7 Best Places to Live in Spain as a Digital Nomad

You’ve probably heard that Spain has the most popular digital nomad visa in the world right now. After moving to the country, though, you have to decide which of the best places to live in Spain as a digital nomad. 

You may be surprised to learn that Spain is among the 50 largest countries in the world! (It’s about the size of Texas for reference) So, finding a place to live can feel overwhelming. From staying on the mainland in major cities like Madrid and Barcelona to one of the lively Canary Islands, the place you choose to live as a digital nomad must have everything you need to successfully work remotely in Spain. 

To help you find where you want to move after getting Spain’s digital nomad visa, we’ve rounded up the best places to live in Spain as a digital nomad to make your decision easier. These places have great infrastructure, reliable Internet connectivity, and large expat communities to help you fit right into the groove of things. 

Spain for Digital Nomads

Living in Spain as a digital nomad offers an enticing blend of affordability, diverse environments, and vibrant culture. Spain’s cost of living is often lower than in other Western European countries, allowing your money to stretch further while enjoying a high quality of life.

Spain’s delightful weather, with mild winters and sun-drenched summers, provides the perfect backdrop for working remotely and exploring the great outdoors. 

You’ll find vast landscapes ranging from stunning beaches to rugged mountains, offering a myriad of outdoor activities. Beyond nature, Spain’s rich culture and history are palpable in its architecture, food, and festivals.

Whether you’re savoring tapas, wandering through historic cities, or engaging with the local community, you’ll find endless opportunities for inspiration and connection.

In Spain, work and leisure seamlessly intertwine, making it an ideal destination for digital nomads seeking both productivity and a nourishing lifestyle.

Best Places to Live in Spain as a Digital Nomad

As we’ve gathered the best places to live in Spain as a digital nomad, we’ve made sure they all had the following criteria:

So, let’s dive into where you might find your next home in Spain. 

Barcelona

When it comes to finding an ideal location for living as a digital nomad, Barcelona checks all the boxes. This city, renowned for its splendid architecture and cultural richness, offers everything you could wish for in a home away from home. 

Its dynamic urban vibe is the perfect setting for creativity and inspiration. Barcelona is easily the best place to live in Spain for young adults and digital nomads. 

One of the main attractions of Barcelona is its thriving tech scene, which draws digital enthusiasts from around the globe. The city is home to numerous coworking spaces and networking events, making it easy to connect with fellow digital nomads and professionals. High-speed internet and a variety of flexible working spots ensure you’re always connected and ready for business. 

Beyond work, Barcelona provides a lifestyle that is both engaging and diverse. With its Mediterranean climate, you can enjoy sunny days almost year-round. The beaches, just a stone’s throw away from the city center, are ideal for relaxing after a day’s work. 

For lovers of culture and history, Barcelona boasts exquisite landmarks like the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell. Meanwhile, food enthusiasts can savor world-renowned Catalan cuisine at countless tapas bars and restaurants. 

Barcelona’s efficient public transport network makes commuting around the city convenient, expanding your choices for residential neighborhoods that suit your preferences, whether you’re looking for a bustling city center or a quieter suburban feel. It is important to note that the real estate in Barcelona is on the higher side for Spain. 

Ultimately, Barcelona’s blend of modernity and tradition, along with its welcoming community and lifestyle amenities, make it a prime choice for digital nomads seeking both productivity and leisure. 

Madrid

Madrid, the vibrant capital of Spain, offers digital nomads a unique blend of culture, modern amenities, and an inspiring environment to live and work. With a bustling social scene and an extensive network of coworking spaces, you can find your perfect spot to power through tasks during the day and experience lively interactions in the evening. 

One of Madrid’s main attractions for digital nomads is its affordability compared to other European capitals. Renting an apartment or co-living space in Madrid is surprisingly accessible, allowing you to allocate your budget towards exploring the city’s vast cultural offerings or its surrounding regions. 

In Madrid, you’re never short of inspiration. The city’s rich history, awe-inspiring architecture, and world-renowned museums like the Prado and Reina Sofia are just a few examples of what’s on offer. Whether you’re strolling through the iconic El Retiro Park, savoring tapas in La Latina, or attending a flamenco performance, there’s always something to stimulate your creative mind. 

Connectivity is key for digital nomads, and Madrid excels in this regard. With consistent high-speed internet and an efficient public transportation system, you can easily navigate the city or connect remotely with clients and teams worldwide. Plus, Madrid’s central location makes it an excellent hub for exploring other parts of Spain and beyond. 

