Pros and Cons of Living in Valencia for UK Movers

Moving to Europe is a fantastic opportunity for many people, whether it is for career reasons, a change of scenery, or simply the chance to experience a different way of life. Living outside the UK can bring new perspectives, a better work-life balance, and a lifestyle that feels more rewarding day to day.

The challenge, however, is knowing exactly where to settle in such a large and varied continent. With so many countries to choose from, along with countless cities and towns within each one, it is easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure which direction to take. If you are still weighing up your options,our guide to the best cities in Spain explores how Valencia compares with other popular destinations across the country.

At Pinnacle Removals & Storage, we regularly support individuals and families planning moves across Europe and further afield. To help you focus on one option in more detail, we have put together this guide to the pros and cons of living in Valencia, giving you a clearer picture of what everyday life is really like and whether this Spanish city could be the right fit for your move.

Pro- Lower Cost of Living Than Many Major European Cities

One of the biggest concerns when relocating to a city is the cost of living, particularly for people moving from the UK, where everyday expenses can already feel high. This is especially true when comparing life in London with other major European cities.

By comparison, living in Valencia is generally far more affordable. While prices have risen in recent years, much like they have across Europe, everyday costs in Valencia remain noticeably lower than in London, especially when it comes to rent, dining out, and transport.

According to data from Numbeo, here is how Valencia compares to London on typical monthly living costs:

Expense Type	Valencia	London
Cost of living (excluding rent)	Around 30–35% lower	Baseline
Rent (average across the city)	Around 55–60% lower	Significantly higher
Meal at a mid-range restaurant	Around 40–45% cheaper	Higher
Monthly public transport pass	Around 45–50% cheaper	Higher

For a broader comparison beyond Valencia, our guide on the cost of living in Spain compared to the UK breaks down everyday expenses in more detail.

Cons- Limited Job Opportunities for English Speakers

This particular con is far less of an issue if you are planning to retire in Valencia or move with an independent income. However, for people relocating to work locally, it is worth thinking about carefully.

The job market in Valencia can be competitive, and many roles are relatively low-paid when compared to UK salaries. In most cases, employers will expect a good level of Spanish, particularly outside of tourism, hospitality, and international companies. English-only roles do exist, but they tend to be limited and often attract a high number of applicants.

That said, many British expats living in Valencia work remotely for UK or international employers, which removes this challenge altogether. For others, learning Spanish over time can open up many more opportunities and support long-term integration into everyday life. As with many aspects of moving abroad, how much this affects you depends largely on your personal circumstances and plans.

Pro- A Relaxed Lifestyle With Rich Culture and History

Spain is well known for its slower pace of life, and this is something that really stands out when living in Valencia. The city has a naturally relaxed rhythm, with long lunches, busy terraces in the evenings, and a strong focus on enjoying time with friends and family. For many people moving from the UK, this shift in lifestyle feels refreshing rather than disruptive.

Valencia’s cultural scene is woven into everyday life. Traditional neighbourhoods like El Carmen sit alongside striking modern landmarks such as the City of Arts and Sciences, creating a city that balances history with forward-thinking design. Food also plays a central role, with everything from local markets and casual tapas bars to restaurants serving authentic paella, which originates from this region.

With festivals, museums, beaches, and outdoor spaces all easily accessible, there is a strong sense that life in Valencia is meant to be enjoyed rather than rushed. It is this balance of culture, leisure, and liveability that makes the city particularly appealing to British expats looking for more than just sunshine.

Pro- Warm, Sunny Climate All Year Round

One of the most common reasons people choose to leave the UK is in search of more reliable weather, and this is where Valencia really stands out. The city enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with long sunny periods and far fewer grey, wet days than most parts of Britain.

Valencia typically sees around 300 days of sunshine each year, with average summer temperatures sitting in the high 20s and low 30s. Winters are mild by UK standards, often ranging between 10 and 18 degrees, which means outdoor living remains part of everyday life even in the cooler months. Cafés, parks, and coastal walks are used year-round rather than being reserved for summer.

For those who do not mind the peak summer heat, the climate can feel like a major lifestyle upgrade. Even during the hottest months, proximity to the coast and sea breezes can make temperatures more manageable, especially compared to inland Spanish cities. For many British expats, the ability to plan life without constantly checking the weather forecast is one of Valencia’s biggest advantages.

Pro: A Strong Sense of Community for Expats and Newcomers

Some people who are moving to a new city in a new country worry that it could leave them feeling alone or isolated. Because of this, many people look for destinations that already have an established expat community where it is easier to meet people and settle in.

Valencia is well known for having a thriving expat community, including many British residents. This means that making friends and building a social life often feels more natural, particularly in the early months after moving. There are social groups, meet-ups, and shared interests that help newcomers feel at home more quickly.

Away from the expat community and into everyday life, there is also a good chance that the person you are speaking to will have at least some level of English, especially in shops, cafés, and restaurants. While learning Spanish will always be helpful in the long run, many people find that the combination of friendly locals and a supportive expat network makes the transition to life in Valencia much easier.

Understanding local customs can also make settling in easier, and our guide to Spanish etiquette is a useful starting point for anyone new to life in Spain.

Con: A Busy and Lively City Environment

There is a good chance that if you are already considering moving to Valencia, then you will know that it is a busy city. However, if you prefer quieter surroundings, you may want to think carefully about whether this is the right place for you to live.

As a popular tourist destination, Valencia attracts visitors throughout the year, with numbers increasing during the warmer months and major events. This means that certain areas, particularly the city centre, the beaches, and well-known attractions, can feel crowded at times. Even outside of peak tourist season, you should expect a lively atmosphere and streets that are often active rather than quiet.

For many people, this energy is part of the appeal of city living, but for others, especially those looking for a slower or more rural lifestyle, it may take some adjustment.

Con: Finding a Home Can Take Time and Patience

With more expats, as well as people already living in Spain, choosing to move to Valencia, the local housing market has naturally been affected. Property prices have increased in recent years, and in popular neighbourhoods, homes can be snapped up quickly.

This can mean that finding somewhere suitable to live feels more challenging than expected, particularly if you are looking in central areas or close to the coast. Competition for rental properties is common, and viewings can move fast, which can be frustrating for newcomers.

That said, it is still very possible to find the right home. It may take a little more time and cost slightly more than initially planned, but with realistic expectations and some flexibility on location, many people do successfully secure a property that suits their long-term plans in Valencia.

Pros and Cons of Living in Valencia for UK Movers

As this guide to the pros and cons of living in Valencia shows, there is plenty to consider before making the move. From the lower cost of living, warm climate, and relaxed lifestyle, to the realities of the job market and housing competition, Valencia offers a balanced mix of opportunities and challenges. For many people moving from the UK, the positives often outweigh the drawbacks, especially when expectations are realistic and well planned.

When it comes to making your move as smooth as possible, having the right support makes all the difference. Pinnacle Removals & Storage has extensive experience helping individuals and families with removals to Spain and destinations worldwide. From careful packing to reliable international shipping, our team is here to take the stress out of your move.

With the right preparation and expert help behind you, starting a new chapter in Valencia can feel far more exciting than overwhelming, and very much like the right move for your future.