Living in Mallorca 2025 >> The Island for Perfect Work-Life Balance

Our City Living Guide series covers the practical and emotional journey of moving to a Spanish town or city. With the observations of an Expat this combination helps you feel what it’s like to live there and — crucially — gives you confidence in making your ‘moving to Spain’ decision.

Where Sun, Culture, and Community Meet

No hay lugar en el mundo donde el verano se viva mejor que en Mallorca”
(“There is no place in the world where summer is lived better than in Mallorca”)

Spanish Proverb

Mallorca, the largest of Spain’s Balearic Islands, is a stunning Mediterranean paradise known for its golden beaches, rugged mountains, and rich cultural heritage.

Climate

Mallorca enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers averaging 30°C (86F) and mild winters around 14°C (57F). “Some locals even go swimming in the winter!” says Matt. The island receives over 300 days of sunshine annually, making it a year-round destination.

Palma, the island’s capital, offers a cosmopolitan vibe with shopping, dining, and nightlife. You’ll find different social clubs or spots where people with similar hobbies converge. Golfing is also popular amongst friends and pádel as well.

Mallorca’s villages and coastal towns provide a quieter, nature-filled existence, ideal for those seeking tranquility.

“Mallorca is, without a doubt, the heart of the Mediterranean.”

“There is so much happening here, and, at the same time, you can always get away from it all if you choose,” says Matthew, adding: “In Mallorca, I feel as if I’ve disappeared from it all, like a Jimmy Buffet song but sang in the Mediterranean.”

Expat Community

Palma and the surrounding towns are where you can easily find and create your community as an Expat. It might take a bit longer in other areas, but it is possible.

There are Facebook Expat groups where you can connect with people in a similar situation.

“Mountains, city, countryside, or beaches, what will you be having today?”

Matthew often uses this phrase with clients. “It’s the quickest way to show how much Mallorca offers in less than 10 seconds.”

Settling Down: Housing and Neighborhoods

Mallorca provides a diverse offering of lifestyles and experiences for many types of people.

For example, you have Palma City, Valldemossa, Calvià, Portals Nous, Santanyi, Portocolom, Ses Salines, Alcudia, and Deià, to name a few. Each of these places offers something unique that fits many lifestyles. While Palma can be pricey, many areas provide a high standard of living at a lower cost than big European cities.

Buying Property

The real estate market in Mallorca is very hot, although down from the post-covid boom. You can find a range of options across the island — villas, apartments, modern homes, and fincas. Because there is a lot of competition, especially in specific markets on the island, it’s best to speak with a reliable estate agent who can guide you safely through the process.

Renting in Mallorca

For rentals, the market becomes even hotter. This is fuelled partially because of demand but also because of the housing laws that have made landlords more hesitant to rent out their properties. It’s best to speak with a rental agent who is active in the market and to have a strong “renter’s packet,” which Matthew characterizes as proof of income, proof of savings, background, biography, etc. “This will put you above your competitors in the eyes of the landlords.”

Typical Rental Costs in Mallorca – Apartments (€/month)

Area	Type	1 Bedroom	2 Bedrooms	3 Bedrooms
Palma de Mallorca	City Center	1,200-1,800	1,500 – 3,000	1,800 – 4,000
Son Vida	Luxury Residential	1,500-2,500	2,500-4,000	3,500-6,000
Port Andratx	Coastal Luxury	1,400 – 2,500	1,800-3,500	2,500-4,500
Santa Ponsa	Family-friendly	1,000 – 2,000	1,200-2,800	1,800-3,500
Port de Pollença	Coastal Village	800 – 1,800	900-2,500	1,400-3,200
Bendinat	Luxury Residential	1,200-2,500	1,800-3,500	2,500-4,500
Sóller	Mountain Town	800 – 1,500	1,200-2,000	1,500-3,000
Alcúdia	Family-friendly	800 – 1,500	1,400-2,200	1,800-3,000
Calvià	Coastal Town	900 – 1,800	900-2,200	1,400 – 3,200

Note: Prices typically include community fees but exclude utilities.

