Living in Ibiza: real cost of living and tips on moving

Set in the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean, Ibiza is much more than just a party island—it’s a place with breathtaking beaches, charismatic towns, and a relaxed way of life that appeals to a diverse international community. While Ibiza’s reputation for nightlife and summer festivities is world-famous, its quality of life, rich culture, and natural surroundings make it a tempting choice for those seeking a permanent change of scene. 

Before moving to Ibiza, it’s vital to get to grips with all aspects of daily life here, from the true costs of renting or buying property to everyday expenses such as groceries, dining out, utilities, and transport. Just as important, choosing the best neighbourhood to suit your lifestyle and priorities—whether you value tranquillity, convenience, or local colour—will help you get the most out of your Ibiza experience.

Is Ibiza a good place to live? 

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Ibiza isn’t just a party hotspot—it’s a surprisingly welcoming place to call home, with a resident population of around 160,000. The vibe on the island is relaxed most of the year, with friendly locals and an easy-going, international community. Living here means swapping grey skies for year-round sunshine, eating outdoors even in November, and always having a beautiful beach close by. Ibiza’s a brilliant place for sun-lovers and those craving a laid-back way of life, but it pays to come prepared—both for the costs and the quirks of island living.

Pros and cons of living in Ibiza all year-round

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What’s great about living in Ibiza?

• Sunshine is pretty much a daily guarantee, which means you’ll rarely need to dig out heavy coats or umbrellas.
• The beaches here aren’t just for holiday snaps—you really can spend lunch breaks or weekends dipping into clear blue water or taking sunset walks along the sand.
• There’s always something going on, from food festivals to art markets or just lazy afternoons at beachside chiringuitos.
• Despite the party image, there are loads of tranquil corners and family-friendly areas if wild nights aren’t your thing.

What can be tricky?

• Rents and house prices are steep—think at least €1,500 a month to rent even a basic flat in Ibiza Town, with prices higher in summer.
• Many rental properties are seasonal, so finding a place to stay all year round can turn into a bit of a juggling act.
• Summer can get very busy—expect crowded beaches and some touristy chaos in July and August, while quieter months see many businesses close.
• Public transport is limited, so having a car can make life outside the main towns much easier

Living in Ibiza in winter

Winter in Ibiza feels like discovering the island’s well-kept secret. Once the summer crowds head home, the whole place settles into a slower, more peaceful rhythm so you can get a real feel for local life. The weather remains pleasantly mild compared to the rest of Europe, so you can still enjoy beach walks, hiking in the countryside, or having a coffee outside on a sunny terrace.

Winter is also when Ibiza’s community spirit shines brightest. With fewer tourists, it’s much easier to make connections with locals and take part in traditional events and festivities that you might otherwise miss. If you’re thinking about renting, prices drop noticeably at this time of year, so it’s a prime opportunity to save on accommodation and utilities. Plus, for anyone eyeing up a business venture, winter gives you a head start before summer’s rush kicks in, making it a smart time to settle in, plan, and really make Ibiza your own.

Best neighbourhoods to live in Ibiza

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Picking the right neighbourhood is a big deal when you’re planning to settle in Ibiza, as where you live can shape your whole island experience. Each part of the island has its own vibe and character—some areas are all about peace and green surroundings, perfect if you’re after quiet and nature. Others buzz with energy, offering a lively social scene, plenty of restaurants, and easy access to shops and other essentials.

Eivissa

Among the most popular neighbourhoods on Ibiza is the Eivissa, with its picturesque streets and a wide range of restaurants, shops and entertainment.

• Property for sale in Eivissa
• Long-term rentals in Eivissa

Saint Eulalia

On the other hand, Santa Eulalia is emerging as an ideal option for families, thanks to its relaxed atmosphere and beautiful beaches.

• Property for sale in Santa Eulalia
• Long-term rentals in Santa Eulalia

Sant Josep

For those looking for peace and privacy, Sant Josep is the ideal place, surrounded by nature with impressive sea views.

• Property for sale in Sant Josep
• Long-term rentals in Sant Josep

Cost of living: is Ibiza expensive?

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Living on the island offers an unbeatable Mediterranean lifestyle, but it's important to understand the true cost of living in Ibiza. Ibiza can be expensive, especially during the high season. However, by being savvy with your money and living a modest lifestyle, you can get by and still enjoy a good quality of life.

