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Where is the best place to live in southern Spain?

Alicante In the sunny southern region of Spain, Alicante stands out as one of the most sought-after destinations for relocation. Its popularity owes much to its affordability and year-round pleasant weather.



For 2026, the Costa del Sol remains the top choice for many, with Málaga city emerging as a premier destination due to its blend of high-tech growth, cultural museums, and Mediterranean lifestyle. It offers an international airport, high-speed rail to Madrid, and top-tier healthcare. For those seeking a more relaxed, "authentic" Spanish feel, Nerja is highly recommended for its walkable streets and stunning sea views without the "skyscraper" feel of other resorts. Alternatively, Seville is the choice for those who prioritize history and deep Andalusian culture, though its summer heat is intense. For retirees or luxury seekers, Marbella and Estepona offer high-end amenities and large expat communities. If budget is a primary concern, the Costa de Almería or inland towns in the Axarquía region provide a significantly lower cost of living while still offering 300 days of sunshine. Ultimately, the "best" place depends on whether you value a bustling metropolitan vibe (Málaga) or a quiet, traditional seaside escape (Nerja or Estepona).

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Where do most expats live in Spain? Madrid and Barcelona are the cities most loved by expats in Spain. Thousands of expats and digital nomads find their home here every year. There are plenty of work opportunities in Madrid and Barcelona for those looking to relocate to Spain.

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Best places to live in Spain: the verdict
  • San Sebastián: best for food and drink.
  • Frigiliana: best for rural escapes.
  • Marbella: best for families.
  • Toledo: best for affordable property.
  • Barcelona: best for culture.
  • The Canary Islands: best for climate.
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Barcelona For some, retirement doesn't mean relocating to a quiet town or smaller city. If you want to spend your retirement in a city that has a vibrant culture and a thriving expat community, Barcelona is a top choice. The second-largest city in Spain, Barcelona has eye-catching architecture thanks to Antoni Gaudí.

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Our Top 10 Best Places to Live in Spain Near the Sea
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How Much Does It Cost to Live in Spain? Well, expats who move to Spain will see that you need between €2,000-2,200 a month to live comfortably in a big city. However, in a smaller city, you will need a more modest €1,700-1,900 a month.

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Spain is overall a safe country. The most common crimes tend to be nonviolent and center around pickpockets, tourism scams, and vandalism. As anywhere, if you use common sense and are aware of your surroundings, you shouldn't run into many problems.

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Some cons of retiring in Portugal include the slow pace of life, which doesn't suit everyone, bureaucracy and long waiting times, the need to carry cash, no central heating, and relatively low salaries compared to other European countries.

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