Madrid effortlessly caters to the lifestyle of a digital nomad, combining work and leisure in one dynamic setting. From affordable living options to a vibrant cultural scene and excellent connectivity, Madrid is undoubtedly a prime destination for those seeking a balanced and enriching remote work experience.

Valencia

Valencia is a gem on Spain’s eastern coast that has steadily become a hotspot for digital nomads seeking an ideal blend of vibrant city life and Mediterranean serenity. 

At the heart of Valencia’s appeal is its welcoming and lively ambiance, fostered by a thriving expat community and locals who take pride in their rich cultural heritage. With a pleasant climate boasting over 300 days of sunshine annually, it provides an ideal setting for balancing work and leisure. 

The city is a perfect mix of tradition and modernity. Its historic Old Town, filled with stunning architecture like the Valencia Cathedral and the unique City of Arts and Sciences, offers ample opportunities for exploration and inspiration. Meanwhile, innovative coworking spaces are plentiful, providing the infrastructure needed to stay productive and connected. 

Valencia’s culinary scene is another highlight. Known as the birthplace of paella, its markets, restaurants, and cafes offer a delectable array of food options, ensuring you’re fueled throughout your workday.

 Moreover, Valencia’s cost of living is relatively affordable compared to other major European cities, providing excellent value for global professionals seeking comfortable accommodation and lifestyle amenities. 

Beyond work, Valencia offers a multitude of recreational activities. You can unwind on its pristine beaches, take a stroll through the lush Turia Gardens, or engage in the city’s vibrant nightlife. Transportation within the city is efficient and convenient, making it easy to explore every corner of this dynamic locale. 

With its attractive features, Valencia stands out as an excellent choice for digital nomads looking for a balance between a productive work life and fulfilling personal experiences. It’s also arguably one of the best places to live in Spain for families. 

Sevilla

Sevilla, the heart of Andalusia, combines the charm of its rich historical roots with the vibrancy of a modern city, making it an alluring spot for digital nomads. Renowned for its warm climate and friendly community, Sevilla offers a lifestyle balance that makes life easier, whether you’re working or unwinding. 

One of the top perks for digital nomads in Sevilla is the cost of living. Compared to other major Spanish cities like Barcelona and Madrid, Sevilla offers affordable housing and daily expenses, allowing you to enjoy a high quality of life without breaking the bank. Plus, it is one of the safest places in Spain for digital nomads. 

With a variety of coworking spaces and cafes, finding a comfortable spot to be productive is easy. What sets Sevilla apart is its unique outdoor working spaces, providing a blend of open-air inspiration and connectivity. 

The city’s vibrant culture is invigorating. Rich in history and tradition, every corner of Sevilla tells a story. From the majestic Alcázar and the famous Cathedral to the picturesque Plaza de España, Sevilla’s sights will fuel your creativity. For those seeking leisure, the city offers bustling local markets, flamenco music, and tapas bars, allowing you to unwind and soak in the local culture after a day of work. 

Sevilla is a super well-connected city. With its international airport and excellent public transportation, exploring the rest of Spain or even jetting off to other European destinations is convenient and straightforward. 

The welcoming atmosphere coupled with the city’s dynamic yet relaxed pace makes Sevilla an ideal haven for digital nomads looking to thrive professionally while relishing the local lifestyle.

Estepona

Estepona, nestled on the Costa del Sol, is an idyllic haven for digital nomads seeking a harmonious blend of work and leisure. Its sun-drenched beaches and traditional Spanish charm create a perfect setting for a relaxed yet productive lifestyle. With over 325 days of sunshine per year, Estepona offers ideal conditions for enjoying outdoor workspaces where you can soak up the sun while staying connected. 

The town’s affordable cost of living is another significant draw. Accommodation, food, and entertainment are reasonably priced, allowing you to enjoy a high quality of life without breaking the bank. The local cuisine, offering fresh seafood and tapas, adds to the allure, providing delightful dining experiences. 

Connectivity is key for digital nomads, and Estepona does not disappoint. Reliable internet services and numerous coworking spaces and cafes welcome remote workers, ensuring your professional needs are met. After work, immerse yourself in the rich Andalusian culture, featuring local festivals, stunning architecture, and a vibrant arts scene. 

Estepona’s strategic location allows easy travel to major cities such as Malaga and Marbella. Whether you seek bustling city life or tranquil seaside retreats, Estepona offers a balanced lifestyle, making it an exceptional choice for digital nomads.

