perfect for retirees.
- San Sebastián, while not traditionally a retirement destination, offers Michelin-starred dining and cultural richness on the Bay of Biscay.
- Puerto de Mogán in the Canary Islands charms with its canals and year-round warm climate.
These coastal towns provide a mix of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and amenities, making them enticing options for retirees seeking a peaceful life by the sea in Spain.
Where do most British people retire in Spain?
The most popular areas for British retirees in Spain are the Costa Blanca, Costa Brava, and Costa del Sol. The Costa Blanca, with its stunning beaches and warm climate, attracts many Brits, particularly around towns like Alicante and Torrevieja. The Costa Brava, known for its charming coastal towns and natural beauty, is another favourite.
On the southern coast, the Costa del Sol, with cities like Marbella and Málaga, is a top destination for those seeking a vibrant lifestyle, excellent golf courses, and a large expat community. Inland regions, such as Andalucía and Murcia, are also popular for those seeking a more tranquil, rural lifestyle. These areas offer not only beautiful scenery and a relaxed pace of life but also strong British communities, making the transition easier for retirees.
Where is the cheapest place to retire in Spain?
Several regions in Spain are known for their affordability and appeal to retirees seeking a cheaper cost of living. Andalusia, particularly cities like Seville and Granada, offers a lower cost of living, while rural areas within the region are even more budget-friendly. Extremadura in western Spain and Murcia in the southeast are also recognised for their affordability, with cities like Badajoz and Cartagena providing attractive options for retirees. Additionally, Valencia and Galicia offer relatively affordable living costs compared to major cities, making them appealing destinations for retirees. Factors such as access to healthcare, amenities, and community services should be considered alongside cost when evaluating potential retirement destinations in Spain.
How much do you need to retire comfortably in Spain?
The amount you'd need to retire comfortably in Spain depends on several factors:
- Lifestyle: Big cities tend to be more expensive. In major areas, expect a monthly budget of around €2,000-€2,200, whereas smaller towns could be manageable with €1,500-€2,000 monthly.
- Accommodation: Owning your property eliminates rent, significantly reducing your monthly spending.
Here's a general estimate:
- Comfortable lifestyle in major cities: €2,000 - €2,200 monthly (€24,000 - €26,400 annually)
- Comfortable lifestyle outside major cities: €1,500 - €2,000 monthly (€18,000 - €24,000 annually)
Additional points to consider:
- Non-EU citizens: To acquire a Spanish retirement visa, you'll need to prove a minimum passive income of €27,793 annually.
- Healthcare: While Spain has a public healthcare system, expats might need private health insurance, adding to the monthly costs.
For a more personalised idea, consider consulting resources like:
- Cost of Living comparisons: Websites like Numbeo allow you to compare the cost of living in Spain with your current location.
- Financial advisers: Consulting a professional familiar with Spanish regulations can provide tailored advice based on your specific situation.
For more on how much you need to live comfortably in Spain, check out our guide.
What about pensions if you’re thinking of retiring to Spain?
First and foremost, as a British citizen, you have the obligation to notify the UK government offices that deal with your pension and tax if you are retiring abroad.
Retiring in Spain as a Brit does however mean you have various options regarding pensions: You are entitled to one of the following options:
- your UK State Pension
- your Spanish and UK State Pension from the “Instituto Nacional de la Seguridad Social” if you worked in Spain
- pensions from working in other EU countries if applicable
Retiring to Spain after Brexit
Can I retire in Spain after Brexit? Since Brexit, retiring to Spain has become a more complicated process for UK nationals, but it is still an attractive option for many looking for a sunny lifestyle and a lower cost of living. The UK’s departure from the European Union has resulted in new residency rules for British citizens, including the need to apply for long-term visas. With Spain being one of the most popular destinations for retirees, it's essential to understand the visa requirements, healthcare arrangements, and the financial criteria involved.
To retire in Spain post-Brexit, UK nationals must apply for a residence permit, such as the Non-Lucrative Visa, which is ideal for retirees without the intention of working. This visa requires proof of sufficient income or savings to support oneself without relying on public funds. Additionally, British retirees need to ensure they are registered with Spain’s healthcare system, either through private insurance or through the country’s public health service, depending on their status. While there are some extra steps compared to pre-Brexit times, Spain remains an appealing choice for those seeking a fulfilling and comfortable retirement.
Find out more about what Brexit means for expats living in Spain, including new residency documents.
Pitfalls of retiring to Spain
While retiring to Spain offers many advantages, there are several pitfalls that potential expats should consider before making the move. One of the main challenges is navigating the complex bureaucracy, particularly with residency and visa requirements post-Brexit. The paperwork can be overwhelming, and delays are common, which can lead to frustration.
Additionally, the cost of living in certain areas, such as the Costa del Sol or Barcelona, can be higher than expected, especially for those looking to maintain a comfortable lifestyle on a fixed pension. Healthcare, while excellent in Spain, requires careful planning—retirees may need private insurance if they don't qualify for public healthcare. Furthermore, cultural and language barriers can sometimes make it difficult to fully integrate, as not all locals speak English fluently. It's crucial to do thorough research and understand the legal and financial implications before retiring to Spain to avoid any unwelcome surprises.
Is retiring to Spain a good idea?
So, to round things up, is retiring to Spain a good idea? Most definitely! Retiring to Spain has a lot of benefits for expats, including a lower cost of living compared to other countries and an excellent healthcare system, all of which leads to a higher quality of life.
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