Education, Healthcare & Lifestyle: What to Consider Before Moving to Spain

Wiki Article

If you’re thinking about making a move and making a second home in Spain, there are a few important things to keep in mind—especially around education, healthcare, and lifestyle. Spain has a lot to offer, but knowing what to expect can make your move smoother and help you settle in faster.

Let’s start with education. If you’re moving with kids, you’ll want to know about schooling options. Spain has both public and private schools. Public schools are free and usually teach in Spanish (or sometimes the local regional language). Private and international schools offer lessons in English or other languages. International schools tend to be more expensive, but they can help children keep up with their studies in a familiar language and system. Most schools run from September to June, and the school day is often split into morning and afternoon sessions, with a break in the middle. It’s a good idea to check enrollment dates early, as some schools have waiting lists.

Now, about healthcare. Spain’s public healthcare system is well-regarded and available to residents who work in the country or pay into the social security system. Many people choose to use the public system for most of their needs—it’s generally good quality and free at the point of service. Still, some expats prefer private healthcare for faster appointments or English-speaking staff. Private health insurance is quite common and often affordable compared to other countries.

Lifestyle in Spain can feel very different but in a good way. Things tend to move at a slower pace. Long lunches, late dinners, and relaxed weekends are common. Family and social life are important, and people often gather in plazas, cafes, or parks. If you're active, Spain has great weather for outdoor activities, from hiking to beach days. One thing to keep in mind is that many smaller towns and offices close for a few hours in the afternoon—this is the traditional siesta time, though it’s less common in larger cities now.

Overall, settling in Spain takes a bit of planning, especially around schools and healthcare, but the relaxed and friendly lifestyle can make it worth it. With some preparation, your move can be the start of a happy new chapter.