Why expats are moving to Alicante

Nestled among the shores of Spain’s Costa Blanca, Alicante captivates both residents and visitors with its blend of history, culture and Mediterranean charm. The city is most famous for the Santa Bárbara Castle, which sits majestically on Mount Benacantil. Wandering through the old town streets is like stepping back in time.

Join the locals and tourists hanging out in popular plazas like Plaza del Ayuntamiento, situated in the Barrio de Santa Cruz (the old quarter of the city) in the heart of Alicante, or Plaza de la Santísima Faz, also located in the city centre behind the Ayuntamiento (town hall). 

If you’re living the expat lifestyle, you’ll probably want to visit Alicante’s Levante district or Benidorm, known for their vibrant international community.

You are sure to notice Alicante’s maritime heritage, as it is celebrated along the city’s picturesque waterfront, where the port is always buzzing with daily activities, perfect for a leisurely stroll. But what really sets Alicante apart is its warm and welcoming atmosphere.

In 2023, Forbes named Alicante the second-best city in the world to live in, according to expats. This was based on a survey from 177 nationalities and 181 countries. One of the factors for its popularity is its real estate market.

According to the Association of Real Estate Agents in Alicante (API), they predict a stable year for the real estate market in Alicante, in 2024. The average number of property transactions across Spain decreased in 2023 by an average of 8.7%, whereas the Alicante region only saw a 0.3% decrease. This means that those looking to buy a property in Alicante can feel confident that the risk of their property losing value could be minimal and will also be located in one of the most popular regions in Spain.

From charming apartments located in the city’s old town, to luxurious beachfront villas, Alicante’s got something for everyone. With a steady demand, fuelled by the city’s popularity as a tourist destination and a growing expat community, Alicante’s property market follows similar trends, making it a prime location for those looking to live in a Mediterranean paradise.

Of course, where you want to live and what amenities you want will impact the property’s price. Whether you fancy a communal pool, landscaped gardens or being close to shops, restaurants, and public transport. These will all impact the price of the property.

Apartments are a popular choice with expats, offering a mix of modern comfort and traditional charm. Of course, a Spanish city wouldn’t be complete without apartments in a variety of styles and sizes to choose from. When buying an apartment in Alicante, you will be looking at similar prices below:

• 4-bed apartments start at €320,000 (£273,399).
• 4-bed beach-front penthouses start at €880,000 (£751,848).
• 2-bed apartments start between €10,000 (£8,557) - €21,000 (£17,970) for properties on the outskirts of the city. Prices rise to between €27,000 (£23,104) and €39,900 (£34,142) as properties get closer to the centre.
• More luxurious 2-bed apartments in the centre of the city cost anywhere between €254,900 (£217,780) and €1,100,000 (£939,810).
• 3-bed apartments start at €157,995 (£134,987), with mid-range properties costing between €255,900 (£218,850) and €580,000 (£495,536).
• The most luxurious properties cost up to €2,100,000 (£1,794,182).

Now, if you’re after something with a bit more space, houses and villas are the way to go. You could find a 2-bed house for as low as €179,000 (£153,095) or splash out on a brand-new villa with a private pool for around €514,000 (£439,613). And hey, if you need room for the whole family, a 4-bedroom villa could set you back €295,000 (£252,307) or more.

But wait, there's more! If you're dreaming of a shiny new build with all the bells and whistles, you're looking at prices starting at €595,000 (£508,890) for a 4-bedroom beauty. Or if you want to go all out and snag a 5+ bedroom masterpiece it will cost around €968,500 (£828,337).

Alicante is a popular destination for expats, as the city boasts a variety of vibrant neighbourhoods, each with its own distinct character and appeal. Some of the most popular neighbourhoods include:

Located in the Old Town, El Barrio is like stepping into a history book with its old cobblestone streets, colourful buildings, and cosy cafés and tapas bars. This neighbourhood is perfect for those who have a love and appreciation for history, complete with the San Nicolás Cathedral and a lively atmosphere.

Is a popular area in the city centre. Known for its wide sidewalks, elegant shops and trendy restaurants. Avenida Maisonnave is particularly popular for fashion enthusiasts, with a unique combination of international fashion stores and local boutiques, all showcasing the latest trends. It’s like the heartbeat of Alicante, especially if you’re into fashion and love to keep up with the latest trends.

