What to consider before relocating to Costa Blanca

You know you’re flirting with a full Spanish lifestyle when you start dreaming in tapas and wondering if 21°C at midday in February counts as “chilly.” If the idea of golden beaches, leisurely lunches, and a slower pace of life is calling your name, Costa Blanca might just be your next big move. But before you trade drizzle for daily sunshine, there are a few key things to keep in mind.

Here’s your friendly, no-nonsense guide to getting it right when moving to Costa Blanca.

1. Choosing the right area

Costa Blanca isn’t just one place—it’s a 200 km stretch of Mediterranean coastline brimming with diverse towns and landscapes, from sun-soaked beaches to peaceful inland valleys. Where you choose to live can shape your entire lifestyle here—so take your time to explore.

• Northern Costa Blanca (e.g. Denia, Javea, Moraira…): Ideal for retirees and families seeking a quieter, scenic setting. Expect dramatic coastlines, lush hillsides, and a slower pace of life with a distinctly international feel.
• Alicante city and surroundings: Alicante itself blends the best of both worlds—Mediterranean views, urban comforts, historic charm, and a lively cultural scene. Nearby areas like San Juan, El Campello, and Santa Faz offer more residential options with easy access to the city centre and beaches.
• Southern Costa Blanca (e.g. Torrevieja, Orihuela Costa…): Great for those who love vibrant communities, nightlife, shopping, and easy access to airports and major roads.
• Inland Alicante (e.g. Jalón, Pinoso, Biar, Pego…): If you’re after authentic Spanish village life, spacious homes, and peaceful surroundings, inland towns are a fantastic choice. Property prices are often lower, and you’ll find a warm local community, local wine, and a touch of timeless charm.

🔍 Tip: Whether you’re drawn to beach walks, vineyard views, or a bustling promenade, be sure to visit various towns before deciding. Consider practicalities too—like distance to hospitals, schools, airports, and public transport.

2. Sorting out documentation

Ah yes, the Spanish paperwork. It’s part rite of passage, part treasure hunt.

NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero):

• Your golden key to life in Spain. Needed for renting, banking, utilities—you name it.

Residency:

• EU citizens must register for residency after three months.
• Non-EU citizens will need a visa, then apply for a residency permit once in Spain.

Health insurance:

• EU? You may qualify for public healthcare.
• Non-EU? Private insurance is often required.

🗂️ Tackling Spanish bureaucracy can feel a bit like waiting for a bus in the countryside—you’re never quite sure when it’ll show up, but it usually gets you there in the end. For updated info, check the Ministry of Interior website or stop by your local town hall.

3. Finding accommodation

Should you rent or buy? That’s the big question.

• Renting: Great for newbies. It gives you time to learn the area. Coastal towns tend to be pricier, but sites like Idealista and Fotocasa offer a wide range, including properties from realtors and from private owners.
• Buying: If you’re in it for the long haul, buying can be more economical. Just make sure you hire a reputable lawyer who knows Spanish property law inside and out.

⚖️ Even if your estate agent is charming, always double-check contracts. And if you’re renting or buying directly from a private owner, having a bilingual lawyer on your side is a very smart move.

4. Setting up utilities

Welcome to the wonderfully diverse world of Spanish utility providers. You’ll need:

• Electricity: Iberdrola and Endesa are the big players, but not the only ones. Check with your neighbours for the best options in your area.
• Water: Managed locally—check with your ayuntamiento (town hall).
• Internet: Fibre is widely available. While Movistar and Vodafone are solid bets in Alicante, many other smaller providers offer flexible tariffs. Again, neighbours know!

📄 You’ll usually need your NIE, a rental contract or deeds, and a pinch of patience.

5. Understanding the cost of living

Costa Blanca is still one of the more affordable spots in the Med, but prices can vary:

• Rent: €600–€1,200/month depending on size and location.
• Utilities: Roughly €100–€200/month.
• Groceries: Around €50–€70/week for two.
• Eating out: A hearty menú del día sets you back €10–€20 per person.

💶 Budget ahead and remember: the real luxury here is the lifestyle, not the price tag.

6. Learning about local life

Getting into the groove of Spanish culture is half the fun.

• Language: English is common, but basic Spanish goes a long way—and the locals will love you for trying.
• Transport: Buses and trains connect most towns. EU driving licences are accepted; others may need to convert.
• Community: Expat groups, hiking clubs, language exchanges—it’s easy to find your people here.

💬 One day you’ll be explaining to a new arrival how “mañana” doesn’t actually mean tomorrow. It’s more of a concept.

7. Healthcare access

Spain’s healthcare system is top-notch—but your access depends on your status.

• EU citizens: Use your EHIC (European Healthcare Insurance Card) or S1 form to access public care.
• Non-EU citizens: Private insurance is required, but there’s no shortage of good providers.

🏥 Check what’s available near your new home—some towns have small clinics while others have full hospitals.

8. Final thoughts

Whether you’re chasing sunshine, a fresh start, or simply tired of scraping ice off the car each winter, moving to Costa Blanca could be the best decision you’ve ever made. Just remember: a smooth relocation starts with preparation.

🌞 🌞 So, whether you’re planning a fresh start, a new chapter in retirement, or a change of scenery for your remote work life—Costa Blanca is is ready to welcome you with open arms.