Best places in Spain for British and American expats

Dreaming of a new life, away from the daily routine and towards new horizons? You are far from alone. Spain is home to hundreds of thousands of British residents and many other English speakers, a sign of how much the country appeals to people moving abroad. But where should you go? Which Spanish cities really suit British and American expats? Here is our complete guide to the best places to live in Spain for expats, with practical tips and a look at the property market.

Before presenting the best places, it is worth asking what draws expats to Spain. The answers vary: a better quality of life, job opportunities, the climate, a more affordable cost of living, or simply the wish to reinvent yourself.

The economic context of 2025 strengthens these reasons. The rising cost of living at home, job uncertainty and crowded big cities are pushing more and more people to look at other options. At the same time, digital work and the spread of remote working have removed a major obstacle: having to live close to your workplace.

For families and young professionals, moving abroad is a unique chance to combine personal adventure and financial stability. Retirees see it as a way to make their income go further while enjoying a milder climate.

The 5 best places in Spain for expats in 2025

1. Valencia: the expats' favourite

Valencia has established itself as one of the top cities for expats in recent years: it topped the InterNations Expat City Ranking in 2020, 2022 and 2024. This growing popularity is no accident.

Why does Valencia appeal so much?

First, it is easy to reach. Valencia airport has direct flights to the UK and northern Europe, so home is never far away. Then there is the climate: with mild winters and long, sunny summers, the city and its beaches offer an exceptional quality of life.

The cost of living is lower than in Madrid or Barcelona, starting with housing. Asking prices averaged €3,473/m² in September 2026 according to Idealista, and with average rents of €16.3/m² a month, a flat of 55 to 75 m² costs around €900 to €1,200 a month. Local restaurants also remain affordable.

But the real draw is the quality of everyday life. With the Turia gardens, the beaches and the City of Arts and Sciences, Valencia offers the services of a big city on a human scale, and it was European Green Capital in 2024. Remote workers and families have been quick to see the appeal.

The Valencia property market

Valencia's property market is dynamic but still much more affordable than Madrid or Barcelona. Prices have risen in recent years, but opportunities remain in up-and-coming districts such as Benimaclet or El Cabanyal. Along the coast and inland, you can still find houses with land at reasonable prices.

Paperwork

For EU citizens, such as German, Dutch or Irish nationals, the steps are simple: registration at the town hall (padrón), an EU registration certificate with your NIE (foreigner identity number) and access to public services. Non-EU citizens, including British and American nationals, can use the non-lucrative visa (for passive income) or the digital nomad visa, which allows remote work mainly for employers or clients outside Spain.

2. Madrid and Barcelona: the classics that never get old

Spain's two largest cities remain a safe bet for expats. They offer the most jobs and international flights in Spain, which explains their lasting appeal.

What the big cities offer

Direct flights to the UK and the US, a rich cultural life and a lower cost of living than in London or New York are the pillars of their appeal. A single person in Madrid or Barcelona can live comfortably on a budget of €1,700 to €2,000 a month, while in Valencia or Andalusia you can get by on €1,200 to €1,500.

What many expats love most is the work-life balance. Spain has many public holidays (14 a year), working hours are often more flexible, and long lunches and the siesta set a less stressful pace. Salaries are lower on average than in the UK or the US, but the more affordable way of life makes up for it.

Where to settle

Madrid accounts for 24% of job offers in Spain and attracts professionals looking for big-city opportunities. Barcelona (17.8% of offers) appeals for its tech scene and cultural life. But do not overlook Valencia, cheaper and very pleasant, or coastal cities such as Alicante for those who want to live by the sea.

Spanish property: a favourable market

Spanish property remains much cheaper than in London, Amsterdam or Munich. Areas such as the Balearic Islands or the Costa del Sol offer good opportunities to invest or buy a home. Prices have risen in recent years, so it pays to buy with good local advice.

Foreigners account for nearly 19% of property sales in Spain, which shows how open the market is to expats. Access to mortgages and the tax rules for non-residents make it a popular destination for investors.

Jobs and business

The Spanish job market has improved considerably. Growing sectors include tech (Barcelona and Madrid are leading tech hubs), tourism, international trade and property. For English speakers, being able to work in both English and Spanish is a major asset: many international companies look for staff fluent in both languages.

If you plan to start a business, Spain offers a supportive framework. Paperwork has been simplified and foreign investment is common. Self-employed status (autónomo) is accessible and popular, although non-EU citizens need a residence permit that allows it.

3. Marbella and the Costa del Sol: for high budgets

Marbella is not a place for tight budgets, but it remains a favourite of international buyers with a large community from all over Europe and beyond.

Why Marbella remains attractive

It is simple: the area combines sunshine, the sea and an international way of life. Many buyers get far more space for their money than in London, along with excellent private healthcare, international schools and Málaga airport less than an hour away.

Marbella, Estepona and Benahavís account for much of the high-end market, with their golf courses, marinas and beach clubs. Further east, Málaga attracts professionals in tech and services.

