This Is How Many Britons Are Living In Spain Right Now

Updated figures of Britons in Spain

The most recent data confirms that the British community in Spain stands at well over 400,000 residents. As of late 2025, Spain recorded more than 7.4 million foreign residents overall, underlining the country's pull for lifestyle, climate and quality of life.

Where do British expats live?

The distribution is uneven. Coastal provinces with a mild climate, strong travel links and English-speaking support networks attract the majority. Alicante, in the Valencian Community, is the largest hub for UK nationals, with close to 99,000 registered Britons. Málaga, in Andalusia, is the second largest, with around 74,000 British residents across the Costa del Sol, including Marbella, Fuengirola and Estepona. The Canary and Balearic Islands draw tens of thousands who choose Tenerife, Lanzarote, Gran Canaria and Mallorca for year-round flights and warm weather, while Murcia remains a long-standing draw thanks to residential resorts and established communities.

Age profile and lifestyles

Britons in Spain skew older than other foreign groups—many are retirees—yet since the pandemic there's been steady growth in remote workers and younger families, attracted by international schools, reliable healthcare and a lower cost of living than in the UK.

Residency and life after Brexit (2026)

The majority of pre-Brexit residents now hold the TIE card, temporary or permanent, safeguarding their rights under the Withdrawal Agreement. For new arrivals, common routes include the non-lucrative visa for retirees, work permits, and investment pathways such as the "golden visa", subject to regulatory changes. Healthcare and pension coverage typically combines Spanish system entitlements with UK–Spain coordination; individual checks are essential before moving.

Why Spain remains attractive

High quality of life, comparatively affordable housing, excellent healthcare, strong transport infrastructure and a relaxed pace keep Spain high on British wish-lists. Population and residency growth recorded through 2025 mirrors that continuing appeal.

Conclusion (January 2026)

Bottom line: Spain is home to 400,000+ Britons, concentrated above all in Alicante and Málaga, with the Canary and Balearic Islands and Murcia also among the top choices. Paperwork is more involved post-Brexit, but the British community continues to grow and consolidate.

Thinking of joining the British expats in Spain? Whether you're picturing retirement in Alicante, a family move to Murcia or a sunny lifestyle on the Costa del Sol, our local team can help you find your ideal home in Spain. Get in touch to start your next chapter.