Living in Alicante: the definitive guide to settling on the Costa Blanca in 2025

The decision to move to Alicante stems from multiple factors that make this city an exceptional place. The Mediterranean climate is one of its main advantages, with over 2.800 hours of sunshine annually, allowing for year-round outdoor activities. Winters are mild, with temperatures rarely dropping below 16 degrees Celsius, while warm summers are perfect for enjoying its beaches.

Alicante”s gastronomy, renowned as a benchmark of the Mediterranean diet, is especially famous for its rice dishes. Alicante paella, made with fresh seafood from the Mediterranean Sea, has become a culinary attraction that draws visitors from all over the world. The city’s restaurants offer everything from traditional cuisine to innovative dishes that keep the region’s culinary essence alive.

Connectivity is another strong point. In addition to the international airport, Alicante has a seaport, a Renfe train station, and the Metropolitan Tram (TRAM) that connects the city with nearby towns such as Benidorm, Denia, and Altea. This infrastructure facilitates both daily commutes and national and international travel.

The Alicante real estate market has undergone significant changes in recent years. In January 2025, the average rental price will be 11 euros per square meter.This represents a 9,6% increase compared to the previous year. For a 100-square-meter home, this translates to approximately €1.100 per month, although prices vary considerably depending on the area.

Regarding home purchases, the average price in the province reached €2.464 per square meter in 2025, representing a 14,8% increase in the last year. However, Alicante remains more affordable than other Mediterranean cities such as Barcelona or Valencia, maintaining an excellent value for money.

Basic monthly expenses for one person range between 900 and 1.100 euros, including:

• Feeding: between 250 and 350 euros per month for a couple in local supermarkets
• Public transport: The monthly pass costs approximately 40-50 euros
• Basic services: Electricity, water and gas add up to around 100-150 euros
• Restoration: A daily menu in an average restaurant costs between 12 and 15 euros

The choice of neighborhood depends on lifestyle, budget, and personal preferences. Alicante offers a wide variety of residential areas, each with its own distinctive characteristics.

Considered one of the most desirable neighborhoods, Playa de San Juan stretches along more than six kilometers of coastline. This area combines seaside living with excellent urban amenitiesincluding shopping centers, international schools, and a direct tram connection to the city center. The neighborhood is especially attractive to families seeking a coastal lifestyle without sacrificing urban amenities.

Vistahermosa is one of the most prestigious residential areas of Alicante. This neighborhood is characterized by wide avenues, modern single-family homes and extensive green spacesThe proximity to the Serra Grossa offers hiking trails with panoramic views, while the closeness to hospitals, schools and shopping centers guarantees all necessary services.

For those seeking exclusivity, Cabo de las Huertas stands out as the most luxurious area in Alicante. This district offers Luxury villas, private residential developments and access to beaches and natural coves connected by coastal paths. Although purchase and rental prices are high, the tranquility, safety, and quality of life justify the investment for many residents.

Located between the city center and San Juan Beach, La Albufereta stands out for its family-friendly and peaceful atmosphere next to a less crowded beachThe neighborhood offers a mix of old and modern buildings, many with sea views, and boasts excellent public transport connections. Prices are more affordable than in other coastal areas, with an average price of €2.998 per square meter.

For those who prefer to live right in the city center, Ensanche Diputación offers immediate access to shops, restaurants and cultural lifeMaisonnave Avenue, one of the city’s main shopping streets, runs through this neighborhood, which boasts a bus station, train station, and excellent transport links. Its vibrant nightlife and wide range of services are its main attractions.

Settling in Alicante requires pròximly organizing your banking and financial services. Major Spanish banks have multiple branches in the city, offering checking accounts, mortgages, and investment services. The digitalization of the financial sector has greatly simplified banking, allowing most transactions to be carried out via mobile apps.

In addition to traditional Spanish banks, many residents of Alicante use digital services such as PayPal, Revolut, Wise, or Skrill for international transfers and online purchases. There are also more specialized options like Ecopayz, which some users prefer for certain online activities, including entertainment sites. regulated online casinos that accept alternative payment methodsThe diversity of financial options makes daily life easier for both local residents and expatriates.

The city offers numerous advantages that make it an ideal place to live:

• Exceptional weather: with mild temperatures throughout the year that allow you to enjoy outdoor activities in any season
• Safety: According to data from the Ministry of the Interior and studies by Numbeo, Alicante has lower crime rates than other Spanish and European cities.
• International community: The city is home to a high percentage of foreign residents, mainly British, French, German, and Russian, creating a multicultural environment
• Cultural offer: Museums such as the MACA, Santa Barbara Castle, theaters and festivals maintain an active cultural agenda throughout the year
• Healthcare infrastructure: The public and private healthcare system offers quality care, with hospitals such as the Alicante University General Hospital
• Education: The University of Alicante is among the best in Spain according to the QS World University Rankings, with programs in English for international students.