Typical Rental Costs in Mallorca – Houses (€/month)

Area	Type	2 Bedrooms	3 Bedrooms	4 Bedrooms
Palma de Mallorca	City Center	1,500 – 2,500	2,500 – 3,500	3,500 – 5,000
Son Vida	Luxury Residential	2,500 – 3,500	3,500 – 5,000	5,000 – 7,500
Port Andratx	Coastal Luxury	2,000 – 3,000	3,000 – 4,500	4,500 – 6,500
Santa Ponsa	Family-friendly	1,800 – 2,800	2,800 – 4,000	4,000 – 5,500
Port de Pollença	Coastal Village	1,600 – 2,500	2,500 – 3,500	3,500 – 4,500
Bendinat	Luxury Residential	2,200 – 3,200	3,200 – 4,500	4,500 – 6,000
Sóller	Mountain Town	1,500 – 2,200	2,200 – 3,200	3,200 – 4,500
Alcúdia	Family-friendly	1,400 – 2,000	2,000 – 3,000	3,000 – 4,000
Calvià	Coastal Town	1,700 – 2,500	2,500 – 3,500	3,500 – 5,000

These figures are approximate and may vary based on property condition, location, amenities, and market trends. For up-to-date information, consult Andersen West Real Estate Agency.

Selected Mallorca Areas at a Glance

Area	Resident Profile	Characteristics
Palma de Mallorca	Expats, young professionals, retirees	The capital with vibrant cultural scene, historic architecture, cosmopolitan atmosphere
Son Vida	Wealthy individuals, retirees	Exclusive villas, world-class golf courses, panoramic views, high security
Port Andratx	Affluent Expats, retirees, boat enthusiasts, international	Cosmopolitan, bustling maritime vibe, luxury properties, scenic harbor
Santa Ponsa	Families, Expats, retirees	Family-friendly, golf courses, marina, lively evening scene.
Port de Pollença	Families, Expats, retirees	Picturesque fishing village, natural beauty, traditional architecture
Bendinat	High-income Expats, retirees	Luxurious homes, golf courses, peaceful environment near Palma
Sóller	Nature lovers, retirees, artists	Authentic village life, natural surroundings, relaxed atmosphere
Alcúdia	Families, Expats, retirees, outdoor enthusiasts	Historic town, cycling and hiking routes, safe community, beautiful beaches
Calvià	Families, Expats, retirees	Peaceful villages, stunning landscapes, modern amenities, relaxed atmosphere

The Essential Considerations

Employment Opportunities

Mallorca’s job market is seasonal and tourism-driven. It offers opportunities mainly in hospitality, real estate, and remote freelancing. While Expats can find work, employment opportunities depend on language skills (Spanish, English, and German), industry experience, and legal work status. Other sectors include yachting, education, and a wine and olive oil industry.

Tourism

While vital to the island’s economy, Matthew would like to see an improvement in the quality of tourism. “Mallorca is undergoing an unsustainable surge in tourism that hurts locals. I’d like to see a promotion of high quality and not ‘cheap tourism’,” he observes.

From Matthew’s perspective, he sees attracting Americans to Mallorca as part of the solution. “Americans normally spend more and don’t travel all this way for a cheap experience. They want to explore the countryside, stay with the locals, dine in family bars, and tour local wineries. They are less likely to stay in party areas like Magaluf than go for boutique experiences and Agroturismos owned by local families.”

Construction

The construction sector is very popular, given Mallorca’s prime real estate appeal. Infrastructure and real estate project investments provide opportunities for skilled workers in construction and related trades (electricians, plumbers).

Expat Opportunities

Mallorca is popular for digital nomads, with excellent infrastructure for remote work and co-working spaces. Many expats work remotely in tech, marketing, consulting, or creative industries.

Daily Routine and Work-Life Balance

You can expect to find a lot of tourists in the summer months looking for experiences across the island.

The island’s laid-back atmosphere and beautiful landscapes make it ideal for those seeking a better work- life balance. Many residents enjoy activities like hiking, beach visits, and exploring local markets.

“Working in Mallorca feels like I’ve found a cheat code in the system of life and retired early, even though I have to work – a good sign if I’ve ever seen one,” says Matthew.

Bureaucracy and Paperwork

Mallorca’s bureaucracy is not an easy challenge. Like any other area in Spain, the procedures are not the most efficient, and waiting times can be long.

Patience is necessary, counsels Matthew: “Mallorca and Spanish culture have taught me a lot of patience. It’s a necessary skill to have here. You will need it, whether having a sobremesa with friends or waiting for your paperwork to get approved at the ayuntamiento.”

Transportation and Getting Around

The public transportation service is reliable and can get you to almost any spot on the island. Within Palma, there are many buses with high-frequency rates, and to move from one town to another, there is also a centralized service that provides abundant different routes at any time of the day.

