Santa Pola Relocation Guide: Best Place to Live in Spain?

Santa Pola, just south of Alicante City, offers a balanced lifestyle between tranquillity and easy access to modern conveniences.

The town itself is friendly and relaxed. Families can enjoy a welcoming community with plenty of activities for children, while retirees will find solace in its slower pace and sunny climate. Many internationals have already made their mark, creating vibrant social circles, but without overshadowing the essence of this beautiful port town.

Santa Pola is not flashy, instead, the focus remains on safety, liveability, quiet streets, well-maintained public spaces, and a sense of belonging. If you are undecided about living in Santa Pola then a relaxing stroll through a market, tapas in a local bar, coffee at the marina, and sunrise from the lighthouse reserve, should help you decide. The town has a way of making you feel at peace, like you’ve always belonged.

Santa Pola enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and warm, sun-soaked summers. January, the coldest month, averages around 15°C, and daytime temperatures will often be in the 20°C range, while August often hits 30°C. The occasional sea breeze keeps things pleasant in summer, except when the rare gusty day reminds you to hold onto your hat.

The beaches and port are the cornerstone attractions. Playa Lisa and Playa Tamarit boast soft sands and shallow waters, ideal for families. For something picturesque, the Mirador del Faro offers breathtaking views, especially at sunrise. Outdoor enthusiasts find plenty to do, from hiking around the Salt Flats to kite surfing on windy days. The nearby Tabarca Island provides an adventurous day trip.

The 16th-century fortress stands as a reminder of pirate battles past, now serving as a museum and cultural hub. The Salt Flats, teeming with flamingos, showcase the region’s natural charm, blending ecological preservation with industrial heritage.

Locals welcome newcomers, although brushing up on your Spanish will help open more doors. For expats and internationals, several social groups and clubs offer connections, from language exchange meetups to cycling and walking enthusiasts exploring the coastal trails.

The siesta is sacred here, so expect a pause in economic activity during the afternoon. Local festivals bring the community together, with the Moros y Cristianos celebrations standing out for their elaborate parades and historical re-enactments. Sundays mean family gatherings, often with elaborate beachfront picnics or long lunches at the many lively chiringuitos (beach bars).

Many European languages are spoken (English, French, Dutch, German), but venturing into local markets or smaller neighbourhoods may require more effort. Immersing yourself in Spanish customs helps bridge the gap. A fun way to improve your Spanish and aid integration is to join classes and tours to learn about local wines, museums, cooking and gastronomy, or simply embrace the art of small talk.

For those wary of feeling isolated, Santa Pola provides a comfortable mix of international communities and local charm. With some effort and a willingness to adapt, it’s easy to settle into this seaside town and feel at home.

Santa Pola offers a diverse housing market that caters to all budgets, and is therefore an appealing choice for retirees, families, and investors alike.

The most affordable properties sit in neighbourhoods like Playa Lisa and Tamarit, where small apartments start at around €130,000. These areas are ideal for those would like to be near to the beach, but without a hefty price tag that you see in other coastal areas of the Costa Blanca. For those with larger budgets, beachfront villas and penthouses with sea views can reach upwards of €1.2 million, but the payoff is waking up to the sound of waves.

Long-term rentals begin at €500 to €600 for a modest studio and €900 to €1500 for a well-equipped three-bedroom apartment. Seasonal rentals dominate the market, especially during the summer months, when property owners cater mostly to vacationers. For this reason, if you are looking to move to Santa Pola, it’s best to begin your property search after summer. October to February are usually the best months to search for long term accommodation.

Investors have long eyed Santa Pola for its potential. Demand for holiday rentals keeps growing, and properties with tourist licenses fetch competitive rates during peak seasons. Retirees find the area financially manageable, with low property taxes and reasonable utility costs complementing the affordable housing.

What are the best areas for dining and socializing? Santa Pola’s culinary scene revolves around fresh seafood and Mediterranean classics. Restaurants along the marina serve standout dishes like arroz a banda and tapas, while ice cream parlours and beachfront cafés add to the charm. Popular spots include family-friendly chiringuitos near Playa Lisa and more refined dining options close to the port.

Mid-Range restaurants like Zbra offer Italian and Mediterranean dishes from €13 to €29 per person

Several supermarkets, including national chains like Mercadona, Mas y Mas, and Consum, as well as international options like Carrefour, Aldi, and Lidl provide a wide range of products to meet various needs.