Like any city, Alicante also presents certain challenges that should be considered before making the decision to move there:

Seasonal tourism can affect the quality of life during the summer months. Between June and September, the massive influx of visitors causes congestion on beaches, in restaurants, and in public spaces, as well as temporarily increasing prices for some services. Popular tourist areas like Postiguet Beach and the historic center can become extremely crowded during peak season.

The extreme heat in July and August is another factor to consider. Temperatures can exceed 35 degrees with a humidity level of 80%.This can be uncomfortable for those unaccustomed to the intense Mediterranean climate. However, the proximity to the sea and the sea breeze help to alleviate the higher temperatures.

The job market is more limited compared to larger cities. The main job opportunities are concentrated in the tourism and service sectors, with peak hiring times during the summer. Some specialized professional fields require relocating to Valencia or Madrid to find better opportunities.

The language barrier can pose a challenge for foreigners. Although English is widely spoken in tourist areas like Benidorm, in Alicante city it’s important to have a good grasp of Spanish for everyday life, especially when dealing with public administrations or basic services.

Alicante offers an exceptional balance between leisure, culture, and nature. Beaches like San Juan, Albufereta, and Postiguet allow you to enjoy the sea for much of the year, while sports facilities make it easy to practice activities such as paddle surfing, kayaking, sailing, and diving.

The range of land-based sports is also noteworthy. The city boasts numerous gyms, municipal sports centers, bike paths, and hiking trails in the Serra Grossa mountain range. The climate is particularly favorable for golf, with several courses in the province attracting enthusiasts from all over Europe.

Nightlife is concentrated mainly in the Old Town-Santa Cruz and the port area, where tapas bars, cocktail lounges, and nightclubs keep the party going until the early hours. The Explanada de España, with its distinctive tricolor marble mosaic pavement, becomes a favorite promenade for residents and visitors alike in the evenings.

The city is particularly well-suited for families. Residential neighborhoods like Vistahermosa, Playa de San Juan, and Benalúa boast numerous parks, playgrounds, and high-quality schools. Public primary and secondary education is free, while the range of private and international schools allows families to choose the educational model that best suits their needs.

Family activities abound: from visits to Santa Bárbara Castle to excursions to Tabarca Island, as well as local markets and cultural events specifically for children. The shallow, safe beaches, especially San Juan Beach, are ideal for little ones to enjoy the sea in complete peace and quiet.

Settling in Alicante requires some essential administrative procedures. Citizens of the European Union must obtain a registration certificate from the Foreigners’ Office if they plan to stay for more than three months. Citizens from outside the EU need a visa and residence permit depending on their specific circumstances.

Registering your address at the town hall is essential for accessing public services such as healthcare and education. This process involves presenting a rental agreement or pròximty deeds, along with your passport or national identity card. You can then apply for your health card at the health center corresponding to your address.

Regarding the search for housing, platforms like Idealista, Fotocasa, and Habitaclia offer the largest selection of pròximties. Facebook groups dedicated to the real estate sector can also be useful, although it’s always advisable to verify the legitimacy of the listings. Contacting local real estate agencies ensures greater security in the process.

Projections for 2025 indicate that the real estate market will continue its upward trend, with estimated increases between 4% and 6% in housing pricesThe province adds between 19.000 and 20.000 new residents annually, according to data from the National Institute of Statistics, reflecting its growing attractiveness.

The city is developing new urban projects that will include green spaces, renovated public areas, and improvements to the transport infrastructure. The expansion of the metropolitan tramway will facilitate connections with more municipalities in the province, while investments in blockchain technology are simplifying real estate transactions.

Sustainability is emerging as a priority in future urban development. Sustainable mobility initiatives, the expansion of bike lanes, and the improvement of pedestrian areas aim to reduce pollution and improve air quality, maintaining Alicante as a healthy and livable city.

Living in Alicante in 2025 offers a unique combination of quality of life, exceptional climate, and modern amenities. While rising housing prices and seasonal tourism present challenges, the advantages far outweigh the disadvantages for those seeking a Mediterranean lifestyle.

The city caters to different profiles: families looking for safety and quality schools, professionals who work remotely taking advantage of the climate and connectivity, retirees who want to enjoy their golden years by the sea, or students who combine university education with leisure and culture.

The decision to move should consider personal factors such as job opportunities, lifestyle preferences, and available budget. Visiting the city at different times of the year, exploring various neighborhoods, and speaking with current residents provides a realistic perspective that makes it easier to make the right decision. Alicante, with its beaches, sunshine, and high quality of life, awaits to become your new home.