Thinking about moving to Benidorm? Below we highlight some of the pros and cons of living in Benidorm.
Benidorm, a city on the eastern coast of Spain, is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and towering skyscrapers. It’s a popular destination for tourists, but what is it like to actually live there? Like any city, Benidorm has its pros and cons. Whether you’re considering a move or just curious about life in this Spanish city, here’s a comprehensive look at the advantages and disadvantages of living in Benidorm.
Pros of Living in Benidorm
One of the biggest advantages of living in Benidorm is undoubtedly its climate. With over 300 days of sunshine a year and average temperatures that rarely dip below 20 degrees Celsius, it’s a paradise for sun-seekers. This makes outdoor activities like hiking in the nearby Sierra Helada Natural Park or simply lounging on the city’s beautiful beaches a year-round possibility.
Speaking of beaches, Benidorm boasts some of the best in Spain. The city’s two main beaches, Levante and Poniente, are both Blue Flag certified, meaning they meet high standards for cleanliness, safety, and environmental management. These aren’t your average city beaches either. They’re wide, sandy, and stretch for miles, offering plenty of space to relax and enjoy the Mediterranean Sea.
Another pro of living in Benidorm is the cost of living. Compared to other popular Spanish cities like Barcelona or Madrid, Benidorm is significantly cheaper. Rent, groceries, dining out, and other everyday expenses are all more affordable here. For example, a meal at a mid-range restaurant in Benidorm might cost around €10, while in Barcelona, you could expect to pay €15 or more.
Benidorm is also a city with a vibrant social scene. There’s always something happening, from live music at the many bars and clubs to festivals like the Benidorm Summer Festival and the Benidorm International Film Festival. Plus, with a large expat community, it’s easy to meet people and make friends from all over the world.
Finally, Benidorm offers a range of volunteering opportunities for those looking to give back to the community. Organizations like Cruz Roja (Red Cross) and Cáritas Diocesana de Orihuela-Alicante are always looking for volunteers to help with their various initiatives, from providing assistance to the elderly to helping with food distribution for those in need.
Cons of Living in Benidorm, Spain
While there are many advantages to living in Benidorm, there are also some downsides to consider. One of the biggest is the city’s popularity as a tourist destination. During the peak summer months, the population of Benidorm can swell from around 70,000 to over 300,000. This can lead to crowded beaches, long waits at restaurants, and increased noise levels, particularly in the city center.
The influx of tourists also has an impact on the city’s character. Many of the shops and restaurants in the city center cater primarily to tourists, offering a range of souvenirs and international cuisine rather than traditional Spanish products and food. This can make it harder to experience authentic Spanish culture in Benidorm, particularly during the peak tourist season.
Another downside of living in Benidorm is the lack of green spaces. While the city is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including the Sierra Helada Natural Park, within the city itself, parks and green spaces are few and far between. This can make the city feel somewhat concrete-heavy, particularly in the more built-up areas.
While the cost of living in Benidorm is generally lower than in other Spanish cities, it’s worth noting that wages also tend to be lower. Many jobs in Benidorm are in the service industry, catering to the city’s tourist trade, and these often don’t pay as well as jobs in other sectors. This can make it harder to save money or afford larger expenses, even with the lower cost of living.
Finally, while Benidorm’s expat community can be a pro for those looking to meet people from around the world, it can also be a con for those hoping to immerse themselves in Spanish language and culture. With so many English-speaking residents and tourists, it can be easy to fall into the trap of speaking English most of the time, rather than practicing and improving your Spanish.
