The best places to live in Spain for retired seniors – infrastructure, healthcare and communities

Written by Anita Orłowska on 19.09.2025 - 7m reading

Written by Anita Orłowska on 19.09.2025 - 7m reading

Written by Anita Orłowska on 19.09.2025 - 7m reading

Are you wondering where to live in Europe during your retirement? One of the most popular and best destinations for seniors is Spain. See what it has to offer in terms of infrastructure, healthcare and community.

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They say that life begins at retirement. After decades of work, you can finally relax and pursue your passions without worrying about professional responsibilities. One place worth considering is Spain. It is a country with a rich culture, picturesque and diverse landscape, and delicious cuisine. But that's not all, because the Iberian Peninsula also scores highly in terms of healthcare, infrastructure, community and even cost of living. Discover the best places for retirees in Spain!

Moving to Spain for retirement is a popular step among seniors from various parts of Europe. And for good reason – this country located on the Iberian Peninsula offers over 300 sunny days a year and a unique climate. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has recognised it as one of the healthiest regions in the world – not only does it have a positive impact on the health of senior citizens, but it also promotes an active lifestyle throughout the year.

Equally important is the Mediterranean lifestyle, which for many seniors is a decisive factor when considering where to live in Europe during their retirement. Spain tempts with a healthy diet, a relaxed lifestyle and a slower pace, and the friendly locals value peace and family ties. This makes it easier to establish relationships. Added to this is a culture that particularly values and respects older people.

Economic factors are also important, as they make retirement in Spain very comfortable. Compared to other Western European countries, daily living costs are lower. The same applies to the prices of exclusive properties, which offer a luxurious standard at a lower cost than similar properties in other prestigious European locations.

Where to live in Europe during retirement? The Costa del Sol is a good choice. It is a prestigious location, popular among wealthy seniors, offering 150 km of coastline, a mild climate, an international atmosphere and exclusive resorts such as Marbella, Benalmádena and Mijas.

One of the reasons why the Costa del Sol is an ideal choice for retirement is its extensive infrastructure dedicated to seniors. This includes, for example, luxury housing estates where you can enjoy a variety of amenities, from swimming pools to gyms. In addition, retirees can spend their time playing golf and visiting yacht marinas and exclusive beach clubs. Transport will not be a problem, as the Costa del Sol has an extensive road and public transport network.

Another popular destination for seniors is the Costa Blanca. This region has a unique microclimate, recognised by the WHO as one of the healthiest in the world. It is also famous for its picturesque towns, such as Javea, Altea, Moraira and Denia, which combine authentic Spanish atmosphere with prestige. This makes them popular with wealthy retirees who are looking for both luxury and the richness of Spanish culture.

One of the best places for retirees in Spain offers luxury villas with private pools, modern apartments in exclusive complexes, as well as traditional fincas. Seniors living on the Costa Blanca can enjoy special recreation areas with exercise equipment, explore walking and cycling routes along the coast, and enjoy the beaches. Many of them are equipped with special vehicles that allow people with limited mobility to bathe in the sea.

Care for the elderly is of the highest standard. The healthcare system in Spain is considered one of the best in Europe. One of its advantages is universal access for residents, including pensioners from the European Union. What is more, the Sistema Nacional de Salud also offers:

• a high standard of medical services,
• modern equipment in healthcare facilities,
• specialised geriatric and rehabilitation centres,
• specialised programmes for the elderly (including preventive examinations and treatment of chronic diseases).

When planning to move to Spain for retirement, it is also worth considering private healthcare. This is an attractive option for affluent seniors, offering numerous advantages, such as:

• quick access to specialists (appointments are often available within the same week),
• no queues,
• the ability to choose a doctor and medical facility in a convenient location,
• service in English, 
• additional amenities – private rooms, medical transport and telemedicine.

Seniors can choose from a number of reputable companies: Sanitas, MAPFRE and Axa. The average cost of private insurance is €50-200 per month (approximate prices), depending on the scope of the policy.

However, medicine is not everything, because care for the elderly in Spain goes far beyond clinics and hospitals. Retired people can participate in social initiatives and take advantage of support programmes specifically dedicated to seniors. These include cultural events, educational activities and sports. The town of L'Alfàs del Pi on the Costa Blancastands out in this respect.

The only correct answer to the question of where to live in Europe during retirement is Spain. However, before you do so, remember to take care of a few necessary formalities. For pensioners from the European Union, it is necessary to obtain an N.I.E. number (Número de Identificación de Extranjero). The next step, once you arrive, is to register with the Central Register of Foreigners and obtain a health card (Tarjeta Sanitaria Individual).

A practical aspect of retirement in Spain is also investing in luxury property, which must be in the right location. In the case of a flat or house for seniors, it is important to be close to medical facilities, public transport and infrastructure that is friendly to the elderly (e.g. lifts and ramps).

You can take care of your retirement in Spain right now. Don't wait until you reach the so-called golden age. Instead, start looking for luxury property earlier – initially as an investment and a way to invest your capital, and later as a place where you will spend your retirement. You can purchase an apartment or villa on the Costa del Sol or Costa Blanca – for seniors and entire families – with the help of Elite World Estates. See what premium primary market properties are on offer from this Polish agency!

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Please enter your contact details below and we will contact you as soon as possible.

Let us narrow down the search among the properties available through us, by contacting us and finding the best options for you. We are here to help you! Please enter your contact details below and we will contact you as soon as possible.

Let us narrow down the search among the properties available through us, by contacting us and finding the best options for you. We are here to help you!
Please enter your contact details below and we will contact you as soon as possible.