Life in Spain during retirement: is it really worth it?
Why is Spain one of the most frequently chosen countries by retirees from abroad?
Retirement in Spain for a Pole is a dream of golden years spent in a climate where the sun shines over 300 days a year. According to Eurostat data and rankings such as the Annual Global Retirement Index, Spain consistently ranks among the top countries as the best place to live for seniors. And it’s not just a matter of weather, but primarily the “slow life” lifestyle that promotes longevity.
What will you find in the article?
- What are the real living costs for retirees in Spain compared to Poland?
- What is the minimum pension amount in Spain?
- Which regions of Spain are most friendly for retirees and why?
- What does the healthcare system in Spain look like for foreign retirees?
- What formalities must be fulfilled to legally live in Spain in retirement?
- Summary: Retirement in Spain
Spain offers a unique combination of modern infrastructure with a traditional approach to family and community. Importantly, retiring in Spain after years of work in Poland is possible thanks to EU regulations on the coordination of social security systems. This means that insurance periods in both countries add up, simplifying the formalities when relocating.
What are the real living costs for retirees in Spain compared to Poland?
Analyzing data from Numbeo, we see that living costs in Spain are on average 15-20% higher than in Poland; however, the quality of products and services often exceeds this difference. The average pension in Spain (according to data from the Ministerio de Trabajo y Economía Social) currently amounts to about 1,300 euros, allowing for a normal life.
What is the minimum pension amount in Spain?
For people with full insurance coverage, this amount is around 780 – 850 euros (depending on family situation). Meanwhile, the average pension in sectors such as services or industry in Spain often exceeds 1,400 euros. For a Polish retiree, it is key that prices of fresh fruits, vegetables, and olive oil are often lower than in Poland, and heating expenses in regions such as Costa del Sol are minimal. More details can be found in our review: “How much does life cost in Spain?”
Which regions of Spain are most friendly for retirees and why?
The choice of region is crucial for the wallet and well-being. We particularly recommend Costa del Sol, especially the areas around Marbella and Estepona. Why? It is a region with the highest standard of safety and the best medical infrastructure dedicated to foreigners.
If you are wondering where is best to buy an apartment in Spain, it is worth considering transport availability (Malaga airport) and the presence of the Polish community. Investing in this region is also capital security, and the purchase of property in Spain still offers a chance for stable value growth. For those seeking slightly lower prices, an alternative is Costa Blanca, which we write about in the article: “Where is best to buy an apartment in Spain? Top locations.”
What does the healthcare system in Spain look like for foreign retirees?
The Spanish healthcare system (Sistema Nacional de Salud) regularly ranks in the top ten best systems globally according to WHO. Retirement in Spain for seniors from Poland is associated with the right to free healthcare based on the S1 form (transfer of rights from the Polish National Health Fund (NFZ) to the Spanish equivalent: INSS).
Thanks to this, a Polish retiree receives a Spanish health card (Tarjeta Sanitaria) and has access to general practitioners and specialists under the same conditions as Spaniards. It is worth adding that medications for retirees are highly subsidized here. You can read about how to prepare for this change here: “Moving to Spain – here’s what you need to know.”
What formalities must be fulfilled to legally live in Spain in retirement?
The settlement process is clear but requires attention. The retirement age in Spain currently stands at 66 years and 6 months (with a planned increase to 67 years in 2027), but as a resident, you can live here at any time. The key steps are:
- Obtaining a NIE number (tax identifier).
- Registration in the Central Register of Foreigners (Certificado de Registro de Ciudadano de la Unión).
- Demonstrating possession of sufficient financial means and health insurance (or the S1 form).
Our team supports clients at every stage, ensuring transaction safety and formalities. Our Practical Guide: How to Buy an Apartment in Spain? will help you go through this process stress-free.
Summary: Retirement in Spain
Life in retirement in Spain is not only savings on heating costs but, above all, an investment in health and joy in every day. With the right support, your move to Costa del Sol can become the best decision of your life.