Cost of living and budget

Admittedly, the cost of living is high. Renting a family flat easily costs more than €2,000 a month, and day-to-day spending adds up quickly: average asking rents reached €19.7/m² in May 2026 (Idealista). Many residents earn their income abroad: they work remotely, run a business or live on their investments while enjoying the coast.

The Marbella property market

Marbella's property prices are among the highest in Spain: €5,581/m² on average in May 2026, according to Idealista. The Golden Mile and Sierra Blanca are among the most exclusive areas on the coast. For buyers with a high budget, buying here remains a sound investment in a market with strong international demand.

Integration and quality of life

Beyond the figures, Marbella offers an outstanding quality of life: safety, sunshine, golf, beaches and excellent private services. English is widely spoken and the international community is large, which makes settling in easier.

4. Alicante and the Costa Blanca: a large English-speaking community

The Costa Blanca has established itself as one of the favourite areas of British buyers. The province of Alicante has one of the largest British communities in Spain, alongside many Dutch, German and Scandinavian residents.

Why the Costa Blanca appeals to expats

Above all, it is easy to settle in. English is widely spoken in many coastal towns, so you can manage while you learn Spanish. Beyond that, the Costa Blanca offers a rare combination: sunshine, affordable prices, good healthcare and beautiful scenery.

The local economy relies mainly on tourism, services and property, and many newcomers bring their work with them. Besides retirees, many remote workers settle here, helped by the many flights from Alicante airport, and Spain's digital nomad visa makes the move easier for non-EU citizens.

Cost of living

In Alicante, the cost of living is balanced. Average asking rents were €13.9/m² a month in September 2026 (Idealista), or about €973 for 70 m². Eating out is affordable, public services such as healthcare and education are good, and an income from abroad goes a long way.

Alicante property

Alicante's property market offers good value compared with Málaga or Marbella: asking prices averaged €2,743/m² in September 2026 (Idealista). Buying is realistic for many expats, and areas such as Playa de San Juan or the city centre are very popular.

Residency options

Spain has several residence routes for non-EU citizens, such as the non-lucrative visa for retirees and people with passive income, or the digital nomad visa for remote workers. After five years of legal residence, you can apply for long-term residence, and later for Spanish nationality.

Family life

For families, the Costa Blanca is a popular choice. There are many British and international schools, the coast is safe, and the work-life balance is good. Nature is never far away: mountains, natural parks and coves are within easy reach of Alicante.

5. Málaga: for entrepreneurs and remote workers

Málaga has emerged as a destination for ambitious profiles in 2025, especially entrepreneurs, tech professionals and remote workers.

Major economic advantages

The main attraction? A special tax regime for newcomers. Under the regime known as the Beckham law, people who move to Spain to work, including remote workers and some entrepreneurs, can pay a flat 24% on their employment income up to €600,000 for the year of arrival and the following five years, if they have not lived in Spain in the previous five years. Add to this a dynamic business environment, with a growing tech scene and good international connections.

Dynamic sectors

Tech, tourism, property and services are thriving. International companies have opened offices in Málaga, including Google, which has set up a cybersecurity centre there.

Cost of living and salaries

The cost of living in Málaga has risen with its success: average asking rents reached €16.5/m² a month in August 2026, according to Idealista. Salaries are lower than in the UK or the US, so remote workers paid from abroad benefit the most.

A dynamic property market

Málaga's property market is one of the most dynamic in Spain: asking prices averaged €3,938/m² in August 2026, up 5.1% in a year (Idealista). Foreign buyers regularly invest in flats and villas, and demand for rentals is strong.

Visas and settling in

Spain closed its golden visa to new applications on 3 April 2025. Non-EU citizens can apply for the digital nomad visa (for remote workers) or the entrepreneur visa. Settling in is quick, and services for expats are well developed.

Beyond the top 5: other places worth considering

Mallorca: island life with easy links to northern Europe

Mallorca offers an excellent compromise for families. With direct flights from Palma to the UK, Germany and the Netherlands, it is one of the best-connected islands in Europe. Its international community is well established, and the rest of Spain is a short flight away.

The cost of living is high, especially for housing, as the Balearic Islands are among the most expensive regions in Spain. Families find a very reassuring environment there, with well-regarded international schools and a high level of safety.

Andalusia: traditional Spain at a lower cost

For those looking for a more traditional Spanish way of life, Andalusia is an interesting alternative. Seville is cosmopolitan and lively, while Granada and Córdoba offer more affordable property. Seville and Málaga airports have direct flights to the UK, which makes family visits easy.

The Canary Islands: for digital nomads

For digital nomads and remote workers, the Canary Islands offer mild weather all year round combined with a pleasant quality of life. Gran Canaria and Tenerife have international schools and well-established expat communities, and Las Palmas has become a hub for digital nomads. Indirect tax (IGIC) has a general rate of 7%, compared with 21% VAT on the mainland.

