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The best time to plan a move to Spain is April–June or September–October, starting with obtaining an NIE number, without which you cannot buy property, open a bank account or sign utility contracts. If you spend more than 183 days a year in Spain, you become a tax resident. Transport from abroad costs from approx. €800 (by car) to €3,000 (with furniture).
Moving is a serious decision that requires a plan, knowledge of local regulations and support from people who know the market. This guide collects the most important information on emigrating to and buying property in Spain, including the Costa Blanca and Costa del Sol.
Why do people move to Spain?
The most common reasons for choosing life in Spain:
- a better quality of life and a climate that benefits your health,
- lower living costs than in many large European cities,
- the option of working remotely with a sea view,
- an attractive property market – for investment or to live in,
- a high standard of healthcare and education.
More and more foreign buyers are choosing Spain as a place to live permanently or as a rental investment. More on this: Why do so many foreign buyers purchase property in Spain?
When is the best time to move to Spain?
The most convenient months are April–June and September–October. Temperatures are pleasant then, formalities are dealt with faster and there are fewer tourists. It is easier to arrange transport, short-term rental and your first days on the spot.
What formalities to deal with at the start: NIE, residency and taxes
NIE number – the first step
NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) is a foreigner's tax identification number, required to live legally and buy property in Spain. It is essential for:
- buying a flat or house,
- signing utility and internet contracts,
- registering at the town hall,
- opening a bank account and dealing with administrative formalities.
Aria Spain helps you obtain an NIE number, working with local gestores and lawyers. Details of the procedure: How to obtain an NIE number in Spain
Tax residency and health insurance
Staying in Spain for more than 183 days a year means tax residency. This entails an obligation to declare worldwide income in Spain, but also access to tax reliefs and to a double taxation treaty between your home country and Spain.
Without residency you can use healthcare by taking out private health insurance – the average cost is €50–100 a month. More: Taxes in Spain.
How much does it cost to move to and live in Spain?
Estimated costs of moving from abroad:
- by car: approx. €800–1,200,
- furniture transport: €1,500–3,000.
Monthly living costs for 2 people on the Costa Blanca:
| Item | Monthly cost |
|---|---|
| Renting an apartment | 700–900 € |
| Groceries | 350 € |
| Utilities | 80–120 € |
| Health insurance | 100 € |
| Transport and leisure | 200–300 € |
Compared with large cities back home, life in Spain often turns out to be cheaper and more comfortable.
Schools, transport and everyday services
Schools for children
- state schools – free, with the Spanish curriculum,
- private and international schools – for families from abroad, teaching in English, German or bilingually.
On the Costa Blanca, well-regarded schools can be found in, among others, Alicante, El Campello, Altea, Benidorm and Torrevieja.
Transport
- fuel costs are lower than in many other European countries,
- the roads are well maintained,
- public transport (buses, trams) runs punctually,
- many towns offer discounts for residents and free travel for children,
- Uber, Bolt and local ride-hailing apps operate – especially in Alicante, Valencia and Málaga.
Internet, bank and phone
- fast fibre-optic internet available almost everywhere in Spain,
- you can open a bank account with an NIE number and a passport,
- local operators offer cheap phone plans with EU roaming.
Aria Spain helps you choose a bank and a provider. If you are planning to finance your purchase: How to get a mortgage in Spain
Is Spain a good place for remote workers?
Yes. A warm climate, coworking spaces, fast internet and a friendly expat community make Spain one of the best places for digital nomads in Europe. The Spanish government has also introduced the Digital Nomad Visa, which allows non-EU nationals to stay legally and work remotely.
How does Aria Spain help with moving and buying?
- advice on choosing a location (Costa Blanca, Costa del Sol, Murcia),
- legal assistance and document translations,
- obtaining an NIE number and opening a bank account,
- working with gestores and law firms,
- access to developer projects and off-market properties,
- support with temporary rentals,
- after-sales care (utilities, schools, doctors, internet).
The buyer pays the agency no commission – we explain it here: Will you pay a commission when buying property in Spain?
Sample properties on the Costa Blanca
Apartment with a sea view – Villajoyosa, from 91.98 m², 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, from €432,000 (price excluding VAT).
Apartment in Villajoyosa – from 108.38 m², 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, from €365,000 (price excluding VAT).
Apartment 200 metres from the sea – Villajoyosa, from 47.50 m², 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, from €249,000 (price excluding VAT).
Apartment surrounded by nature – Albir, from 80.7 m², 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, frontline beach, from €540,000 (price excluding VAT).
Luxury villa with a pool – Albir, from 438.45 m², 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, private pool, from €1,950,000 (price excluding VAT).
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to move to Spain?
The best times are April–June and September–October. Temperatures are pleasant, formalities go faster and there are fewer tourists.
What is the NIE number needed for?
An NIE is essential for buying a property, signing utility and internet contracts, registering at the town hall and opening a bank account.
When do I become a Spanish tax resident?
When you spend more than 183 days a year in Spain. You then declare your worldwide income in Spain and can benefit from the double taxation treaty between Spain and your home country.
How much does it cost to move to Spain from abroad?
By car approx. €800–1,200, and furniture transport €1,500–3,000.
What are the monthly living costs for 2 people on the Costa Blanca?
Renting an apartment costs €700–900, groceries €350, utilities €80–120, health insurance €100, and transport and leisure €200–300.
Aria Spain (a licensed agency, RAICV no. 4123) sells new-build property on the Costa Blanca, Costa Calida and Costa del Sol with no commission for the buyer, and helps in English with the NIE number, bank account, mortgage and at the notary – book a free consultation or use the CONTACT form.
