A Coruña, located on Spain's northwest coast directly above Portugal, overlooks the majestic Atlantic Ocean. A Coruña offers a mix of Galician tradition, culture, and seaside living. The city is not only an active port but also famous for its incredible local cuisine, boasting some of the freshest fish from its busy harbour. With a population of around 245,000, A Coruña offers a leisure-driven lifestyle that serves as an appealing alternative to larger cities. Living in A Coruña means enjoying its scenic 13-kilometre seafront promenade and its many great places to eat.
Is A Coruña a good place to live?
A Coruña is celebrated for its diverse lifestyle and is often compared to Ireland for its verdant landscapes and cliffside views. The city's cultural scene is kicking, hosting heaps of annual events. Foodies will love all the fresh fish and seafood, from the famous pulpo a la feira (fresh octopus) to the best tuna empanada in Spain. And you’ll find fresh catches from the Atlantic available at markets like San Agustín and Plaza de Lugo. The city’s mix of Michelin-starred and international restaurants adds to its great food scene.
Students and academics ensure a lively, multicultural atmosphere as the University of A Coruña attracts people from around the world. The city also boasts the longest seafront promenade in Europe, taking visitors past landmarks such as the Tower of Hercules, the world's oldest active Roman lighthouse.
Pros and cons of living in A Coruña
When thinking about a move to A Coruña, it's helpful to look at both the positives and the potential downsides. Weighing these factors can give you a clearer picture of what life in the city might be like.
Let’s start with the pros of living in A Coruña:
- Beaches: A Coruña's proximity to pristine beaches offers opportunities for surfing and leisure by the sea.
- Cultural wealth: an abundance of cultural festivals and a bustling harbour contribute to a lively urban environment.
- Safety: known for its welcoming atmosphere, the city provides a safe living environment.
However, like all places, the city has its drawbacks:
- Job market: although thriving in traditional industries, the job market can be challenging, especially for non-Spanish speakers.
- Weather: frequent rains and high humidity may not suit everyone, although it does give the area its distinct emerald-green hue.
A Coruña: cost of living
The cost of living in A Coruña is moderate compared to major Spanish cities. Eating out in A Coruña is reasonably priced, with a meal for two averaging €50, and a coffee typically costing €2.50. Public transport is affordable, with one-way tickets priced under €1.30, while gym memberships range between €30 and €50.
Property prices in A Coruña are not too expensive either. As of March 2025, property prices were about €2,700 per m2, with rental rates at €10.6 per m2, equating to around €848 per month for an 80 m2 apartment.
To give an idea of how Galicia as a region compares to other places in Spain, consider the average house prices from March 2025. In Galicia, prices were €1,421 per m2, significantly lower than Madrid's hefty average of € 4,013 per m2, making Galicia a more affordable option for homebuyers.
A Coruña: neighbourhoods
A Coruña offers diverse neighbourhoods, each catering to different lifestyles and preferences. Here are some of the key areas:
Old town
This area is near the city's main historic attractions, including Plaza de María Pita and Plaza de Azcárraga. There are lots of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, and the marina is just around the corner. The historic apartments often boast distinctive Galician glass balconies that let in lots of light. This is one of the most expensive and highly sought-after neighbourhoods to live in.
Los Rosales
A quiet, family-friendly residential area featuring numerous parks and green spaces. It is ideal for those seeking a peaceful environment without sacrificing city conveniences. Home prices here were above the city average in March 2025, at €3,039 m2.
Riazor
With its expansive, crescent-shaped beach, Riazor is a favourite for families, young couples who enjoy surfing, and older couples appreciating the year-round mild climate.
Agra de Orzán
Known for its multicultural vibe, Agra de Orzán is a lively neighbourhood in A Coruña, where a significant portion of the city's foreign population resides. This area, established in the 1950s, is the most densely populated in A Coruña, offering a bustling urban experience with a blend of cultures and a strong community spirit. Property prices are lower here, at around €1,971 m2.
Ensanche
One of the most modern and affluent areas, El Ensanche is home to many newly constructed buildings and is located close to Santa Margarita Park and the Science Museum.
Monte Alto
Located right at the end of the headland, Monte Alto is known for its bohemian vibe. It IS characterised by cobblestone streets, artistic murals, and a laid-back atmosphere. This neighbourhood features live music bars, cosy cafés, and a strong sense of community.
Weather in A Coruña
A Coruña has a mild and welcoming climate, with average temperatures around 15°C. Even though it rains a lot, the ocean keeps temperatures pretty steady throughout the year. Snow and frost don’t happen often, but if you’re into winter vibes, nearby mountains such as Monte Xalo can give you a bit of a snowy escape. Winters usually range from 8°C to 13°C, so you can still enjoy outdoor activities along the seafront.
Life in A Coruña for expats
The cooler weather, along with the Atlantic Ocean and Celtic influence, gives certain aspects of the local culture a feel reminiscent of the UK. This is reflected in the cosy atmosphere of wooden-clad taverns serving pints of beer and bottles of cider, set against the rugged seafaring vibe.
With international schools and multilingual healthcare, expat integration is smoother, and you'll also find English-speaking legal services available. Though life in A Coruña is rewarding for expats, be ready to pick up some Spanish because the international community here is smaller. Community centres and local groups encourage cultural exchange with workshops and discussions.
A Coruña's airport is conveniently close to the city and offers flights to various European destinations, making travel easy. Spain's high-speed train connects A Coruña to Madrid in less than four hours, allowing you to enjoy Galicia’s unspoiled nature while staying well-connected.
Is Galicia a good place to retire?
Galicia is a nice place to retire, offering a tranquil lifestyle immersed in nature and known for its excellent cuisine. Unlike the sunny expanses of southern Spain, Galicia's verdant landscapes and milder weather provide a more temperate and less drastic environment. The rocky cliffs and fog rolling in over the Atlantic can even be a comforting reminder of home for those from the UK or cooler climates. With its vibrant cultural heritage, stunning scenery, and friendly communities, Galicia is perfect for those looking to enjoy a slower pace of life during retirement.