Thinking about moving to Santander? Below we highlight some of the pros and cons of living in Santander.
Spain, a country known for its rich culture, vibrant festivals, and delicious cuisine, is home to many beautiful cities. One such city is Santander, located on the northern coast of the country. Santander is a city that offers a unique blend of urban life and natural beauty, with its stunning beaches, lush green landscapes, and bustling city center. But like any city, living in Santander comes with its own set of pros and cons. Let’s delve into what it’s like to live in this Spanish city.
Pros of Living in Santander
One of the biggest advantages of living in Santander is its breathtaking natural beauty. The city is nestled between the Cantabrian Sea and the mountains, providing residents with a variety of outdoor activities. You can spend your weekends hiking in the nearby Picos de Europa National Park or surfing at the Sardinero Beach. The city’s location also means that it enjoys a mild climate, with warm summers and cool winters, making it a comfortable place to live year-round.
Another pro of living in Santander is its rich cultural heritage. The city is home to several historical landmarks, such as the Magdalena Palace and the Santander Cathedral, which offer a glimpse into the city’s past. The city also hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, like the Semana Grande, a week-long celebration filled with music, dance, and food, allowing residents to immerse themselves in the local culture.
Santander is also known for its high quality of life. The city boasts excellent healthcare facilities, with the Marqués de Valdecilla University Hospital being one of the most renowned in the country. The city also has a well-developed public transportation system, making it easy to navigate. Additionally, Santander is a relatively safe city, with low crime rates compared to other Spanish cities.
Education is another area where Santander shines. The city is home to the University of Cantabria, one of the top universities in Spain, offering a wide range of courses. There are also several international schools, like the British School of Santander, making it an ideal place for expat families.
Lastly, the cost of living in Santander is relatively low compared to other Spanish cities like Madrid or Barcelona. This means that you can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank. For instance, you can dine at local restaurants, like El Serbal, known for its innovative Cantabrian cuisine, or shop at the Mercado de la Esperanza, a traditional market where you can buy fresh local produce, without spending a fortune.
Cons of Living in Santander, Spain
Despite its many advantages, living in Santander also has its downsides. One of the main cons is the city’s weather. While the city enjoys a mild climate, it is also known for its rainy weather, especially during the winter months. This can make outdoor activities less enjoyable and can lead to a somewhat gloomy atmosphere.
Another downside of living in Santander is the language barrier. While English is taught in schools, many locals, especially the older generation, do not speak English. This can make everyday tasks, like shopping or visiting the doctor, challenging for expats who do not speak Spanish. However, this can also be seen as an opportunity to learn a new language and immerse yourself in the local culture.
While Santander offers a high quality of life, it can also be a bit quiet compared to other Spanish cities. The city’s nightlife is not as vibrant as in Madrid or Barcelona, and there are fewer cultural events. This can be a downside for those who enjoy a bustling city life. However, for those who prefer a slower pace of life, this can be a plus.
Another con is the job market in Santander. While the city has a diverse economy, with sectors like tourism, banking, and education providing employment opportunities, the job market can be competitive, especially for expats. It can be challenging to find a job in Santander without a good command of Spanish or without having a specific skill set.
Lastly, while the cost of living in Santander is lower than in other Spanish cities, it is still higher than in many other countries. This means that while you can live comfortably, you may not be able to save as much as you would in other countries. However, this is offset by the high quality of life that the city offers.
