Spain has once again been voted the number one country in the world for quality of life, according to the 2025 Expat Insider survey by InterNations — one of the largest global surveys of expatriates.
For anyone considering relocating to Spain, the results confirm what many residents already know: the country offers a lifestyle that’s hard to match anywhere else.
What Is the Expat Insider Survey?
The Expat Insider survey gathers feedback from thousands of expatriates living around the world. Participants rate their host countries based on several factors including:
- Quality of life
- Healthcare
- Leisure and culture
- Ease of settling in
- Personal finances
- Career opportunities
In the 2025 report covering 46 destinations, Spain ranked 9th overall, but #1 globally for quality of life for the fourth consecutive year.
Why Spain Ranked #1 for Quality of Life
Expats consistently highlight several reasons why life in Spain stands out.
Sunshine, Climate, and Outdoor Living
Spain ranks first worldwide for weather and climate, with many expats saying the sunny conditions and outdoor lifestyle are major reasons they moved there.
This Mediterranean climate encourages a lifestyle centred around:
- Outdoor dining
- Beaches and nature
- Walking and cycling
- Year-round sports and recreation
Spain also ranks #1 for leisure options, including culture, dining, and nightlife.
Excellent Healthcare
Healthcare is another key factor behind Spain’s top ranking.
According to expats surveyed:
- 83% say healthcare is affordable
- 82% say it is easy to access
- 81% rate the quality as high
Spain’s public and private healthcare systems consistently rank among the best in Europe.
Lifestyle and Work–Life Balance
Many expats say Spain offers something increasingly rare in modern life: balance.
The survey shows that:
- 84% of expats in Spain are happy with their life, compared with 67% globally.
- Many move specifically to improve their quality of life rather than their career.
The Spanish culture of prioritising family, social life, and well being contributes significantly to overall happiness.
Easy to Enjoy Everyday Life
Expats also highlight practical advantages:
- Good public transportation
- Walkable cities and towns
- Safe environments for families
- Plenty of travel opportunities within Spain and Europe
About 87% of expats say it’s easy to get around on foot or by bike, which further enhances daily life.
Not Perfect: Spain’s Challenges
While Spain excels in lifestyle, the survey also highlights some drawbacks.
Expats report lower satisfaction with:
- Job opportunities
- Salaries
- Bureaucracy and administrative processes
For many international residents, however, the lifestyle benefits outweigh these challenges.
Why So Many People Are Moving to Spain
The results help explain why Spain remains one of the most popular relocation destinations in the world.
In fact, 20% of expats say they moved to Spain specifically for a better quality of life, nearly three times the global average.
From the beaches of the Costa del Sol to historic Andalusian towns and vibrant cities, Spain continues to attract people looking for sunshine, culture, and a more balanced way of living.
✅ Conclusion
For the fourth year in a row, expats have confirmed what locals have long believed: Spain offers one of the best lifestyles in the world.
With its climate, healthcare, culture, and relaxed pace of life, it’s easy to see why so many people are choosing to call Spain home.
