Is Alicante a Good Place for Expats?
This week we bring an article written by our partner Spotblue:
When asking is Alicante a good place for expats, know that this region has quietly become one of Europe’s most popular destinations for expatriates, retirees, and international professionals, and for good reasons. Located along Spain’s sunny southeastern coast, this vibrant city and region is the perfect place to start a new chapter abroad, whether working remotely, enjoying retirement, or simply seeking a slower pace of life. With a 200-kilometre stretch of coastline, expect oodles of Mediterranean beauty, and an ideal cost of living. The province recently surpassed 2 million residents, with nearly a quarter being international, proof of its ever-growing appeal.
1: Mediterranean Climate: Sunshine and Sea Breezes
If you’re dreaming of blue skies, mild winters, and year-round sunshine, the Mediterranean climate delivers on every front. This city enjoys a pleasant climate in all of Europe, defined by its long, warm summers and short, mild winters. Average temperatures in summer hover between 28°C and 32°C (82°F to 90°F), while winter daytime temperatures rarely dip below 16°C (60°F).
On average, expect 35 to 45 days of rainfall per year, primarily concentrated in October and November. In addition to being sunny, excellent air quality, particularly when compared to larger European urban centres breezes in from the Mediterranean in coastal neighbourhoods.
Humidity is moderate. Even in summer, the Mediterranean breeze keeps the heat manageable in the evenings. The consistent sunshine, mild temperatures, clean air, and minimal rain offer the perfect conditions for an outdoor, stress-free lifestyle. From morning beach runs to evening café dinners under the stars, life here truly revolves around the weather.
2: Modern Transportation & Infrastructure Overview
The well-developed public transport system supports both city life and the wider Costa Blanca province. At its core is the TRAM Metropolitano de Alicante, a hybrid light-rail and commuter network that spans approximately 112 km with six lines serving 71 stations. In 2022, it carried around 13.3 million passengers, making it an essential part of daily commuting and tourism along the coast to towns like El Campello, Benidorm, Altea, Calpe, and Dénia.
TRAM: The TRAM system is integral to Transportation and Infrastructure. It includes four urban lines (L1–L5) on city and coastal routes, and one diesel commuter line (L9) that reaches Denia. Lines L1 and L3 link to Benidorm in around 70–75 minutes, while L4 and L5 serve Playa de San Juan.
High-Speed Rail Network: High-speed rail connectivity leapt in 2013 when the AVE high-speed train line was extended to the city’s Terminal station. This service offers direct and fast connections to Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, and other major cities.
Airport Access – Alicante–Elche Miguel Hernández international airport lies just 11‑12 km from the city.
3: Culture, Leisure, and Lifestyle
For beach lovers, Playa del Postiguet is the city’s crown jewel. Just steps from the marina, this sandy urban beach is ideal for morning swims, lazy afternoons, and sunset strolls. The iconic Teatro Principal, near the centre, hosts concerts, plays, and performances throughout the year. For something more grounded, the Central Market offers feasts for the senses, with fresh produce, seafood, meats, and local specialities all under one roof.
Nightlife and dining scenes come alive in El Barrio, the old town neighbourhood with narrow streets, vibrant bars, and family-owned restaurants. For those more inclined toward modern comforts and designer labels, Avenida Maisonnave is the main shopping artery, home to international fashion brands, upscale boutiques, and elegant cafés.
No visit—or life—would be complete without a trip to Castillo de Santa Bárbara. Perched high on Mount Benacantil, this ancient fortress dates back to the 9th century, and offers panoramic views. The lifestyle, deeply tied to the outdoors, sees residents sipping coffee on a plaza, browsing artisan shops in the old town, or enjoying fresh seafood with friends along the promenade.
4: About Working
The province ranks lower on the Working Abroad Index, coming in around 40th out of 49 cities in the 2023 InterNations survey. This reflects limited job opportunities, particularly in sectors that require high-level Spanish or industry-specific skills. However, most foreigners aren’t looking to work locally at all. Most are either retired, not seeking work, or working remotely for companies abroad. The rise in working from home, and location-independent professionals has helped fill this gap.
5: Places to Move to
One exclusive residential enclave is Cabo de las Huertas, north of the city centre. This peaceful peninsula, with its rocky coves, clear waters, and tranquil atmosphere, offers luxurious contrasts to the more bustling San Juan beach area nearby.
