Retire in Alicante: The Perfect Spanish Escape for British Expats and American Retirees
01.07.2025Dreaming of retiring somewhere warm, welcoming, and wonderfully affordable? Alicante, Spain might be exactly what you’re looking for. Located on the stunning Costa Blanca, Alicante offers sunshine, sea views, a laid-back lifestyle, and an established community of British and American retirees who already call it home.
Whether you’re coming from the UK or the USA, retiring in Alicante means you can enjoy the best of Spain without sacrificing comfort, convenience, or quality of life.
Why Alicante is a Top Choice for Retirement
1. Year-Round Sunshine and Sea Breezes: Alicante enjoys over 300 sunny days per year, with mild winters and warm, dry summers. That means plenty of time outdoors—walking the promenade, enjoying beachfront cafés, or exploring local markets. No more grey skies and cold weather to worry about.
2. Lower Cost of Living: Compared to life in the UK or US, the cost of living in Alicante is significantly more affordable. You can rent a modern apartment near the beach for a fraction of what you'd pay back home, and enjoy fresh food, excellent wine, and quality healthcare without breaking the bank.
- One-bedroom apartment: from €500–€700/month
- Local wine: from €3 a bottle
- Coffee at a café: around €1.50
- Monthly public transport pass: around €40
Retiring in Alicante allows your pension or retirement savings to go further.
3. Quality Healthcare: Spain’s healthcare system ranks among the best in Europe. British retirees can access private insurance or register for public healthcare through the S1 form (if eligible). Americans will usually opt for private insurance, which is much more affordable than in the US—plans start around €100/month for excellent coverage.
Many doctors and clinics in Alicante speak English, especially in areas with expat communities.
4. Friendly Expat Community: Alicante has a strong and supportive community of British expats and American retirees. From English-speaking meetups and social clubs to international churches and community events, it’s easy to make friends and feel at home. You’ll never be far from someone who understands your background—and speaks your language.
5. Fantastic Food, Wine, and Culture: Love paella? Fresh seafood? Tapas with a glass of sangria by the sea? Alicante delivers. And it’s not just about food—explore centuries-old castles, attend vibrant local festivals like Las Hogueras de San Juan, or relax with a stroll through palm-lined parks and charming old towns.
6. Easy Travel Back Home: Alicante-Elche Airport (ALC) offers direct flights to the UK (London, Manchester, Birmingham, and more) and easy connections to the US via Madrid or Barcelona. Visiting family—or having them visit you—is simple and affordable. Many flights are under 3 hours from the UK and reasonably priced year-round.
Best Places to Retire in Alicante
- Alicante City: Walkable, vibrant, and full of culture—great for those who like urban life with sea views.
- San Juan Playa: Spacious beachside living with a relaxed vibe and excellent public transport.
- El Campello: Coastal town charm with a strong expat presence.
- Villajoyosa and Altea: Picture-perfect coastal villages, ideal for quieter retirement living.
Things to Know Before You Move
1. Residency & Visas
- Brits: Post-Brexit, you’ll need a non-lucrative visa or retirement visa to stay long-term. It’s a straightforward process if you can prove sufficient income or savings.
- Americans: Similar rules apply—many retirees apply for Spain’s non-lucrative visa, which allows you to live (but not work) in Spain.
2. Learn Some Spanish
- While many locals speak English, learning a bit of Spanish goes a long way in daily life and helps you feel more integrated. Locals appreciate the effort!
3. Do a Test Stay
- Before making the big move, consider spending a few months in Alicante during different seasons. It’s a great way to explore neighborhoods, meet locals, and decide if it’s the right fit.
Final Thoughts
Retiring in Alicante offers the perfect mix of sun, sea, culture, and community. Whether you’re a British expat looking for a more relaxed pace of life, or an American retiree eager to escape the high cost of living back home, Alicante has something special to offer.
From sipping coffee by the Mediterranean to exploring historic towns and enjoying fresh local food, this is retirement the way it should be—stress-free, joyful, and sun-soaked.
Ready to start your retirement adventure? Alicante is waiting.
