Deciding where to retire in Spain can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re not sure where to start.

This article is designed to be a starting point for retirees considering a move to Spain.

While the final decision should be based on your personal priorities and needs, I’ve compiled a list of locations that cater to some of the most common concerns retirees have shared with me, including:

Affordable housing
Access to nature and outdoor activities.
A safe, walkable area with modern amenities like restaurants, shops, and healthcare.
An English-speaking community to ease the transition, while still offering a Spanish cultural experience.
Proximity to an airport for easy travel to the UK or elsewhere.
Seasonal or mild weather with access to air conditioning if needed.

For each location, I’ve ranked how well it meets these needs, so you can get a clearer sense of what each area offers.

🏆 Coming to Spain's Top Recommendation: Valencia and Inland Valencia

Valencia is a top choice for retirees looking for an affordable place. One retiree summed it up:

“Valencia has everything—affordable living, great food, and it’s just beautiful to walk around. It’s a real gem.”

It’s walkable and offers easy access to both beaches and nature.

Ranking for Retiree Needs:

Affordable Housing: 4/5 – Properties can be found within budget, though prices are rising.
Nature and Outdoors: 5/5 – Turia Gardens, beaches, and nearby parks provide plenty of green spaces.
Safety and Walkability: 5/5 – A very walkable city with a good reputation for safety.
English-Speaking Community: 4/5 – A mix of locals and expats, with a growing English-speaking community.
Proximity to Airport: 5/5 – Valencia Airport offers direct flights to the UK.
Weather: 4/5 – Mild winters and warm summers, though AC is important during hotter months.

Why You’ll Love It:

Valencia is all about balance. You’ll find the lively Turia Gardens for outdoor activities, sandy beaches for relaxation, and a historic city center packed with culture and fantastic restaurants.

Retiree Tip:

“We rented for six months before buying, and it was the best decision. It gave us time to find a quieter neighborhood near the beach but still close to the city.”

2. Moraira and Costa Blanca North

Moraira is perfect for those who value natural beauty, and proximity to larger towns for variety. It’s a gem for retirees who want a quieter life but with excellent amenities close by. “This is where you go if you want small-town charm but with enough variety nearby to keep things interesting,” said a couple who relocated to Moraira.

Ranking for Retiree Needs:

Affordable Housing: 3/5 – Prices are reasonable in smaller areas, but some properties may stretch the budget.
Nature and Outdoors: 5/5 – Close to nearby towns like Javea, Calpe, and Altea for a change of pace.
Safety and Walkability: 4/5 – Walkable towns with a safe, laid-back atmosphere.
English-Speaking Community: 4/5 – A good mix of locals and expats, with less of a touristy vibe than nearby Benidorm.
Proximity to Airport: 4/5 – Alicante Airport is about an hour away, with good transport connections.
Weather: 5/5 – Mild and pleasant year-round, though summers may require AC.

Why you’ll love it:
Moraira offers natural beauty, a slower pace, and easy access to urban amenities without the crowds. “We wanted nature and great food, and this place delivered. It’s perfect for a morning hike followed by a fantastic meal by the sea.”

3. Alicante

Alicante offers a great balance of affordability, cultural activities, and convenience, making it a solid choice for retirees who want a manageable city experience.

Ranking for Retiree Needs:

Affordable Housing: 5/5 – Many budget-friendly options available both in the city and nearby.
Nature and Outdoors: 4/5 – Beautiful beaches and nearby mountains provide variety.
Safety and Walkability: 4/5 – A safe, compact city center that’s easy to navigate on foot.
English-Speaking Community: 4/5 – A growing expat community with opportunities to integrate locally.
Proximity to Airport: 5/5 – Alicante-Elche Airport is a major hub with frequent UK flights.
Weather: 4/5 – Generally mild, but summers can get hot; AC is recommended.

What retirees say:
“We didn’t want anything too quiet, but we didn’t want chaos either. Alicante has that perfect middle ground. Plus, the cost of living here is just so manageable.”

4. Málaga and Surrounding Towns

“Málaga is our happy place,” said one retiree. “You have art galleries, great food, and the beach all within walking distance.” Surrounding towns like La Cala de Mijas and Cala de Finestrat provide quieter alternatives while keeping you close to Málaga’s energy.

