Spain offers a wide variety of living environments—bustling cities, charming small towns, coastal villages, and tranquil countryside. When considering removals to Spain from the USA, choosing the right destination is key to aligning your lifestyle goals, budget, and family or professional needs.
Here’s a breakdown of the top cities and regions in Spain for American expats:
1. Madrid – Best for City Life and Career Opportunities
Why Madrid?
As the capital of Spain, Madrid is a dynamic metropolis with excellent infrastructure, world-class museums, a strong expat network, and abundant job opportunities—especially in education, tech, and multinational companies.
What’s it like?
- Vibe: Sophisticated, energetic, and cosmopolitan.
- Cost of Living: Moderate to high, depending on neighborhood.
- Jobs: Strong in business, tech, and education.
- Family Life: Top international schools and parks like El Retiro.
- Expat Scene: Large and active.
Best for: Young professionals, digital nomads, and families looking for a big-city feel.
2. Barcelona – Best for Culture, Innovation, and Mediterranean Living
Why Barcelona?
With its stunning architecture, beach lifestyle, and creative energy, Barcelona offers the perfect mix of work and play. It’s also one of Spain’s leading tech hubs.
What’s it like?
- Vibe: Creative, progressive, beachy.
- Cost of Living: Similar to Madrid, slightly cheaper in outer districts.
- Jobs: Strong startup culture and international companies.
- Family Life: Lots of green spaces and bilingual schools.
- Expat Scene: One of the largest in Spain.
Best for: Creatives, tech workers, remote professionals, and families.
3. Valencia – Best All-Round City for Families and Affordable Living
Why Valencia?
Valencia is Spain’s third-largest city and an increasingly popular choice for Americans due to its affordability, coastal beauty, excellent healthcare, and high quality of life.
What’s it like?
- Vibe: Relaxed, sunny, family-oriented.
- Cost of Living: Lower than Madrid and Barcelona.
- Jobs: Opportunities in tourism, logistics, and education.
- Family Life: Safe, family-friendly, with plenty of local and international schools.
- Expat Scene: Growing fast.
Best for: Families, retirees, and budget-conscious movers.
4. Málaga – Best for Retirees and Sun-Seekers
Why Málaga?
Located on the Costa del Sol, Málaga offers over 300 days of sunshine a year, a laid-back lifestyle, and excellent healthcare. It’s especially popular for removals to Spain from the USA among retirees.
What’s it like?
- Vibe: Warm, historic, relaxed.
- Cost of Living: Very affordable.
- Jobs: Tourism, hospitality, and some remote work options.
- Family Life: Great beaches and parks, but fewer international schools than larger cities.
- Expat Scene: Large retiree community, particularly British and American.
Best for: Retirees, beach lovers, and those seeking sunshine and affordability.
5. Granada – Best for History and Affordable Living
Why Granada?
Granada is a historic Andalusian city with Moorish charm and a slower pace of life. It’s ideal for those who want an immersive Spanish experience without the big-city prices.
What’s it like?
- Vibe: Traditional, academic, and scenic.
- Cost of Living: Very low.
- Jobs: Limited but available in education and tourism.
- Family Life: Good public education and outdoor lifestyle.
- Expat Scene: Smaller but tight-knit.
Best for: Students, remote workers, and cultural enthusiasts.
6. San Sebastián – Best for Food Lovers and Coastal Living
Why San Sebastián?
Set in the Basque Country, San Sebastián is known for its breathtaking coastal scenery and world-renowned cuisine. It’s quieter than Madrid or Barcelona but offers a high quality of life.
What’s it like?
- Vibe: Upscale, gourmet, and tranquil.
- Cost of Living: Higher than average, especially near the beach.
- Jobs: Limited, but remote work is growing.
- Family Life: Safe and healthy, with excellent public services.
- Expat Scene: Small but growing.
Best for: Foodies, nature lovers, and remote workers.
7. Seville – Best for Traditional Spanish Culture and Warm Weather
Why Seville?
This historic city is full of charm, flamenco, and tapas culture. It’s a beautiful and affordable place to live with a strong sense of Spanish tradition.
What’s it like?
- Vibe: Warm, traditional, vibrant.
- Cost of Living: Quite affordable.
- Jobs: Tourism, teaching, and remote work.
- Family Life: Slower pace, good schooling, and a friendly atmosphere.
- Expat Scene: Moderate, but English-speakers are well-supported.
Best for: Cultural immersion, retirees, and families wanting a slower pace.
Honorable Mentions
- Alicante – Friendly coastal city with a strong British and American expat community.
- Bilbao – Industrial-turned-modern city, great for families and professionals.
- Tenerife (Canary Islands) – Remote island paradise with year-round sun and a relaxed vibe.
Final Thoughts
The best place to live in Spain will depend on your priorities—whether that’s career advancement, raising a family, affordable retirement, or enjoying cultural life. Each location offers a unique version of the Spanish lifestyle.
As removals to Spain from the USA become more common, Americans are discovering that Spain isn’t just a great place to visit—it’s a wonderful place to live. From bustling cities to quiet seaside towns, there’s a corner of Spain waiting to welcome you home.