Where Should I Live in Spain? A Guide to Choosing Your Ideal Region

June 16, 2025

So, you’ve decided to move to Spain—but now comes the big question: where exactly should you live? Whether you’re retiring, working remotely, or moving with your family, choosing the right location in Spain can make a big difference in your day-to-day lifestyle.

This guide will walk you through the most popular regions for expats, help you weigh your priorities, and provide resources to help you decide with confidence.

Key Factors to Consider

Climate: Prefer sunshine year-round or a milder northern breeze?
Cost of Living: Are you on a tight budget or prioritizing comfort?
Community: Looking for international connections or full local immersion?
Language: Some regions speak Catalan, Basque, or Galician alongside Spanish.
Lifestyle: Do you prefer beach life, mountain air, big-city buzz, or village charm?

Where Should I Live in Spain? A Guide to Choosing Your Ideal Region

Top Cities and Regions for Expats

Madrid – The Dynamic Capital

Spain’s political and business hub, Madrid offers fantastic public transport, world-class museums, and a vibrant expat community. It’s ideal for professionals, students, and those who thrive in a big-city atmosphere.

Check out our full guide: Living in Madrid – A Spainguru Guide for Expats

Barcelona – Creative, Coastal, Cosmopolitan

A favorite among digital nomads and entrepreneurs, Barcelona blends stunning seaside views with an artistic and innovative spirit. Note that Catalan is widely spoken here alongside Spanish.

Check out our full guide: Living in Barcelona – A Spainguru Guide for Expats

Málaga – Sunshine and Tranquility

Located on the Costa del Sol, Málaga boasts over 300 days of sun per year. It’s a favorite for retirees and remote workers, offering a mix of beaches, culture, and affordability.

Valencia – Balanced and Affordable

Valencia gives you Mediterranean living without the Barcelona or Madrid price tag. Great for families, it also has a growing international community and a laid-back vibe.

Check out our full guide: Living in Valencia– A Spainguru Guide for Expats

Seville – Traditional and Vibrant

If you want to experience authentic Andalusian culture, Seville is the place. With flamenco, tapas, and Moorish architecture, this historic city delivers warmth in every way—both climate and community.

Granada – Student-Friendly and Scenic

With the Alhambra and Sierra Nevada nearby, Granada is perfect for lovers of history and nature. It’s also very budget-friendly and has a lively student population.

San Sebastián & Bilbao – Northern Charm

In the Basque Country, both cities offer excellent food, great safety, and lush green scenery. San Sebastián is smaller and picturesque; Bilbao is more modern and dynamic.

The Islands – Mallorca, Tenerife & Beyond

If year-round mild weather and a slower pace appeal to you, consider island living. Mallorca is great for luxury and culture, while Tenerife offers natural beauty and affordability.

📺 Watch: Which Spanish City Matches YOUR Needs?

Still not sure where to go? This video helps you match your personality and priorities to the perfect Spanish city.

📺 Bonus: Madrid vs Barcelona – Which City Wins?

Can’t decide between the two Spanish giants? Here’s a direct comparison of lifestyle, costs, transportation, and vibe.

🧭 Final Tips: How to Choose

Visit First: If you can, take a scouting trip to test out different cities.
Talk to Locals and Expats: Join Spainguru’s Facebook community to get real insights.
Compare Costs: Use tools like Numbeo to calculate rent, groceries, and utilities.