Since 2023, public transportation has been free for Mallorca residents and will continue to be, at least through 2025.

Walking within the town or city is very common as a means of transportation.

Palma de Mallorca Airport

United Airlines currently provides seasonal direct service between Palma (PMI) and Newark (EWR) from May through October. For 2025, United is increasing capacity by 30%, offering four weekly flights until late October.

For year-round travel, connecting flights are available through Madrid, Frankfurt, and London, with airlines like Lufthansa and KLM. At the same time, American Airlines offers routes to New York, Miami, and Los Angeles. Air Europa also connects major US destinations, including New York, Miami, and Boston.

Currently, United Airlines is evaluating the potential for a year-round service on the Newark route if winter demand proves sustainable.

Matthew adds: “Mallorca is a very central location. The airport is one of the busiest in Europe and allows you to access many European destinations in less than two-hours.”

Shopping and Amenities

Mallorca offers a unique shopping experience that blends luxury, local craftsmanship, and vibrant markets. Palma, the island’s capital, is a shopper’s paradise with its historic streets and modern shopping centers. The famous Paseo del Borne and Avenida Jaume III are lined with high-end boutiques like Louis Vuitton and Loewe, alongside popular high-street brands such as Zara and H&M.

For regular household shopping, supermarkets such as Mercadona, Carrefour, Lidl, and Eroski offer a variety of groceries, including international products.

For a more leisurely experience, Plaça Cort and Carrer Colón offer a mix of art galleries, upmarket boutiques, and traditional shops. The Mercat de L’Olivar and Santa Catalina Market provide fresh produce and local goods. Also, weekly markets in towns like Inca, Pollença, and Sineu are great for fresh produce, handmade crafts, and local specialties.

Mallorca also boasts modern shopping centers like Porto Pi and FAN Mallorca Shopping, offering many stores, dining options, and entertainment facilities. The Mallorca Fashion Outlet is another hotspot for discounted brands.

Cost of Living in Mallorca

While the cost of living in Mallorca is lower than in the US and UK, it can be considered relatively high if you compare it to the Spanish average. This is because Mallorca is one of the most popular Mediterranean tourist destinations, providing a high-quality lifestyle.

Palma de Mallorca

The capital offers a high quality of life, but it comes with a relatively elevated cost of living compared to other Spanish cities. According to LivingCost.org, it is positioned 7th out of 153 Spanish cities, with an average monthly cost of approximately $1,696. This places the city in the top 29% of the most expensive cities globally.

On the one hand, housing costs are high because there is a housing shortage at the moment, but that is also determined based on the location. For example, Palma and Andratx are considered expensive, but other villages like Felanitx, Santa Margalida, or Sineu are more budget-friendly.

Conversely, utilities, food and groceries, public transportation, and leisure costs are low. Moreover, public healthcare and public education are mostly free or at a minimum cost.

Use our Spain cost of living calculator to see the differences and plan your budget.

Typical Living Costs in Mallorca

Item	Typical Monthly Cost (€)
Cost of Living: Single person (including rent)	1900-2200
Without Rent	800-1000
Utilities (Electricity, Heating,  Water and Waste) Standard Apartment	130-180
High-Speed Internet (50 Mbps)	30-35
Meal for One: Inexpensive restaurant	15-20
Dinner (three-course) for Two: Mid-range restaurant	50-70
Groceries: Single Person	250-350
Gym Membership	30-60
Cinema Tickets	8-12
Taxi (5km ride)	12-15

Note: Costs as of February 2025

Education and Family Living in Mallorca

Mallorca is an excellent place for families, offering a high quality of life, a strong education system, and a safe environment for children.

In Mallorca, children are required to learn three languages: Spanish, Catalan, and English. If desired, schools also offer German and French classes.

Public Schools

The public education system in Spain follows the national curriculum and is free to residents. Some of the best public schools on the island include

• CEIP Son Serra (Palma)
  A well-rated primary school known for its bilingual approach
• IES Bendinat (Calvià)
  One of the top public secondary schools offering a strong academic program

Private and Semi-Private Schools

Mallorca has excellent private and international schools, offering British, IB, and bilingual programs. Semi-private schools (escuelas concertadas) receive private funding and financial support from the Government. There are tuition fees, but these are lower than fully private schools. Concertadas may have additional criteria for admission and more diverse educational options. See our guide to Spanish schools: Education in Spain >> An Easy Introduction for Expat Families.

