LIVING IN GANDIA: GOOD FOOD AND A SLOWER PACE OF LIFE
Situated on Spain's eastern coast in the Valencia region, Gandia offers a blend of regal history, authentic Spanish culture, and beautiful beaches. Living in Gandia is for you if you enjoy mouthwatering seafood dishes and being surrounded by fascinating historic sites. The city provides a chilled-out living experience by the sea, away from the busier tourist destinations.
What is Gandia like?
With a population of around 80,000, Gandia combines the charm of a smaller city with the amenities of a larger urban area. Located in the province of Valencia, this town is distinct for its historical sites, such as the Borgia Palace. The main beach, Playa Nord, is a 3-kilometre stretch of sandy coastline located about 5 kilometres from the town centre. The proximity to the beach from most parts of the town is one of Gandia's major attractions, as is its lively harbour flanked with authentic Spanish eateries.
Neighbourhoods vary from bustling central areas to quieter spots offering more space and greenery, catering to different lifestyle preferences. Overall, Gandia is a safe seaside resort nestled in the little county of La Safor, which still preserves its Spanish seafaring coastal charm.
Is Gandia a good place to live?
The weather in Gandia is certainly a highlight. The area is characterised by its Mediterranean climate, providing mild winters and hot, dry summers. This is appealing to those who enjoy a sunny lifestyle and outdoor activities. You can enjoy water sports off the Mediterranean coast, hiking among the orange groves, or cycling in the mountains.
Gandia is a foodie haven, home of the Spanish dish fideuà, a traditional seafood dish like paella but made with short, thin pasta noodles. Numerous indoor markets are selling fresh fish and weekly street markets with other local produce. The historic part of the town has extensive pedestrianised areas, including the picturesque tree-lined promenade. Residents rarely need a car, as the town has everything within walking distance.
In the summer, Gandia can be a bit of a party town. The beach bar shacks attract locals, stag and hen dos, as well as tourists from Madrid. You’ll also find quite a few bars and clubs that open until late. Overall, Gandia promotes a relaxed lifestyle with its small-town charm and leisurely pace, making it a popular choice for retirees and families.
Living in Gandia: pros and cons
Before making a move, weighing the pros and cons is crucial. Here are some considerations:
Some of the advantages of living in Gandia include:
- Culture and gastronomy: it offers a wealth of historical sites and incredible places to eat.
- Proximity to the beach: easily accessible sandy shores.
- Affordable living: more affordable housing and daily expenses compared to larger cities.
As with all places, there are some drawbacks:
- Summer heat: temperatures can climb into the mid-30s Celsius in July and August.
- Language barrier: limited English usage in some areas, and locals often speak Valencian. But many language schools offer Spanish and Valencian lessons.
Is it expensive to live in Gandia?
In Gandia, the cost of living is manageable, offering residents a good balance between expenses and quality of life. Dining out at a mid-range restaurant will set you back about €40 for two people, and you can enjoy a cappuccino at a local café for around €2.
Housing in the city centre is typically more affordable than beachside properties, but on average, house prices in Gandia in February 2025 reached an average of €1,360 per m2. On the other hand, homes for rent in the same area were priced, on average, at €8.2 per m2, which comes out to about €650 per month for an 80 m2 apartment. This is much lower than property prices in the city of Valencia, which were around €2,892 per m2, and renting a place in Valencia can cost as much as double that of Gandia.
Where to live in Gandia
Gandia provides a diverse array of housing options to suit various lifestyles and preferences. The city centre offers modern apartments and traditional Spanish townhouses, ideal for those who like having easy access to shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
For those drawn to the coast, Gandia’s beachfront presents modern apartments with sea views and resort-like amenities. This has a lively community of year-round residents, however, living costs here are generally higher, especially during the peak tourist season.
Gandia’s rural urbanisations, such as Montesol and Montepino, offer detached villas and country homes with expansive gardens and sea views. Each area in Gandia provides unique benefits, making it important to consider factors such as lifestyle, budget, and proximity to amenities when choosing where to live.
Living in Gandia as an expat
Thanks to the friendly locals and welcoming atmosphere, relocating here shouldn’t be a challenge. Gandia is not as heavily populated by expats as other areas in Spain, but it does host a growing foreign community. This is supported by local services aimed at international newcomers, such as English-speaking lawyers that can help you with complicated Spanish bureaucracy. Estate agents in Gandia offering services in English are also available. Additionally, you’ll find a thriving golf community and other local groups that organise outdoor activities.
Just an hour's drive from Valencia city, Gandia is well-connected, offering regular and affordable trains and buses to the big city. Valencia Airport is also just an hour away, making Gandia a convenient place to visit and a great base for living.
Is English widely spoken in Gandia?
As mentioned, English usage in Gandia is limited, with most fluent speakers found in tourist areas or within the expat community. However, you will find a private British school in the town. There are also plenty of community events and language exchange groups that will make the integration easier if you move here.