Why living in Girona is one of the best decisions in 2026

Living in Girona: a city with real balance

Girona combines the best of two realities: the charm and calm of a “human-scale” city with the cultural and service offer typical of a modern capital. It is easy to move on foot or by bicycle, there is an active cultural agenda, and the natural environment is so close that it changes the way of living day to day.

Moreover, the lifestyle Girona offers fits what many buyers are currently looking for: less noise, more quality, more pleasant spaces, time for oneself, and at the same time good connection with other cities.

How much does it cost to live in Girona?

Before moving to a city, it is key to analyze the cost of living with concrete figures. Compared to Barcelona or Madrid, Girona offers a more contained cost, especially in housing, while maintaining a high level of services and quality of life.

Housing

• Rent: €800 – €1,400 depending on the area (Eixample, Palau, Montjuïc, or Barri Vell).

• Purchase: average between €2,800 and €3,500/m²; prime areas can exceed €4,000/m².

Typical monthly expenses

• Utilities (average apartment): €130 – €200

• Food: €350 – €400 per couple, combining supermarkets and local shops like Mercat del Lleó

• Transport: compact city; many trips on foot or by bike (urban pass approx. €20–30)

Approximate total budget

• Single person: €1,200 – €1,600/month

• Couple: €1,800 – €2,400/month

• Family: from €2,400/month (depending on housing and type of school)

Overall, Girona is not a cheap city, but it does offer a very balanced cost–quality ratio, with less pressure than large capitals and a high level of services.

Barri Vell and heritage: living inside a postcard without giving up comfort

Barri Vell is one of the best-preserved historical centers with the most character. Walking through the Call, going up to the Cathedral, or touring the walls is an everyday experience for those who live here. And this has a direct consequence on housing: there is high demand for charming apartments, renovated estates, and unique properties.

Real estate key: the historic center mainly attracts buyers looking for character, location, and heritage value. It is ideal as a second home, selective investment, or for those who want to live in the heart of the city.

Nature nearby: mountains, greenways, and coast close

One of the main reasons living in Girona is so attractive is that nature is not an escape: it is part of everyday life. There are routes, forests, paths, and green spaces just minutes away, and the Costa Brava is at a very accessible distance.

This proximity to nature and the sea is especially valuable for:

• Families who want active weekends.

• Professionals seeking real disconnection.

• Athletes (cycling, trail, triathlon).

• International buyers who value healthy environments.

Girona, cycling paradise: a culture that moves economy and lifestyle

Girona has become a world reference point for cycling. It is not only because of the routes: it is because of the ecosystem. There is a community, specialized services, workshops, cyclist cafés, and an international environment that has helped position the city as an ideal base to train and live.

Routes for all levels

Whether you are looking for challenging climbs or easier routes, Girona offers variety: mountains, greenways, itineraries to the coast, and routes ideal for accumulating kilometers.

Cycling community and social life

Cycling here is also a lifestyle: meetings, groups, activities, and spaces designed for cyclists. This impacts the real estate market because many cyclists (and digital nomads) look for homes with:

• Storage or space to keep bicycles.

• Terrace or balcony.

• Good location to start routes.

• Practical finishes and natural light.

Living in Girona with children: education, health, and safe environment

Girona is especially valued by families looking for a manageable, safe environment with accessible services.

Educational centers

The city has a wide and consolidated network of educational centers — public, semi-private, and private — allowing families to choose according to educational project and budget.

Reference public centers:

• Escola Migdia

• Escola Domeny

• Escola Eiximenis

Notable semi-private centers:

• Col·legi La Salle Girona

• Col·legi Maristes Girona

• Escola Bell-lloc del Pla

Private and international centers:

• St. George's School Girona

• Montessori Palau Girona

Additionally, the presence of the University of Girona provides educational continuity and academic dynamism to the city.

Healthcare services

In terms of health, Girona has reference facilities such as the Hospital Universitari de Girona Doctor Josep Trueta, as well as primary care centers distributed across neighborhoods, ensuring nearby and accessible coverage.

Family lifestyleThe combination of green areas, quiet residential neighborhoods like Palau or Montjuïc, sports activities, and proximity to nature makes Girona a comfortable city for family day-to-day life. For many families, the true value is being able to walk to school, reduce travel times, and maintain a more balanced pace.

