Top 10 destinations for expats in Spain boast 'cost-effective housing' and '300 days of sun' per year

Spain boasts many destinations perfect for expats

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Solen Le Net

By Solen Le Net


Published: 07/10/2024

- 17:57

Expats can enjoy Spain's easy-going lifestyle and sunny climate from 10 different cities

Spain's sun-drenched landscapes have drawn in Britons for decades, both for short and long stays.

The allure of the country extends beyond the well-known tourist hotspots of Madrid and Barcelona, however.


According to relocation expert Kristin, ten regions across the city make excellent homes for expats.

Sharing the list on her YouTube channel Travelling with Kristin, the traveller revealed that Girona takes the crown for the best place to live in the southern European country.

The following 10 destinations featured on the list:

1. Girona
2. Asturias
3. Sotogrande Andalucia
4. San Sebastian
5. Canary Islands
6. A Caruña
7. Seville
8. Málaga
9. Valencia
10. Murcia

According to Kristin, Murcia, the 10th top location for expats, is known as Europe’s most vital agricultural hub, specialising in the cultivation of fruit, olive oil, and wine.

KRISTIN

Kristin shared her top destinations for expats in Spain

GETTY / TRAVELLING WITH KRISTIN


"Murcia is one of the most cost-effective places to live in Spain, especially when it comes to housing," she explained. "The houses there are lower than renting in both Malaga and Valencia."

Meanwhile, Valencia has been crowned one of the top places in the world for expats, explained Kristin.

It is followed by Málaga, which has miles of coastline, making it a popular cruise port and a great place to soak up the sun and coastal lifestyle.

Seville, number seven on the list, is the largest city in the Andalucían region, attracting millions of tourists every year with its rich history.



"While there are parts of Spain where you can get by speaking only English, Seville is not the best place for that, so you’ll want to brush up on your Spanish," Kristin cautioned.

She described Soto Grande in Andalucía as a "primarily expat community," making it the perfect place for anyone looking for a gated community with Western-style condos.

Located in North-western Spain, Asturias is known as Green Spain for its diverse climate, hilly landscapes and forests.

"It’s also where you’ll find different seasons including dry and rainy seasons," added Kristin.


"Living in Asturias means cool summers and mild winters, with more rain than other parts of Spain."

Securing the first spot on the list, Girona is located just 40 minutes outside of Barcelona.

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Kristin

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According to Kristin, it's a "charming Catalan town that’s an eclectic mix of old and new with gothic cathedrals spaced out by modern condos".

This is an area known for friendly people, lots of nice walking trails and also, potentially, some of the best coffee in Spain.

With more than 300 sunny days a year, it’s no wonder the country never fails to lure in foreigners.

Prospective retirees and expats are advised to thoroughly research their chosen location before moving, however, as some areas a significantly more expensive than others.

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