This neighbourhood is popular with those looking for a more luxurious way of life. Known for streets lined with breathtaking villas, this neighbourhood overlooks the sea. There are hidden coves with crystal-clear waters that are ideal for those who want to swim, without the distraction of tourists. Plus, the food there is top-notch, so if you’re a foodie, you’ll feel right at home.

Most of those who have heard of Alicante will immediately picture its pristine, sandy beaches. With 4 miles of golden sand and sparkling water, Playa de San Juan is like a postcard come to life. With a wide range of activities to choose from, including trying the local cuisine, shopping or water sports, Playa de San Juan is popular with families and beach lovers. The area is popular, with expats able to enjoy tranquil beaches, without sacrificing the convenience of essential amenities.

Choosing to live in Alicante, Spain as a non-resident offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the city’s culture and breathtaking surroundings, whilst enjoying life in a new city. Residents and expats can relish in the city’s warm Mediterranean climate, spending leisurely days lounging on Alicante’s gorgeous beaches, or strolling by landmarks like Santa Bárbara Castle.

Alicante has a thriving expat community, which means non-residents will have the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals from around the world and establish new friendships through shared experiences. In 2020 it was reported that at least 17.2% of Alicante’s population was expats, a percentage that is only increasing. One of the reasons the city is so popular with expats, and that number keeps growing. Plus, English is widely spoken, so no worries about any language barriers interfering with your move.

Some parts of Alicante are very popular with expats, like Playa de San Juan and El Barrio. If you are looking to move somewhere where you can work remotely, Alicante is becoming an increasingly popular choice with digital nomads. With an abundance of places to choose to work, including free internet cafés, co-working spaces and green spaces, Alicante is the perfect city for those who work from their laptop.

The cost of living in Alicante, strikes a nice balance between being affordable and still giving you a good quality of life. So whether you’re a local or an expat, Alicante has something to offer without breaking the bank.

Keep in mind that everyone’s spending habits are different, but overall, Alicante generally offers reasonable prices compared to other places in Europe. According to NUMBEO (who specialise in data collection), the average monthly cost for a family of four, excluding rent, is  €2,575 (£2,203), with the average monthly cost for an individual (without rent) being €731.90 (£626.10). Of course, this figure will vary depending on your way of life, so we’ve put together a list of things you may buy, with their average cost.

• Meal £ Restaurant (1 person) = €12.90 (£10.27)
• Meal ££ Restaurant (2 people) = €45.00 (£38.52)
• Local Beer (0.5l draught) = €3.00 (£2.57)
• Water (0.33l bottle) = €1.56 (£1.34)
• Milk (1l) = €1.00 (£0.86)
• Utilities (basic e.g. electricity, water etc.) = €145.24 (£124.31)

As you can see from the list above, daily expenses such as groceries, eating out and public transportation are reasonable. This means you can enjoy all the delicious food and beautiful sights Alicante has to offer without exceeding one’s budget. which allows residents to enjoy the city’s dynamic culinary scene and archaic architecture, without exceeding one’s budget. So, living in Alicante gives you a great standard of living without the crazy prices you might expect in other European cities.

The food scene in Alicante is like a delicious blend of Mediterranean flavours. You’ve got fresh ingredients, traditional recipes and culinary influences from both land and sea.

Seafood plays a prominent role, with the city’s coastal location ensuring a steady supply of freshly caught fish and shellfish. Some of the most popular dishes in this region are grilled octopus, prawns and seafood paella which showcase the region’s rich maritime flavours.

One of Alicante’s most infamous dishes is the “Arroz con Costra”, which is a mouth-watering rice dish with rabbit, sausage, and crispy egg crust. Olive oil, garlic, and aromatic herbs such as rosemary and thyme infuse many dishes with a tell-tale Mediterranean flair.

Alicante has been making wine for centuries, and they are very good at it! The region’s soil and Mediterranean climate make it perfect for growing grapes, resulting in wines that are rich in flavours. If you love red wine, you’re in for a treat with the Monastrell grapes ruling the vineyards. Visitors and expats can explore the region’s wineries along the scenic wine routes, sip on some fine wine, and soak in the centuries-old winemaking traditions.

