Valencia Spain: Settling in Valencia, Living Between Beaches and Art City

Valencia Spain: Settling in Valencia, Living Between Beaches and Art City (Complete Guide)

Valencia, Spain's third-largest city and capital of the Valencian Region, attracts many expatriates. Located on the Mediterranean coast, it benefits from a strong Mediterranean influence and offers exceptional climate (more than 300 days of sunshine per year) with mild winters and hot summers tempered by sea breezes.

It features urban beaches (Malvarrosa, La Patacona...) easily accessible by public transport or bicycle from the city center. Valencia is also renowned for its rich culture and heritage (Gothic cathedral, City of Arts and Sciences, museums).

Its cost of living is lower than Madrid or Barcelona, which allows you to benefit from an excellent quality-price ratio, while enjoying some advantages of large metropolises without suffering their drawbacks. In my opinion, the quality of life in Valencia is remarkable and makes it a destination of choice for settling in Spain.

With approximately 800,000 inhabitants (1.6 million in the metropolitan area), Valencia remains a human-sized city where it's good to live without giving up the services of a large metropolis. It has a strong expatriate community (British, Nordics, French...), attracted by the quality of life and security – 92% of expats feel safe there according to InterNations.

Moreover, Valencia offers easy access to numerous destinations in France and Europe, thanks to its strategic position and excellent rail, road, and air connections. Valencia has been voted "best city in the world to live" several years in a row (InterNations/Forbes ranking). Valencians are known for being welcoming, and the relaxed atmosphere of a city "like a big village" facilitates integration.

Administrative Checklist

Before settling in, it's important to follow some essential tips for a successful move to Valencia. These practical recommendations will help you anticipate procedures and facilitate your installation.

• Apply for the NIE (Foreigner Identification Number) in Valencia. This personal number is essential for almost all formalities (opening a bank account, renting or buying accommodation, subscribing to a phone plan, etc.). It's advisable to obtain it as a priority, either through the Spanish consulate in France, or directly from the Oficina de Extranjería in Valencia (application form EX-15, payment of a fee, appointment).
• Certificado de Registro de Ciudadano de la UE. If you plan to stay for more than three months, register as a European resident. The Immigration Office issues a "green NIE" (EU resident certificate) after verifying your residence in Spain.
• Empadronamiento (municipal registration). Register with the Ajuntament (Ayuntamiento) of Valencia, presenting proof of address. The "empadronamiento" is mandatory to access certain municipal services and for health coverage.
• Opening a Spanish bank account. Having a local account will facilitate payment of rent, bills, and direct debits. Several traditional banks (CaixaBank, Sabadell, BBVA, Banco Santander) offer services for expatriates.
• Driver's license and vehicle. If you arrive with a foreign car, note that anyone becoming a resident must in principle register their vehicle in Spain within 6 months of moving. For the driver's license: A license issued by an EU/EEA country (France, Belgium, etc.) remains valid in Spain. The Spanish license operates with a points system. Novice drivers (less than 3 years of license) have 8 points.

Accommodation in Valencia

The rental market in Valencia remains more accessible than in Madrid or Barcelona. For a one-bedroom apartment in the city center or close to the beach, expect to pay around €600-800 per month. Newcomers may prefer shared accommodation (room ~€300-600) while stabilizing their situation.

From a purchase perspective, Valencia remains cheaper than the major capitals: the average price per m² is approximately €2,600-3,000 in the city (compared to ~€4,000-6,000 in Madrid/Barcelona). The diversity of housing in Valencia allows it to meet all profiles, whether for families, students, or expatriates.

Valencia's neighborhoods are very diverse:

Cost of Living in Valencia

The monthly budget needed to live comfortably in Valencia is estimated at around €1,200-1,500 for a single person (rent and charges included). This level of expenditure is on average 20-30% lower than Madrid or Barcelona.

• Accommodation: a studio/1-bedroom in the center costs between €500 and €800/month.
• Groceries: budget €200-300/month.
• Transport: monthly pass ~€20-40.
• Leisure: a meal at a restaurant ~€12-20.

To delve deeper into the question, check out our article on the cost of living in Spain.

Working in Valencia

The job market in Valencia is diversified (logistics, agribusiness, tourism). In recent years, technology hubs and startups have emerged. However, mastering Spanish is strongly recommended to find a stable position.

For French speakers, Valencia has several call centers and service providers taking advantage of proximity to France. Discover our guide to working in Spain.

Local Life and Leisure

Valencia offers exceptional quality of life on the Mediterranean coast. The beaches (Malvarrosa, Patacona) are perfect for water activities. The Jardín del Turia, a 9 km park, runs through the city, ideal for sports and relaxation.

Culture-wise, don't miss the Fallas in March, a spectacular festival known worldwide. Gastronomy (paella!) and conviviality are at the heart of Valencian life.

Safety and Health in Valencia

Valencia is considered one of the safest cities in Spain and Europe. The crime rate is very low, allowing you to peacefully enjoy nightlife and city walks, whether in the historic center or on the paseo maritimo.

Health-wise, the Valencian Community has an excellent public health system, with modern infrastructures like Hospital La Fe, a European reference. For optimal coverage and quick access to specialists, many expatriates also opt for private health insurance, very affordable in Spain.