Editor’s Note: This story originally appeared on Live and Invest Overseas.
It’s hard to imagine living the good life anywhere in Europe without preparing yourself for some sticker shock.
But here in Spain, the surprise comes in discovering how low the price tags are … especially given the top quality of life on offer.
And, this incredible value applies to everything from eating out … to health care … to renting or buying a home.
Living in old-world charm
Dreaming of settling in a city that’s full of old-world charm?
You can rent a studio, right in the heart of Seville, for just $480 a month … or own a three-bedroom apartment here from $66,800.
Affordable coastal living
Prefer to kick back at the coast?
Again, Spain delivers.
Apartments on the sought-after Costa del Sol, with views of the twinkling Mediterranean, start from $590 a month.
Or pick up your own beach home — minutes from the sand, with sea views from your balcony — for $158,900.
Unparalleled value
To get this kind of value in France, Italy, or Portugal, you’d likely have to base yourself at least 10 minutes or so from the city center or coast.
But when you retire in Spain, you won’t have to make such sacrifices.
From its stunning beaches to its tranquil mountain retreats, brand-name cities, and glamorous island resorts, this is one unbelievably diverse country.
Spain boasts a range of climates … a range of landscapes … and a range of lifestyles.
In fact, I’d say it’s impossible to travel any length of the country and not find a single place to charm you … at a price that’s easy on your pocket.
And, with the dollar so strong against the euro right now, this is one of the best times in 20 years to take advantage of the values in Spain.
The benefits of settling in Spain
Let’s take a quick look at the benefits of settling in this warm, welcoming country that’s a world away from the stresses of North American life.
Spain ranks highly among expat workers and retirees from all over the globe. And for good reason.
It offers all the romance of the Old World, holding tight to its traditional charms (like flamenco, tapas, and a quirky mix of architecture) — yet mixes in the best of the 21st century.
Spain has a first-class infrastructure and one of the world’s best health care systems.
And, again, all these advantages come at an affordable cost.
The top reason to live or retire in Spain
We could name a lot of reasons why you should be looking at Spain specifically if you’re dreaming of a new life in Europe. However, perhaps the number-one reason this country stands out in this part of the world is its delightfully low cost of living.
Many take Europe off their wish list entirely because they fear they could never afford to live in this part of the world. I’m here to tell you that you could afford to live or retire (well) in Spain.
Spain offers the promise of retirement without compromise … and it delivers.
Living in the center of world-class cities like Madrid or Barcelona, your living costs would easily be 50% less than city life in Miami or L.A.
In Valencia — our #1 expat destination for 2024 — you’ll find everything from renting an apartment to eating out even cheaper. A couple could live well here on a budget of under $2,000 a month (including rent).
In Seville and Málaga, your budget could be as low as $1,500 a month … and prices drop even more as you move inland.