A single person might spend between €150 to €200 per month on groceries, depending on dietary habits and preferences. Shopping at local markets, such as the Central Market in Santa Pola, can provide fresh produce and potentially lower costs.

The Santa Pola Street Market operates on Mondays and Saturdays, featuring a wide array of products, including fresh produce, clothing, and household items.

How accessible is the area?
Proximity to Alicante Airport is a major advantage, with just a 15-minute drive connecting Santa Pola to international travel. Local buses link the town to Alicante, Elche, Torrevieja, and surrounding areas, offering convenient and affordable transport options. Bus fares average €1.50 for local routes, while regional connections to Alicante cost around €4.

How easy is it to get around without a car?
Santa Pola’s flat layout and compact size make walking and cycling practical. For those relying on public transport, the town’s bus routes connect key areas, and taxis are readily available. However, having a car allows you to explore the many other attractions of the Costa Blanca.

What is the cost of living like in Santa Pola?
The cost of living here is appealingly low compared to larger cities. Monthly expenses for a couple can average €1,700, including:

• Rent: Starting at €600 for a studio or €800 for a two-bedroom apartment near the beach.
• Utilities: Around €80–€100 monthly for water, electricity, and gas.
• Groceries: €250–€300 per month for fresh, local produce and essentials.
• Dining Out: A meal at a mid-range restaurant costs €15–€20 per person.
• Transportation: Public bus fares average €1.50 locally and €4 regionally.

Santa Pola strikes a balance between small-town accessibility and modern convenience. It offers many benefits for those seeking a privileged Mediterranean lifestyle that is easier on the budget.

Does Santa Pola offer good work and business opportunities?
Santa Pola thrives on tourism, fishing, and local commerce. Seasonal opportunities dominate, with restaurants, cafes, and holiday rentals requiring extra hands during the summer months.
See our article about the best jobs and businesses for foreigners in Spain.

For those looking to settle, small-scale businesses such as property management, hospitality, tours, niche tourism services, trades, and professional services could prove lucrative, given the steady demand for holiday accommodations and experiences. Remote workers can benefit from reliable internet speeds and a serene environment, making the town a viable base for digital nomads.

What industries shape the local economy?
Tourism and real estate are the leading economic drivers. The town’s picturesque beaches, vibrant summer scene, and proximity to Alicante Airport is a big draw for tourists, new residents, and investors alike. Fishing continues to play a role, though it’s less dominant than in previous decades.

Are there options for remote work? Yes, Santa Pola’s stable internet connectivity supports remote work, with typical download speeds of 100 Mbps to 1000 Mbps in urban areas. Cafés & coworking spaces cater to digital nomads seeking a welcome change of environment from the bleak northern winters.

1. Affordable cost of living: Groceries cost between €150–€200 per month for a single person. Dining out ranges from €10 for tapas to €25 for a mid-range meal.
2. Beautiful beaches and outdoor activities: Playa Lisa and Playa Tamarit offer clean sands and shallow waters. Activities like kite surfing, snorkelling, and hiking around the Salt Flats keep weekends exciting.
3. Convenient location: Alicante Airport is just 15 minutes away, ideal for frequent travellers.
   Public transport is reliable, with bus fares averaging €1.50 locally and €4 regionally.
4. Community feel: A mix of locals and expats creates a welcoming environment.
5. Affordable real estate opportunities: Property prices start as low as €100,000, making it accessible for first-time buyers or investors.

1. Seasonal tourism: Summers bring crowds, leading to busier beaches and limited parking.
2. Limited off-season services: Some restaurants and shops close during quieter months, reducing options for year-round residents.
3. Windy days: Coastal winds, especially in winter, can make outdoor activities less enjoyable.
4. Fewer high-end amenities: For luxury shopping or specialized healthcare, a trip to Alicante or larger cities might be necessary.

Santa Pola combines the best of affordable coastal living in Spain with Spanish tradition. If you consider other costlier lifestyles on the coast of Spain, it does offer a unique option for relocation. Its affordability, access to pristine beaches, and friendly community give it a distinct advantage to those looking for a permanent home, a seasonal retreat, or an investment opportunity.

While the town thrives in the summer, the quieter off-season pace allows for a deeper appreciation of its natural beauty and cultural assets. Learning some Spanish and planning for occasional travel to Alicante for specialized services can help smooth the transition into local life.