Why is it worth living in Spain? Quality of life, costs, places to live
If you have been asking yourself for a long time “is it worth living in Spain?”, this article is for you. In it we discuss concrete reasons why it’s worth living in Spain, why we live here, we compare the quality of life with other European countries and point out the best locations to live. We also add practical links: about buying property, moving, and the potential for vacation rental.
What’s in the article?
What are the main advantages of living in Spain?
Spain has long ranked highly in quality-of-life rankings. Why is it worth living in Spain from the perspectives of daily life, work, and finances?
Climate and health: more than 300 days of sunshine per year in the south (Costa del Sol, Costa Blanca) promote activity and well-being. The maritime microclimate and longer daylight for most of the year are a real change in quality of life.
Outdoor lifestyle: cafes, beaches, promenades, mountains within a short drive. The culture of spending time outdoors strengthens social relationships and a sense of happiness.
Safety and infrastructure: stable infrastructure (roads, suburban rail, airports), modern services, broad access to health care and education. Tourist regions operate year-round.
Cost of living versus quality: compared with Northern or Western Europe, costs of services and dining can be lower, with a high-quality cultural-recreational offering.
Remote work and expat ecosystem: numerous international communities make starting easier, and fast fiber internet and coworking spaces support the remote-work system.
Real estate and investments: a wide range of apartments and houses: from urban apartments to resort-style developments with pools, gyms and coworking areas. If you are considering buying property in Spain, read our article: “Buying property in Spain in 2025 – what you need to know?”
Conclusion: if you ask “is it worth living in Spain?”, the trio: climate + lifestyle + safety and infrastructure are the most common, hard arguments for “yes”.
What is the quality of life in Spain like compared to other European countries?
To answer reliably whether it’s worth living in Spain, it’s worth looking comparatively.
Health and longevity: the Mediterranean diet, outdoor activity, and preventive care contribute to good health statistics. In many regions, access to private health care is fast and affordable.
Weather and well-being: fewer months of “cold darkness” than in Northern Europe promote psychological well-being and regular activity. This is the argument that most often determines relocation.
Costs and purchasing power: although property prices in the best locations are rising, other costs (gastronomy, services, recreation) are often lower than in large Northern European cities. In tourist towns, competition among services keeps prices attractive.
Mobility and connectivity: highway network, flights to most European metropolises, and high-speed trains (AVE) facilitate living dispersed across several countries.
In short: why is it worth living in Spain? Because in the “daily balance” it’s easier to maintain a healthy rhythm of life, while remaining professionally and socially mobile.
What are the best places to live in Spain?
The choice depends on your priorities. Below is a directional map along with typical resident profiles.
Costa del Sol (province of Malaga: Marbella, Estepona, Benalmádena, Mijas, Benahavis) => 300 days of sunshine, beaches, mountains, golf, airport in Malaga, strong international community. Many developments with a pool, gym, coworking. Ideal for digital nomads: “lifestyle + remote work” and families and golf enthusiasts.
Costa Blanca (province of Alicante: Alicante, Jávea, Denia, Orihuela Costa) => a very wide range of properties in various budgets, good infrastructure and climate. A common choice for families, seniors, and people seeking a balance of price and quality.
Valencia and surroundings => a combination of urban life with the beach. Strong gastronomic and cultural scene, good transport links. For year-round residents and digital nomads.
Canary Islands (Tenerife, Gran Canaria) => “eternal spring” and an active lifestyle. A good place for allergy sufferers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Balearic Islands (Majorca, Ibiza) => beautiful landscapes and a high standard, though higher prices. For those seeking premium property and lifestyle and a selective community.
Large cities: Madrid, Barcelona => urban pulse, culture, business, universities. For those who want to combine a career with the Spanish quality of life.
If your goal also includes renting, check the revenue potential and seasonality: “How much can you earn from vacation rental property in Spain?”
What are the advantages of living in Spain?
Let’s summarize the arguments that most frequently persuade people who are wondering whether it’s worth living in Spain:
Weather and daily energy: sun and long days mean more time after work, less seasonal gloom, and greater motivation to stay active.
Better work‑life balance: meals outdoors, afternoon activities, weekend cultural outings support real rest.
Community and integration: an active, international environment; it’s easier here to make private and professional contacts. Many local initiatives (fairs, festivals, sports).
Infrastructure and safety: good roads, transport, flight availability, stable services. In tourist regions, infrastructure operates year-round.
Real estate aligned with lifestyle: large terraces, shared recreation areas, pools, green neighborhoods, underground garages – all raise daily living comfort.
Investment opportunities: demand for mid- and short-term rental (depending on the municipality). In many locations it’s easy to achieve full occupancy in season. Before you buy, read our articles about the buying process and financing: “How to buy an apartment in Spain with a mortgage?”
And if you’re preparing a relocation, check the practical guide: “Relocation to Spain – here is what you should know”.
FAQ: most common questions from people planning to move
Is it worth living in Spain with children?
Yes, the availability of international schools, sports activities, and public spaces makes it favorable for families.
Is it worth living in Spain if I work remotely?
Yes, especially in regions with good air connectivity and a wide offer of coworking spaces (Malaga, Valencia, Alicante, Marbella).
Is it worth living in Spain in a smaller town?
Many smaller towns offer excellent quality of life, lower costs, and quick access to larger centers.
Summary
The answer to the question ‘is it worth living in Spain?’ is: definitely yes, if you value the Mediterranean climate, a healthy lifestyle, cultural diversity, and modern infrastructure. Why is it worth living in Spain right now? Because the remote-work ecosystem, developed expat communities, and a rich offer of properties make it easier than ever to arrange daily life here ‘your way’.
[Photos come from our listing no. 913V: Elegant villa in a prestigious location, Nueva Andalucia]
