Moving to Spain has been a dream for generations of Brits — and with good reason. Warm weather, lower cost of living, great food, and a lifestyle that feels like a permanent holiday. But the question remains: where are the best places to live in Spain if you’re relocating, retiring, or just planning to work remotely by the sea?
The truth is, not every sunny town or historic city is equally suited for expats. Some places are too quiet. Others are too expensive. And then there are regions where language or bureaucracy makes day-to-day life harder than expected.
So, if you’re looking for the best place to live in Spain for expats, for families, or for English speakers, this guide breaks down what really matters — and introduces you to one region in particular that quietly outshines the rest.
What makes a great place to live in Spain?
Before listing towns or coastal spots, it’s worth clarifying what makes a place truly “expat-friendly” — especially for Brits.
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English-speaking services
From doctors and lawyers to schools and supermarkets, speaking your language makes a massive difference when starting a new life abroad. -
Access to international airports
Nobody wants to be stuck in a beautiful village three hours from the nearest Ryanair gate. Regular flights to the UK are key. -
Healthcare and legal clarity
A good public health system, plus access to private options if needed, gives peace of mind. Also, towns where local officials are used to dealing with foreign residents tend to make life easier. -
Community and integration
Places that already have a settled expat population tend to offer smoother transitions. Clubs, events, English-speaking neighbours — it all helps.
Best places to live in Spain for expats: coastal vs inland
A big decision is choosing between coast and inland.
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Inland towns offer authenticity, lower prices, and deeper cultural immersion — but often require Spanish fluency and a willingness to be “the foreigner” for a while.
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Coastal areas are where most expats settle. You get the sun, sea, and services — plus a better chance of finding English speakers, social clubs, and property agents who understand your needs.
If you’re planning to retire, move with a young family, or work remotely, coastal areas are often more practical. That’s where you’ll find the perfect mix of comfort and Mediterranean charm.
Best places to live in Spain by the sea — without breaking the bank
Coastal living sounds expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. While Marbella and Ibiza grab headlines, there are entire regions in Spain that offer seaside life at a much lower cost — and without sacrificing comfort.
So, where is the best place to live in Spain near the beach for expats who don’t have millionaire budgets?
You’ll hear a lot about Andalusia, Catalonia, and the Balearics, but there’s another region that’s become a quiet favourite for British residents, especially in recent years.
Let’s talk about it.
The Costa Blanca: Spain’s not-so-secret expat haven
If you’ve asked Google “what is the best place to live in Spain for English speakers”, chances are the Costa Blanca has come up.
Stretching along the Mediterranean in the province of Alicante, the Costa Blanca is home to dozens of towns that offer:
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Affordable coastal housing
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Direct flights to and from the UK
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Established expat communities
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International schools and private clinics
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A laid-back, sunny lifestyle that’s hard to beat
Unlike larger cities like Barcelona or Valencia, life here moves at a slower pace — without sacrificing services or connectivity.
Best places to live in Spain for families — on the Costa Blanca
If you’re relocating with children, the Costa Blanca is one of the best places to live in Spain for families.
You’ll find bilingual schools, child-friendly beaches, and local activities that make raising kids abroad easier. Here, British families blend with Spanish neighbours and enjoy a safer, outdoor-oriented lifestyle.
Towns like Jávea, El Campello, and Guardamar del Segura are particularly popular. These aren’t tourist traps — they’re real communities where expat families live year-round.
Best places to live in Spain for expats — Costa Blanca towns to consider
Rather than giving you a flat list of cities, aquí te van algunos ejemplos bien colocados, que fluyen dentro del contenido y están en zonas donde Bertrade opera:
Jávea (Xàbia): Beautiful and upmarket without being pretentious. Very popular among British expats. Family-friendly, with international schools and green surroundings.
Dénia: A port town with history, year-round life, and direct ferry access to the Balearics. Strong infrastructure and a growing remote worker scene.
Altea: One of the prettiest towns on the coast. Whitewashed houses, art galleries, and peace. Ideal for semi-retirement or creative types.
El Campello: Near Alicante but quieter. Long promenade, tram access, and an excellent mix of Spanish and expat residents.
Guardamar del Segura: Pine forests, wide beaches, and a small-town feel. More peaceful and natural than other towns nearby.
Torrevieja: Larger, flatter, and very popular with retirees. Budget-friendly and full of English-speaking services. One of the strongest British expat hubs.
Orihuela Costa (La Zenia, Playa Flamenca, etc.): Lively, highly international, and full of services. A great fit for young families and remote workers.
Best place to live in Spain for British expats?
All signs point to Costa Blanca. You get the sea, the services, and the support — all in one place.
It’s not just about palm trees and golf. It’s about finding a place where you can actually live, not just holiday. Somewhere you can register for healthcare, get legal advice in English, enroll your kids in school, and still walk to the beach.
In short: the Costa Blanca is the best place to live in Spain for Brits who want an easy, affordable, and enjoyable life.
Where’s the best place to live in Spain in 2025?
You could spend months comparing data, reading blogs, and watching YouTube videos of dreamy Spanish villas.
Or you could look at where the people are actually moving.
Thousands of Brits have already made the Costa Blanca home. From Benijófar to Dénia, the stretch of coast is packed with real stories of expats who came for a trial stay — and never left.
The answer isn’t always obvious. But once you visit this region, it becomes very clear.
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