1. Discover the Charm of Galicia
While most northern-Europeans buying real estate in Spain are more likely to focus on the sunnier, hotter parts of the country, some consider the extremes of heat, found in the South and East of Spain too much.
Galicia is located in the north of the country and is well-known in Spain for its gastronomy, astonishing landscapes, beautiful beaches and its valued architecture. The region offers a variety of properties, including charming house in rural settings, each with unique features and opportunities for different uses. It tends to have good, reasonably long summers (by northern European standards), cooler winters and, overall, more rain than other parts of Spain.
Living in Galicia also means becoming part of a welcoming local community, integrating with wonderful people and enjoying a distinct rural lifestyle.
2. Advantages of Buying Property in Galicia
The beautiful green landscape that is reminiscent of Northern Europe gives a big clue as to why more and more foreign buyers are choosing Galicia as their preferred destination when buying property in Spain. Buyers are drawn to Galicia because it meets their needs for a balanced climate and beautiful scenery.
Climate change, increasing heat and the almost constant threat of drought that affects southern and eastern Spain have caused an influx of Northern Europeans from those regions.
While the promise of year-around sunshine is compelling to those who have spent the better part of their lives suffering the rain and the cold of the north, the opposite extreme isn’t very appealing either.
While Galicia does have much higher rainfall than other areas of Spain, it still has wonderful summers that Northern Europe could only dream of.
So, if living in a region where you will see all four seasons sounds appealing, Galicia could well be for you! For more information about the properties available in Galicia, feel free to contact us.
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3. Popular Areas to Buy Property in Galicia
Galicia, the northwestern region of Spain, offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes, rich culture, and affordable real estate opportunities, with numerous properties for sale. Whether you’re looking for a bustling city, rugged coastlines, or picturesque fishing villages, Galicia has something to offer every property buyer.
Below, we shall explore three popular areas that attract both domestic and international investors, highlighting the diverse options available for sale in the region.
Santiago de Compostela
As the capital of Galicia and the final destination of the famous Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route, Santiago de Compostela is a city steeped in history and culture. Its UNESCO World Heritage-listed old town, centered around the magnificent cathedral, draws millions of visitors each year.
Property buyers in Santiago de Compostela can choose from a range of options. The historic center offers charming stone houses and apartments with period features, ideal for those seeking authenticity and character. These properties often come at a premium due to their location and historical significance.
For more modern and affordable options, look to the newer neighborhoods surrounding the old town. Areas like Ensanche and San Lázaro offer contemporary apartments and houses with better accessibility and amenities, including versatile bedrooms that can be reconfigured to suit different needs.
These areas are popular among young professionals and families. Additionally, properties suitable for families with children often feature family-friendly amenities such as closed gardens, perfect for outdoor activities.
Investors may find opportunities in the student rental market, as Santiago is home to a large university population. Properties near the campus or with good transport links can provide steady rental income.
Santiago de Compostela: Pros & Cons
- Rich cultural heritage and vibrant city life
- Excellent educational opportunities with a renowned university
- Well-connected transportation hub for Galicia
- Higher cost of living compared to other parts of Galicia
- Crowded during peak tourist seasons
- Rainy climate with frequent precipitation
Costa da Morte
The “Coast of Death,” named for its treacherous waters and numerous shipwrecks, is a rugged and beautiful stretch of coastline in western Galicia. This area appeals to those seeking a more tranquil lifestyle away from urban centers.
Property options in Costa da Morte range from traditional stone cottages in small fishing villages to modern villas with ocean views. Towns like Muxía, Fisterra, and Laxe offer a mix of properties, often at more affordable prices compared to other coastal regions in Spain. Many properties feature beautiful gardens, including porches covered, horno de pan, and zones de barbacoa, adding significant value and appeal.
For those interested in renovation projects, there are opportunities to purchase and restore old farmhouses or fishermen’s cottages. These can be transformed into charming vacation homes or rural tourism accommodations. Additionally, many properties are suitable for families with pets, offering enclosed gardens ideal for children and pets to play safely.
The Costa da Morte is gaining popularity among nature lovers and adventure seekers. Properties here can serve as excellent bases for hiking, surfing, and exploring the dramatic coastline. However, buyers should be aware that some areas may have limited amenities and services, especially during the off-season.
Costa da Morte: Pros & Cons
- Breathtaking natural scenery and rugged coastline
- Quieter, more relaxed lifestyle away from urban bustle
- Generally more affordable property prices
- Limited job opportunities, especially in non-tourism sectors
- Fewer amenities and services, particularly in smaller towns
- Harsh weather conditions, especially during winter months
Rías Baixas
The Rías Baixas, or Lower Rias, is a series of four estuaries along Galicia’s southwestern coast. This area is renowned for its beautiful beaches, excellent seafood, and the production of Albariño wine.
Popular towns in the Rías Baixas for property buyers include Sanxenxo, O Grove, and Baiona. These areas offer a mix of traditional Galician architecture and modern developments. Beachfront apartments and villas are in high demand, particularly among those looking for vacation homes or rental investments.
The town of Pontevedra, slightly inland, is attracting attention for its pedestrianized old town and high quality of life. Here, buyers can find everything from historic townhouses to modern apartments in new developments.