Gastronomy and culture: an extra that also drives demand

Girona is a recognized gastronomic destination, with cuisine based on local products and Mediterranean identity. But beyond the known names, the real value is in the quality of the everyday offer: markets, restaurants, cafés, and cultural proposals that bring the city to life.

Real estate key: cities with a strong gastronomic and cultural offer tend to attract residents with greater stability and purchasing power, which reinforces demand in certain areas and housing types.

Connectivity: living calmly and being connectedGirona is especially attractive because it combines tranquility with accessibility:

• Railway connections (including high speed).

• Proximity to the airport.

• Good mobility to Barcelona and other points.

This is key because many purchasing decisions are based on a clear idea: living in a better place without losing connection.

Where to live in Girona: ideal neighborhoods according to your lifestyle

The key question is not only “Girona yes or no,” but which neighborhood fits your lifestyle best. Below are the areas with the highest demand and the typical client profiles who usually look for them:

Montjuïc

Montjuïc stands out for its panoramic views and calm atmosphere. It is highly valued by families looking for homes with spacious areas and consolidated residential environments. Additionally, it offers proximity to schools and parks, making it ideal for a balanced family lifestyle.

Palau

Palau is one of the most demanded neighborhoods byfamilies. Its wide and well-connected streets, together with the availability of local services such as shops, schools, and green areas, make it a practical and pleasant place for day-to-day life. Life in Palau combines comfort and moderate urban rhythm.

Sant Daniel

Sant Daniel is synonymous with nature and calm. Surrounded by green areas and close to natural routes, this neighborhood is perfect for those seeking disconnection without moving away from the city. It is highly valued by those who enjoy outdoor walks and a relaxed environment.

Eixample and Devesa

These areas combine urban comfort with complete services. Eixample and Devesa offer good connection with the center, functional residential spaces, and proximity to parks, shops, and public transport. They are ideal neighborhoods for those who want an urban lifestyle without giving up tranquility and accessibility.

Barri Vell

Barri Vell stands out for its historic heritage and unique charm. Ideal for those who want to live in the heart of the city, surrounded by history and culture, and value properties with character. It is especially attractive as a selective investment or second home, combining urban lifestyle with heritage value.

Investing in real estate: why Girona is a solid bet in 2026

When a city gains traction for quality of life, connectivity, and international demand, the real estate market tends to maintain sustained interest (especially in well-located and quality product).

Girona stands out for:

• Diversified demand (local + international + second home)

• Attraction of specific lifestyles (cycling, culture, nature)

• Value in consolidated residential areas

• Interest in homes with light, terraces, functional spaces, and efficiency

Practical recommendation: before investing, it is advisable to analyze the objective (living / renting / second home), location, revaluation potential, and maintenance costs. Proper advice makes the difference, and at Engel & Völkers Girona we accompany you with local experience, updated information, and selected real estate options.

How to find the ideal home in Girona

If you are considering living in Girona in 2026, the next step is to define three aspects:

• Lifestyle (center, nature, family, calm, active)

• Type of housing (apartment with terrace, house with garden, charming estate, new build)

• Purpose of staying in the city (primary residence, investment, second home)

If you want, we can help you identify the ideal area, compare options, and find properties that fit your budget and goal. At Engel & Völkers Girona we accompany you with local insight, market data, and a carefully curated selection of products.

Frequently asked questions about living in Girona

• Is it a good idea to live in Girona if I work remotely? Yes. Girona combines quality of life, services, good connection, and an ideal environment to disconnect. Many professionals especially value the city’s pace and proximity to nature.

• Which are the best neighborhoods to live in Girona? It depends on what you are looking for: Montjuïc and Palau are highly demanded by families; Sant Daniel for nature and calm; Eixample for convenience; and Barri Vell for charm and location.

• Is Girona a good city to invest in real estate in 2026? It can be, especially in well-located products with good demand. Sustained interest and the diverse buyer profile make it an attractive market if proper analysis is done.

• Which type of housing has the most demand? Normally, bright homes, well-distributed, with outdoor spaces (terrace/balcony) and practical location. In premium areas, unique properties also have high demand.

• Is living in Girona suitable for families?Y es, especially because of lifestyle, services, and the possibility of combining city with nature. Residential areas like Palau or Montjuïc usually fit families very well.

• What is the first step if I want to buy a home in Girona? Define objective (living/investing), budget, and preferred areas. Then, it is advisable to speak with a local advisor to compare neighborhoods, types, and real market opportunities.