A beautiful city on Spain’s southern coast has been named one of the best places for British expats to retire to. With more than 293,000 Brits living in Spain, the country remains the most popular European destination for UK citizens looking to spend their later years abroad.
Experts say the city particularly stands out for its sunshine, affordable lifestyle and strong connections with the UK. The area has a mix of authentic Spanish culture and familiar British comforts, along with a strong expat community and excellent transport links to and from the UK. It also provides access to one of the best healthcare systems in Europe and a slower pace of life that appeals to many people over the age of 65.
The city named as a top destination for retirees is Alicante, in the Costa Blanca region.
The recommendation comes from Ed Gallois, the managing director at Funeral Guide, who explained why the area continues to attract older British citizens.
“Many British retirees choose Spain not just for the sunshine but for practical reasons too,” he said.
“The lower cost of housing and day-to-day expenses allows pensions to stretch further, while the excellent healthcare system gives peace of mind.”
He added: “The Costa Blanca region offers the perfect mix of authentic Spanish culture and familiar British amenities.
“The city of Alicante itself provides excellent transport links, including direct flights to the UK, which is crucial for maintaining family connections.”
ONS figures show that 41% of British people living in Spain are aged 65 or over, far higher than in the UK, where the figure is just 18%.
Mr Gallois said: “The high percentage of elderly British residents in Spain demonstrates its appeal as a retirement destination.”
He also advised Brits to think carefully about the practical side of moving abroad.
“Beyond the excitement of relocating to sunnier climates, practical considerations like healthcare access, local funeral customs, and estate planning become increasingly important as we age,” he said.
Gallois explained that Spanish funeral traditions can be a surprise for many people: “Spanish funerals typically occur within 48 hours of death, which can catch British families unprepared.
“Planning ahead and understanding these cultural differences is crucial.”
He also urged people to check the visa rules, which have changed since Brexit. “While the paperwork might seem daunting, thousands of Britons continue to make this move successfully each year.
“The appeal of Spanish retirement remains strong despite these additional hurdles,” he added.