Spain Leads the Way on the Top Cities for Expats

Forbes just released that Spain still carries the flag in InterNations' Expat City Ranking survey this year.

According to Forbes the best cities to live in the world include three major cities of Spain on the top 5. This year,Spain’s remarkable coastal cities Valencia, Málaga, and Alicante are clear front-runners.

Based on the experiences of more than 12,500 expatriates across 53 cities in 35 countries, the report offers a comprehensive look at what makes a city truly welcoming to expats. The survey ranks top cities for expats in 2024 from all over the world. The results are determined based on ease of settling in, cost of living, quality of life, and job opportunities. From affordability and job satisfaction to quality of life and safety, these rankings highlight the diverse factors influencing expat life.

Let’s take a closer look at the best cities to live in the world in 2024, starting with the return of an old champion.

1. Valencia, Spain: A Top Choice for Expats

After briefly slipping to third place in 2023, Valencia has reclaimed its position as the number-one city for expats in 2024.

Known for its stunning beaches on Costa de Valencia, rich cultural scene, and relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle, Valencia offers a perfect blend of affordability and quality of life.

It tops the quality of life index as one of the best places to live in Spain for expats. The happiness rate for the enhanced public transportation system reached 96% of the foreigners living in Valencia as an expat. Meanwhile, the abundance of leisure activities reached a 95% happiness rate. Safety is another major plus, with no expats reporting concerns about their safety.

Many expats move to the city for its pleasant climate, affordable living costs, and vibrant culture and call it Home.

2. Málaga, Spain: A Thriving Metropolis for Expats

In case you’re wondering about which cities are best for expats in Spain, Málaga is also the one to go. The winner of last year, Málaga, has managed to secure a spot in the top 5 this year, just missing the top position by a narrow margin.

The city’s major appeal lies in its exceptional ease of settling in—it ranks first in this category. In fact, Málaga is home to the happiest expats globally, with 99% of them praising the city’s sunny weather and pleasant lifestyle. This year, Málaga also stands out as one of the best cities in Spain for expat retirement as well. It's no surprise that 43% of expat communities in Spain’s Málaga are retirees drawn to the city's peaceful, sun-filled environment.

If you're looking for a place with beautiful scenery, rich culture, and a welcoming expat community, living in Málaga as an expat should be at the top of your list. Málaga city blends modern conveniences with traditional charm, all set against the Mediterranean Sea.

3. Alicante, Spain: Affordable and Accessible

In third place, the stunning city of Alicante on the Costa Blanca welcomes us, further solidifying Spain’s place in the top 5 of the expat rankings.

With a thriving expat community, affordable housing options, and a growing digital infrastructure, Alicante offers a high quality of life on a budget when compared to the rest of Europe. Nearly 70% of respondents say housing in Alicante is affordable, and the city ranks 7th in the expat essentials index. Living in Alicante as an expat seems like both a wonderful opportunity to enhance your lifestyle and a smart decision.

Expats appreciate the city’s warm climate, Mediterranean charm, and easy access to both beaches and mountains. Alicante’s infrastructure is another draw, particularly for those looking for accessible digital services and reliable public transportation.

Spain’s Expats: More than Just Sunshine and Beaches

While Valencia, Málaga, and Alicante dominate the top rankings, Spain continues to be a top destination for expats in 2024, with Madrid and Barcelona both making the list. The shift in rankings highlights how expats are increasingly seeking out more affordable and quieter locales, away from the hustle and bustle of major cities.

Across the board, the cities that rise to the top in the 2024 rankings offer expats a combination of affordable living, ahigh quality of life, and a strong sense of community. Whether it’s the warm Mediterranean climate, the dynamic cultural scene, or the enhanced amenities that would make expat-lifestyle easier, each of these cities offers something unique for those looking to make a new life abroad.

Spain’s top cities for expats—Málaga, Alicante, and Valencia— stand out as attractive destinations for those seeking a new place to call home, offering incredible opportunities for those looking to build a brighter future. Whether you’re considering purchasing property, establishing a career, or simply improving your quality of life, these Spanish cities have much to offer.

Would you like to learn more about beautiful Spanish Costas? Read our blogs to explore how expat life goes in Spain.