12 Tips for Living in Granada, Spain

By Jiabwass

Expat life in Granada, Spain sounds pretty great. Granada's wonderful climate, low cost of living, location (45 minutes from skiing, 1 hour from the beach), good hospitals and very low crime rate make it a destination to add to your living if you're thinking about moving to Spain.

Expat Life in Granada

There are several reasons - climate, cost of living (it is very cheap to live in Granada), location (access to ski resort in 45 min by bus, and to the beach in an hour), plenty of historical sites to see, plenty of cultural things to do (theater, music, dance, churches, cultural events). Because it's also a university town and has two of UNESCO world Heritage sites.

Cost of Living in Granada, Spain

Very cheap. Single person can live for $20k or married for $30k.

Local Clubs and Organizations

There's a Inter-nation that has a monthly social event. There are special interest groups to join among expats. There is also a weekly meet-up group for expats. Then there are language exchange meet up every day. Plenty to get involved.

International Schools in Granada

Granada university is well-known for exchange programs and language school so there are a lot of international students.

Shopping in Granada

There are many big stores like El Corte Inglés, Mercadona and Carrefour and most expats shop. There are many smaller neighborhood stores in every corner. It's very easy to find grocery stores here.

Public Transportation

They are very good, reliable and safe. There's a main bus (ALSA) station north of town that go to other cities. It's very easy to go around town by bus or train. There’s also an airport in addition to the train and bus which makes it easy to travel.

Climate

In the summer- hot and dry between 80-100F winter- dry and cold between mid 30F to mid 40F but usually above freezing with Spring and Fall have the best weather between 50F- 80F.

Restaurants and Nightlife

Lots of restaurants and bars. Very vibrant. People stay out until 1-2 AM if weather is good and just hang out with friends.

What are local hospitals and emergency services like?

I'm 0.5 kilometers from the hospital. It's a very good private hospital. The quality is very good. There are both public and private hospitals. I used the emergency service once and I'm very impressed at the speed and quality of care I received. It's much better than in the US.

Recreational Activities in Granada

There are tennis clubs, plenty of good hiking trails, beautiful parks. The city have several sport complexes that have swimming pools, tennis courts, paddle balls, basketball and soccer.

Residency and Visa Requirements

To live here, one can get a non-lucrative visa and is considered a temporary resident. After 5 years, we can become permanent resident. These are the main requirements to get non- lucrative visa - background check, health certificate, proof of available funds, health insurance.

Crime in Granada, Spain

Granada has very little violent crime. In center of town, there may be pickpocket. I've never have any problem with crime.