For those interested in combining rural living with coastal access, the inland areas of the Rías Baixas offer stone houses and small farms (known as “pazos”) set among vineyards and forests. These properties can be ideal for those looking to embrace the Galician countryside lifestyle or start a small-scale winery or tourism business.
When considering property in the Rías Baixas, it’s important to note that prices can be higher in popular coastal towns, especially during the peak summer season. However, compared to other parts of Spain, the region still offers good value for money.
Rías Baixas: Pros & Cons
- Beautiful beaches and excellent seafood
- Milder climate compared to other parts of Galicia
- Strong potential for tourism-related businesses
- Seasonal economy with potential for off-season quietness
- Higher property prices in popular coastal areas
- Risk of over-tourism in some locations during peak season
In conclusion, Galicia provides diverse options for property buyers, from the historic streets of Santiago de Compostela to the wild beauty of Costa da Morte and the coastal charm of Rías Baixas. Each area has its unique character and appeal, catering to different lifestyles and investment goals.
Types of Properties in Galicia
Galicia offers a diverse range of properties for sale to suit various tastes and lifestyles. From centuries-old stone houses to contemporary apartments, the region caters to those seeking authenticity, rural charm, or modern comfort. Let’s take a look at three main categories of properties available in this captivating corner of Spain.
Historic Houses: Find and live in unique, historical properties
Galicia's rich history is reflected in its architectural heritage, with many historic properties available for those looking to own a piece of the past. These properties often feature distinctive Galician characteristics, such as thick granite walls, wooden beams, and traditional galleries.
In urban areas like Santiago de Compostela, Pontevedra, or Lugo, you can find historic townhouses dating back several centuries. These properties, often located in the heart of old towns, offer a unique living experience surrounded by cobblestone streets and ancient monuments. While they may require some restoration, they provide an opportunity to combine modern comforts with historic charm.
Rural areas boast impressive pazos, manor houses that once belonged to Galician nobility. These grand properties often come with extensive grounds and outbuildings, making them ideal for those dreaming of running a rural hotel or events venue.
For those seeking a more modest historic property, traditional stone cottages known as "casas de piedra" can be found throughout Galicia's countryside and coastal villages. These charming dwellings often feature exposed stone walls, rustic wooden features, and cozy fireplaces.
When considering a historic property, be prepared for potential challenges such as strict renovation regulations in protected areas and the costs associated with maintaining older buildings. However, for many, the unique character and connection to Galicia's past make these properties highly desirable.
Rural Properties: Enjoy a tranquil rural life in Galicia
Galicia's lush countryside offers numerous opportunities for those seeking a quieter, nature-oriented lifestyle. Rural properties in Galicia come in various forms, from small farmhouses to larger estates.
One popular type of rural property is the "casa de labranza" or farmhouse. These properties often come with a plot of land, allowing owners to grow their own produce or keep small livestock. Many of these properties have been lovingly restored, combining traditional features with modern amenities.
For those interested in a more substantial rural property, Galicia offers "fincas" - large estates that can include multiple buildings, extensive land, and sometimes even small forests or vineyards. These properties are ideal for those looking to start an agritourism business or simply enjoy a self-sufficient lifestyle.
In coastal areas, you can find rural properties with stunning sea views. These often command higher prices but offer the unique combination of countryside living with easy access to beaches and coastal towns.
Rural living in Galicia provides the opportunity to embrace the region's slow-paced lifestyle, enjoy fresh local produce, and become part of a close-knit community. However, potential buyers should consider factors such as accessibility, availability of services, and the level of restoration required for some properties.
Modern Developments
While Galicia is known for its historical and rural charm, the region also offers plenty of options for those seeking contemporary living spaces. Modern developments can be found in and around major cities, as well as in popular coastal areas.
In cities like Vigo, A Coruña, and Ourense, new apartment complexes offer sleek designs, energy-efficient features, and modern amenities such as underground parking and communal gardens. These developments often cater to young professionals and families looking for convenient urban living.
Coastal areas, particularly in the Rías Baixas region, have seen an increase in modern villa developments. These properties often feature large windows to maximize sea views, open-plan living spaces, and high-end finishes. Many come with private pools and landscaped gardens, catering to the luxury market and those seeking high-end vacation homes.
For those who appreciate modern design but prefer a more rural setting, architect-designed houses are becoming increasingly popular in Galicia. These unique properties blend contemporary aesthetics with the natural surroundings, often incorporating sustainable building practices and materials.
Modern developments in Galicia tend to focus on energy efficiency and sustainability, reflecting growing environmental awareness. Features such as solar panels, rainwater harvesting systems, and smart home technology are becoming more common.
While modern properties may lack the traditional charm of historic houses, they offer the advantages of lower maintenance costs, better energy efficiency, and often more practical layouts for contemporary lifestyles.
In conclusion, Galicia's property market offers something for everyone, from lovingly restored historic houses to cutting-edge modern developments, all set against the backdrop of the region's stunning landscapes and rich culture.
