Why Spain Remains an ‘Expat Magnet’ for British Nationals

Spain has long been a popular destination for British expats, and it’s easy to see why. With its warm weather, stunning landscapes, and slower pace of life, the country has become a haven for those seeking a new start. But what makes Spain so appealing, and which cities are the most popular among British expats?

Warm weather and beautiful landscapes make Spain a popular destination

According to movehub.com, over 300,000 UK citizens currently call Spain home, with many choosing to settle in the southern and eastern coastal regions. Barcelona, in particular, has proven to be a magnet for British expats, with 10.9% of the expat community residing in the city. This is likely due to its cosmopolitan vibe, beautiful beaches, and outstanding cuisine.

As Compare My Move notes, “Barcelona tops Madrid by 0.5% to be the most popular city for British movers to Spain, despite Madrid being the larger city and country’s capital.”

Barcelona’s cosmopolitan vibe makes it a popular destination for British expats

Other popular cities for British expats include Madrid, which is home to 10.4% of UK nationals, and sun-kissed Alicante, which has attracted 6.9% of the total. Malaga is another popular destination, with 6.8% of British expats calling it home.

But what really sets Spain apart is its attractive mortgage rates. Compared to the UK, mortgage rates in Spain are around two percent lower, making it an extremely appealing option for British movers. As Dave Sayce, founder and managing director of Compare My Move, notes, “We expect Spain to stay a popular destination for British movers throughout 2024, possibly even growing in popularity due to the stagnant mortgage rates in the UK and the mortgage interest rates in Spain being around two percent lower than the UK.”

Mortgage rates in Spain are significantly lower than in the UK

In conclusion, Spain’s warm weather, beautiful landscapes, and slower pace of life make it an attractive destination for British expats. Combine this with its attractive mortgage rates, and it’s no wonder that Spain remains an ’expat magnet’ for those seeking a new start abroad.

“Spain is a paradise for British movers when it comes to mortgage rates.” - Dave Sayce, founder and managing director of Compare My Move