New analysis from World Atlas has named Trujillo, in Extremadura, the best small town in Spain for retirement, citing its low housing costs and authentic charm. The research highlighted seven picturesque towns with fewer than 50,000 inhabitants across Spain that feature "walkable, historic centres with accessible recreation, including coastal paths, mountain trails, canoeing rivers, and reservoirs a short drive from the front door".
Affordable living praised by expats
On Reddit, expats praised the "affordable living" and the "amazing regional food" of some of these picture-perfect locations. Trujillo has the lowest housing prices of around €717 (£605) per month. Locals praise the town's authenticity on social media, with one saying that "life is more or less affordable, with no uncontrolled tourism problems, and food is amazing".
Other top spots for retirees
Trujillo was followed by Arcos de la Frontera, in Cádiz, which has an estimated population of 31,046. Experts at World Atlas noted: "For retirees who want a classic Spanish white town with water sports on the doorstep rather than just mountain views, Arcos is a rare combination."
Baiona, in Galicia, took third place. The charming town in northern Spain has a population of 12,380. World Atlas stated: "Baiona offers a version of coastal Galicia that pairs history with a genuine beach-town feel, at a price most Mediterranean resort towns can't match."
Other locations highlighted
Other places included the picturesque town of Sitges, just half an hour down the coast from Barcelona, and Cangas de Onís, best known as the historic gateway to the Picos de Europa National Park. The full list of best small towns to retire in Spain comprises Trujillo, Arcos de la Frontera, Baiona, Hondarribia, Cangas de Onís, Comillas, and Sitges.
