An Honest Guide on How to Find an Apartment in Valencia
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Moving to Valencia is an exciting adventure, whether you’re relocating for work, study, or a change in lifestyle. Valencia is known for its beautiful Mediterranean coastline and affordable cost of living, making it a popular destination for expats. But if you're an expat, navigating the rental market can be a challenge.
This guide will help you find an apartment in Valencia with practical tips, as well as a list of the best websites to find your new home, including Flatio, Spotahome (use discount code CTSPAIN15 for a 15% discount), Trusted Housesitters, Badi, and Idealista.
Key Tips for Finding an Apartment in Valencia for Non-EU Expats
Research Valencia's Neighborhoods
Before you start searching for an apartment in Valencia, it’s crucial to understand the city’s various neighborhoods. Popular areas like El Carmen offer a vibrant historic atmosphere, while Ruzafa is a trendy, artistic neighborhood favored by expats and creatives. For a more family-friendly environment, consider Benimaclet or Extramurs, which have more green spaces and a quieter ambiance. Exploring Valencia’s neighborhoods online or in person will help you find the right fit for your lifestyle.Prepare Your Documentation
As a non-EU expat, renting an apartment in Valencia may require extra paperwork. Landlords typically ask for documents such as your residence permit, proof of income, and sometimes a bank guarantee or a rental deposit. Being prepared with these documents will make the rental process smoother and give landlords confidence in your reliability.Move Quickly in a Competitive Market
Valencia’s rental market can be competitive, especially during the summer months or the university season. When you find a rental apartment you like, be ready to act quickly. Apartments, especially in popular neighborhoods, can be rented out within days, so having your documents ready and being decisive can help you secure the apartment you want.Consider Short-Term Rentals First
If you’re unfamiliar with Valencia, starting with a short-term rental is a smart move. It allows you to explore different neighborhoods and get a feel for the city before committing to a long-term lease. This flexibility is especially useful for expats who are new to Spain and might need time to settle. TrustedHousesitters offers a unique opportunity. In exchange for pet sitting, you can stay in someone’s home for free. This is an excellent option for expats who want to explore Valencia while looking for a more permanent apartment.Learn Basic Spanish for Easier Communication
While many landlords and agents in Valencia speak English, learning basic Spanish can help you navigate listings and communicate more effectively. Learning a few key phrases will make the process smoother and may give you an edge when negotiating rent or terms.
Top Websites to Find an Apartment in Valencia
Finding a reliable platform is crucial to locating the right apartment in Valencia. Below are some of the best websites for finding apartments in Valencia, each offering unique benefits for expats.
Flatio is a great platform if you're looking for medium-term rentals, especially if you're a digital nomad or expat. It offers furnished apartments, which is super convenient since you don’t have to worry about setting anything up. What I liked most is that there are no long-term contracts, so you get the flexibility to move as your plans change. The booking process was pretty straightforward, and the variety of options made it easy to find something that fit my needs.
Spotahome is fantastic if you're looking to rent a place for a few months without the hassle of physically visiting apartments. Spotahome is a top choice for expats searching for verified apartments in Valencia. The platform provides detailed listings, including video tours, so you can make an informed decision. Plus, you can use the discount code CTSPAIN15 for a 15% discount on your booking, making it a budget-friendly option.
TrustedHousesitters
I had a great experience with TrustedHousesitters. If you love pets and are looking for free accommodation while traveling, this is an ideal option. The platform connects homeowners with sitters who care for their pets in exchange for staying at their home. It felt like a win-win—getting to stay in new places without paying rent while also enjoying the company of some adorable animals. Just make sure you have experience with pets and communicate clearly with the homeowners!
Badi
Badi was a game-changer for me when it came to finding a room in a shared apartment. The app is easy to use, and I appreciated that it connects you directly with potential roommates. I found the messaging feature handy for chatting with landlords and other tenants before deciding. It’s a good option if you're looking for flexible and budget-friendly living arrangements in cities. It’s more personal than other platforms, which I liked. This is a great way to meet new people and integrate into the local community, especially for non-EU expats seeking to socialize.
Idealista
One of Spain’s most popular real estate platforms, Idealista offers an extensive range of listings in Valencia. From shared apartments to private rentals, Idealista covers both short-term and long-term options. Its user-friendly interface and language options make it accessible to international expats.
Is it Hard to Find an Apartment in Valencia?
Valencia’s growing popularity as a destination for expats, students, and digital nomads means that the demand for apartments has increased in recent years. However, while the market can be competitive, especially in central neighborhoods and during peak times like the summer, it is not impossible to find a good apartment. Here are a few key factors that can affect how difficult it is to secure a place:
Timing: The rental market is particularly competitive during the summer months (June to September) and at the start of the academic year in September when students flood the city. If you're planning to move during these times, it's essential to start your search early.