The Region of Murcia: a quieter Mediterranean

Often overlooked, the Region of Murcia attracts retirees and buyers on a budget. Between the Costa Blanca and Andalusia, it offers a calm Mediterranean way of life, with the Mar Menor and its golf resorts. Property prices remain reasonable.

How to choose where to live in Spain

With so many options, how do you choose? A few key criteria should guide your thinking.

1. Your career goals

Are you looking for career growth or for stability? For a career move, Madrid, Barcelona or Málaga are the obvious choices. For a more relaxed pace combined with real job opportunities, Valencia or Alicante suit better.

2. Your family situation

A family with children will have different priorities from a single person. Parents will look for good international schools nearby, safety and a good work-life balance. Madrid, Valencia and the Costa del Sol do well on these criteria. Singles or couples without children can be bolder: Barcelona, Málaga or the Canary Islands.

3. Your starting budget and expected income

This is crucial. With a tight budget, forget Marbella, Ibiza or central Barcelona. Valencia, Alicante, Murcia and inland Andalusia offer good value. With a higher income, Marbella, Mallorca or the best districts of Madrid become accessible and attractive.

4. Your property expectations

If buying a home matters to you, Valencia, Alicante and Málaga offer good investment opportunities. Property there remains affordable compared with northern Europe and has growth potential. For long-term rentals, demand is strongest in Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia and Málaga.

5. Easy paperwork and integration

For a first move abroad, choose areas with established English-speaking communities: the Costa Blanca, the Costa del Sol, Mallorca or the Canary Islands. This makes settling in and paperwork much easier.

Key steps for moving to Spain

Wherever you settle, some steps cannot be skipped.

Before you leave (6 months ahead)

• Plan your taxes: tell the tax office in your home country, your bank and your insurers about your change of residence
• Secure your job or income: check that your employment contract allows you to work from Spain, or make sure you have passive or remote-work income
• Prepare your paperwork: valid passport, marriage or divorce certificates if any, recognised diplomas
• Find a home: ideally, secure a rental before you arrive to make local paperwork easier

On arrival in Spain

• Register at the town hall: sign up on the local register of residents (the padrón)
• Get your tax identification number: the NIE (foreigner identity number), needed for almost every step
• Open a bank account: essential for salary payments and paperwork
• Social Security: register with the Spanish social security system
• Contact your consulate: let your country's consulate in Spain know you live there, where a scheme exists (for US citizens, the STEP programme)

Taxes when you move abroad

Note: moving abroad does not automatically end your tax obligations at home. The rules depend on your tax residence, and US citizens generally still have to file US tax returns wherever they live.

• If you live in Spain for more than 183 days a year, you generally become a Spanish tax resident
• Spain has double taxation treaties with the UK, the US, the Netherlands and Germany
• Speak to a tax adviser before you move to plan your obligations

Three typical expat profiles

The remote worker: Valencia

Remote workers often choose Valencia for its fast internet, coworking spaces, beaches and a cost of living lower than in Madrid or Barcelona. A good plan is to rent for a year, then buy a flat once you know the city and its districts well.

The career mover: Madrid

Madrid has the largest job market in Spain and a lively social life. Salaries are often lower than in London or New York, but so is the cost of living. Districts such as Malasaña, Chamberí or Salamanca each have their own character, and sports clubs and professional meetups make it easy to build a social life. After a few years, it often makes sense to invest in property in Madrid. For people who want both a career and big-city life in Spain, it is the natural choice.

The retiree: the Costa Blanca or the Costa del Sol

Retirees value the mild winters, the large English-speaking communities and the quality of healthcare. A pension paid from abroad goes further here than in most of northern Europe, especially for those who own their home.

2025 trends: what is changing for expats

Rents and the cost of living

Rents in Madrid, Barcelona and Málaga have risen sharply in recent years, so mid-sized cities such as Alicante, Murcia or Castellón de la Plana now offer better value. Price gaps between regions are large.

Politics and taxes

Housing is at the centre of political debate in Spain. The golden visa closed to new applications in April 2025, and many regions are tightening the rules on holiday rentals. Check the local rules before you buy to let.

Environment and lifestyle

More and more expats look for places that match their environmental values. Valencia, European Green Capital 2024, benefits from this trend, as do cities with good cycle lanes and green spaces.

Conclusion: your move to Spain is within reach

Moving to Spain in 2025 has never been so accessible or so varied. City life in Madrid, the beach in Valencia, sunshine in Málaga or mild winters in the Canary Islands: there is a place for every profile and every plan.

The key is to prepare your move well: clarify your goals, plan the paperwork and taxes, talk to local experts and get to know the expat community where you plan to live.

If property is central to your move, to invest, to buy or simply to find the right home for your new life, our English-speaking team based in Spain can guide you. With our experience of the Mediterranean and European markets, we have helped international buyers for years to find properties that match their plans.

Moving abroad is an extraordinary adventure. With the right preparation and advice, you will be ready to build a successful new life in Spain.

To start your property project in Spain, our team is here to help at every stage: information, tax advice, property search and settling in.