The Best Places to Retire in Spain

The great weather, vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and welcoming people make Spain one of the most attractive retirement destinations in the world. Add to that its diverse landscapes, from sunny coasts to charming mountain villages and you have the perfect setting to enjoy your golden years. But there's more than just beauty and lifestyle: Spain also boasts a lower cost of living compared to much of Europe, making it not only a dream and calm but a smart financial decision for many retirees.

Whether you're coming from the UK, Germany, Sweden, or even North America, the benefits are undeniable. Year-round access to fresh Mediterranean produce, excellent and affordable healthcare, and a laid-back lifestyle make Spain an increasingly popular option. In fact, according to International Living, Spain consistently ranks among the best places to retire in the world, and for good reason.

While nearly every corner of Spain offers something special for retirees, certain areas stand out for their weather, amenities, accessibility, and quality of life. Roughly 90% of retired expats over 55 choose to live in seven key regions: Andalusia, Valencia, Catalonia, the Canary Islands, the Balearic Islands, Madrid, and Murcia. Interestingly, most of these are coastal, offering proximity to the beach, milder winters, and active expat communities. Let’s take a look at The Best Places to Retire in Spain in 2025 and why they continue to attract thousands of retirees every year.

Costa del Sol: Timeless Appeal and Sunshine Year-Round

Stretching along the southern coast of Spain, the Costa del Sol remains a favorite among retirees for its warm climate and vibrant coastal lifestyle. With an average of over 300 sunny days a year, towns like Marbella, Mijas, Estepona, and Fuengirola offer the perfect blend of tranquility and excitement. Málaga, the capital of the province, has also emerged as a cultural hotspot, with museums, theatres, and excellent transport links.

This region is particularly attractive for its active expat communities, English-speaking services, and modern infrastructure. Whether you're into golf, gastronomy, or simply relaxing by the beach, the Costa del Sol has it all.

Valencia & Costa Blanca: Affordable, Accessible, and Beautiful

Valencia, Spain’s third-largest city, is a gem on the east coast. Known for its futuristic City of Arts and Sciences, long beaches, and delicious paella, Valencia combines the charm of Spanish tradition with a modern, livable city feel.

Just south of Valencia lies the Costa Blanca, home to popular towns such as Alicante, Denia, and Jávea. These areas have attracted thousands of expats thanks to their affordable property prices, quality healthcare services, and friendly atmosphere. For those considering The Best Places to Retire in Spain, this region should absolutely be on the list.

If you're leaning towards a more relaxed lifestyle with access to nature, quaint villages, and sea views, inland spots like Altea or Calpe may suit you better. And with many direct flights from across Europe, both Valencia and Alicante are easy to reach.

Balearic Islands: More Than Just a Summer Destination

While the Balearic Islands—Mallorca, Menorca, and Ibiza—are best known for summer tourism, they’ve become increasingly popular as year-round retirement spots. Particularly, Palma de Mallorca offers an unbeatable combination of modern amenities, scenic surroundings, and a calm Mediterranean pace of life.

The island lifestyle appeals to retirees looking for a close-knit community and picturesque settings. Mallorca’s excellent healthcare system, international schools (for those moving with family), and strong property market make it a secure choice. Beach lovers will enjoy options like Cala D’Or and Sa Ràpita, while those seeking cultural activities will find no shortage of art galleries and festivals throughout the year.

Canary Islands: Warm Winters and Stunning Natural Diversity

The Canary Islands are ideal for retirees looking for warm weather all year round, especially during Europe’s colder months. Made up of seven main islands, including Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and Lanzarote, the Canaries offer a unique mix of volcanic landscapes, lush forests, and long sandy beaches.

Tenerife, the largest island, is particularly popular for its well-developed healthcare facilities and lower cost of living. The island also boasts an active international community, making integration easier for new arrivals. For retirees looking for year-round sunshine and a slower pace of life, the Canary Islands are undeniably one of the best places to retire in Spain.

If you’re looking to get inspired, you can check out Spain’s national tourism site for a more detailed overview of what each island has to offer.

Costa Brava: Scenic Beauty and Cultural Richness

Located in Catalonia, just north of Barcelona, the Costa Brava offers breathtaking scenery and a rich cultural tapestry. Known for its rugged coastline, clear blue waters, and charming medieval villages, this area is perfect for those who appreciate a balance between nature and history.

Towns like Tossa de Mar, Begur, and Palafrugell offer a more tranquil lifestyle, while still being close enough to Barcelona for urban getaways. With outstanding cuisine—including fresh seafood and traditional Catalan dishes—retirees can enjoy a vibrant gastronomic experience every day. Plus, Catalonia’s healthcare system is among the best in Spain, with many hospitals offering multilingual services.

San Sebastián: Northern Sophistication with a Culinary Twist

For those seeking a cooler climate, refined living, and world-class food, San Sebastián in the Basque Country is hard to beat. Though it has a higher cost of living compared to some southern areas, many retirees consider it worth it for the unparalleled lifestyle.

Famous for its Michelin-starred restaurants and vibrant pinchos scene, San Sebastián is a paradise for food lovers. Its beaches—particularly Playa de la Concha—are considered some of the best in Europe, and the city itself boasts a strong sense of community and cultural pride.

You can explore more about gastronomy and culture in this region through this guide by BasqueTour.

Beyond the Coast: Madrid and Inland Gems

Although coastal regions dominate the retirement scene, Spain’s interior also holds appeal. Madrid, for instance, offers a high quality of life, exceptional public transport, and endless cultural attractions. While property prices in central areas may be high, surrounding towns like Alcalá de Henares or Aranjuez offer more affordable options.

Similarly, smaller inland cities like Granada, Salamanca, and Segovia offer a quieter retirement experience steeped in history, with beautiful architecture and strong local identities. These cities also have excellent healthcare systems and are well connected by Spain’s high-speed train network (AVE).

Additional Considerations: Insurance and Healthcare

Once you’ve chosen your ideal retirement location, it’s essential to secure the right support services. First and foremost: home insurance. With providers like Caser Seguros Expat Insurance, you can get comprehensive home coverage tailored to expats, including 24/7 English-language assistance, accidental damage protection, and even home maintenance support, check the personalize quote here.

Equally important is health insurance, especially to avoid long wait times in the public system. Caser Expat Insurance also offers private health insurance plans specifically designed for retirees, such as their Salud +60 plan, which is available to anyone over 60, with superior benefits and no complex medical history requirements.

Conclusion: Is Spain the Right Place for Your Retirement?

If you're dreaming of a warm, welcoming country with affordable living, excellent healthcare, and a relaxed pace of life, then Spain should be at the top of your list. Whether you prefer the island calm of Mallorca, the sunny shores of the Costa del Sol, or the cultural depth of San Sebastián, there’s something here for every lifestyle and budget.

The Best Places to Retire in Spain are not just defined by their weather or affordability, but by how easily they make you feel at home. With thriving expat communities, excellent services, and a strong sense of community, Spain continues to stand out as a top retirement destination for 2025 and beyond.