Neighborhoods: Apartments in trendy or central areas such as Ruzafa, El Carmen, and Ciutat Vella are often in higher demand, making them harder to secure. Expanding your search to less central neighborhoods like Benimaclet, Patraix, or Campanar could give you more options and less competition.
Budget: While Valencia is generally more affordable than cities like Madrid or Barcelona, prices have been rising, particularly in sought-after neighborhoods. Setting a realistic budget and being flexible with your location or apartment type can improve your chances.
Long-Term vs. Short-Term Rentals: Short-term rentals (3-6 months) can be easier to find than long-term leases, especially through platforms like Flatio or Spotahome. However, these can be more expensive on a month-to-month basis. Once you’re in the city, you may find it easier to switch to a long-term lease.
How Expensive is it to Live in Valencia?
Compared to other major European cities, Valencia offers a relatively affordable cost of living, which is one of the reasons why it’s so attractive to expats. Here’s a breakdown of typical living expenses in Valencia:
Rent:
Renting an apartment in Valencia is affordable compared to cities like Madrid and Barcelona. In central areas such as Ruzafa or El Carmen, expect to pay between €700–€1,200 per month for a one-bedroom apartment. In less central areas, prices can drop to around €500–€800. Shared accommodations, often available through platforms like Badi, can lower costs even further, with rooms typically ranging from €250–€500.Utilities:
Utilities (electricity, water, gas, internet) typically cost between €80–€150 per month, depending on usage and the size of your apartment. It’s important to confirm with your landlord whether utilities are included in your rent to avoid surprises.Groceries:
Groceries in Valencia are generally affordable, with an average monthly cost of around €150–€300, depending on your eating habits. Local markets, such as Mercado Central, offer fresh, inexpensive produce, while supermarkets like Mercadona and Consum are also reasonably priced.Transportation:
Valencia has an excellent public transportation system, including buses and a metro network. A monthly public transport pass costs around €40–€50. Biking is also a popular and cost-effective way to get around the city, with the Valenbisi bike-sharing program costing around €29 per year.Dining Out and Entertainment:
Eating out in Valencia is affordable compared to other European cities. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant will typically cost €10–€15, while a mid-range restaurant might be €20–€30 per person. Valencia also offers a vibrant social scene, with plenty of low-cost entertainment options like beach visits, parks, and cultural festivals.Health Insurance:
As a non-EU expat, securing private health insurance is often necessary unless you qualify for public healthcare. Private insurance can cost between €50–€100 per month, depending on your coverage needs.
Important Considerations for Non-EU Expats Renting an Apartment in Valencia
Understand Visa and Residency Requirements
Before renting an apartment in Valencia, ensure your visa or residency permit allows you to stay in Spain for the length of your lease. Some landlords may also request proof of residency or a Spanish bank account, so it’s crucial to be aware of local regulations.Secure a Spanish Bank Account
Many landlords require rent payments via direct debit from a Spanish bank account. As a non-EU expat, opening a Spanish bank account will simplify rent payments and other bills. Start this process early, as it can take some time depending on your residency status.Be Aware of Rental Contracts and Legal Obligations
In Spain, rental contracts are typically for one year, but many have an automatic renewal clause for up to five years if you intend to stay longer. Always read the contract thoroughly, and if necessary, have it translated into your language. You may also need to register your lease with the local municipality.Furnishing Your Apartment
Apartments in Valencia may not always come furnished, so be sure to confirm this before signing the lease. If you choose an unfurnished apartment, websites like IKEA Spain and Wallapop (a secondhand marketplace) are good resources to furnish your home affordably.Factor in Utility Costs
Some rental prices include utilities, while others do not. Make sure you clarify with the landlord what is covered in the rent, such as electricity, water, gas, and internet, and budget for any additional costs.Health Insurance and Safety
As a non-EU expat, securing private health insurance is essential, as this is often a requirement for residency. Additionally, familiarize yourself with healthcare options and safety tips in Valencia to ensure a smooth transition.Work with Local Experts
If you’re unfamiliar with Spain’s rental processes or language barriers, consider hiring a relocation expert or real estate agent to help you. They can assist with negotiations, lease agreements, and navigating legal requirements, ensuring a smoother transition.
Finding an apartment in Valencia as a non-EU expat doesn’t have to be complicated. By following these tips and utilizing trusted rental platforms like Flatio, Spotahome, TrustedHousesitters, Badi, and Idealista, you’ll be well on your way to securing the perfect home in this beautiful Mediterranean city. Take the time to research neighborhoods, prepare your documents, and be proactive in your search to make your move to Valencia as seamless as possible.
