If your vision of life in Spain includes terracotta-tiled terraces, the soft strum of live guitar music echoing off centuries-old walls, and a warm, welcoming tapas culture where bartenders greet you by name, then Granada might just be your perfect match.
Though technically a city, Granada exudes the charm and intimacy of a small town. Its close-knit community feel makes it easy to connect with both locals and fellow expats, helping you settle in and feel at home in no time.
Granada is a place of stunning contrasts, its unique landscape blends snow-capped mountains with sun-soaked coastlines. Spend winters skiing the slopes of the Sierra Nevada, then swap your boots for sandals to enjoy summer days on the beaches of Salobreña. Everywhere you go, you’ll be met with mesmerising views and an architectural backdrop that captures centuries of history and culture. Wander through the winding streets of the Moorish Albayzín and you’ll find yourself immersed in a sensory experience where the scent of spices floats through the air, mosaic tiles glint in the sunshine, and the hum of conversation spills from cafés. Life here is eclectic, colourful, and truly like nowhere else in Spain.
Court of the Lions in Nasrid Palaces of Alhambra palace complex
Social life in Granada often begins, and ends, with tapas. It’s one of the few cities in Spain where every drink still comes with a complimentary small plate, making bar-hopping not just affordable, but an essential part of the lifestyle. For something a little different, head to Bar Poë, where owners Matthew and Ana Poë serve up international tapas inspired by flavours from Portugal to Thailand. Think Portuguese piri piri, Brazilian bean stew, Thai coconut chicken, all in the heart of Andalucía.
Essential Information
Population
Granada, located in the Andalusian region of southern Spain, has a population of approximately 233,000 residents, making it the 20th-largest urban area in the country. The city is renowned for its vibrant, youthful energy, fuelled in large part by the University of Granada, which welcomes around 56,000 students annually, including more than 10,000 international students. According to the Instituto Nacional de Estadística (INE), around 3.3% of Granada’s population consists of international residents without Spanish citizenship. The largest proportion of these come from South America, representing roughly 31% of the international population—or about 1% of the city's total population. Within the city proper, the estimated population is 227,383, while the broader municipal area reaches 231,775. The gender distribution is fairly balanced, with approximately 49.2% male and 50.8% female residents.
Healthcare
Granada is well-equipped when it comes to healthcare, offering a good mix of public and private options. The city’s main public hospitals form part of the Spanish National Health System (SNS), which consistently ranks among Europe’s best according to the WHO. It is free at the point of use for all citizens and legal residents. For non-emergency care, there are local centros de salud dotted across the city. These are efficient, no-frills clinics where you’ll usually find at least one English-speaking doctor, especially near the university.
For more complex conditions, such as cancer or heart disease, Hospital Universitario Virgen de las Nieves and Hospital Universitario Clínico San Cecilio are the go-to options. Together, they make up the Granada University Hospital system, one of the most advanced in southern Spain and known for its specialist units and research facilities.
Private healthcare is also widely available. Modern clinics like Vithas and HLA Inmaculada offer shorter wait times and more comfort than the public system. Many long-term expats choose to combine public care with private insurance. This typically costs around €100 to €150 per month for comprehensive coverage.
Granada’s dry mountain air is sometimes said to benefit those with respiratory conditions. Whether that is medically proven or just clever marketing from local estate agents is up for debate. Still, the air quality is genuinely excellent, and the proximity to nature certainly doesn’t hurt.
The Generalife courtyard, with its famous fountain and garden
Working
Let’s be realistic. If you’re moving to Granada, it’s probably not for a high-powered corporate career. The local economy has deep roots in agriculture and livestock. The fertile plains and surrounding hillsides still produce some of Spain’s finest food, and traditional sheep herding continues during the summer months. The results of this rural heritage are best experienced through Granada’s famously generous tapas, with locally grown olives, asparagus, almonds and seasonal vegetables all making regular appearances on the menu.
Historically, Granada prospered through its agricultural exports and artisanal industries. Today, tourism plays a major role in the local economy, driven by the appeal of the Alhambra, the nearby Sierra Nevada mountains, and the city’s laid-back charm. Visitor numbers peak during spring and summer, particularly during festival season when the streets come alive with music, parades and flamenco.
The University of Granada, with over 56,000 students including more than 10,000 from abroad, has helped shape the city into a lively and youthful place. It has also supported the growth of a small but active remote working scene. Co-working spaces can be found in neighbourhoods like Realejo and the city centre, often alongside cafes with strong coffee and even stronger Wi-Fi. Several bars and restaurants also offer reliable internet, providing remote workers with plenty of informal spots to set up for the day. Popular coworking spaces include, ANDA, Muon, and Coforum.
Internet access in the city is generally excellent, with fibre-optic connections available in most urban areas. If you are considering a move to a rural property in the surrounding hills or countryside, it is worth checking the availability and reliability of the connection before making any decisions.
For local employment, opportunities exist in education, tourism, hospitality, and healthcare. There is growing demand for native English speakers, particularly in private language academies and international schools. Some expats have successfully launched businesses aimed at the tourist market, such as guided walking tours, food experiences, or property management services. Although the unemployment rate in the wider province remains high compared to other parts of Spain, Granada continues to attract people looking for a balanced lifestyle, especially those with remote jobs or entrepreneurial ideas.
Granada is nestled within beautiful verdant nature making escapes from the city easy
Schools and Education
Granada boasts a variety of educational institutions, including several international schools catering to expatriate families. Notable options include:
Colegio Internacional de Granada: A meeting place for children, teachers, and parents, emphasizing cooperation and collaboration between families and the school.