Avoid Common Issues when Buying Property in Galicia
Common situations that can arise when buying a property in Galicia - and which you need to extremely careful about - relate to problems that can arise with the property title, in particular, when buying a house that forms part of an inheritance.
We often discover that properties our clients are interested in buying have no current proprietor and still belong to a deceased person. In such cases we should verify the appointed heirs have successfully obtained ownership and are legally capable of transferring the property to a third party - such as you.
Another difficulty you will often have to face when buying a property in Galicia relates to urban planning regulations.
In Galicia, we have our own regional regulations and this requires careful review - especially in rural areas. In practice, we usually find out that most of the properties lack relevant documentation, giving quite a lot of uncertainty to a prospective buyer.
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4. Building Restrictions
In Galicia it is easy to come across well-preserved lands where construction is either prohibited or limited. Accordingly, you should make sure to check any local planning restrictions if you are wanting to build upon a plot of land or make some refurbishment works on an old building.
We have personally had the opportunity to deal with quite a lot of properties that lack registration. That can be seen as a burden for a client interested in a particular property.
As professionals, we are aware of how this may be fixed by checking the legal status of the property that enables the seller to be assured that they can put in an offer on a house. We can then take the required legal steps to overcome a deficient registration and arrange for the first registration of the property once the conveyance is accomplished.
5. Cost of Living in Galicia
Housing Costs
In Galicia, the cost of housing varies significantly between different cities. For instance, in A Coruña, the average monthly rent for an 85 m² (900 sqft) furnished apartment in an expensive area is approximately €1,048, while in a normal area it is around €731. In Vigo, these costs rise to €1,389 and €937 respectively. Utilities for a two-person household in an 85 m² apartment are around €124 per month in A Coruña and €114 in Vigo.
Taxes
IBI (Property Tax): While Barcelona is notable for not being among the top cities with the highest IBI, Galicia's cities also do not top the list for this tax.
Vehicle Circulation Tax: In Galicia, the circulation tax is lower compared to cities like Barcelona, which stands at €68.16.
Waste Collection Tax: This tax varies by municipality within Galicia, but it is generally lower than in Barcelona, which is third highest at €156.65.
Transportation
- Public Transport: Public transport in A Coruña costs about €23 per month, while in Vigo, it is higher at €30. This is more affordable compared to Barcelona, where a single bus ticket is €2.40.
- Taxis: A typical taxi trip on a business day over 8 km in A Coruña costs around €15, which is competitive compared to other major cities in Spain.
- Fuel: The cost of gasoline in Galicia is about €1.53 per liter in A Coruña and €1.62 in Vigo, which is slightly lower than the national average.
Cost of Groceries
The cost of groceries in Galicia is relatively affordable. In A Coruña, common items such as a liter of milk cost €1.09, and a dozen eggs are priced at €3.55. In Vigo, these items cost €1.05 and €2.97 respectively. Other grocery items like tomatoes, potatoes, and bread are also priced moderately, making grocery shopping in Galicia more affordable compared to cities like San Sebastián and Palma de Mallorca.
Leisure
Leisure activities in Galicia are reasonably priced. In A Coruña, a basic dinner for two at a neighborhood pub costs around €32, and in Vigo, it is €34. Movie tickets are priced at €17 in A Coruña and €16 in Vigo.
Theatre tickets and dining at Italian restaurants in the expat areas are also affordable, with prices for dinner for two, including appetizers, main course, wine, and dessert, being €40 in A Coruña and €49 in Vigo. The cost of a cocktail drink in downtown clubs is €9 in A Coruña and €10 in Vigo.
Summary
Overall, Galicia offers a more affordable cost of living compared to major cities like Barcelona. While housing and utilities are reasonably priced, transportation and groceries remain affordable, making Galicia a cost-effective choice for living in Spain. Leisure activities also tend to be cheaper, providing a good quality of life without the high expenses found in other major cities.
6. Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Galicia so cheap?
Galicia is often considered more affordable compared to other regions due to its lower demand for real estate, particularly in rural areas. The region has a significant aging population with limited income, resulting in fewer buyers in the market. Additionally, Galicia has not experienced the same level of urban development and economic growth as other parts of Spain, which keeps property prices down. The abundance of traditional, large houses that are often inherited and owned outright by families also contributes to the lower property costs.
Where is the best place to live in Galicia?
When considering the best places to live in Galicia for expats, several locations stand out:
- A Coruña: Known for its vibrant culture, easy lifestyle, and stunning coastal scenery
- Vigo: The largest city in Galicia, offering a lively urban environment, excellent seafood, and beautiful beaches
- Santiago de Compostela: Famous for its cathedral and as the endpoint of the Camino de Santiago, combining rich history with a welcoming atmosphere
- Pontevedra: Features a pedestrian-friendly old town and vibrant social scene, close to coastal areas
- Lugo: Known for its Roman walls, offering a quieter lifestyle with access to beautiful countryside and a lower cost of living
Is Galicia Spain a good place to retire?
Retiring to Galicia means joining a warm and welcoming community, full of locals who often have returned themselves after working abroad. You'll find the people here generous and open. Combined with its affordable living costs, excellent healthcare, and mild climate, Galicia is an ideal spot for a peaceful and fulfilling retirement.
