Where to live in Spain with the best year-round climate

Many people associate Spain with endless sunshine and mild winters, yet the country’s real climate is far more diverse. The north often experiences rain and high humidity, temperatures in central regions rise above +38 °C in summer, while the southern coast periodically faces dry winds coming from Africa.

That is why the question of where to live in Spain with the best year-round climate depends on far more than the number of sunny days. For comfortable living, people increasingly look at the balance between temperature, humidity, wind strength and seasonal changes. The same +27 °C feels completely different in Valencia, Bilbao or the Canary Islands.

Northern Spain suits people who struggle with intense heat. The south attracts those who enjoy sunshine and short winters. The islands maintain stable temperatures for most of the year, which is why many migrants and remote workers consider them among the most comfortable places to relocate.

Before renting or buying property, people now pay closer attention to rainfall statistics, humidity levels and night-time temperatures rather than tourist reviews. Through Flagma, it is easier to compare housing options across different regions and understand in advance which city matches your lifestyle.

From an objective perspective, the best climate in Spain is about balance. No extreme summer heat, no damp winters and no constant strong winds. These are usually the regions that become the most comfortable for permanent living rather than short holidays.

What climate is considered “the best” for living in Spain

The idea of a comfortable climate no longer depends only on air temperature. For long-term living, people assess several factors at once because the same weather conditions can feel very different across the country.

In Spain, the most comfortable temperature range is generally considered to be between +18 and +26 °C. Under these conditions, summer becomes easier to tolerate, physical strain decreases and air-conditioning costs are lower. When temperatures consistently rise above +35 °C in summer, quality of life noticeably declines, especially in densely built-up cities.

Humidity also plays a major role. A comfortable level is usually considered to be between 40–60%. On the northern coast, humidity often exceeds 75%, making even moderate heat feel heavier. In the southern regions, the air is drier, although summer often brings dry skin and persistent heat at night.

Strong winds can completely change the perception of climate. For example, the Costa de la Luz coastline periodically experiences powerful Atlantic air currents, while on the Canary Islands the wind helps make high temperatures easier to handle. That is why, when deciding where to live in Spain with the best year-round climate, it is important to consider not only the temperature but also air movement.

Seasonal differences vary greatly across the country. In central Spain, winter night-time temperatures occasionally fall to 0 °C even though days remain sunny. On the islands, annual temperature changes are much softer, with the difference between January and August often reaching only 7–9 degrees.

That is why Spain’s climate by region should always be assessed as a whole. Comfortable living usually comes down to mild winters, the absence of extreme summer heat, moderate humidity and stable weather without sharp changes throughout the year.

Regions of Spain with the best year-round climate

Spain offers several climate zones that are suitable for permanent living without sharp seasonal changes. The differences between regions are significant: in some areas heating is needed for most of the winter, while in others people swim in the ocean even in January. That is why, when relocating, it is important to assess the climate not through tourist impressions but through weather conditions throughout the entire year.

Canary Islands — eternal spring

Many people describe the Canary Islands as the region with the most stable climate in the country. Sharp seasonal temperature swings are almost absent here, while the ocean softens the heat even in the middle of summer.

Average temperatures throughout the year remain between +20 and +28 °C. The number of sunny days exceeds 300 annually, so long periods of cloudy weather are rare. In winter, water temperatures on some islands remain around +20 °C.

Research by international organisations, including the OECD, regularly places the Canary Islands among the territories with one of the most comfortable climates for living. Because of this, many retirees, remote workers and families with children consider the islands when deciding where to live in Spain with the best year-round climate. For many migrants, the best climate in Spain is associated with Tenerife, Gran Canaria and Lanzarote.

Costa del Sol (Málaga, Marbella)

The southern coast of Andalusia has long been considered one of the most comfortable regions for people who enjoy warm weather without cold winters. Sunshine dominates for most of the year, while humidity levels are noticeably lower than on the northern coast of the country.

During winter, temperatures usually stay between +15…+20 °C. Even in January, many people spend time on terraces and by the sea. In summer, temperatures rise to +30…+35 °C, although the dry climate makes the heat easier to tolerate compared with more humid Mediterranean regions.

