Spain has long been a favoured destination for British expats seeking an idyllic retirement in the sun. As of 2023, approximately 293,171 UK nationals were residents in Spain, according to census records.
The country’s desirable climate, with regions like Torox and Malaga boasting around 300 sunny days annually, offers an attractive environment for those seeking warmth and sunshine. But when starting a new life, according to idealista.com, a Spanish property search engine, some places fare better than others for expats. The property experts have ranked the five best places in Spain for retirement, considering various important features, including cost and quality of life.
The Costa de Azahar
The lesser-known Costa del Azahar, which translates to the Orange Blossom Coast, is a hidden gem in the province of Castellón. Home to 120km of exquisite sandy beaches and secluded coves, it’s well suited to anyone wanting to reside by the sea.
While the Costa de Azahar is more low-key, the bustling city of Valencia is just one hour by car, offering a good mix of urban life. According to Spanish property experts, the region is a welcoming hub for English-speaking expats and offers an affordable lifestyle for retirees.
Key cities of interest include Benicarló, Peñíscola, Torreblanca, La Llosa, Benicasim and Oropesa. As for house prices, increasing demand for coastal living has inflated prices, and according to the Spanish Statistics Office, 15% of housing transactions in Castellon in 2023 were from foreign buyers.
In December 2024, the average price asked for residential properties for sale in Castellon was €1,246 per square metre, an increase of 7.23% compared to March 2024 (€1,162 per square metre).
Bilbao
In the north of Spain is Bilbao, another retiree hotspot in the Basque Country. Living standards and low crime rates make Bilbao perfect for those who want more than just beachside relaxation. The city offers mild summers without the scorching heat of the South and Mediterranean coasts.
Compared to other major Spanish cities, Bilbao is in the middle of affordability—it’s not as expensive as Madrid or Barcelona, but it’s not as economical as other inland cities. Housing is residents’ biggest expense, with prices varying significantly depending on the neighbourhood and property type.
The tenth-largest city in the country, Bilbao boasts one of the best healthcare systems. Coupled with a growing English-speaking community, it is a fantastic option for a well-deserved Spanish retirement.
According to the latest Statista data, house prices in the Basque Country average €3,240 per square metre.
Costa del Sol
The Costa del Sol is a major tourist hotspot in Spain, particularly for visitors from the UK, and it is a hot topic for expats.
It ranks among the best seaside retirement locations in the country and is home to over 1.3 million residents, including a large community of expats and English speakers.
This beautiful area stretches across the Malaga region, from the opulent Puerto Banús in Marbella to the vibrant beaches of Nerja, Benalmadena and Fuengirola.
The Costa del Sol is best for those seeking an active and dynamic lifestyle, which is why it is particularly popular among golf enthusiasts. It is also known for its reputation as home to some of Spain and Europe’s top golf courses.
Smaller towns and villages are perfect for retirees, the most popular being Benalmadena, Mijas, Torremolinos, and Fuengirola.
In January 2024, the average price of houses for sale was the cheapest in Malaga (house prices average €2,687 per square metre) compared to Nerja, Fuengirola and Marbella.
Madrid
A study by British property firm Audley Village ranks Madrid as one of the prime places to retire in Spain, thanks to its high quality of life. Perfect for those who prefer to be away from the coast, Madrid boasts excellent transport links, a rich culture and a large English-speaking community.
According to Idealist.com, Madrid has Spain’s highest life expectancy rate, with residents living to an average age of nearly 84. Furthermore, Madrid has one of Europe’s longest retirement spans, averaging 22 years.
According to International Living, hospitals and clinics are everywhere in Madrid, so you are never more than 15 minutes away from a doctor.
Lonely Planet reports that people in Madrid, known as ‘Madrileños’ always take life at their own pace, so the city feels less frantic than others.
While Madrid itself can be an expensive place to live, exploring areas outside the immediate city centre, such as Andalusian cities like Seville and Granada, or regions like Extremadura and Murcia, can offer more affordable retirement property options. For those set on city living, property experts at Idealista suggest a budget of €2,000 to €2,200 monthly (€24,000 to €26,400 annually) to live a comfortable lifestyle.
