12 Jun 2025
When most people think of Spain, cities like Madrid and Barcelona pop into mind. But for many Romanian expats looking for a quieter, affordable, and beautiful place to live, Valencia is becoming a top choice. In 2025, 12.5% of the residents of Valencia are foreign-born. Is it really worth moving there? What about jobs, community, cost of living, and cultural adjustment?
Let’s break it down clearly.
Valencia, Spain’s third-largest city, sits along the Mediterranean Sea. It offers a relaxed lifestyle, sunny weather, clean beaches, and a rich culture without the high living costs of Madrid or Barcelona. For many Romanians seeking a better quality of life, good weather, and a peaceful place to raise a family or work, Valencia sounds perfect. And it can be, but only if you know what to expect.
Compared to other major cities in Europe, Valencia is affordable. Here's what you can expect:
A one-bedroom apartment in the city centre costs around €700–€900, and even less in the suburbs.
Around €100–€150 per month.
Public transport is cheap and reliable. A monthly pass costs about €40.
Fresh fruits, vegetables, and halal meat are easy to find at affordable prices.
If you're moving from cities like London, Oslo, or even Barcelona, the drop in living costs can feel like a relief. That said, jobs are not always easy to find, especially if you don’t speak Spanish.
Let’s be honest, finding work in Valencia can be tough, especially if you don’t have strong Spanish skills. While there are job openings in tourism, restaurants, delivery, and some IT-related roles, the competition can be high.
Common job areas for Romanian expats include:
If you're fluent in Spanish or willing to learn, your chances increase. Also, if you plan to send money to Romania from Spain, services like ACE Money Transfer make it easy and safe to send money online without high fees or poor exchange rates.
Yes, there is a growing Romanian community in Valencia, especially in areas like Ruzafa and Benicalap. You’ll find Romanian-run shops, halal restaurants, mosques, and social groups that make it easier to adjust. The community may not be as large as in Barcelona or Madrid, but it’s friendly and welcoming. Many Romanian expats in Valencia say the smaller size of the city helps people stay connected.
If you’re moving with your family, Valencia is a good option. Public schools are free and generally safe. However, most teach in Spanish and Valencian (a local dialect), so your kids might need time to adjust. There are also international schools available, though they can be expensive.
The city is family-friendly, with many parks, beaches, and activities for children. Plus, the slower pace of life and low crime rate make it a peaceful place to raise a family.
Yes, Valencia is one of the safest cities in Spain. Most areas are quiet and secure, even at night. Petty crimes like pickpocketing can happen (especially in tourist spots), but violent crime is rare.
That said, always be careful when sharing personal or banking information online. Fake job offers and scams targeting immigrants have been reported. Be cautious and only use trusted services like ACE Money Transfer for online money transfers or financial matters.
If you’re tired of grey skies and freezing winters, Valencia will be a welcome change. The city enjoys over 300 sunny days per year. Winters are mild, and summers can be hot but manageable if you live near the beach. This is one of the biggest advantages of living in Valencia—good weather means more outdoor time, healthier living, and even saving on heating costs.
Yes and no. You can survive with English, especially in tourist areas or among the Romanian community. But if you want better job opportunities, access to services, and a fuller life, learning Spanish is a big plus. There are many affordable Spanish classes offered by local government programs or community centers. Some expats also learn the language through work or everyday life.
Public transport in Valencia is clean, affordable, and well-connected. You don’t need a car unless you plan to travel outside the city often. The metro, buses, and trams cover most areas. Biking is also very common, with bike lanes across the city.
If you’re looking for:
Then yes, Valencia could be a great fit. But if your main goal is to earn quickly, build savings fast, or find high-paying jobs without knowing Spanish, you might face some challenges. In that case, bigger cities may offer more opportunities.
Valencia isn’t perfect, but it offers a lot for those who come prepared. Whether you’re a student, worker, or someone planning to bring your family, it’s possible to build a good life here with patience and the right tools. For regular an online money transfer from Spain to Romania, trusted platforms like ACE Money Transfer can help you avoid high bank fees and send money online safely.
Yes. Valencia generally has lower rent, food, and transport costs compared to Madrid or Barcelona. It's a good option for expats who want to save money while enjoying a good lifestyle.
Yes. Valencia has several halal grocery stores and restaurants, especially in areas with a growing Romania or Muslim community.
It’s possible but harder. Some jobs in delivery, cleaning, or ethnic restaurants may not require fluent Spanish. However, speaking the language will greatly improve your chances.
Yes. Though not as large as in Madrid or Barcelona, the Romania community in Valencia is growing and supportive. You’ll find cultural events, community groups, and even mosques.
Yes. Valencia is considered one of the safest cities in Spain. It's peaceful, family-friendly, and has a low crime rate compared to other urban areas.
