So, you’ve decided to take the plunge and spend a year in Spain. Amazing! Now comes the big question: Where should you live? Do you picture your family in a sun-drenched coastal town, a vibrant city, or a charming village where your kids can run free?
With so many options, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But don’t worry—we’re here to break it down for you! Here are what you have to think about before making decision :
1. Climate: Sun, Rain, or a Bit of Both?
Spain is like a buffet of climates—so pick what suits your family best:
- Mild & green – Think misty mornings, lush landscapes, and a chance to finally wear that cute raincoat.
- Hot & dry – Sunshine almost year-round, but like locals, make sure to move to the cooler weather in August.
- Breezy & coastal – Beach weather with a side of sea breeze, but you’ll have to share the beach with thousands of holiday makers.
- Four real seasons – Sweltering summers and crisp winters. If your kids love stomping in piles of leaves and the idea of some cold weather, this might be your spot.
2. Are You Beach Parents, Mountain Parents, or a Bit of Both?
- Do you see yourself sipping coffee while watching the kids build sandcastles, there are perfect coastal choices for you.
- Do you dream of mountain hikes and cozy fireplaces?
- Want both? Some Spanish cities give you the best of both worlds—beaches and mountains just a short drive away.
3. City Life vs. Small-Town Charm
Do you thrive in the buzz of city life, or do you prefer a slower pace where everyone in the bakery knows your name?
- Big city for families – More culture, entertainment, and international schools, but be prepared for higher costs and a lot more hustle.
- Mid-sized city for families – A mix of modern convenience and Spanish charm, with great schools and a family-friendly pace of life.
- Village moms (Small towns & rural areas) – Lower rent, friendly neighbors, and more space for the kids, but you’ll likely need a car (and a good plan for entertainment options).
4. Budget: How Much Will That Adventure Cost?
- Large cities = Bring your gold bars. Rent is pricey, and daily life adds up fast.
- Mid sized cities = Affordable comfort. You’ll get good value without giving up city perks.
- Countryside = Budget-friendly but requires wheels. Renting a gorgeous village home can be incredibly cheap, but transport and access to services can be trickier.
5. The Spanish Language Factor: Full Immersion or a Mix?
If part of your goal is for your kids (and let’s be real, you) to become fluent in Spanish, picking a Castilian-speaking area will make it easier. Some parts of Spain are bilingual and make the language learning part more challenging.
6. How Easy Is It to Get Around?
Spain has an excellent transportation network, but not all cities are equally well-connected. If travel—whether for weekend getaways, school commutes, or exploring the rest of Spain and Europe—is a priority, you’ll want to consider how easy it is to get around from your chosen base.
So… Where Should You Go?
There’s no one perfect place—it all depends on your vibe. Do you want lazy beach afternoons? Weekend ski trips? A big city with museums and theaters? A quaint village where life slows down?
One thing’s for sure: Spain has a place that will feel like home.If you’re still torn between sipping sangria by the sea or hiking in the hills, let’s chat! We help families like yours find their perfect Spanish home for a year. Get in touch, and let’s start planning your adventure!