If you’ve been thinking about spending your retirement years somewhere warmer, more relaxed, and with a better quality of life, you’re not alone. Many British retirees are looking beyond the UK for a new chapter — and Spain has long been one of the most popular destinations. But instead of heading to the overbuilt resorts, more and more people are choosing the Valencia region, drawn by its balance of authenticity, access to healthcare, cost of living, and Mediterranean lifestyle.
Whether you’re picturing a sea-view flat in Alicante, a quiet home with a garden in Godella, or an apartment in Valencia’s historic centre, the idea of retiring in Valencia from the UK is about more than just climate — it’s about the way of life. But the question is not just why you’d retire in Valencia from the UK — it’s how. This article is here to walk you through the real process, the choices you’ll face, and how to prepare.
Let’s start with geography. Valencia city is a manageable, welcoming city of under a million people — big enough to offer excellent services, culture, and international healthcare, but small enough to feel safe and liveable. It’s flat, walkable, full of green spaces, and well connected by bus, tram, and rail. The city appeals to British retirees who want a blend of community life and independence, with access to English-speaking professionals and a growing number of fellow expats.
Just outside the city, places like Rocafort, Godella, La Cañada, and La Eliana offer more residential settings — often with villas, gardens, and a quieter pace of life. These suburbs are close to international schools, private hospitals, and local markets, with easy Metro links into the city centre. They’re ideal for those who want a bit more space and privacy, without being isolated.
Farther south, the Costa Blanca remains a firm favourite with British retirees — but the experience varies a lot depending on where you settle. Altea, Moraira, Jávea, and Denia offer more traditional charm, great sea views, and quieter beaches. Calpe and Torrevieja, while more developed, still attract many long-term residents thanks to their affordability and established expat networks. Alicante, as a provincial capital, offers a good balance of services and coastal living. When it comes to relocating to Costa Blanca, it’s all about defining what kind of lifestyle you want — whether it’s peace and quiet, community involvement, or easy access to golf courses and marinas.
Whichever area you choose, the practical side of retiring abroad remains the same: planning, paperwork, and making sure the move is sustainable. Since Brexit, UK citizens need to apply for a visa to live in Spain year-round — and for retirees, that usually means the Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV). This visa allows you to reside in Spain if you can show sufficient financial means to support yourself, without taking up work.
The process starts from the UK, via the Spanish Consulate, and includes requirements such as proof of income, private health insurance, a clean criminal record, and a medical certificate. Once approved, you’ll move to Spain and finalise your residency with local appointments. It’s not a quick process — and that’s where having relocation support makes a difference. At Livin’Valencia, we guide clients through the steps with patience and clarity, handling documents, scheduling appointments, and helping you avoid common pitfalls.
Beyond the visa, there’s also the administrative maze that comes with moving to Valencia: applying for your NIE (foreigner’s ID number), registering your address, opening a Spanish bank account, and dealing with healthcare. We help streamline this process through our relocation services — whether that’s liaising with legal partners, helping you compare insurance, or supporting your integration once you’re here.
Housing is another key consideration. Many retirees wonder whether they should buy straight away or rent first. Renting allows you to get a feel for different areas, understand the rhythm of daily life, and take your time. But for those ready to settle down, buying a property in Valencia or Costa Blanca can offer security and long-term value — especially given that Spain has no restrictions for British nationals buying property, despite Brexit.
What matters most is how you approach the process. Unlike estate agents who work for sellers, our home buying services are tailored to the buyer — meaning you. We act as property hunters, reviewing listings, checking legal status, arranging viewings, and negotiating prices with your best interest in mind. If you’re not yet in Spain, we can even visit properties on your behalf, send videos, and manage all steps remotely. And once you’ve found your ideal place, we can support you through the signing, utilities, and even renovations, if needed.
Of course, retirement isn’t just about paperwork or finding a flat. What makes Valencia special is the lifestyle it offers. Leisure opportunities are endless. If you enjoy sailing, there are well-equipped marinas in Valencia, Denia, and Altea — with clubs and English-speaking instructors. Golfers can enjoy world-class courses like El Bosque or La Sella, many of which offer senior rates and social memberships. Yoga and Pilates are increasingly popular, with studios offering classes in English and Spanish. There are walking groups, language exchanges, and cultural activities tailored for expats — plus cooking classes, art workshops, and even university courses for seniors who want to keep learning. The Mediterranean lifestyle truly encourages activity and well-being at any age.
Your day might start with a stroll through Valencia’s central market, followed by a swim at Malvarrosa beach or a coffee in the Turia gardens. Or perhaps you’ll spend the afternoon in Altea, chatting with neighbours in the square and watching the sun set over the sea. Whether you prefer an active retirement or a more relaxed rhythm, the choice is yours — and it’s all within reach.
Retiring in Spain is about more than sunshine and lower bills. It’s about regaining time — time for yourself, for discovery, for well-being. And it works best when done thoughtfully, with someone on your side who knows the ins and outs of relocating to Spain.
At Livin’Valencia, we don’t just explain the process — we walk it with you. From deciding where to live, to navigating Spanish bureaucracy, to finding the right property and settling in, we offer clear, honest support every step of the way. We’ve helped many British retirees make this move with confidence, and we’re happy to help you explore if this life fits your plans.
Ready to find out if retiring in Valencia or Costa Blanca is for you? Book a free one-to-one video consultation or contact us directly. Let’s start planning this chapter together — calmly, clearly, and with your needs at the centre.