An example worth mentioning is the American International School of Mallorca (AISM), located in the Rafa Nadal Academy in Manacor. This school uses the US education system’s Common Core State Standards (CCSS).

Other top choices include: 

• Baleares International College (BIC)
  British curriculum with campuses in Palma and Sa Porrassa
• Agora Portals International School
  IB-accredited school with a focus on multilingual education
• The Academy International School
  A small, family-oriented British school in Marratxí

Higher Education

The Universitat de les Illes Balears (UIB) is the leading university specializing in tourism, hospitality, and environmental and marine science. Other institutions focus on hotel management and tourism, reflecting the island’s strong tourism industry.

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Schools in Spain >> How to choose the best education for your child
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Health and Wellness

Mallorca’s healthcare system offers both public and private options, providing high-quality medical care.

Public Healthcare in Mallorca

Mallorca’s public healthcare system is part of Spain’s national health service, providing free or low-cost care to residents. EU citizens with an EHIC/GHIC card and residents with a Tarjeta Sanitaria health card can access state hospitals and clinic services.

The public system is well-equipped, but waiting times for specialists can be long for non-urgent procedures, and English-speaking doctors are more common in private hospitals.

Public hospitals in Mallorca include Son Espases University Hospital (Palma), the largest and most advanced hospital specializing in cardiology, oncology, and neurology. Son Llàtzer Hospital (Palma) offers general and emergency care, focusing on geriatrics and chronic disease management.

Under some circumstances, you can access the public health system as an Expat. For example, if you work in a Spanish territory (as an employee or as a self-employed), are retired, have underage kids, are a direct family member of a Spanish citizen who is a resident and works, etc.

If you don’t meet these criteria, Spain offers a special pay-in scheme called the Convenio Especial, which allows access to the public healthcare system for a monthly fee.

Matthew says, “It is such a positive cultural shock to go to the Emergency Room and to have no bill to worry about afterward!”

Private Healthcare in Mallorca

Private healthcare provides faster access, English-speaking doctors, more personalized care, and shorter waiting times. Many residents opt for private health insurance to benefit from shorter wait times and broader specialist access.

Top private hospitals and clinics include Hospital Quirónsalud Palmaplanas — renowned for orthopedics, surgery, and maternity care — and Clínica Juaneda — a leading private network with multilingual specialists and a focus on Expat healthcare.

Private health insurance monthly costs range from 50€ to 150€, depending on the coverage level.

“For US citizens, the annual cost of private healthcare can be around what they’d pay per month in the US,” observes Matthew.

READ ALSO >>>
Finding Healthcare in Spain >> Private vs Public Systems
Spanish Health Insurance for Residency & Visas >> Complete Guide

Living Like a Local in Mallorca

Daily life in Mallorca can be anything you like. If you want to spend a day shopping at the markets in the city or go hiking, the choice is yours. The island’s sunny climate produces a healthy environment, prioritizing a laid-back and healthy lifestyle.

A Taste of Life: Food, Festivals, and Traditions

Food and drink are very important for Mallorca’s culture, with dishes that highlight fresh, local ingredients. Mallorcan cuisine features a rich variety of flavors, including pa amb oli (bread with olive oil, tomatoes, and cheese or cured meats) and tumbet (vegetable casserole). Seafood lovers can savor sopes de peix (fish soup) or fresh seafood paella.

Matthew gives a special shout-out to the ensaimada, a beloved Mallorquín sweet pastry, and the local wines made in Binissalem.

Festivals in Mallorca are a vibrant and joyful experience, celebrating a delightful mix of religious and secular events. La Patum de Sóller brings a quirky charm to the festivities, overflowing with lively music, parades, and cherished local traditions.

In January, the lively Sant Antoni celebration lights up the night with bonfires and traditional foods, while the Feria de Flores de Costitx in May colorfully celebrates spring.

Easter is a particularly special time when Mallorca comes alive with heartfelt religious processions, especially in Palma, beautifully reflecting the island’s rich faith. Other exciting festivals include the colorful Sa Rua Carnival in February and the charming Festa des Vermar wine festival in September.

Summer is especially popular because it is when the verbenas take place (summer town parties), which are family-friendly and have lots of food and drinks. Live concerts can last until 5am, and you can even find amusement activities like shooting games and Ferris wheels. And do not miss the Festa de Sant Joan on June 23, where spectacular bonfires and fireworks herald the arrival of summer.

