Moving to Costa Blanca: Expat Tips for Settling In Easily

Moving to Costa Blanca is a dream for many people — and with its sunny climate, friendly atmosphere, and beautiful landscapes, it’s easy to see why. Whether you’re relocating for retirement, work, or a lifestyle change, the region offers everything you need for a comfortable Mediterranean life.

Here are the top tips for settling in easily.

1. Choose the Right Town for Your Lifestyle

Costa Blanca has diverse towns, each with its own vibe:

• Alicante — city life, shopping, restaurants

• Benidorm — lively, international, full of entertainment

• Altea — peaceful and artistic

• Calpe — beaches, great for families

• Jávea — beautiful and upscale

• Torrevieja — strong expat community

Take time to explore different areas before deciding where to live.

2. Understand the Cost of Living

Costa Blanca is generally more affordable than northern Europe. Expect lower costs for:

• Groceries

• Public transport

• Restaurants

• Healthcare

• Housing (depending on the town)

Beachfront areas and large villas cost more, while inland villages offer much better value.

3. Finding a Home — Rent Before You Buy

Most expats choose to rent for the first 6–12 months. This allows you to:

✔ learn the local neighbourhoods
✔ adjust to Spanish lifestyle
✔ avoid rushing into property decisions

Renting also helps you understand seasonal differences, especially in tourist towns.

4. Healthcare & Insurance

Spain has an excellent healthcare system. Expats usually choose:

• Private health insurance

• Public healthcare access (depending on residency status)

Many clinics in Costa Blanca have multilingual staff, making appointments easy for newcomers.

5. Transport: Getting Around Easily

While buses and trams connect many towns, most expats prefer a car for daily convenience.

If you don’t drive, private transfers are perfect for:

• Airport trips

• Shopping

• Medical appointments

• Visiting other towns

They offer comfort and flexibility, especially for new residents.

6. Learn Basic Spanish

While many locals speak English in tourist areas, learning basic Spanish helps with:

• Visiting government offices

• Shopping at markets

• Making local friends

• Understanding everyday life

A little effort goes a long way.

7. Join Expat Groups & Local Activities

The easiest way to make friends is by joining:

• Fitness classes

• Language groups

• Hiking clubs

• Local fiestas

• Facebook expat communities

Connecting socially helps you feel at home faster.

8. Get to Know Local Culture

Costa Blanca is rich in traditions, food, fiestas, and community spirit. Take part in:

• Moors & Christians festivals

• San Juan bonfires

• Local markets

• Beach events

These cultural experiences help you understand and enjoy life like a true local.

Why Expats Love Costa Blanca

✔ Warm weather all year
✔ Relaxed lifestyle
✔ Beautiful beaches
✔ Friendly communities
✔ Affordable living
✔ Great food

Moving to Costa Blanca can be one of the best decisions of your life — and with the right information, you can settle in comfortably and start enjoying the Mediterranean dream from day one.