Málaga and Marbella are especially popular among foreigners working remotely or relocating after retirement. Many people choose the region because of its combination of sunshine, developed infrastructure and a large international community. Costa del Sol remains one of the most sought-after options on mainland Spain.

Valencia — balance between climate and cost

Valencia often stands out against more expensive southern resorts thanks to its combination of mild weather, comfortable pace of life and moderate expenses. The city experiences less extreme heat than Andalusia, while winters remain warm enough for comfortable living without severe cold.

During the winter months, temperatures usually range between +10…+18 °C. In summer, the air warms up to +28…+32 °C, although the sea breeze makes high temperatures noticeably easier to handle.

The city suits people looking for a stable Mediterranean climate without constant stuffiness or excessive humidity. At the same time, housing rent and everyday expenses here are often 15–25% lower than in Barcelona or Marbella.

Many migrants believe that the best climate in Spain can be found in Valencia thanks to its mild winters, large number of sunny days and absence of sharp weather fluctuations.

Alicante — one of Europe’s most comfortable climates

Alicante is often chosen by people who struggle with high humidity and sharp seasonal changes. Dry air dominates here, while the sea softens temperatures throughout the year. Even during summer, the heat feels easier to tolerate than in many other Mediterranean regions.

The number of sunny days usually ranges between 280–300 per year. Winters remain mild: daytime temperatures rarely fall below +10 °C, while prolonged cold periods are extremely uncommon.

The climate of Alicante has repeatedly appeared in international rankings as one of the most comfortable for living. In studies related to the impact of weather on health and quality of life, the region regularly received high scores thanks to stable temperatures and relatively low humidity. Because of this, many people consider Alicante one of the most balanced options for permanent residence.

For some migrants, the best climate in Spain is associated precisely with this coastline because summers are easier to tolerate here, while winter still feels mild without long periods of damp weather.

Barcelona — mild, but humid

Barcelona remains one of the country’s most popular cities thanks to its combination of coastal climate, urban infrastructure and relatively mild winters. Severe frosts are rare here, and even in January temperatures usually remain between +9…+15 °C.

Summers are warm and long, although high humidity noticeably affects how the heat feels. In July and August, temperatures around +30 °C often feel heavier than in the drier southern regions of Spain. This is especially noticeable in densely built urban districts.

When comparing Spain’s climate by region, Barcelona offers fairly comfortable living conditions for most of the year, although people sensitive to humidity may not always find the local weather ideal. During autumn and winter, sea winds and evening dampness are also common.

Even so, the city consistently remains among the top locations for people looking for mild winters, developed transport and an active urban lifestyle close to the sea.

Climate comparison by region in Spain

The differences between Spanish regions feel greater than many people expect before relocating. The north has a climate closer to the Atlantic type, while the south and the islands maintain dry and sunny weather for most of the year. That is why, when choosing a place to live, it is important to compare not only temperatures but also humidity, sunshine levels and seasonal changes.

This comparison helps provide a more objective understanding of Spain’s climate by region and shows how daily life differs across the country. For some people, comfort is linked to mild winters and dry air, while others prioritise the absence of extreme summer heat.

Most people choose the southern coastline or the islands because they offer more sunny days and softer seasonal changes.

Where it is warm in Spain in winter

A warm winter is considered one of the main reasons many foreigners move to Spain. However, the country’s climate varies greatly in winter. In northern regions, temperatures can drop to +5 °C and below, while in the south people continue walking by the sea in light clothing.

The Canary Islands remain the warmest option for winter living. Daytime temperatures usually stay around +20…+22 °C, and cold spells are almost absent. Thanks to the ocean and mild winds, the weather remains stable even in January.

Andalusia is also among the regions with the mildest winters. In Málaga, Marbella and nearby towns, daytime temperatures often reach +15…+20 °C. Sunny weather lasts for most of the season, so heating is needed far less often here than in central or northern Spain.

Alicante suits people who want a warm climate without excessive summer heat. In winter, temperatures usually range between +12…+18 °C, while the dry air makes cooler weather feel more comfortable.

