Living in Sevilla: the ultimate expat guide

Seville’s economy draws on its rich history while developing new strengths in innovation. Tourism still plays a key role, but the city has also built strong sectors in aerospace, renewable energy, and higher education. International companies are expanding their presence, opening doors for expats in IT, engineering, research, and business services. The Aerópolis Aerospace Technology Park and the Cartuja Science and Technology Park continue to attract skilled professionals from around the world.

Key industries

Seville’s main industries include tourism and hospitality, renewable energy, aerospace, agriculture, and education. Seville is also seeing growth in technology startups, creative services, and logistics, supported by innovation hubs that foster entrepreneurship and international business.

Work permits and procedures

EU and EEA citizens can live and work in Seville without a permit, but must register with local authorities if staying longer than three months. Non-EU citizens require both a residence permit and a work permit before starting a job. Once approved, workers must obtain a foreigner identity number (NIE) and register with the Social Security system.

Data correct as of November 2025.

Sources: Statista, Numbeo, Sevilla Open for Business

Seville is one of southern Spain’s major university cities, home to institutions such as the University of Seville, Pablo de Olavide University, and the International University of Andalucía. These universities offer degrees in numerous fields, including engineering, business, humanities, social sciences, and the arts, with many postgraduate programs available in English.

Universities and programs

Among these institutions, the University of Seville, founded in 1505, is home to more than 70,000 students and is known for its extensive Erasmus and international exchange partnerships. Other universities, such as Pablo de Olavide University, offer bilingual and international programs in business, social sciences, and the arts, attracting both Spanish and international students.

Tuition fees and admission process

Tuition fees at public universities in Seville typically range from €900 to €1,200 per year for EU students, while non-EU students may pay more depending on the program. Applications are submitted through the Andalusian university portal.

Sources: University of Seville, Pablo de Olavide University

For non‑EU citizens willing to live without paid work, Spain offers a non‑lucrative residence visa — applicants must prove sufficient income or savings and maintain private health insurance.

Healthcare and living costs

Retirees benefit from Spain’s excellent healthcare system. The Andalusian Health Service (SAS) provides high-quality care, while private insurance costs between €50 and €120 per month, depending on coverage. Many retirees report that everyday costs such as groceries and utilities in Seville feel lower than what they were used to in parts of northern Europe.

Integration and quality of life

Many retirees settle in quieter neighborhoods such as Los Remedios or La Palmera, where tree-lined streets, local markets, and cafés encourage a slower pace of life. Cultural events, flamenco shows, and weekend markets make it easy to immerse yourself in Andalusian traditions, while nearby parks and riverfront paths support an active, outdoor lifestyle.

Sources: Spanish Ministry of Inclusion, Junta de Andalucia

Families moving to Seville can choose from public, semi-private (concertados), or private/international schools for their children. The public system follows the Spanish national curriculum, while international schools provide British, IB, and other globally recognized programs.

Education system overview.

School is compulsory for children aged 6 to 16 in Spain. Public schools in Seville are tuition‑free at these levels, while concertado schools charge modest fees. Many schools also offer extracurricular activities and language‑support programmes to help international students integrate. To enrol in a school, families typically must provide proof of residence and in many cases health/vaccination records.

International and bilingual options

Some of the most popular international schools include:

1. Yago School – bilingual Spanish-English program.
2. Sevilla International College – serving ages 10‑18, offering an international educational community in Seville

Sources: Yago School, Sevilla International College

Seville’s diverse housing market encompasses everything from historic apartments in the old town to modern flats in newer neighborhoods and quiet villas in the suburbs. Demand remains strong in central districts, and although prices have been rising, they are still generally below those in Madrid or Barcelona, making Seville a more affordable option for city living.

Where expats live

Popular areas for expats include Triana, Los Remedios, Nervión, and La Cartuja. Triana combines traditional charm with riverside living, while Los Remedios is known for its family-friendly, peaceful streets. Nervión attracts professionals with its shops and offices, and La Cartuja offers modern apartments close to the university and tech hubs.

Rent levels and rental process

Rental prices for accommodation in Seville depend on location, property size, and amenities. Central and historic districts tend to be more expensive, while suburbs and newer developments offer more affordable options. Leases commonly run for one year, and landlords typically require a security deposit of one or two months’ rent. Many tenants work with estate agents to handle viewings and contracts, though direct agreements with landlords also occur.

Data correct as of November 2025.

Sources: Numbeo

Seville is known for its vibrant cultural life and lively streets. From historic monuments and palaces to traditional tapas bars, flamenco stages, and seasonal festivals, there is always something new to experience.

Cultural attractions

Major sites include the Seville Cathedral, Real Alcázar, and Plaza de España. Art lovers can visit the Museum of Fine Arts to see Spanish masters, while flamenco houses (tablaos) in Triana provide authentic live performances. Smaller galleries, artisan workshops, and music venues also add to the city’s creative scene.

Outdoor and social life

Locals enjoy cycling and jogging along the Guadalquivir River, strolling through Parque de María Luisa, or watching the world go by at riverside cafés. Annual events such as Feria de Abril and Semana Santa bring the city together, while sports fans follow Real Betis or Sevilla FC with great passion and loyalty. The city’s plazas, gardens, and terraces also make it easy to socialize and enjoy an active, outdoor lifestyle.

Life in Seville moves at a slower, sun-soaked pace. The city’s warm climate and compact streets encourage walking, and locals often take time to enjoy the outdoors between errands, work, and socializing. Weekdays are lively in the mornings as residents run errands or head to work, while afternoons can slow down, especially in the hottest months.

Living like a local

Sevillanos embrace long meals and social moments. Lunch around 2 p.m. is the main meal, often followed by a short rest in summer, and dinner rarely starts before 9 p.m. Life revolves around plazas, cafés, and tapas bars, which serve as meeting points for friends and family. Seasonal festivals like Feria de Abril or Semana Santa also shape the city’s social calendar, keeping traditions alive.

Everyday essentials

Getting around Seville is easy on foot, by bike, or via the city’s bus and tram network. Neighborhood markets, bakeries, and fruit shops provide everything locals need for daily meals, while smaller streets and residential areas offer a quieter, more relaxed pace away from the main tourist spots. Even in the heat of summer, life in Seville stays vibrant yet unhurried, balancing routine with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.

Seville offers a comfortable lifestyle at a lower cost than many other Spanish cities. Groceries, transport, and entertainment are generally cheaper than in Madrid or Barcelona, though salaries tend to be lower as well.

Monthly expenses for a single person

Data correct as of November 2025.

Monthly expenses for a family of four

Data correct as of November 2025.

Sources: Numbeo, Cities Insider