Alicante

A coastal gem on Spain’s Mediterranean shores, Alicante offers digital nomads the perfect blend of work and relaxation. Known for its year-round sunshine and beautiful beaches like Playa del Postiguet, Alicante provides an ideal environment for remote work amidst picturesque views. Imagine stepping away from your desk and walking into a sun-drenched paradise—it’s both motivating and rejuvenating. 

Connectivity is another highlight of Alicante. With a robust infrastructure, you can rely on strong internet connections, essential for remote work. The city also hosts a number of coworking spaces, where you can find a community of like-minded professionals, offering opportunities for networking and collaboration. 

Alicante’s cost of living is notably lower than that of Spain’s major cities like Barcelona and Madrid, yet it doesn’t compromise on lifestyle quality. The city boasts an array of affordable dining options, from authentic tapas bars to international cuisine. For suburban adventures, the nearby Costa Blanca offers fascinating coastal villages and vibrant nightlife, ensuring there’s always something to explore. 

Cultural richness is abundant here, with numerous museums, historical sites, and festivals like Les Fogueres de Sant Joan providing endless inspiration. Living in Alicante means immersing yourself in a vibrant, yet tranquil, Spanish lifestyle while staying productive in your remote work atmosphere.

Palma de Mallorca

Nestled in the heart of the Balearic Islands, Palma de Mallorca offers digital nomads a unique blend of vibrant culture, stunning scenery, and an inviting Mediterranean lifestyle. This picturesque city is known for its charming old town, filled with narrow winding streets that lead to stunning architecture, lively plazas, and hidden cafes. 

What makes Palma especially appealing for remote workers is its excellent connectivity. The city offers numerous coworking spaces equipped with high-speed internet, ensuring you stay productive. In your downtime, enjoy exploring its dynamic arts scene, with galleries and museums that showcase both local and international talents. 

Palma’s mild climate is yet another draw. With more than 300 sunny days a year, you can balance work and leisure effortlessly, whether it’s a stroll along the picturesque beaches or a hike in the surrounding Tramuntana mountains. 

Palma’s dining scene is a delight, offering everything from traditional Spanish tapas to world-class cuisine, perfect for after-work socializing or meeting new people. The welcoming community of local and international residents makes it easy to integrate and build meaningful connections. 

Overall, Palma de Mallorca is not just a place to work; it’s a place to thrive as a digital nomad, promising both productivity and a rich lifestyle experience. It’s clearly one of the best places to live in Spain by the sea. 

Is Living in Spain Expensive?

Spain is a favored destination for digital nomads largely due to its affordable cost of living. When compared to places like South Carolina, USA, or other EU nations, you’ll find everyday expenses like food, utilities, and transportation to be notably cheaper. However, it’s important to keep in mind that metropolitan cities and tourist hotspots tend to have higher living costs.

Spain offers a balanced cost of living, particularly outside major cities, making it a practical choice for remote workers.

How to Move to Spain as a Foreigner

Moving to Spain as a foreigner has never been easier, thanks to a variety of accessible visa options. From the newcomer-friendly Digital Nomad Visa to long-term residence permits, there are choices to suit different lifestyles and professional needs. 

Digital Nomad Visa

The most popular method of moving to Spain as a foreigner is through the digital nomad visa. Remote workers earning at least 3x the national minimum wage may live in Spain for three years initially. 

This visa also leads to permanent residency in Spain, a major draw for many digital nomads with families. 

Non-Lucrative Visa

For retirees or those earning passive income through rental properties, dividends, or pensions, Spain’s Non-Lucrative Visa could be a great opportunity to move. 

The most important requirement for this visa is that you earn your income passively. This visa will not allow you to work to earn your income. If that is the case, then the digital nomad visa may be a better option. 

Golden Visa

Spain also has a Golden Visa option, which allows foreigners to invest in the country in exchange for residency. 

To qualify, applicants may purchase real estate worth at least 500,000€, invest 1€ Million in Spanish Treasury Bonds, initiate a capital transfer of 2€ Million to a Spanish account, or invest 1€ Million to develop a local business. 

Relocate to Spain with Nomads Embassy

Spain is welcoming foreigners with open arms (especially digital nomads) to come and live there. And there are so many opportunities to do so! 

If you’re considering relocating to Spain with a digital nomad, non-lucrative, or golden visa, then Nomads Embassy can help! 

We have partnered with a hand-selected local immigration lawyer to assist our members with their visa and residence permit applications. 

Are you ready to live in Barcelona, Sevilla, Alicante, and some of the other best places in Space for digital nomads? Contact us to request a free visa eligibility assessment today!