Resetyl

Basque Country

San Sebastián

Last reviewed March 2026

Spain's most beautiful city—stunning beaches, world-class food, and European elegance. Expensive and rainy, but worth it for the quality of life. Small but perfect.

186k

Population

Green & Rainy

Climate

€1200/mo

1-Bed Rent

22°C

Avg Summer

Lifestyle Scores

Nightlife
7
Culture
9
Beach
10
Mountains
8
Expat Community
6
English Spoken
6
Walkability
10
Safety
10

Neighborhoods

Parte Vieja

Old town, pintxos

Historic center, bar-hopping paradise

1-bed from €1300/mo

Gros

Surf, young, local

Surf neighborhood, popular with young professionals

1-bed from €1100/mo

Monthly Budget

Minimum

€2,400

per month

Recommended

Comfortable

€3,300

per month

Luxury

€5,500

per month

Rental Prices

€850

Studio

€1200

1-Bedroom

€1600

2-Bedroom

Why Expats Love It

  • +Most beautiful beaches in Spain (La Concha)
  • +Best food scene in the world (3 Michelin star restaurants)
  • +Incredibly walkable
  • +Very safe
  • +Stunning architecture
  • +European vibe (close to France)
  • +High quality of life

Things to Consider

  • −Very expensive (most expensive after Barcelona)
  • −LOTS of rain (around 150-170 rainy days)
  • −Small city (can feel limiting)
  • −Basque language barrier
  • −Limited job market
  • −Touristy in summer

“If you can afford it and don't mind rain, San Sebastián is paradise. Best beaches, best food, most beautiful city.”

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