The difference between northern and southern Spain in winter can sometimes reach 10 degrees or more. That is why the search for where it is warm in Spain in winter remains one of the most popular among people planning to move to the coast or live in the country long term. The most stable conditions are usually found in the Canary Islands, the southern coast of Andalusia and areas of Alicante province.

Where in Spain it is not too hot in summer

Summer heat does not suit everyone. In some Spanish regions, temperatures in July and August regularly exceed +38 °C, so more people are looking for cities with milder summers and comfortable night-time temperatures.

Northern Spain is considered one of the coolest parts of the country during the warm season. In San Sebastián, Santander or Gijón, summer temperatures usually stay between +22…+28 °C. The Atlantic climate brings more rain and cloud cover, but it helps avoid the exhausting heat typical of the south.

The Canary Islands are also suitable for people who struggle with high temperatures. Even in summer, the ocean and constant air currents keep the weather within a comfortable range. In Tenerife and Gran Canaria, the heat feels milder than on mainland Spain.

Valencia sits somewhere in the middle. Summers are still warm here, but the sea breeze partly reduces the feeling of stuffiness. In coastal areas, temperatures are easier to tolerate than in the country’s inland regions.

When assessing where the best climate in Spain can be found for living without extreme heat, people most often consider the northern coast, the Canary Islands and selected cities on the eastern coast.

Best Spanish cities by climate for different people

A comfortable climate depends on lifestyle, age and everyday needs. Some people look for mild winters and a calm pace, while others need reliable internet, an active urban environment and no severe heat.

1. Alicante is one of the most popular options for retirees thanks to its dry air, mild winters and relaxed pace of life.
2. The Canary Islands suit people who want stable temperatures without pronounced seasonality or long cold periods.
3. Valencia is considered a strong option for digital nomads. The city combines a comfortable climate, the sea, modern infrastructure and more affordable prices compared with Barcelona.
4. Málaga attracts remote workers with its large international community, sunny weather and active city life all year round.
5. Valencia and Alicante are often chosen by families with children thanks to mild winters, plenty of sunshine and a calmer atmosphere compared with major metropolitan areas.
6. Madrid remains the country’s most important business centre, although the climate here is less mild. In summer, temperatures often exceed +35 °C, while winter nights can be cool.

This mini-ranking helps identify the best cities for different living scenarios, as people usually assess not only the weather but also everyday comfort in a specific city.

Mistakes when choosing a climate in Spain

Holiday weather and climate for permanent living are perceived very differently. Many people realise this only after relocating, when they face hot nights, dampness or difficulties cooling their homes.

• Ignoring humidity. A temperature of +28 °C on a humid coastline feels harder to tolerate than +34 °C in the dry climate of southern Spain.
• Choosing a region based only on winter temperatures. A warm winter does not guarantee comfortable summers. In some cities, heat can last for weeks even at night.
• Underestimating the summer sun. In Andalusia and central Spain, streets are often empty during the day in summer because temperatures exceed +38 °C.
• Lack of air conditioning in housing. Older buildings do not always have air conditioning, especially affordable flats near the sea.
• Focusing only on the tourist season. Spring and autumn may seem ideal, but conditions change much more significantly in winter and summer.
• Not understanding local winds. On some coastlines, strong air currents are frequent and affect comfort even when temperatures are pleasant.

People who analyse the climate comprehensively in advance usually find a suitable region for permanent living more quickly. This is especially important for those planning a long-term move.

Conclusion

If we assess temperature stability, sunshine levels and mild seasons, many specialists and migrants describe the Canary Islands and southern Spain as the regions with the most comfortable weather for permanent living. These areas offer mild winters, plenty of sunny days and minimal seasonal variation.

For people looking for a more balanced option between climate, living costs and urban infrastructure, Valencia and Alicante are often suitable choices. These cities maintain warm weather for most of the year without the extreme conditions typical of some southern regions.

When choosing a location, it is important to consider age, health, work format and usual lifestyle. For some people, comfort is linked to dry air and mild winters, while others prioritise the absence of extreme summer heat or an active urban environment.

Through Flagma, it is convenient to explore housing options in different parts of the country in advance and assess which climate best matches your lifestyle. For many people, the best climate in Spain is defined not by tourist impressions but by everyday comfort throughout the year.