Practical information
All about living and buying a property in Spain
Practical information
All about day to day living in Spain
Always sunshine
Southern Spain is defined by its warm, sun-filled climate and an outdoor-oriented way of life. With a high number of sunny days throughout the year, daily life naturally extends beyond the home, creating a strong sense of balance, wellbeing and connection to the surroundings.
Clear skies and abundant natural light shape the rhythm of the day, making outdoor living part of everyday routine rather than an occasional luxury. Across coastal areas, inland regions and cultural cities alike, the climate supports an active lifestyle with minimal seasonal interruption.
From morning coffee on open terraces and long lunches in the shade to walking, sports and year-round outdoor activities, life in Southern Spain encourages time spent outside in all regions we represent. This combination of light, climate and livability plays a central role in the region’s enduring appeal and continues to attract international buyers seeking a high quality of life in a Mediterranean setting.
Mediterranean lifestyle
Life in Southern Spain is shaped by a strong sense of balance between relaxation and activity. Days often unfold at an unhurried pace, where outdoor moments, social connection and everyday comfort take centre stage. Along the coast, the Mediterranean provides a constant presence, while inland areas and cultural towns offer calm, character and authenticity.
The lifestyle is varied yet cohesive: fresh local cuisine enjoyed in open-air settings, time spent on golf courses or walking trails, and afternoons exploring historic villages or vibrant town centres. Throughout the year, festivals, markets and long summer evenings bring a natural rhythm and sense of community to daily life.
Across all the regions we represent, the climate plays a defining role. Abundant sunshine and mild temperatures make outdoor living an integral part of everyday routines, creating an atmosphere where life feels both relaxed and enriching. It is this combination of light, culture and lifestyle diversity that continues to make Southern Spain an attractive place to live, return to, and invest in.
Easy accessibility
Southern Spain is exceptionally well connected to Europe and the wider world, making travel straightforward for international residents and second-home owners alike. A network of modern airports provides easy access to coastal, inland and cultural regions across southern Spain.
In addition to frequent direct flights to major European cities, the region also benefits from intercontinental connections to destinations in North America, the Middle East and beyond, either via direct routes or efficient hubs. This allows for smooth long-distance travel, whether for business, family visits or extended stays.
Flight schedules operate year-round with increased frequency during peak seasons, offering flexibility and convenience. This high level of connectivity makes it possible to enjoy life in Southern Spain without feeling isolated or disconnected, combining Mediterranean living with global accessibility and long-term practicality.
Excellent healthcare
Spain’s healthcare system is widely regarded as one of the country’s strongest assets. The public system is modern, well-established and accessible to residents, with a strong network of hospitals and local clinics providing high standards of care.
In addition, many residents choose private health insurance, which is comparatively affordable and offers faster access to specialists and shorter waiting times. Both systems operate alongside each other, giving residents flexibility and choice depending on their needs.
Healthcare facilities are well distributed across Southern Spain, ensuring reliable access to medical services for routine care as well as emergencies. Combined with a Mediterranean lifestyle, a climate that encourages outdoor activity and a diet rooted in fresh, local produce, the region supports long, active and healthy lives — an important consideration for many international buyers considering a move or extended stay in Spain.
Lower costs of living
One of the practical advantages of living in Southern Spain is the favorable cost of living compared to many Northern European countries. Everyday expenses such as housing, dining and services are generally lower, while overall quality of life remains high.
Eating out is an integral part of daily life, with relaxed lunches and dinners in local restaurants often costing significantly less than in many other European regions. Fresh produce from local markets is widely available, affordable and of excellent quality, contributing to both a healthy lifestyle and manageable household costs. Utility bills and essential services are similarly well balanced, offering reliability without excessive expense.
These lower living costs do not imply compromise. Instead, they create flexibility and freedom — allowing more room for travel, leisure, social life and long-term planning. For many international residents, this balance between affordability and lifestyle is a key reason Southern Spain continues to be an attractive place to live, spend extended periods, or invest in a second home.
Safe and relaxed
Southern Spain is widely regarded as a safe and comfortable place to live, offering a calm and relaxed atmosphere across both urban and rural areas. Crime levels are generally lower than in many large European cities, contributing to a strong sense of everyday security.
Neighbourhoods are typically family-friendly, with active street life, local communities and a culture that encourages time spent outdoors. It is common to see people walking, socialising and enjoying public spaces well into the evening. Law enforcement is present and effective, providing reassurance without being intrusive.
As in any region, basic awareness and common sense are important. However, the overall environment supports a feeling of ease and stability, making Southern Spain an appealing choice for families, retirees and international residents alike. This sense of safety, combined with quality of life and community spirit, plays an important role in why many people choose to live, invest and spend extended periods in the region.
