Spain, unsurprisingly, is a favourite retirement destination for British expats. Its warm climate, affordable living costs, and relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle make it a standout choice for those who want to unwind and enjoy their golden years in the sun.
With over 290,000 Brits officially registered in Spain, and many more living there part-time, it’s no surprise that certain regions have become popular hubs for UK retirees.
Which locations are most popular with expats, and which offer the affordable and laid back lifestyle that many are searching for?
Why do British retirees choose Spain?
Before diving into some of the most popular retirement destinations, let’s look at why so many Brits choose to retire in Spain.
Cost of living
Spain generally offers a lower cost of living than the UK, particularly for housing and dining. For those planning retirement, the costs can mean it’s possible to do more and live a better quality of life in Spain.
Affordable housing and groceries mean that retirees can really embrace Spanish life and make the most of the desirable lifestyle.
Climate
Mild winters and hot summers make Spain the perfect destination for sun-seekers. It makes a nice change for those used to the rainy days in the UK.
Healthcare
Spain’s healthcare system is highly ranked and accessible for retirees. It’s what makes Spain one of the more desirable locations for retirees.
Proximity to the UK
Spain is only a short flight away from the UK and the tourism industry means that flights are regular and affordable, making it easy to visit family and friends.
Where in Spain do Brits retire?
So where are the popular destinations in Spain for British retirees?
The Costa del Sol
The Costa del Sol is home to one of the largest British expat communities in Spain. With year-round warm weather and a wealth of amenities catering to non-Spanish-speaking residents, it is one of the most popular destinations for British retirees. The region’s well-established expat network makes it easy to integrate, with plenty of British-run businesses, social groups, and English-speaking services available.
One of the biggest advantages of retiring in the Costa del Sol is its excellent transport connections. Málaga Airport offers frequent and affordable flights to the UK, making it easy for retirees to visit family and friends or receive visitors from home. The region also benefits from a high standard of healthcare, with both public and private medical facilities available.
Several towns in the Costa del Sol stand out as prime retirement destinations.
Málaga, the region’s capital, is a vibrant city offering a mix of culture, great transport links, and a growing expat scene.
Marbella is well-suited for retirees seeking an upmarket lifestyle, with luxury properties, high-end restaurants, and excellent golf courses.
For those looking for a more affordable option, Fuengirola and Torremolinos provide a strong British community and a relaxed coastal atmosphere.
Meanwhile, Estepona offers a quieter, more traditional Spanish charm, making it ideal for retirees who want to escape the hustle and bustle of busier tourist hotspots.
Costa Blanca
The Costa Blanca is another top choice for British retirees, offering a lower cost of living compared to the Costa del Sol while still providing a warm Mediterranean climate and a strong expat presence.
The region is known for its beautiful white sandy beaches, excellent healthcare services, and a variety of property options, from modern apartments to traditional Spanish villas.
Benidorm, Alicante, Torrevieja and Jávea are all popular locations for British retirees.
Costa Brava
For retirees looking for a more scenic and cultural experience, Costa Brava in northeastern Spain offers a blend of stunning landscapes, historic towns, and a slower pace of life.
This region, known for its rugged coastline and picturesque fishing villages, provides a more traditional Spanish feel compared to the more tourist-heavy southern costas.
The Balearic Islands
The Balearic Islands, including Mallorca, Ibiza, and Menorca, offer a Mediterranean paradise for British retirees looking for a more relaxed island lifestyle.
Each island has its own unique charm, from the vibrant nightlife of Ibiza to the tranquil countryside of Menorca.
Mallorca, the largest of the islands, is the most popular choice for British retirees. The island offers excellent healthcare facilities, an international airport with year-round connections to the UK, and a well-established expat community.
The Canary Islands
For retirees seeking year-round warm weather, the Canary Islands are one of the best options in Spain. Located off the coast of Africa, these islands enjoy a mild climate even in the winter, making them particularly attractive to retirees looking to escape the cold.
The cost of living in the Canary Islands is lower than in mainland Spain, and the region offers tax advantages, including a lower VAT rate. British retirees also benefit from a well-developed healthcare system and an ever growing expat community.
Among the most popular retirement spots, Tenerife stands out for its mix of modern conveniences and natural beauty.
Gran Canaria is another excellent option, with its vibrant capital, Las Palmas, offering both city life and beautiful beaches.
Lanzarote and Fuerteventura, known for their stunning landscapes, appeal to retirees who enjoy outdoor activities and a slower pace of life.
FAQs About Retiring in Spain
What part of Spain has the most British expats?
The Costa del Sol, particularly Málaga, Marbella, and Torremolinos, has the largest concentration of British retirees in Spain.
Where do most British expats retire to?
The most popular areas include Costa del Sol, Costa Blanca, and the Balearic Islands, due to their warm climate and expat-friendly communities.
What is the best city in Spain for retirees?
Tourist hotspots are popular but cities like Valencia are also considered to be excellent for retirement due to affordability, healthcare, and high quality of life.
What is the downside of retiring in Spain?
Like everything, there are pros and cons to retiring in Spain. For example, there can be hurdles to overcome when seeking residency in Spain and planning to retire there:
- Bureaucracy – The paperwork for residency and healthcare can be complicated and sometimes difficult to understand, particularly for those who do not speak Spanish.
- Language barrier – While English is spoken in tourist areas, Spanish is essential for integration, particularly in more rural areas.
- Extreme heat – Some regions experience extreme heat in July and August.
- Tax implications – British retirees need to understand Spain’s tax rules, particularly on pensions and wealth tax.
Where should you retire in Spain?
The best place to retire in Spain depends on your budget, lifestyle preferences, and need for a local expat community.
Wherever you choose, Spain offers a high quality of life, great weather, and a welcoming atmosphere for British retirees.