Travelling south along the coast, Orihuela Costa, a sun-soaked haven forms the southernmost tip, dotted with golf courses, beaches, and shopping centres. Just inland, the Sierra de Orihuela offers an entirely different experience.
Not far from Orihuela Costa is Guardamar, a seaside town with vast stretches of dunes and pine forests. The city is situated at the mouth of the Segura River and offers a small-town charm. Further south lies Pilar de la Horadada, the southernmost town of the Valencian Community. With Blue Flag beaches and local identity, it’s a quieter alternative for those seeking authenticity.
To the north, towns like Altea and Moraira offer a more artistic and upscale take on coastal living. Altea, with its cobbled streets, whitewashed buildings, and thriving arts scene, is often referred to as the cultural heart. Meanwhile, Moraira—a once sleepy fishing village—is now a polished retreat popular among northern Europeans.
Lastly, Jávea attracts expats seeking a charming coastal town with a relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle. With stunning beaches, a vibrant marina, and a historic old town, Javea offers cultural heritage. With a welcoming international community and excellent amenities, Jávea provides an ideal setting for both retirees and families.
6: Expat Rankings and Communities
In recent years, Alicante has consistently ranked among the top cities for expats worldwide. According to InterNations’ Expat Ranking, it was named the 2nd best city for expatriates, just behind Málaga. With exceptionally high marks for ease of settling in, housing affordability, and living costs, Alicante ranked first globally for affordable housing and third for overall personal finances, with nearly 80% of expats reporting satisfaction with their expenses.
With roughly 62,000 expatriates living in the city and nearly 500,000 foreign residents across the province, international life here is both welcoming and well-established. British, German, Dutch, and Nordic nationals are especially well-represented, alongside growing numbers from Ukraine, Italy, and Morocco.
The inclusion in the Expat City Ranking 2023 isn’t just about weather and wine. It is also about how people feel. It ranked highly for quality of life, and second overall in healthcare satisfaction. Whether you’re seeking affordable seaside living, a safe and sunny retirement spot, or just a place where international neighbours become close friends, expat life delivers.
7: Visas and Legal Requirements: What Foreigners Should Know
Understanding the visas and legal requirements of the immigration process is important. Whether you’re coming from the EU, the UK, the U.S., or elsewhere, Spain offers several visa pathways to suit different lifestyles and goals—from working professionals and entrepreneurs to retirees and digital nomads.
Entry and Residence: Non-EU nationals require residence visas to stay for more than 90 days. The specific visa requirements will depend on your nationality, the purpose of your stay, and your financial situation. Most applicants apply through their nearest Consulate before arrival. Once in Spain, new residents must register locally and apply for a Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero (TIE)—an official identification card for foreigners that proves legal residency.
Digital Nomad Visa: Spain’s new Nomad Visa is popular for remote workers who want to base themselves here while working for companies or clients outside of Spain. This visa enables non-EU citizens to reside in Spain for up to 5 years, with options for family reunification and potential tax benefits under Spain’s Beckham Law.
EU Blue Card: Professionals in high-demand sectors, such as technology, or engineering, may be eligible for the Blue Card, which is designed for highly skilled non-EU workers with a job offer. This card provides streamlined work permit procedures and EU mobility. To qualify, you will need a higher education qualification, a binding work contract, and a salary that meets or exceeds thresholds for your industry.
Visas for EU/EEA Citizens: Citizens from EU/EEA countries and Switzerland don’t need a visa to live or work. However, if staying longer than 90 days, they must still register with local authorities and obtain a certificate of registration as an EU resident. Although they don’t require traditional residence visas, they must still undergo formalities such as obtaining a NIE (foreign ID number.)
8: Healthcare Services: Quality, Access, and Choice
Excellent health services, give locals and expats peace of mind. Whether you’re relying on Spain’s public health system or exploring private options, high-quality medical care, modern facilities, and professionals meet nearly every health need.
Public Healthcare System: Spain’s system is ranked among the best in Europe. Residents who contribute to the social security system—either through employment or self-employment—are entitled to free or low-cost services at public hospitals and clinics. The main public hospital, Hospital General Universitario de Alicante, serves as a central hub for the region’s medical care. There are also several public health centres (centros de salud.)
Private Healthcare Options: For faster appointments, more flexibility in choosing specialists, or English-speaking doctors, private options are widely available. Insurance providers like MAPFRE, one of Spain’s largest and most established insurers, offer a range of private health plans tailored to individuals, families, and even digital nomads. Another increasingly popular choice is Innoinsure, a newer player known for flexible, tech-friendly policies that cater to international residents and long-term visitors.