As of April 2025, property prices in Ibiza average around €6,625 per m², reflecting its status as one of Spain’s most sought-after destinations. If you’re looking to rent, prices on the Balearic Islands overall are about €19.1 per m², so an 80 m² apartment typically costs €1,528 per month. However, in Ibiza itself, you’re unlikely to find anything for less than €1,500 per month—even basic rentals tend to start at this figure.

It’s also worth noting that many flats are let out on a seasonal basis, available for long-term tenants only from October to May, while summer months are reserved for tourist rentals at hiked-up prices. If you’re watching your budget and open to sharing, the most affordable option is usually a room in a shared flat, which starts at around €600 per month. 

Daily expenses also add up: a meal for two at a mid-range restaurant is usually about €80, a local beer is around €3, and a coffee averages €2.5. To live comfortably in Ibiza, a single person should budget for at least €1,200 per month for everyday expenses, not including rent.

Should I live on Ibiza or Mallorca?

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Deciding between Ibiza and Mallorca as your new home is a classic Balearic dilemma. Both islands tempt with long, sunny days and a slower pace of life, but each has its own feel. Ibiza draws a crowd with its mix of hedonistic summers, a creative international community, and quiet winters that let the island’s natural backdrop do the talking. Mallorca, the biggest of the Balearics, feels more like a miniature country—there’s a real variety, from buzzing Palma and picturesque mountain towns like Sóller, to peaceful inland villages and coves you’ll often have to yourself.

In Ibiza, there’s an anything-goes energy in the warm months, especially if you’re into nightlife and modern beach clubs. It does a roaring trade in summer excitement, but things settle down significantly in the quieter months, revealing a laid-back side that many residents come to love. Mallorca, meanwhile, is the place if you want a broader choice in just about everything. Plenty of locals say it feels more “lived-in” year-round and offers a wider job market outside hospitality and tourism.

Price comparison: living on Ibiza vs Mallorca

Property costs are a big part of the decision. As of April 2025, the average price to buy a home in Palma de Mallorca sits at €4,694 per m², while rents in the city average €17.3 per m² per month. That means an 80 m² apartment would typically set you back around €1,384 per month, which is cheaper than in Ibiza. Your choice might come down to what you want from daily life and how much you’re willing to spend for that Balearic dream.

Living on Ibiza with children

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Bringing up children on Ibiza is a bit of an adventure, but one that many families find deeply rewarding. The island has a relaxed, open atmosphere and the sort of climate that means your kids can spend most of the year outdoors. There’s a strong sense of community here, with plenty of international families and locals mixing at the school gates or weekend markets.

When it comes to education, you’ve got a mix of options. Some schools teach in Spanish (or Catalan), but there are also several international schools on Ibiza, including Morna and Colegio Mestral. This can be a real help if you want your children to keep up with the British curriculum or be part of a more global classroom. Families often say they feel safe bringing up children here, and the slower pace of life really lets kids be kids. 

Healthcare is good, though for more specialised care, you might need to pop over to the mainland. And when it comes to keeping little ones busy, you’re well covered—think sports clubs, language classes, art workshops, and all sorts of festivals to get involved in.

Moving to Ibiza

Making the move to Ibiza is a big step, but the experience is often as rewarding as it is unique. One of the first things newcomers notice is how strongly the seasons shape daily life—while summer buzzes with energy and events, winter slows right down, letting you get to know the quieter side of the island and its close-knit local communities. The paperwork can be a hurdle, especially if you’re sorting out residency, schools, or registering for healthcare, so it’s worth getting familiar with the latest requirements before you arrive. Many people recommend contacting local gestors (administrative advisors) or online expat forums to help smooth the way.

Renting long-term can be a bit of a challenge, particularly outside the quieter months, as many places are snapped up for short lets, so it helps to plan ahead and be flexible. Integrating locally often starts with learning a bit of Spanish (or Catalan), joining in with island festivals, and sampling typical Ibizan dishes—sobrasada and flaó are two local specialities to try. In the end, taking part in community life, being open to the island’s rhythm, and appreciating its strong sense of identity will go a long way to making Ibiza feel like home.