Spain still top spot for Brits retiring to Europe

New figures from the Office for National Statistics have confirmed that Spain retains the top spot when it comes to Brits’ choice of European countries to which to move.

Spain accounted for an impressive 37% of all British citizens living in the EU (excluding those in the UK and Ireland) as at 1 January 2017, according to the newly released figures.

“Spain continues to be the most desirable location for the three-quarters of a million Brits living in the EU.”

Jay Lindop, Deputy Director of Migration Statistics, Office for National Statistics

While two thirds of Brits living in the EU are aged 15 to 64, Spain attracts an older demographic, with 41% of British expats there aged 65 and above. The high proportion reflects Spain’s appeal to those in their golden years – something which leading Spanish home builder Taylor Wimpey Espana recognises well. The company’s stylish, thoughtfully designed homes have been popular with older buyers for decades and remain so to this day.

“Spain has so much to offer those who are retired or approaching retirement. The Mediterranean climate and diet are well suited to those looking for a healthy lifestyle, while the medical system here is also superb.

“Wellbeing is a key issue and one that we build into all of our developments, from their on-site pools for exercise and relaxation, to homes on golf courses for those looking to enjoy the benefits of regular activity as they age.”

Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Director of Taylor Wimpey Espana

A study by the University of Pittsburgh, University of Nevada and University of California on the effect of exercise on the brain as we age found that elderly adults who regularly walk longer distances suffer 50% less cognitive impairment than those who are less active. As such, the combination of world-class golf courses and plentiful sunshine that Spain offers is certainly conducive to a healthy lifestyle.

At Le Caprice, in Benhavis, Marbella, residents can enjoy the natural light and beautiful views over the Westin La Quinta Golf Resort and Spa.


The spacious, ground floor homes with gardens and deluxe penthouses are set within a gated community, providing a sense of serenity and security that Taylor Wimpey España has found suits older residents extremely well. The lush gardens and sizeable communal pool provide the ideal setting for a happy, healthy lifestyle, while the apartments themselves offer tasteful accommodation with plenty of room for visiting family members.

Meanwhile, keen golfers of all ages will be delighted by the bright, airy homes at the Costa del Sol’s Green Golf. With panoramic views over Estepona Golf to the sea, few locations in Spain offer such an idyllic setting. The 48 houses all feature three bedrooms and three bathrooms, along with spacious terraces. Landscaped communal gardens and pools complete the impressive offering.

“We design our homes to appeal to residents of all ages, from families with young children to retirees living alone or as couples. Generously proportioned terraces and spacious living areas mean that residents can enjoy the space as they wish, adapting its use to suit their particular lifestyle. We also take care to locate our developments appropriately, with the proximity of shops, health centres, schools and other amenities factored in at an early stage.

“As Spain remains the top choice in Europe for Brits living overseas, it’s important to provide accommodation that suits their preferences and budgets.”

Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Director of Taylor Wimpey España

In total, some 293,500 British citizens live in Spain, according to the ONS figures. As the country maintains its popularity – with working-age Brits as well as with retirees – so too will leading companies like Taylor Wimpey España continue to provide the services that the British community in Spain demands.