Moving to Mallorca

Mallorca, the largest of the four Balearic Islands, lies off Spain’s eastern coast. If you're thinking of moving here, you'll find few destinations more desirable or idyllic – with its azure waters, golden beaches, rugged coastline, citrus orchards, great weather, and vibrant lifestyle, Mallorca is a Mediterranean paradise. The island attracts expats from around the world, and whether you're drawn by Mallorca's laid-back lifestyle or the opportunity to invest in its growing property market, the island has something for everyone.

Living in Mallorca as an expat

Living in Mallorca as an expat means immersing yourself in both the island’s rich history and modern comforts. Palma, the island’s capital, is home to incredible landmarks like the Gothic Roman Catholic Catedral-Basílica de Santa María de Mallorca (La Seu) and the Moorish royal palace of Almudaina. 

These cultural gems are must-sees, but there are also newer cultural initiatives that make Palma a vibrant place to live. You can explore the bustling nightlife, relax in its charming cafés, or take in the sunset by the port in the trendy coastal neighbourhoods of Portixol and Molinar.

While the island is still a top destination for tourists, more and more people are calling it home, particularly because of its growing expat community. Remote workers, retirees, and families alike are moving here, driven by the island’s beauty, safety, and excellent infrastructure.

Thanks to improvements in public transport in recent years, getting around has become easier, though driving may still be necessary in some areas outside of Palma. The TIB bus network has expanded, with more routes and increased frequency, making it a more viable option, especially for commuters outside the city.

Whether you’re hopping on Palma’s metro or using the train and bus networks around the island, Mallorca’s public transport is efficient and well-integrated. If you plan to use public transport regularly, consider getting an Intermodal Card. It covers all services and offers significant savings.

When it comes to work, much of the employment on the island is linked to the tourism industry, both directly and indirectly. While job hunting can be competitive, the key is networking, often done in person. Increasingly, though, expats are finding opportunities in remote work and digital industries, as Mallorca's appeal grows for freelancers and digital nomads.

Cost of living in Mallorca

The cost of living in Mallorca remains relatively high, particularly when it comes to property prices. The island's growing reputation as a luxury destination for affluent holidaymakers, celebrities, and yacht enthusiasts continues to drive demand. Property prices have risen sharply, especially in areas like Andratx and Calvià, which are now among the most expensive locations.

Aside from property costs, day-to-day living expenses such as groceries and utilities have seen increases, reflecting inflationary trends across Europe. This makes it important to consider lifestyle choices and location when budgeting for life on the island. While living costs may be higher than in other parts of Spain, Mallorca’s charm, natural beauty, and Mediterranean lifestyle can often make it worth the extra expense.

Families and children in Mallorca

Moving to Mallorca with your family can be a seamless transition, thanks to the island's cosmopolitan environment and growing international community. There are many schools to choose from, including both local and international institutions. Schools like the newly opening Raoul Wallenberg International School in Palma provide English-language education alongside local languages, helping children settle in quickly while still staying connected to Mallorcan culture.

International schools in Mallorca are continuously adapting to meet the needs of expat families. Many now offer a more holistic educational approach, balancing emotional intelligence with academic excellence. Bilingual education models that focus on English and Spanish are in high demand, with some schools also offering German and French to cater to the diverse expat population. Whether your child thrives in a traditional setting or one with a Montessori philosophy, you’ll find an option that suits your family.

Speaking Castilian Spanish is a huge asset when moving to Mallorca, especially if you’re looking to work or communicate with locals. Although Mallorquí, a dialect of Catalan, is widely spoken on the island, the international nature of Mallorca means that many residents speak English, German, and French. This makes it easier for you and your family to integrate and feel at home.

Climate in Mallorca

Living in Mallorca allows you to enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities and sports. With over 260 beaches and coves (known as calas), the dramatic Tramuntana mountain range in the north (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), and the Llevant hills in the east, the island's scenery is incredibly diverse. From wild mountains to gentle orchards and stone terraces filled with olive, almond, and fruit trees, there's always something new to explore.

Although there are both pros and cons to moving to this Spanish island, living amidst such natural beauty and a welcoming population can make relocating to Mallorca feel like a dream come true for many.