Beautiful colourful tiled patterns with stars and marble carvings in the walls of the Palacios Nazaries
Getting Around
Granada's public transportation system is efficient and user-friendly. The city operates 26 daytime and two night bus lines, with both large red buses and smaller minibuses navigating the city's historic and narrow streets, including routes to the Alhambra, Albayzín, and Sacromonte. Buses run daily from 6 am to 11 pm, with frequencies ranging from four to ten minutes, and many now offer free Wi-Fi. For longer journeys across the city and its suburbs, the Granada Metro provides a clean and reliable light rail service, connecting key areas like Albolote, Maracena, and Armilla. Taxis and ride-sharing services such as Uber are widely available and offer a convenient option for late-night travel or reaching more remote areas. Granada is also well connected to air travel. The Federico García Lorca Airport is just 20 kilometres from the city centre, with regular ALSA bus services providing affordable transfers. For international travel, residents can also easily access Málaga Airport, about 90 minutes away by car or bus, offering a wider range of European and long-haul flights.
Granada Property Market Statistics
Granada's real estate market in 2025 continues to attract attention, offering a blend of historical charm, natural beauty, and relative affordability. The city and its surrounding areas present a diverse range of properties, from traditional townhouses in the historic Realejo district to rural cortijos with a private swimming pool south of the city. This variety caters to a broad spectrum of buyers, including those seeking cultural richness and those desiring tranquil village life.
As of April 2025, the average property price in Granada city stands at approximately €2,381 per square meter, reflecting a 13.98% increase from the previous year. Prices vary across neighbourhoods, with the Centro area reaching up to €2,760 per square meter, while the Norte district offers more affordable options at around €1,240 per square meter.
International buyers, particularly from the UK, France, and Scandinavia, continue to influence the market, accounting for a significant portion of property transactions. Their interest is drawn by Granada's cultural heritage, pleasant climate, and the lifestyle opportunities the region offers.
The market features a range of properties, such as renovated apartments in the city center, villas with private pools in suburban areas, and traditional farmhouses in rural settings. These options provide potential buyers with choices that suit various preferences and budgets.
Overall, Granada's property market in 2025 presents a compelling mix of affordability, diversity, and cultural richness, making it an attractive destination for both domestic and international buyers.
Things to Do in Granada
Granada is a city where history, culture, and natural beauty converge, offering a wealth of experiences for residents and visitors alike.
Explore the Alhambra and Generalife No visit to Granada is complete without exploring the Alhambra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a masterpiece of Moorish architecture. Wander through the Nasrid Palaces, marvel at the intricate stucco work, and stroll the lush Generalife gardens, once the summer retreat of Muslim royalty. Booking tickets in advance is essential, as this iconic site is one of Spain's most visited attractions.
Wander the Albaicín and Sacromonte Lose yourself in the labyrinthine streets of the Albaicín, Granada's historic Moorish quarter. Whitewashed houses, hidden plazas, and panoramic viewpoints like Mirador de San Nicolás offer stunning vistas of the Alhambra against the Sierra Nevada backdrop. Adjacent to the Albaicín, the Sacromonte neighbourhood is famed for its cave dwellings and vibrant flamenco culture. Experience an authentic flamenco performance in one of the intimate cave venues, where the passion of the dance is palpable.
Indulge in Granada's Tapas Culture Granada is renowned for its generous tapas culture, where ordering a drink often comes with a complimentary small plate. Hop from bar to bar in areas like Calle Navas or Plaza Nueva, sampling local specialties such as jamón ibérico, tortilla española, and berenjenas con miel (fried eggplant with honey). This tradition fosters a lively and communal dining atmosphere that's integral to the city's social fabric.
Relax in Traditional Hammams Embrace the city's Moorish heritage by visiting a traditional hammam, such as Hammam Al Ándalus. These Arab-style bathhouses offer a tranquil retreat with warm pools, steam rooms, and soothing massages, providing a sensory journey back in time.
Enjoy Outdoor Adventures Granada's proximity to the Sierra Nevada mountains makes it an ideal base for outdoor enthusiasts. In winter, the Sierra Nevada Ski Station offers slopes for all levels, while warmer months invite hiking and mountain biking amidst breathtaking scenery. For a more leisurely experience, the nearby Alpujarras region boasts picturesque villages and scenic trails.
Courtyard of the Sultana (Patio de la Sultana) at Generalife Gardens of Alhambra
Immerse Yourself in Local Culture The city's rich cultural scene includes numerous festivals, such as the Semana Santa (Holy Week) processions and the vibrant Feria del Corpus Christi. Art lovers can visit the Centro José Guerrero or the Museum of Fine Arts within the Alhambra complex. Literary enthusiasts might explore the Huerta de San Vicente, the former summer home of poet Federico García Lorca, now a museum dedicated to his life and work.
Join Expat Communities For newcomers, Granada offers a welcoming expat community. Organizations like InterNations host regular events, providing opportunities to meet fellow expatriates and locals. Additionally, social groups and language exchanges are common, facilitating integration and cultural exchange. Whether you're drawn to its historical landmarks, culinary delights, or vibrant community life, Granada offers a rich tapestry of experiences that cater to diverse interests and lifestyles.
Expat Clubs and Societies
Granada has a vibrant expat community, offering various clubs and societies to help newcomers integrate and socialize:
InterNations Granada: Connect with fellow expats through events and activities designed to help you build a network in your new home.
Wednesdays in Granada: A social group for people living in Granada, as well as visitors looking for tips to make their stay more enjoyable.
Expats in Granada:An online community where members share advice, recommendations, and organize meetups.