Healthcare for Foreigners and Non-Residents: If you’re not yet registered in the Spanish social security system, you can still access healthcare through the convenio especial—a monthly fee-based access to the public system—or by purchasing private insurance.
9: Do You Have to Learn Spanish If You Move to Alicante?
Moving here brings you right into the heart of the Valencian Community, where both Spanish and Valencian (known as Valenciano) are official languages. While most locals speak Spanish as their primary language, you’ll hear Valencian spoken, especially in schools, local government, and cultural events. So, is learning Spanish necessary?
The short answer is: it’s not strictly required, but highly recommended. Most day-to-day interactions, shopping, and public services are conducted in Spanish. If you have children, you’ll find several bilingual schools.
For adults, various Spanish courses are tailored for foreigners, from beginner to advanced levels. Even basic words go a long way in everyday life, while learning some Valenciano will help you connect with locals and enrich your cultural experience.
Ultimately, while you can get by with English in expat-friendly parts, embracing the local languages—Spanish and Valencian—opens up a fuller, more rewarding experience living in this beautiful Mediterranean city.
10: Food and Drink: A Taste of Mediterranean Tradition
An iconic dish to try is Seafood paella, a colourful, aromatic rice dish bursting with fresh shellfish, fish, and sometimes rabbit or chicken, simmered over an open flame to perfection. Another beloved local speciality is Arroz con Costra, a unique take on traditional rice dishes that features a crispy, golden crust baked on top. The celebrated Monastrell grape, produces deep, robust red wines that pair beautifully with flavorful dishes. Whether indulging in a generous plate of Seafood paella, tasting the crusty delight of Arroz con churros, or sipping on a smooth Monastrell, you’ll experience the heart and soul of food culture in every mouthful.
Where do most expats live in Alicante?
Popular spots include El Barrio for its vibrant nightlife and charm, Cabo de las Huertas for quiet seaside living, and San Diego for affordable housing close to the beach. Some live near Avenida Maisonnave for easy access to shops and transport, and outskirt areas such as Orihuela Costa, Guardamar del Segura, and Altea attract retirees and families seeking beautiful beaches, golf courses, and vibrant expat communities. Thanks to good public transport, getting around between these neighbourhoods is convenient and straightforward.
Is it worth moving to Alicante?
The answer is a resounding yes. Alicante consistently ranks highly in the InterNations Expat City ranking thanks to its excellent Quality Life Index and strong Ease of Settling In Index, in the Culture & Welcome Subcategory. The city offers history and modern living, with landmarks like Santa Bárbara Castle and the charming streets of Barrio Santa Cruz providing cultural depth alongside vibrant leisure options, like Postiguet Beach and the scenic Isla de Tabarca, located nearby.
The growing business culture and opportunities for independent work attract entrepreneurs and professionals alike, with local companies and the booming hospitality sector supporting personal career growth. To invest or settle, areas like Albufereta and Mucha Vista offer beautiful homes and stunning views.
Plus, solid infrastructure means securing essentials like a social security number and navigating bureaucracy is manageable. With tourist hotspots like La Explanada de España and Calle Castaños, and cultural sites like the Roman bathhouse, expect a diverse lifestyle.
Can Brits move to Alicante?
Yes, Brits can move to Alicante! Since the UK’s exit from the EU, British citizens are no longer EU nationals, so they must follow Spain’s standard immigration rules. This involves applying for the relevant visas and residence permits to reside, work, or retire.
Many Brits apply for residence visas and, register with local authorities to obtain their Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero (TIE), which is the official foreigner ID card. For retirees, non-lucrative residence visas are available. Working Brits may apply for work permits or explore options such as the Digital Visa. So, yes—moving is possible for Brits, but understand the visa requirements and legal steps involved after Brexit.
Where do most British expats live in Spain?
Most British expats choose the Mediterranean coast, with popular areas including the Costa del Sol (Marbella, Málaga), Costa Blanca (Torrevieja, Orihuela Costa), and the Costa Brava (Lloret de Mar). The Balearic Islands, such as Mallorca and Ibiza, as well as the Canary Islands, including Tenerife and Gran Canaria, are favoured for their climate and lifestyle. Among these, the Costa Blanca attracts Brits with affordable housing, and strong expat communities.
Next Step – Use Our Services
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