Recent studies and rankings highlight Valencia as the No. 1 city for expatriates, praised for its excellent quality of life, efficient public transportation, and diverse leisure options.

Indeed, Valencia has a lot to offer. It is a vibrant Mediterranean city that mix history, modernity, and a relaxed lifestyle.

Known for its stunning beaches, year-round sunshine, and rich cultural heritage, it offers a high quality of life at a more affordable cost compared to other Spanish cities like Madrid and Barcelona.

In this post, I’ll share our experience living in Valencia as expats, covering the pros and cons as well as essential tips for expats considering a move.

Why Did We Choose Valencia?

Our decision to move to Valencia for a gap year was influenced by friends who already lived here and could provide valuable insights and recommendations.

The biggest motivation? The sun and endless outdoor activities!

It was a year of major change for our family – I was pregnant with our third child, and taking maternity leave in Spain felt like the perfect opportunity.

We wanted to enjoy the sunlight, let our kids gain new experiences in an international school, and spend more time outdoors all year round.

Whether you’re considering relocating or just curious about what expat life in Valencia is really like, this guide will walk you through the pros and cons, along with essential recommendations.

Pros of Living in Valencia as an Expat

Incredible Weather (Almost) Year-Round

Valencia is known for its warm Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and hot summers. The sunshine is a major advantage. The hottest months are July to September, when temperatures can reach up to 35-40°C.

During autumn and winter, even if the forecast shows 14–16°C, it often feels warmer in the sun, sometimes reaching 20-22 °C.

February and March are typically the rainiest months. It’s important to stay updated on weather alerts and safety recommendations issued by AEMET (Agencia Estatal de Meteorología). If heavy rain is forecasted, it’s best to stay indoors and be cautious. Even if it doesn’t seem like it’s raining much in the city, rainfall in the mountains can be unpredictable. This can increase the risk of rivers overflowing and causing excess water to flow into urban areas.

Amazing Local Food

From fresh produce at local markets to authentic paella, Valencia is a paradise for food lovers.

You can find affordable, high-quality seafood, fruits, and vegetables all year long, making it easy to enjoy fresh, flavorful meals. One of my highlights? The mangos – undoubtedly some of the tastiest in the world! 

When dining out, be sure to try traditional Valencian dishes such as paella, arroz al horno (baked rice), and fresh Mediterranean fish. These regional specialties reflect the city’s rich culinary heritage. However, if you’re in the mood for international cuisine like poke bowls, Thai food, or sushi, it’s best to choose specialized restaurants, as these dishes aren’t as deeply rooted in the local food scene.

Coffee is significantly cheaper compared to other European cities. For example, you can enjoy café con leche (coffee with milk) for around €1.50-€2, while in other EU cities, prices often range from €3 to €5.

Endless outdoor activities all year long

As a family with three kids, access to outdoor activities was one of the most important factors when deciding where to relocate. We chose our new home in a small town just 25 minutes outside Valencia, which gives us a calmer lifestyle with more green space and larger properties.

Being close to nature also means we have easy access to beautiful beaches and mountain hiking trails — all within a 20–30 minute drive.

Here are some of our favorite outdoor activities:

• Swimming in the pool during the warm season (July–September).
• Bike rides close home or in Valencia through Turia Gardens or along the beach promenade in La Cabanyal.
• Weekend hikes in nearby mountains — our top spots include Montanejos spring waters, Ruta de los Pantaneros, and Mirador del Garbí.
• Picnics on the beach or playtime in the many playgrounds around the city
• Tennis & other sports – Most towns in the Valencia region have their own municipal sports stadiums. We often play tennis, and the kids enjoy basketball and football too.

Welcoming Community & Slower lifestyle

One of the best things about expat life in Valencia is the mix of an international community and a relaxed, slow-living culture.

It’s easy to meet others through language exchanges, expat groups, and international events. I didn’t have to look far — just by going to the café next door, I met a waitress who is Latvian and a few Lithuanian families living nearby. Our kids go to an international school, which has also been a great way to build community.

In Spain, people value long lunch breaks, late dinners, and socializing over café con leche or tapas. Life feels more relaxed here. The sun’s out almost every day, and the warm evenings make the days feel longer. You don’t get that feeling of ‘quick, let’s go out while it’s sunny’ like we do in the Baltics.

Spanish people really don’t rush — “tranquil” (be calmer) something I’m still learning . Even when standing in line at a shop, no one hurries you.

Valencia is also ideal for remote workers and freelancers, thanks to its strong WiFi, cozy cafés (go to Ruzafa), and great coworking spaces ( e.g. Wayco Ruzafa or Vortex Coworking)

My recommendation: Join the Valencia Expats & Digital Nomads Facebook group to connect with others. You may also find a specific group to your neighborhood, simply ask your neighbours if you have any.

Cons of Living in Valencia as an Expat

Tough Real Estate Market & Limited School Availability

In recent years, Spain has become increasingly attractive to expats due to its lower cost of living and global events that have made people rethink where and how they want to live. As a result, the real estate market has become more competitive, and finding housing can be a real challenge.

It’s not just about liking a flat — you also need to be approved by the property owner and their insurance company.

If your income is not based in Spain, it can be more difficult to validate, and you may be asked to pay 6 to 12 months of rent upfront as a guarantee.

Having a strong tenant profile (proof of income, references, and ideally a Spanish bank account) is often necessary, especially in high-demand areas.

We found our temporary home on www.idealista.com, Spain’s largest real estate platform.

The same applies to international schools. With the growing number of foreign families moving to Valencia, many schools are fully booked well in advance.

It’s important to secure a spot for your child early in the year, especially if you’re relocating over the summer.

My recommendation: Find a reliable local broker to help you navigate local rules and improve your chances -especially if your income is from abroad.

Thinking about moving to Valencia or already planning your expat journey? Drop your questions in the comments or share your experience — I’d love to hear your story! And don’t forget to save this post or share it with someone thinking of life in Spain.