Relocating to Valencia with children means more than just finding a home—it’s about building a life in a place where your family can thrive. For many international and Spanish families, the suburbs of Valencia offer the perfect balance: access to excellent schools, proximity to nature, and calm, secure communities within 20 to 30 minutes of the city. But not all suburbs are created equal. From quiet residential urbanizaciones to full-service gated communities, here’s a grounded guide to where families live near Valencia—and why they choose to stay.
Ask anyone who has relocated to Valencia with children, and they’ll tell you: choosing the right neighborhood is just as important as choosing the right school. Fortunately, several suburban zones around Valencia tick both boxes. Take Santa Bárbara in Rocafort, for instance. With its private security, lush gardens, and large villas, it remains one of the most sought-after urbanizaciones for families attending Cambridge House, La Devesa, or other top international schools nearby. The area is peaceful, green, and well-connected to the city via the CV-35 highway, with metro access in nearby Rocafort and Godella. Healthcare is easily accessible, and there are reputable private clinics a short drive away. Santa Bárbara also offers a strong community spirit, with tennis clubs and seasonal family activities.
Just a few minutes away is Campolivar, a more diverse and slightly more accessible residential area within Godella. While less exclusive than Santa Bárbara, Campolivar remains highly attractive for families seeking good value, green spaces, and a village-like atmosphere. It’s within walking distance to several local Spanish schools and international nurseries, and just minutes from Cambridge House and Domino Servite. Families enjoy its walkability, proximity to public transport (metro lines in Godella and Rocafort), and mix of housing—from older chalets to newer builds with private gardens.
Further northwest lies La Cañada, technically part of Paterna but very much its own world. What makes La Cañada so appealing is its vibrant, lived-in feel. It’s not a gated community—it’s a town, complete with its own small shops, cafés, local markets, and metro stops. Here, you’ll find British College La Cañada and El Plantío International School nearby, plus quick access to the Lycée Français campus via the CV-35. The residential streets are quiet and tree-lined, filled with standalone homes and mid-sized villas. For families who want the flexibility of urban and suburban life, La Cañada offers a smart compromise.
Adjacent to La Cañada is El Plantío, a pine-scented residential zone filled with villas and gardens, ideal for families who prioritize green space and tranquility. It shares the same school options and road connections, but offers more privacy and less foot traffic. The area is ideal for those who work remotely or commute by car, as public transport access is more limited.
To the north of Valencia, the urbanizaciones of Puçol—Los Monasterios and Alfinach—stand out for their natural setting and prestige. These gated communities offer large plots, stunning views, and full-service amenities. Most importantly for international families, they are close to the American School of Valencia, which runs school buses to many surrounding areas, including central Valencia. Families living here enjoy clubhouses, sports facilities, and a slower rhythm of life, all while being just 30 minutes from the city and airport. The area also provides quick access to hiking trails, the beach, and high-quality private healthcare.
South of Rocafort and Godella, the area of Valterna in Paterna is a newer residential development gaining popularity among families thanks to its proximity to the Lycée Français and more affordable housing. Though more urban than suburban in feel, it offers modern apartments, semi-detached homes, parks, gyms, and local shops, with excellent road and public transport connections to Valencia.
In Bétera, you’ll find Mas Camarena and Torre en Conill—both modern residential communities designed with families in mind. Mas Camarena is particularly known for its bilingual private school of the same name, as well as on-site amenities including a health clinic, restaurants, shops, and a gym. It’s a full-service environment that allows parents to work and children to study, play, and socialize within walking distance. Torre en Conill, just next door, is more residential and built around a golf course. Families looking for space, security, and calm, with school options nearby and access to private clubs, often gravitate here.
Then there’s L’Eliana, a municipality in its own right and one of the most popular choices for families relocating to Valencia. Its appeal lies in the mix: well-established Spanish neighborhoods, international residents, accessible public transport (several metro lines), and a strong local infrastructure. From Montessori preschools to Iale International School, the educational offer is broad. And the atmosphere? Safe, lively, and welcoming. Families benefit from excellent sports facilities, green parks, community events, and proximity to the city—less than 30 minutes by car or train.
A bit further out, Náquera is attracting more families who want space, forest, and affordability. Nestled in the Sierra Calderona natural park, it’s a more rural alternative, where families can buy larger properties with land at lower prices. Though school commutes are longer—25 to 35 minutes to most international schools—it’s a strong option for those who work remotely or value nature over convenience.
Ultimately, choosing the right suburb comes down to your family’s priorities. Do you want to walk to school 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’ve helped dozens of families explore these areas—not just on paper, but on the ground. We’ve walked the streets, visited the schools, and gotten to know the pulse of each community. If you’re curious which suburb best matches your family’s rhythm, we’re happy to talk. And if you’re still exploring, we recommend reading our deep dives on Valencia’s suburban schools and urbanizaciones, the best international schools in the city, and top school-linked areas on the Costa Blanca.
If you’re thinking about moving to Valencia with your children, don’t just settle for a house. Let’s find the place that helps your whole family feel at home.
Book a one-to-one consultation and let’s explore Valencia’s suburbs together.
