Living in Valencia: the ultimate expat guide

Valencia's economy is diversifying rapidly, driven by tourism, technology, agriculture, and logistics. The Port of Valencia ranks among Europe's largest container ports, generating thousands of jobs in trade and warehousing. The city has emerged as a growing tech hub, with a 16% increase in startups in recent years and companies like Flywire and Zubi Labs leading remote work opportunities. Non-EU citizens typically require a work visa sponsored by a Spanish employer or can apply for the Digital Nomad Visa (minimum income €2,646/month) to work remotely for non-Spanish companies.

Employment Landscape

The Valencian Community recorded an unemployment rate of 12.8% in 2023, in line with the national average. The labor market shows strength in services, which employs over 75% of workers, followed by industry and construction. Key growth sectors include IT and cybersecurity, renewable energy, healthcare, and tourism. English-speaking roles are increasingly available in customer service, tech support, and digital marketing, particularly for multilingual professionals.

Salary Expectations

The following table provides an overview of employment indicators in Valencia:

Sources: INE (Spanish National Statistics Institute), EURES, SalaryExpert

Valencia hosts eight universities attracting over 45,000 international students annually. The city offers a wide range of undergraduate, master's, and doctoral programs, many taught in English. Public university tuition remains highly affordable compared to universities in the UK, US, or Australia, thanks to regional government subsidies. Non-EU students typically pay approximately double the EU rate but still benefit from significantly lower costs than most Western countries.

Leading Universities

The University of Valencia (UV), founded in 1499, is one of Spain's oldest and most prestigious institutions, offering over 250 undergraduate and 100 postgraduate programs. It enrolls more than 65,700 students, including 10,000 international students. The Polytechnic University of Valencia (UPV) ranks as Spain's top technological university with a 93% student satisfaction rate, excelling in engineering, architecture, and computer science.

Tuition Fees and Admission

Public university tuition is regulated by the Generalitat Valenciana. Undergraduate programs typically cost €1,000–€1,300/year for EU students and €2,000–€2,600/year for non-EU students. Master's programs range from €25–€70 per ECTS credit for international students at UPV. Admission requires validated secondary school credentials, proof of language proficiency (Spanish B2 or English depending on program), and completion of the application through the university portal.

Sources: University of Valencia, Polytechnic University of Valencia

Valencia ranks among Europe's top retirement destinations, offering an unbeatable combination of climate, healthcare, affordability, and quality of life. The city consistently appears in global retirement rankings thanks to its mild winters, excellent medical facilities, and welcoming expat community. For non-EU retirees, the Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV) provides a straightforward path to residency without the need to purchase property or make investments.

Non-Lucrative Visa Requirements

The NLV allows non-EU citizens to reside in Spain without working, ideal for retirees with pension income or savings. For 2025, applicants must demonstrate passive income of at least €2,400/month (€28,800/year) for the main applicant, plus €600/month per additional family member. Requirements include a valid passport, criminal background check, private health insurance with no copayments, and a medical certificate. The initial visa is valid for one year and renewable for two-year periods. After five years, holders may apply for permanent residency.

Healthcare for Retirees

Non-lucrative visa holders must initially carry private health insurance, with policies starting from €55–€120/month depending on age and coverage. After 12 months of legal residency, expats may apply for the Convenio Especial program, which grants access to Spain's public healthcare system for a monthly fee of approximately €60–€157 based on age. Hospital La Fe and other Valencia hospitals offer world-class care, and many doctors speak English.

Sources: Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Spanish Social Security

Valencia offers excellent educational options for expatriate families, from free public schools to prestigious international institutions. The Spanish public education system provides quality instruction in Spanish and Valencian at no cost, while private and international schools cater to families seeking English-language curricula or specific educational approaches. Most international schools are located in suburban areas like Paterna, Puçol, and Campolivar, with dedicated school bus services connecting to the city center.

International Schools

Valencia has 32 international schools offering British, American, International Baccalaureate (IB), French, and German curricula. Top-rated institutions include Caxton College (British curriculum, consistently ranked among Spain's best), American School of Valencia (IB and American curriculum), and Cambridge House (British National Curriculum). Many schools feature bilingual programs that help children integrate while maintaining their home language.

Fees and Enrollment

International school fees in Valencia are 10–20% lower than in Madrid or Barcelona. Annual tuition typically ranges from €5,000 to €12,000 depending on grade level and school prestige. Additional costs include enrollment fees (€1,600–€3,250), uniforms, school materials, transport, and meals. Enrollment usually requires academic transcripts, proof of residence, and sometimes entrance assessments. Applications should be submitted several months in advance, as popular schools maintain waiting lists.