Ranking for Retiree Needs:

Affordable Housing: 4/5 – Smaller towns often have more budget-friendly options.
Nature and Outdoors: 5/5 – Beaches and hiking trails abound, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun.
Safety and Walkability: 4/5 – Málaga itself is highly walkable, though smaller towns may vary.
English-Speaking Community: 5/5 – Strong expat presence, especially in the surrounding towns.
Proximity to Airport: 5/5 – Málaga Airport is one of Spain’s busiest, with great UK connections.
Weather: 4/5 – Hot summers, so AC is important, but mild winters.

Retiree Tip: “If you’re worried about the heat, focus on properties with good air conditioning. And don’t skip exploring the smaller towns—they’re gems!”

5. San Sebastián and the North Coast

For those who love cooler weather and stunning green landscapes, the northern coast of Spain, particularly San Sebastián, offers something entirely different.

Ranking for Retiree Needs:

Affordable Housing: 2/5 – San Sebastián is pricier than other areas, but surrounding towns offer more budget-friendly options.
Nature and Outdoors: 5/5 – Stunning coastal paths, lush green hills, and pristine beaches provide endless opportunities for outdoor activities.
Safety and Walkability: 5/5 – Extremely safe and highly walkable, especially in the city center.
English-Speaking Community: 3/5 – Fewer English-speaking expats compared to the southern coast, but locals are friendly and many speak basic English.
Proximity to Airport: 4/5 – The city has a small airport, but major international airports like Bilbao are within 1.5 hours.
Weather: 4/5 – Cooler summers and mild winters make it a comfortable year-round destination.

What retirees say:
“We love walking the coastal paths here. It’s active, fresh, and you feel connected to nature. Plus, the food is incredible—it’s a dream for retirees who love exploring flavors.”

How to Decide the Best Places to Retire in Spain

Deciding where to retire is a big deal, but don’t stress—it’s all about finding the place that feels right for you. To make the process smoother, here are some friendly tips we gathered from retirees who’ve already taken the leap:

1. Budget Wisely

Property prices in Spain can look super tempting, but don’t forget about the extras! Spain charges a 10% transfer tax on property purchases, which can surprise you if you’re not prepared. On top of that, you’ll need to budget for things like legal fees, notary costs, and setting up utilities. If you’re aiming for let’s say €305,000, keep that 10% in mind to stay on track.

Pro Tip: Factor in moving costs, too. Things like shipping your belongings or buying furniture might eat into your budget.

2. Rent First, Buy Later

Nearly every retiree we spoke to recommended renting for the first year. Why? It gives you a chance to really get to know the area and figure out if it’s the right fit. You might discover that a neighborhood you loved on paper isn’t as walkable as you hoped, or you might fall in love with a totally different town nearby.

What Retirees Say:

“We thought we wanted to live in the city center, but after six months, we realized we preferred a quieter neighborhood by the beach.”
“Renting gave us time to explore without the pressure of committing to a purchase.”

3. Think Long-Term

While you’re dreaming of tapas, sunshine, and strolls along the beach, don’t forget to plan for the practical stuff, too. Think about:

Healthcare: Are there good hospitals or clinics nearby? If you’ll need private health insurance, make sure the area has the facilities you need.
Proximity to Family: If being close to loved ones is important, pick a spot with good airport connections or transport links to the UK or the US.
Future Needs: Consider how easy it will be to get around as you age. Look for places with walkable streets, good public transport, and access to services like groceries, pharmacies, and social activities.

🩺 Planning Your Retirement? Don’t Miss This Guide!

Looking for the best health insurance options in Spain for retirees over 75? Check out our detailed article:

Read Best Health Insurance in Spain for Over 75

Pro Tip: It’s tempting to pick the dreamiest spot you can find, but make sure it’s livable long-term—not just a vacation spot.

4. Embrace the Language (At Your Own Pace)

Learning Spanish might feel daunting, but it’s worth it. You don’t need to be fluent overnight—just focus on picking up the basics first, like ordering in a restaurant or asking for directions. Locals really appreciate it when you make an effort, even if you make mistakes.

That said, having an English-speaking community nearby can be a lifesaver during the transition. Places with a mix of expats and locals are ideal because you’ll feel supported while easing into the culture.

Retiree Tip: “We took Spanish classes once a week, and it was a great way to meet people and feel more confident when talking to neighbors.”

5. Don’t Rush the Decision

Take your time exploring your options. Spend weekends visiting different towns or neighborhoods. Think about what really matters to you—whether it’s being near the beach, having a bustling cultural scene, or finding peace and quiet in the countryside.

Pro Tip: Idealista and Fotocasa are great websites to browse properties, but nothing beats seeing the area in person.