Moving to Valencia for retirement often starts with a simple dream: sunshine, serenity, and a better pace of life. For many retirees, that dream becomes reality not in the bustling streets of the city center but just outside of it, in the peaceful suburbs where life unfolds at a gentler rhythm. These suburbs for retirees offer a compelling mix of privacy, access to nature, and a strong sense of community. Within 30 kilometers of Valencia, you’ll find a wide range of communities—some discreetly luxurious, others rooted in tradition—that offer easy access to healthcare, outdoor spaces, cultural life, and everything needed to age well.
While the heart of Valencia has undeniable appeal, its suburbs offer something particularly valuable for those entering retirement: space, quiet, and convenience. Places like Santa Bárbara in Rocafort are designed with privacy and comfort in mind. This prestigious urbanización offers large, elegant villas, private security, and a leafy environment just 15 minutes from the city. But beyond the aesthetics, Santa Bárbara has real practical value. It’s close to top-tier medical facilities in Valencia, near private clinics in Godella and Burjassot, and offers quick access to the CV-35 for both city visits and countryside escapes. The local tennis and social clubs offer an easy way to stay active and connected.
Just next door, Campolivar in Godella blends walkability with a strong neighborhood feel. It’s ideal for retirees who want to live among a mix of ages, with parks, cafés, and services within walking distance. The area has modern apartments as well as one-story chalets with gardens. It’s well connected via metro and bus and has quick access to healthcare centers. A number of local associations also offer classes in ceramics, pilates, or painting, and the town hall organizes excursions and social events for seniors throughout the year.
Further northwest, La Cañada in Paterna is a town in itself, with a busy local market, traditional bakeries, and strong community roots. It’s not a gated development, but a lived-in place where you can walk to everything. Retirees who want to downsize without losing comfort will find excellent townhouses and compact villas. La Cañada’s green setting and proximity to the Vallesa forest make it ideal for morning walks or cycling. There are active cultural centers and private gyms with senior-focused programs. It’s only 20 minutes from Valencia and well served by the metro.
For those looking for more natural surroundings, El Plantío offers even quieter residential living. Located just south of La Cañada, this area is made up almost entirely of detached homes surrounded by pine trees and gardens. It appeals to retirees who prefer tranquil routines, light gardening, and access to hiking routes. Though there’s less public transport, it remains well connected by road and close to services in Paterna and Valencia.
On the northern coast, Puçol’s gated communities Los Monasterios and Alfinach stand out as some of the most prestigious options for retirees. Set on the hills overlooking the sea, they offer panoramic views, top security, and homes with generous outdoor space. Both have private clubs with pools, restaurants, and tennis courts. Most importantly, they are less than 30 minutes from the city and 10 minutes from the beach. The nearby yacht club in Port Saplaya and sailing schools in Pobla de Farnals provide opportunities for sea lovers to stay active. Puçol also has reliable train service into Valencia, and several English-speaking medical specialists operate in the area.
For those drawn to wellness and continuous learning, Mas Camarena in Bétera is worth a look. Though more family-oriented on the surface, it includes several gated zones with low-maintenance homes and access to sport and wellness facilities. There’s a local yoga studio, a popular swimming complex, and regular events ranging from gardening workshops to photography classes. Torre en Conill, its quieter neighbor, is built around the Escorpión Golf Club. Retirees who enjoy golf, walking, or peaceful afternoons surrounded by nature will find it an excellent base, with quick access to health services in Bétera and Valencia.
One of the most socially vibrant towns is L’Eliana, known for its accessibility and welcoming atmosphere. The town is large enough to offer variety—gyms, theaters, outdoor markets—but small enough to maintain a sense of connection. There are dedicated senior programs, local book clubs, and language exchanges. Its public sports facilities offer everything from aqua-gym to tai chi, and its restaurants range from casual tapas to international cuisine. Housing options are diverse, from modest chalets to high-end villas. And with the metro, Valencia is only 25 minutes away.
Náquera, slightly farther out, appeals to those seeking forest air and affordable space. Nestled in the foothills of the Sierra Calderona, it’s ideal for long walks, peaceful views, and a slower rhythm. Here you’ll find a mix of rustic chalets, modern villas, and garden homes, all surrounded by nature. The town has a growing community of active retirees and a range of local groups offering cooking classes, hiking clubs, and yoga for seniors. Access to Valencia is by road only (about 35 minutes), so it’s better suited to those who don’t need daily trips to the city.
For retirees with golf in mind, El Bosque near Chiva is an excellent option. This private, secure urbanización is built around the prestigious El Bosque Golf Club and offers a tranquil, gated environment with villas and townhouses overlooking the course. Residents enjoy high-end amenities, including a restaurant, tennis courts, and proximity to an equestrian center. Valencia is about 30 minutes away by car, and the area is ideal for those seeking peaceful, active living in a natural setting.
Those drawn to the coastline should consider Port Saplaya in Alboraya, sometimes referred to as “the little Venice” of Valencia. With its marina, waterfront apartments, and walkable layout, it’s a perfect spot for sailing enthusiasts or those who enjoy living by the sea. It’s just 15 minutes from the city center, well connected by bus and bike paths, and offers local shops, restaurants, and immediate access to beach life. Pobla de Farnals, a bit further north, also hosts a yacht club and sailing school and features several residential complexes that appeal to retirees looking for a relaxed, community-based lifestyle with sea views.
Ultimately, choosing the right suburb comes down to your family’s priorities. Do you want to walk to local cafés or have space to breathe? Do you need a fast commute or are you willing to live further out for more house and more nature? The good news is that Valencia offers real options. Whether you’re seeking a modern villa in a gated community, a classic chalet near the metro, or a peaceful home with views of the mountains, there’s likely a place that fits.
At Livin’Valencia, we work closely with retirees to find the place that fits not just their budget, but their rhythm, values, and daily needs. We know the differences between a busy suburban hub and a hillside retreat. And we understand that retirement is not the same for everyone—it can mean golf and fine dining, but also yoga, birdwatching, and reading in a quiet garden.
If you’re exploring retirement in Valencia and want to learn more about neighborhoods, healthcare, property options, or simply what daily life could look like—we’re here.
And when you’re ready to talk, we’re here to listen.
Book a call with us and let’s explore what your next chapter near Valencia could look like.