Sources: International Schools Database, British School of Valencia

Valencia's housing market has experienced significant growth, with rental prices increasing 77% since 2019. Despite this rise, the city remains considerably more affordable than Madrid or Barcelona. The rental market is diverse, ranging from renovated historic apartments in the old town to modern developments near the beach. Most landlords require a one-month deposit, proof of income (or 3–6 months' rent upfront for those without Spanish employment contracts), and often a Spanish bank account.

Popular Expat Neighborhoods

Ruzafa is Valencia's trendiest district, known for its colorful streets, creative cafés, and vibrant nightlife—ideal for young professionals and digital nomads. El Carmen in the historic center offers bohemian charm with narrow winding streets and street art. Benimaclet provides a village-like atmosphere with a student-friendly vibe and lower rents. El Cabanyal is a revitalized beachside neighborhood attracting those who want coastal living at reasonable prices. For families, Campanar and L'Eixample offer quieter residential settings with parks and schools.

Rental Prices (2025)

The following table shows average monthly rents in Valencia:

Sources: Idealista, Numbeo

Valencia offers an exceptional blend of historic heritage, cutting-edge architecture, beaches, and year-round festivals. The city is the birthplace of paella, and gastronomy plays a central role in local culture. From world-class museums to vibrant nightlife in Ruzafa and El Carmen, there is always something to discover. The Mediterranean climate encourages outdoor activities, with sailing, paddleboarding, and beach volleyball popular along the city's urban beaches.

Cultural Highlights

The City of Arts and Sciences (Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias) is Valencia's architectural crown jewel—a futuristic complex featuring Europe's largest aquarium (L'Oceanogràfic), the Príncipe Felipe Science Museum, and the Palau de les Arts opera house. The historic Lonja de la Seda (Silk Exchange), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcases stunning Gothic architecture. Other must-visit sites include the Valencia Cathedral (home to what is claimed to be the Holy Grail), the Torres de Serranos medieval gates, and the IVAM contemporary art museum.

Festivals and Nightlife

The Fallas festival (March 15–19) is Valencia's most spectacular celebration and a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage event. Over 800 elaborate papier-mâché sculptures are erected throughout the city before being dramatically burned on the final night. Other notable events include Semana Santa Marinera (maritime Holy Week), the July Fair with open-air concerts in Viveros Gardens, and neighborhood fiestas throughout the year. Valencia's nightlife centers on Ruzafa's trendy bars, El Carmen's historic taverns, and beachfront clubs in summer.

Sources: Visit Valencia, City of Arts and Sciences

Valencia offers an enviable quality of life that combines Mediterranean relaxation with urban convenience. The city is remarkably compact and bike-friendly, with over 200 kilometers of cycle lanes and a flat terrain ideal for cycling. Daily routines often include late lunches (2:00–4:00 PM), leisurely dinners starting at 9:00 PM or later, and a strong culture of outdoor living. The famous siesta tradition means many small shops close in the early afternoon, though supermarkets and larger stores maintain continuous hours.

Public Transportation

Valencia's integrated transport network includes metro, tram, bus, and commuter trains. The Metrovalencia system operates 10 lines connecting the city center, airport, beach, and suburbs. A SUMA 10 card costs €8 for 10 trips valid across all transport modes with one free transfer per journey. Monthly passes (SUMA Monthly) cost €35, reduced to €17.50 with the current government subsidy through December 2025. The Valenbisi bike-sharing system offers annual membership for just €29, and many residents find car ownership unnecessary.

Lifestyle and Culture

Valencians embrace outdoor living, gathering in plazas, parks, and beach promenades. The Jardín del Turia, a 9-kilometer park built in a former riverbed, is the city's green spine—perfect for jogging, cycling, and family picnics. The city maintains strong traditions, from Sunday paella gatherings to neighborhood festivals throughout the year. Learning basic Spanish greatly enhances daily life, though English is increasingly common in tourist areas and among younger residents.

Sources: Metrovalencia, Visit Valencia

Valencia consistently ranks as one of Europe's best-value cities for quality of life. Monthly expenses run 15–35% lower than Madrid or Barcelona and significantly less than major cities in the UK, US, or Australia. The city benefits from affordable local produce—fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood, and the famous Valencian oranges—available at the historic Mercado Central and neighborhood markets. The menú del día (daily set lunch) at local restaurants typically costs €12–€15 for three courses including a drink.

Monthly Budget: Single Person

Monthly Budget: Family of Four

Sources: Numbeo Valencia, Globexs