The beaches in Alicante, Spain epitomise the allure of the Mediterranean lifestyle, with pristine stretches of golden sand and beautiful blue water. Whether you’re into busy spaces or quiet hideaways, there’s a beach here for everyone.

• Playa de San Juan: Seven kilometres of stunning coastline with warm waters perfect for swimming or just soaking up the sun. The palm-lined promenade is popular with cyclists and daily walkers, largely due to the breathtaking views it offers.
• Playa del Postiguet: Right by the city centre, this beach is popular with sunbathers and water sports enthusiasts. Its unique location offers all the relaxation of a beach, with the vibrant atmosphere of city life, complete with stunning views of the iconic Santa Bárbara Castle at the top of Mount Benacantil.
• Hidden gems: If you’re more of an adventure seeker, hidden gems like Cala del Tango or Cala de la Palmera provide secluded beaches to explore. Tucked between rocky cliffs, these beaches provide a sense of tranquillity with breathtaking natural beauty.

Alicante isn’t just about stunning beaches and great food - the community is characterised by its warm and welcoming atmosphere, which is reflective of the city’s rich cultural heritage and diverse population. Alicante is known for having friendly and hospitable residents, who create a tight-knit community where visitors and expats will quickly bond over their love for the city.

From traditional festivals to neighbourhood gatherings, there’s always something happening, bringing people together and creating lasting friendships. In Alicante, community isn't just for pleasure, it's also a way of life that enriches the city and creates a sense of belonging for all who call it home.

 

Getting around Alicante and its surrounding areas is easy, thanks to its convenient and efficient public transport system. The city’s tram system, operated by TRAM Metropolitano de Alicante, offers a reliable and eco-friendly mode of transportation. It connects with major neighbourhoods, tourist attractions, and nearby towns along the Costa Blanca, providing affordable fares and convenient routes. This makes it a convenient alternative to driving, allowing passengers to explore the city’s vibrant streets, cultural landmarks, and scenic coastline with ease.

Alicante boasts a Mediterranean climate characterised by mild winters, hot summers, and plenty of sunshine year-round. With an average of over 300 days of sunshine per year, Alicante offers the perfect setting for outdoor adventures, beach days, and al fresco dining. So, say goodbye to dreary weather and hello to blue skies and balmy temperatures in Alicante!

September to December is definitely not cold. You should expect the average daily temperature in Alicante during autumn to be around 18℃ (64℉), though temperatures can reach an average high of 28℃ (82℉). Saying this, you may need to wear some warmer layers if you plan to explore the city at night.

From December to February, you should expect the weather in Alicante to be fairly mild. This area of Spain is characterised by the weather's tendency to alternate between sunny periods and (rare) periods of wind and rain. Saying this, daytime temperatures usually stay around 11-12℃ (51-53℉).

March through to May is considered spring in Alicante. This period of the year is not quite as warm, with the occasional rainy day. From as early as March you should expect temperatures to reach 15-17℃ (59-63℉), and temperatures will continue for raise for the rest of the year.

Summer in Alicante is from June to mid-September. These months are typically hot and full of sunshine with temperatures between 30℃ (86℉) and 37℃ (99℉). Although hot, the breeze from the sea means it isn’t too hot to go about daily activities, however some periods may be hot and humid.

Overall, Alicante’s weather offers a perfect balance of warmth and sunshine year-round, making it a popular destination for beachgoers, outdoor enthusiasts and those who like to sunbathe.

Are you considering purchasing property in Alicante? Whether it’s for living in, retirement, or a second home, Alicante’s appeal is undeniable. As you embark on this journey, ensuring smooth financial transactions is crucial.

At EasyFX, we specialise in simplifying international money transfers, offering a personalised service tailored to your needs. Need to transfer money to Spain for purchasing property, or any other reason? With EasyFX, you’ll enjoy competitive exchange rates and assistance from your dedicated account manager. Even if you’re abroad, rest assured that your deposit payments are handled securely and affordably through our EasyFX currency transfer platform.

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Why expats are moving to Alicante

Explore why expats choose Alicante, Spain! From economic opportunities to vibrant culture, uncover why this coastal city is a top destination for expats.

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