Where to live in Spain

Imagine if you could get paid just for deciding to settle in a particular Spanish village. In some corners of Spain, it’s become a genuine offer. A steady trickle of locals towards the cities has left many rural areas nearly deserted.

With over 3.1 million UK tourists visiting Spain in the first quarter of 2025 – a 4.6% year-on-year rise – the Costa del Sol remains a firm favourite for sun-seekers, golf lovers and holiday home buyers alike.

Tucked away on Spain’s sun-drenched Costa Cálida, the Mar Menor is a saltwater lagoon unlike anywhere else in the country. Sitting in the Region of Murcia, southeast Spain, it’s separated from the Mediterranean by a narrow spit known as La Manga.

Tucked along Catalonia’s golden coastline, Salou has a way of drawing people in—whether it’s for the promise of sandy beaches, a bit of sunshine through the winter months, or the slower pace of life away from the bustle of cities. For anyone thinking about living in Salou, it’s not all package

Located in the foothills of the Sierra Almijara, Cómpeta sits about half an hour’s drive inland from the beaches of the Costa del Sol, with Torrox Costa and Nerja being the nearest seaside spots.

Spain, with its diverse geography and enviable climate, has become one of the most sought-after destinations in Europe for those in search of a high quality of life.

Perched at the wide-open mouth of the Guadalquivir River, Sanlúcar de Barrameda is a town of about 70,000. It's spread along some of the flattest, softest sands on the Costa de la Luz.

Tucked away on a slim slice of land jutting into the Atlantic, Cadiz offers a distinctly laid-back rhythm.

Perched on the Atlantic edge of Cádiz province, Chipiona is one of those places that manages to fly under the international radar, even though Spaniards have loved it for generations.

Tossa de Mar is one of those rare Costa Brava towns where time slows down as you wind your way through its cobbled medieval streets and gaze out over the Mediterranean. With a population of around 6,000, living in Tossa de Mar means swapping the bustle for a more local rhythm.

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.

Tucked just inland from the golden sands of the Costa Dorada, Reus is one of those Catalan towns that quietly wins people over. With just over 100,000 residents, it is known for its rich Modernist architecture, lively street life, and that unmistakably local feel.

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.

This sunny Andalusian city in southwestern Spain is best known for its amazing sherry, flamenco, and those beautiful Andalucían horses.

Set on the banks of the Guadalquivir River in southern Spain, Córdoba is a city where ancient beauty rubs shoulders with everyday life. Famous for its Mezquita and pretty, flower-filled patios, Córdoba offers a slower, sun-soaked pace without losing its buzz.

Orihuela is a historic inland town in the Alicante province, well-known for its stunning old town, traditional fiestas, and beautiful mountain backdrop.

If you're considering living in Valencia, Spain, this article tells you all about what this sunny Mediterranean city has to offer. Valencia's weather, diverse neighbourhoods and colourful culture make moving to the city an appealing prospect for many foreigners.

Barcelona is a city that attracts people from all over the world. It boasts great, sunny weather, a fun beachy vibe, and so much going on that you'll never run out of things to do.

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.

Puerto de la Cruz, located on the north coast of Tenerife, offers a more traditionally Spanish experience compared to the custom-built resorts in the south.

Moraira, on the Costa Blanca, is a small town famous for its fashionable boutiques and coastal elegance. Its majestic tower defines the landscape, serving as a lookout in the face of threats from 16th-century pirates.

Javea is situated in the province of Alicante and boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Spain. This coastal town in the Costa Blanca is characterised by its upmarket ambience, boutique shopping, and laid-back atmosphere.

Denia, located in the province of Alicante, Spain, serves as both a historical treasure and a modern-day retreat. Positioned between Valencia and Alicante, Denia's appeal lies in its Mediterranean charm, rich cultural offerings, and diverse community of locals and expats.

Guardamar del Segura, often simply referred to as Guardamar, is a dreamy town situated on Spain's Costa Blanca. It offers a unique natural setting, surrounded by wetlands, salt marshes, and the beautiful Mediterranean coastline.

Calpe, in Alicante, is a beautiful town on the Costa Blanca, with a skyline dominated by the famous Peñon de Ifach, a towering rock that rises an impressive 332 metres from the sea.