Are you dreaming of retiring abroad in a vibrant, sunny city? Moving to Valencia for American retirees is more than a dream, it’s a practical, fulfilling choice. Whether it’s the affordable lifestyle, excellent healthcare, or rich cultural life, Valencia stands out as one of the best places in Spain for a peaceful, secure retirement.

At Livin’Valencia, we’ve had the privilege of guiding retirees through this transition, from the first exploratory questions to full relocation and settlement. This guide is crafted for American retirees considering making Valencia their new home. It brings together practical information, real-life insights, and the on-the-ground expertise we’ve built over the years.

Why Retire in Valencia?

Valencia isn’t a resort town. It’s a functioning, vibrant city with a strong sense of community and a pace of life that invites presence. For retirees, that balance is crucial. Here’s why so many of our American clients choose to retire in Valencia:

• Affordable cost of living: Your pension stretches further in Valencia. Whether renting or buying, housing costs are significantly lower than in most U.S. cities. Dining out, public transport, and healthcare are all affordable.
• Excellent healthcare: Spain’s public healthcare system is among the best in Europe. Private options are also affordable, accessible, and often bilingual, ideal for non-Spanish speakers.
• Warm climate with four seasons: Unlike the extreme heat of the south or the cold of northern Spain, Valencia offers a milder Mediterranean climate with sun most of the year.
• Compact, walkable city: Valencia is flat, well-connected, and offers many pedestrian-friendly areas, ideal for those who don’t want to rely on a car every day.
• Cultural richness without the crowds: From music festivals and museums to neighborhood fiestas and farmers’ markets, there’s always something happening, without the overwhelm of Barcelona or Madrid.

And unlike other cities that empty out in August or feel purely touristic, Valencia functions year-round, with a growing international community that remains engaged, curious, and grounded.

Residency and Healthcare for American Retirees

Moving to Spain as a retiree from the U.S. means navigating some paperwork, particularly if you’re not an EU citizen. Most of our clients in this situation apply for the Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV). A type of residency that allows you to live in Spain without working, as long as you can demonstrate sufficient financial means and private health coverage.

Here’s how it works in practice:

• Initial application takes place at your nearest Spanish consulate in the U.S. You’ll need proof of income (usually from retirement funds, Social Security, or investments), health insurance, a background check, and a medical certificate.
• Once approved, you receive a 1-year residence permit, renewable for 2-year periods.
• After five years of continuous residence, you may apply for long-term residency status.

At Livin’Valencia, we assist by putting you in contact with trusted immigration lawyers to handle the visa paperwork, while we coordinate the timing and support services around your move so that everything aligns smoothly.

For healthcare, you’ll need to contract private insurance for the first few years. Once you’ve established long-term residency and contributed to the system, access to public healthcare becomes available. We guide you through setting up appointments, choosing a provider, and understanding what’s covered.

Where to Live in Valencia: Best Neighborhoods for Retirees

People often prioritize tranquility, walkability, proximity to essential services, and a vibrant community. Valencia offers diverse neighborhoods that cater to these preferences:

1. Valencia City Center: Ruzafa, El Pla del Remei, Gran Vía

Living in the heart of Valencia provides retirees with immediate access to cultural events, healthcare facilities, and daily conveniences.

• Ruzafa: Known for its bohemian atmosphere, Ruzafa boasts art galleries, organic markets, and a lively café scene. It’s ideal for retirees seeking an active urban lifestyle. As of May 2025, property prices average around €4,060/m², with typical 2-3 bedroom apartments ranging from €400,000 to €600,000.
• El Pla del Remei: This upscale neighborhood features elegant architecture and is close to high-end shopping and dining. Average property prices are approximately €3,966/m², with spacious apartments often exceeding €600,000.
• Gran Vía: Characterized by wide boulevards and modernist buildings, Gran Vía offers a blend of residential calm and commercial activity. Property prices here are similar to El Pla del Remei, averaging around €4,158/m².

These neighborhoods are well-connected by public transport and offer a mix of traditional charm and modern amenities.

2. Beachside Living: Cabanyal, Patacona, Malvarrosa

For retirees dreaming of coastal living, Valencia’s beachfront neighborhoods provide a serene environment with the added benefit of sea views.

