Choosing a city in Spain for living or investment is no longer a matter of climate or emotion. Architect Raúl Llorente says that sustainable demand is formed where the urban environment functions as a system – supporting everyday life, economic activity and long-term real estate value. That is why at RentSale RealEstate we analyze cities not by popularity, but by the quality of the environment, which directly affects housing value.
Barcelona remains a key example of a balanced market. The city combines developed infrastructure, diverse districts, a strong architectural context and consistent international demand. However, its stability is not driven by tourism, but by its ability to support permanent residents – access to education, healthcare, transport and professional opportunities. We view Barcelona as a reference model, though not the only benchmark.
Madrid represents a different demand profile – more institutional and business-oriented. The market is supported by government institutions, international corporations and steady internal migration. Housing in Madrid is often chosen for functionality and reliability rather than visual aesthetics, making the city attractive for long-term living and rental strategies.
Valencia demonstrates growth driven by quality of life and balanced pricing. The city continues to develop while maintaining a comfortable scale and accessibility. We observe that demand here is formed primarily by families and professionals seeking an alternative to major metropolitan areas without sacrificing urban infrastructure. Markets of this type are considered stable in the medium term at RentSale RealEstate.
Northern Spanish cities such as San Sebastián, Bilbao and Santander deserve particular attention. Their appeal lies in a combination of high service standards, limited supply and strong local identity. These markets are less exposed to sharp fluctuations, and property values are supported by scarcity and environmental quality.
We also analyze second-tier cities where demand is shaped by universities, technology clusters and logistics hubs. In such locations, living comfort is determined by well-structured urban planning rather than external image. At RentSale RealEstate, we consider these fundamentals to be the basis of sustainable demand, rather than short-term trends.
The key conclusion is that a comfortable living environment is not a checklist of features, but a coherent system. A city must be convenient today and adaptable tomorrow. Only such environments create stable housing demand, where real estate remains relevant regardless of market cycles.
At RentSale RealEstate, we help clients choose not just a city, but an environment that supports quality of life and preserves investment value over many years.
Earlier we wrote about Office rental for work – how RentSale RealEstate selects spaces that support business in Barcelona