International schools
Southern Spain offers a wide range of international and bilingual schools, making it an attractive destination for families relocating or spending extended periods in the region. These schools welcome students from diverse cultural backgrounds and follow internationally recognised curricula, providing a strong academic foundation alongside a global perspective.
Many institutions place emphasis on bilingual or multilingual education, supported by experienced teaching staff and modern facilities. A broad selection of extracurricular activities — including sports, arts and music — contributes to well-rounded development beyond the classroom.
Graduates often leave with strong language skills, international networks and qualifications that support further education worldwide. Combined with the region’s climate, outdoor lifestyle and family-friendly environment, access to quality international education plays an important role in making Southern Spain a practical and appealing choice for families seeking both academic standards and a balanced way of life.
Fine dining
Southern Spain is known for its diverse and vibrant dining culture, where food plays an integral role in everyday life. The region offers everything from traditional local restaurants and family-run tapas bars to refined fine-dining establishments and internationally recognised cuisine.
Mediterranean flavours dominate, with an emphasis on fresh seafood, seasonal produce, olive oil and local wines. At the same time, the international character of the region has led to a wide range of global culinary influences, resulting in a dining scene that is both authentic and cosmopolitan.
Eating out is as much a social experience as it is a culinary one. Meals are often enjoyed at a relaxed pace, frequently outdoors on terraces and in lively public spaces. This combination of quality, variety and atmosphere makes dining in Southern Spain an essential part of the lifestyle, where everyday meals and special occasions alike are approached with time, care and enjoyment.
Remote work
Southern Spain is widely regarded as a safe and comfortable place to live, offering a calm and relaxed atmosphere across both urban and rural areas. Crime levels are generally lower than in many large European cities, contributing to a strong sense of everyday security.
Neighbourhoods are typically family-friendly, with active street life, local communities and a culture that encourages time spent outdoors. It is common to see people walking, socialising and enjoying public spaces well into the evening. Law enforcement is present and effective, providing reassurance without being intrusive.
As in any region, basic awareness and common sense are important. However, the overall environment supports a feeling of ease and stability, making Southern Spain an appealing choice for families, retirees and international residents alike. This sense of safety, combined with quality of life and community spirit, plays an important role in why many people choose to live, invest and spend extended periods in the region.
Practical information
Legal, Taxes and Residency
Legal services
Buying a home in Spain is an exciting step, but it can also involve unfamiliar regulations, procedures and local requirements. Clear guidance and reliable expertise are essential to navigate the process with confidence.
Our role is to simplify every stage of the purchase. From the initial property search to final completion, clients are guided through a structured and transparent process, with attention to detail at every step. The focus is on clarity, informed decision-making and long-term security.
We work closely with a trusted network of experienced legal and tax professionals, ensuring that all aspects of the transaction are handled correctly and efficiently. This integrated approach allows for thorough due diligence, clear communication and a smooth purchasing experience.
The result is a well-managed process that removes uncertainty and reduces risk, allowing buyers to focus on what matters most: finding the right home and moving forward with confidence.
Taxes & costs
Buying property in Spain involves a number of taxes and additional costs that should be considered as part of the overall budget.
For resale properties, the main tax is Property Transfer Tax (ITP), which is set at regional level and typically ranges between 7% and 10% of the purchase price. For new-build properties, buyers pay VAT (IVA) at 10%, along with Stamp Duty (AJD), which generally falls between 0.5% and 1.5%, depending on the region.
In addition to taxes, buyers should account for notary fees, land registry fees and legal costs related to conveyancing. Together, these usually amount to approximately 1–2% of the purchase price. If financing is involved, mortgage arrangement and valuation fees may also apply.
Careful budgeting for these costs is essential to ensure a smooth and financially sound transaction. Clear advice from experienced legal and tax professionals helps provide full transparency and allows buyers to proceed with confidence throughout the purchasing process.
Residency options
Choosing between residency in Spain or enjoying the country as a holiday destination depends largely on individual lifestyle goals and long-term plans.
Becoming a resident allows for full integration into Spanish life, with access to public services, local communities and a year-round Mediterranean lifestyle. Residency also involves certain administrative responsibilities and tax considerations, which should be evaluated carefully with professional guidance.
Alternatively, using Spain as a holiday base offers greater flexibility and fewer formal obligations. This option suits those who wish to enjoy the climate, culture and lifestyle for shorter or seasonal stays without committing to full-time residence. For many international buyers, this approach provides an ideal way to experience the country before making longer-term decisions.
Both options offer distinct advantages. Whether as a permanent place to live or a destination for regular escapes, Spain continues to appeal to international buyers seeking quality of life, balance and long-term enjoyment under the Mediterranean sun.
Do you have more questions? Contact us.