Why Expats Love Valencia

Valencia consistently ranks as one of the best cities in Europe for expats, and for good reason. It delivers the Mediterranean lifestyle — warm weather, beaches, outstanding food — at a fraction of the cost of Barcelona or the south of France. The city is large enough to have a thriving international community and professional opportunities, but small enough to feel walkable and livable.

For remote workers and startup founders, Valencia has emerged as Spain’s most exciting mid-size city. The combination of low cost of living, excellent infrastructure, a growing tech ecosystem, and a genuine quality of life makes it the default recommendation for expats who do not need to be in Madrid or Barcelona for work.

Cost of Living Breakdown

Valencia remains significantly more affordable than Spain’s two largest cities, though prices have risen as the city’s popularity has grown.

Expense	Monthly Cost (EUR)
1-bedroom apartment (city center)	800 - 1,000
1-bedroom apartment (outside center)	600 - 800
Utilities (electricity, water, gas, internet)	120 - 160
Groceries	250 - 350
Dining out (lunch menu del dia)	12 - 15
Public transport (monthly pass)	45
Coworking space	150 - 250

A single person can live comfortably in Valencia on EUR 1,800-2,200 per month, including rent. For a couple, EUR 2,500-3,200 is a realistic range.

Startup and Tech Scene

Valencia’s tech ecosystem has matured significantly. The city is home to Lanzadera, one of Europe’s largest startup accelerators, backed by Juan Roig (founder of Mercadona, Spain’s largest supermarket chain). The Marina de Empresas complex houses Lanzadera, EDEM business school, and Angels Capital, creating a concentrated innovation hub.

Key tech companies with a presence in Valencia include Flywire, Jeff, Zeleros, and dozens of growing startups in fintech, proptech, and health tech. The city also hosts VLC Tech Fest and other regular tech events that bring the community together.

For freelancers and remote workers, the coworking scene is strong. Wayco, Vortex, and Impact Hub Valencia offer professional spaces with English-speaking communities.

Neighborhoods to Consider

Ruzafa: The most popular neighborhood for young expats. Converted from a working-class barrio into Valencia’s trendiest area, filled with specialty coffee shops, craft cocktail bars, international restaurants, and boutique shops. Walkable to the city center and Turia Gardens. Expect to pay a premium on rent — EUR 900-1,100 for a one-bedroom.

El Carmen: The old town quarter with narrow medieval streets, street art, and nightlife. Beautiful but can be noisy. Apartments tend to be older with character but fewer modern amenities. Good value at EUR 700-900 for a one-bedroom.

Benimaclet: A university-area neighborhood with a village feel. Popular with students, artists, and long-term expats who prefer a quieter, more local atmosphere. Very affordable at EUR 600-800 for a one-bedroom.

Cabanyal: The former fisherman’s quarter near Malvarrosa beach. Rapidly gentrifying with new restaurants and creative spaces, while retaining colorful tile-fronted houses. Best choice if beach proximity is your priority. EUR 700-950 for a one-bedroom.

Eixample: Valencia’s elegant grid-planned district, similar in concept to Barcelona’s Eixample. Wide boulevards, modernist architecture, the Mercado de Colon. More residential and family-friendly. EUR 850-1,100 for a one-bedroom.

Healthcare Options

Valencia offers excellent public healthcare through the Valencian Community’s health system. Once you register with Social Security (via employment or autonomo status), you are assigned a local health center (centro de salud) and have full access to public hospitals, including Hospital La Fe, one of Spain’s top medical facilities.

For private healthcare, Sanitas, Adeslas, and ASISA all operate extensive networks in Valencia, with English-speaking doctors available. Private health insurance runs EUR 50-120 per month depending on age and coverage.

International Schools

Families with children have several English-language education options: The British School of Valencia, Caxton College, American School of Valencia, and Cambridge House Community College all follow international curricula and are well-regarded.

Transport

Valencia has an efficient metro and tram system, an extensive bus network, and one of Spain’s best bike-sharing programs (Valenbisi — EUR 30/year). The city is notably flat, making cycling a genuine daily transport option unlike hilly Barcelona or Madrid. The airport (VLC) has direct connections to most European capitals.

Lifestyle: Pros and Cons