Leisure and Recreation

The weather in Mallorca is mostly sunny with no rain. Therefore, engaging in outdoor activities all year round is common.

Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy water sports like sailing, jet skiing, kitesurfing, and paddle surfing, kayaking, and scuba diving along the island’s stunning coastline. Hotspots include Port de Sóller and Cala d’Or.

For those who prefer land-based activities, mountain biking and hiking are popular options, with trails like the Serra de Tramuntana, a UNESCO-listed mountain range perfect for hiking, cycling, rock climbing, canyoning, and coasteering. There are also many races and triathlon events. There are world-class courses such as Son Vida Golf and Alcanada Golf Club for golf lovers.

For indoor activities, Mallorca has luxury spas, wellness retreats, and, for the more adventurous, indoor rock climbing and escape rooms. Families like to visit Palma Aquarium or Katmandu Park for entertainment.

Sports fans can watch RCD Mallorca, the island’s football team currently in the top La Liga division, or take part in tennis at Rafa Nadal Academy in Manacor. Whatever your interest, Mallorca has something for you.

Arts and Entertainment

Mallorca’s vibrant arts and entertainment scene showcases the island’s rich cultural heritage. Palma, the capital, is home to numerous museums and galleries, such as Es Baluard Museu d’Art Contemporani, featuring works by Spanish and international artists, and the Pilar and Joan Miró Foundation, renowned for its modern and contemporary art. Smaller galleries in Deià and Valldemossa emphasize local talent, reflecting Mallorca’s long history as an artistic retreat.

The city hosts events like the Nit de l’Art, where museums remain open late, along with various art exhibitions throughout the year.

Live entertainment thrives with performances at Teatre Principal in Palma, offering opera, theater, and concerts. The island also hosts lively music festivals, including the Mallorca Live Festival, which attracts international artists; Classical Music Festivals in Deià and Pollença, and the Jazz Festival in Alcúdia.

Additionally, Mallorca presents a range of theatrical performances, including opera recitals at the Fundació Miró Mallorca. Traditional festivals and markets, such as the Fira del Fang pottery fair, contribute to the island’s cultural tapestry.

For a more traditional experience, visitors can enjoy flamenco shows, folk music, and local festivals filled with live performances. The nightlife in Palma is lively, with trendy bars, jazz clubs, and beachfront venues hosting DJ sets.

Mallorca’s typical dance, ball de bot, is very popular and encourages community participation, with couples forming a circle and dancing to folk tunes.

Learning and Speaking Spanish

Mallorca has two official languages: Spanish and Mallorquín (a dialect of Catalan, or “Catalan with an island twist!” according to Matthew).

Palma de Mallorca is a very international city. Therefore, it is not urgently essential to speak Spanish. However, if you want to live on the island long term, it is recommended. Knowing basic Spanish or Mallorquín in more rural areas will help you feel more included.

Balancing Expectations

Overcoming challenges

“Don’t be shy!” urges Matthew. “In Spain, if you want something done, you must call many times. The same sort of goes for making connections and making friends. Don’t be afraid to speak directly and get out of your comfort zone.”

Unexpected Pleasures of Living in Mallorca

“I love how much Mallorca has to offer and the ability to be in the perfectly sized city or the peaceful countryside or beach in less than an hour,” enthuses Matthew. “It feels like long lunches with great local and international friends under a sunny terrace.”

Is Living in Mallorca Right for You?

For Matthew, the answer is a simple ‘yes’. “My fiancée and I will get married soon here in Mallorca and continue expanding our business and enjoying and improving our lives. I think this summer I will spend a lot of time on a sailboat.”

Mallorca offers the best of two worlds — modern conveniences and a thriving cultural scene combined with natural beauty and a relaxed island vibe.  As a result, it appeals to many types of Expats.

Digital nomads appreciate the island’s relaxed lifestyle, modern infrastructure, and strong Expat community, allowing them to maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Families enjoy the safe environment, excellent international schools, and outdoor activities, providing a nurturing setting for children.

Retirees are drawn to the pleasant climate, low crime rate, and high-quality healthcare, making it ideal for a tranquil retirement.

Living in Mallorca is an opportunity for everyone — whether you seek a career move or a retirement haven or are simply looking for a fresh start,

Frequently Asked Questions