• Cabanyal: A historic fishing district undergoing revitalization, Cabanyal offers colorful architecture and a strong sense of community. Property prices start from €30,000, with renovated apartments averaging between €200,000 and €400,000.
• Patacona: Located just north of Malvarrosa, Patacona is known for its modern beachfront apartments and relaxed atmosphere. While specific price data is limited, properties here are considered premium due to their seaside location.
• Malvarrosa: This vibrant beachfront area offers a mix of traditional and contemporary living. Good properties in good neighborhoods range from €120,000 to €500,000, depending on size and proximity to the beach.

These areas are ideal for retirees seeking a leisurely lifestyle with the therapeutic benefits of coastal living.

3. Suburban Retreats: L’Eliana, Rocafort, Godella

For those preferring a quieter environment with more space, Valencia’s suburbs offer green spaces, detached homes, and a slower pace of life.

• L’Eliana: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere and green surroundings, L’Eliana provides a peaceful retreat with easy access to the city.
• Rocafort: This suburb combines tranquility with convenience, featuring spacious villas and proximity to international schools and healthcare facilities.
• Godella: Offering a blend of rural charm and urban accessibility, Godella is ideal for retirees seeking a balance between nature and city life.

Property prices in these suburbs vary, with detached homes typically starting around €400,000, depending on size and amenities.

Each of these neighborhoods offers unique benefits tailored to different retirement lifestyles. Whether you prefer the bustling city center, the calming seaside, or the tranquil suburbs, Valencia has a place that can cater to your retirement dreams.

4. Seaside Escape: Altea, Jávea, and the Northern Costa Blanca

Some retirees prefer to settle slightly further afield on the northern Costa Blanca, in towns like Jávea, Moraira, or Altea. These areas are more resort-like, but also offer a stable expat infrastructure, sea views, and small-town living.

Many of our clients choose to rent in the city for a year and later buy in these coastal areas once they know the region better. We assist with both phases.

Renting vs. Buying in Retirement

Many retirees begin by renting—especially during their first year in Valencia. It gives you the chance to settle in, explore neighborhoods, and avoid rushing into long-term commitments.

• Rentals in central areas range from €1,200–€2,500/month for 2–3 bedroom apartments in comfortable, well-connected buildings.
• Suburban rentals (like Rocafort or L’Eliana) with gardens and single-floor layouts are typically €1,800–€2,500/month.
• Beachfront or sea-view rentals vary depending on location and time of year.

If you’re considering buying, here are some current price trends:

• City center apartments: €300,000–€600,000 for quality units with elevator access.
• Suburban villas: €400,000–€700,000 depending on size and condition.
• Seaside homes: Prices vary widely—from €300,000 apartments to €1M+ villas with sea views.

We provide independent advisory services for both renters and buyers, helping you understand the market, legal requirements, and property conditions before making any decisions. Unlike traditional agencies, we represent your interests only.

Building a Life: Daily Rhythm, Community, and Integration

One of the most beautiful surprises for American retirees in Valencia is how full life feels. The city’s rhythm encourages walking, stopping for coffee, chatting with neighbors, or simply sitting under the sun. It’s not uncommon for a “quick errand” to become a morning outing, and that’s not seen as inefficient, but human.

Here’s what our clients often say makes the difference:

• Accessibility: With metro lines, buses, and bike paths everywhere, getting around doesn’t require a car.
• Fresh food and local markets: Eating well is easy here. Daily markets offer fresh produce, fish, and regional specialties—all at reasonable prices.
• Language and learning: Many retirees take Spanish lessons or join community classes. There’s no pressure to be fluent, but engagement opens doors.
• Social integration: From expat meetups to local cultural events, opportunities for connection abound—if you’re open to them.

How Livin’Valencia Supports your move

Retirement is meant to be a time of simplicity, not stress. But international relocation can bring layers of bureaucracy and uncertainty that make it hard to enjoy the journey. That’s where we step in.

At Livin’Valencia, we offer:

• Step-by-step relocation planning, tailored to retirees
• Trusted introductions to lawyers, healthcare providers, and financial advisors
• Neighborhood orientation tours, adjusted to your pace and interests
• Rental and property search, fully independent and conflict-free
• Ongoing support, including banking, health insurance, and registration

We do not promise a fantasy. What we offer is peace of mind—built on experience, honesty, and local knowledge.

Considering retiring in Valencia?
Start with a free 15-minute consultation and see if the city fits your vision. At Livin’Valencia, we make relocation simple—so you can focus on what comes next.