What Is It Like Living in Valencia?
Valencia is Spain’s third-largest city and one of the most beautiful cities in Spain, right on the Mediterranean coast. It’s a cool mix of old and new, with plenty of beach vibes.
Home to about 800,000 people, Valencia is lively and diverse. It’s got a big expat crowd, too, with around 100,000 foreigners living there, adding to the city’s energetic atmosphere.
Valencia has got that big-city buzz without the rush, giving you that laid-back vibe where you can enjoy life at your own pace. It’s the perfect spot if you want the best of both worlds – a place that’s lively but also lets you relax.
Pros of Living in Valencia
Weather: You’ll love the weather here – it’s sunny most of the time and is considered one of the warmest places in Spain in winter. Expect a minimum temperature of 12°C to 24°C.
Food: And the food? Valencia is the birthplace of paella, so get ready for some amazing local Valencian dishes!
Friendly Locals and Entertainment: Valencians are super welcoming, making it easy to feel at home. There’s always something happening, from live music to street performances.
Connectivity: Getting around Spain, especially with trains, and even Europe is a breeze from Valencia. Living here won’t break the bank – it’s more affordable than many other big European cities.
Work-Life Balance: Life in Valencia is all about enjoying the moment. Work schedules and mealtimes are laid back – think long lunches and dinners after sunset. It’s a lifestyle that lets you savour your day.
Social Life: If you love hanging out with friends, you’ll be in heaven. The city buzzes with activity at night, with cafes and terraces filled with people until late.
Cultural Attractions: From the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences to bustling markets, there’s always something to see or do that’s uniquely Valencia.
Nightlife and Festivals: Get ready for some fun nights out! Valencia’s nightlife is lively, and the festivals, especially Las Fallas, are something you have to experience at least once.
Public Transport: Getting around the city is easy with a reliable and extensive metro and bus network. You won’t need a car to explore Valencia.
Walkability and Bike-Friendly: Love to walk or cycle? Valencia’s got you covered with plenty of pedestrian areas and bike lanes. It’s a great way to see the city and stay active.
Cons of Living in Valencia
Housing Quality: Be prepared for some quirks with the apartments. Many places have thin walls and not-so-great insulation. This means you might hear your neighbours more than you’d like and could feel a bit chilly in winter.
Job Market: If you’re job hunting and your Spanish is limited, it might be a bit tough. The job market here is more challenging for those who aren’t fluent in Spanish, and generally, the wages can be lower compared to other European cities.
Cost of Living
Housing Costs: When it comes to renting or buying a place in Valencia, you’ll find it’s generally kinder to your wallet than many big European cities. Prices do vary, though, depending on the neighbourhood – beachfront spots and the city centre might cost you more.
- A one-bedroom apartment would be EURO 600 outside the city centre to EURO 1,200 in the centre.
- For three bedrooms, it’s EURO 900 to 2,000.
Utilities and Groceries: Utilities like electricity, water, and heating would cost EURO 90 to twice that price. Weekly grocery runs aren’t too pricey. You’ll find that these essentials are quite manageable and won’t eat up too much of your budget.
Related: 5 Food Markets In Valencia
Overall: While the cost of living in Valencia is a bit higher than in other parts of the region, it’s still a steal compared to the big hitters like Madrid and Barcelona. You get the perks of city life without the hefty price tag.
Expat Neighbourhoods
Valencia’s got some hotspots for expats and is one of the best places to live for expats.
El Carmen is right in the city’s old quarter with narrow streets, boutiques, tapas and late-night bars.
El Cabanyal is perfect if you’re after that beachside vibe, and places like Benimaclet, Sant Llorenç, and La Petxina offer a more local feel with plenty of charm.
How To Find Accommodation In Valencia
Check the usual places like Facebook groups and forums.
There are also online listing platforms such as Idealista and Kyero where you can find both long-term rentals and property for sale in Valencia.
Lifestyle in Valencia
Climate: If you love sunshine, Valencia’s your place. Most days are bright and sunny. Winters are mild here – no heavy coats are needed! And summers? They’re warm and perfect for enjoying the outdoors.
Food and Drink Culture: Valencia’s a foodie’s paradise. You’ve got to try the local paella – it’s legendary. And for dessert? Turrón is a sweet treat that’s super popular. Plus, the cafes and bars are always buzzing, offering a great spot to chill with friends over a drink.
Related: Best Paella Restaurants in Valencia
City of Arts and Sciences: This place is a must-see. It’s not just an architectural wonder; it’s like stepping into the future. It’s a whole complex with museums, an oceanarium, and more. It’s pretty much the symbol of modern Valencia.
Beaches: Beach lovers, rejoice! There’s a Valencian beach for every mood. From the popular sands of La Malvarrosa to the tranquil shores of El Saler, there’s always a spot under the sun waiting for you.
Expat Community and Networking
Community Size: The expat community in Valencia is on the rise, with more and more internationals calling this city home. You’ll find a particularly strong expat presence in neighbourhoods like El Carmen, El Cabanyal, and Ruzafa. It’s a diverse group, bringing together people from all over the world.
Networking: Getting plugged into the expat network is easy, especially with platforms like Meetup.com. These sites are great for both hanging out and professional networking. You can find everything from casual get-togethers and language exchanges to business networking events. It’s a fantastic way to meet new people, make friends, and even find job opportunities.
Working in Valencia as an Expat
Language Requirements: If you’re planning to work in Valencia, brushing up on your Spanish is a smart move. Knowing Valencian is a bonus, especially in certain sectors. Being fluent in one or both of these languages really opens up more job opportunities for you.
Employment Tips: Networking can be a game-changer when it comes to finding a job. Get involved in local expat and business communities – you never know where your next job lead might come from. Also, don’t overlook the traditional methods like local job searches and job portals. Sometimes, the best opportunities are found through a mix of online and offline efforts.
Digital Nomad: Spain is becoming an increasingly popular location for those who can work remotely. Thanks to the relatively recent digital nomad visa introduced by the Spanish government, more and more people are choosing to base themselves here. For the latest requirements to qualify for a visa, check the Spanish government portal.
Healthcare and Education
Healthcare: Valencia offers top-notch healthcare options. You’ve got access to a high-quality public healthcare system, which is a big plus. If you prefer more personalized care, there are also excellent private healthcare facilities. Both options provide great medical services, so you’re well-covered health-wise.
Education: For families with kids, the education system in Valencia is well-structured. Schooling is compulsory for children aged 6 to 16, ensuring a solid educational foundation. Additionally, if you’re looking for education in English, there are several English-medium schools available. These schools are a great option if you want your kids to continue with an international curriculum.
Safety in Valencia
General Safety: You’ll be glad to know that Valencia is generally a safe city with low crime rates. It’s the kind of place where you can feel secure walking around, day or night. However, like in any city, it’s smart to stay alert for petty thefts, especially in tourist areas or crowded spots. Keeping an eye on your belongings and being mindful of your surroundings will go a long way in ensuring a worry-free experience in Valencia.
Final Thoughts
There are many things to do in Valencia, and it is a great choice for expats, offering sunny weather, tasty food, and a friendly vibe.
Despite some challenges like bureaucracy and job hunting, its affordable living, safety, and diverse neighbourhoods make it an appealing spot for fulfilling expat life in Spain.