Choosing the right neighborhood is one of the most important decisions when moving to Barcelona, especially for families with children and expatriates arriving from abroad. Each district in the city offers a unique personality, different services, and varying levels of accessibility. This comprehensive guide will help you make an informed decision based on your specific needs.
Key Factors for Families and Expatriates
Before analyzing specific neighborhoods, it’s important to understand which factors are crucial when choosing where to live in Barcelona with family:
International Schools
Barcelona has over 50 international schools offering British, American, French, German, and International Baccalaureate (IB) curricula. Proximity to these institutions is a priority for expatriate families wanting educational continuity for their children.
Main available educational systems:
- British curriculum (British School of Barcelona, Kensington School)
- American curriculum (Benjamin Franklin International School)
- French (Lycée Français de Barcelone)
- German (Deutsche Schule Barcelona)
- International Baccalaureate (IB) in various schools
Safety and Tranquility
Families prioritize neighborhoods with low crime rates, quiet streets, and safe spaces for children to play. Barcelona is generally safe, but significant differences exist between districts.
Green Spaces and Recreation
Parks, gardens, children’s play areas, and beach proximity are highly valued elements for families. Availability of extracurricular activities, sports centers, and cultural facilities is also crucial.
International Community
For expatriates, living in neighborhoods with established international communities facilitates adaptation, offers networking, and reduces culture shock. Neighborhoods with high expatriate concentrations usually have English-language services and a multicultural atmosphere.
Cost of Living
Family budget largely determines available options. Barcelona offers alternatives from premium neighborhoods to more affordable options without sacrificing quality of life.
Top 5 Neighborhoods for Families and Expatriates
1. Sarrià-Sant Gervasi: The Premium Choice
Average price: €6,086/m² (purchase) | €24-28/m² monthly (rental) Typical 3-bedroom rental: €2,200-3,000/month Profile: High-income families, international executives
Sarrià-Sant Gervasi is Barcelona’s most exclusive district and the first choice for expatriate families with resources. Located in the upper part of the city, it combines elegance, safety, and Barcelona’s best educational services.
Main advantages:
Elite schools: Concentrates the highest density of premium international schools:
- Benjamin Franklin International School (American curriculum, IB)
- Lycée Français de Barcelone (French system)
- Kensington School (British)
- Oak House School (British, IB)
- Escola Suïssa de Barcelona (Swiss system)
Residential atmosphere: Tree-lined streets, elegant buildings, quiet atmosphere reminiscent of a village within the city. Sarrià Square is the neighborhood’s heart, with traditional market, cafes, and local shops.
Superior safety: One of Barcelona’s safest neighborhoods with low crime rates. Ideal for children to walk to school or play in parks with peace of mind.
Green spaces: Jardins de la Vil·la Cecília, Jardins del Palau de les Heures, Parc de l’Oreneta with picnic areas and pony club.
Premium services: Gourmet supermarkets (Veritas, Jaime), private clinics (Clínica Barraquer, Centro Médico Teknon), boutique gyms, high-end restaurants.
Transport: Excellent connectivity via FGC (Ferrocarrils de la Generalitat) with stations at Sarrià, Reina Elisenda, Tres Torres, and Sant Gervasi. Quick access to center (15-20 minutes).
International community: High concentration of expatriate families, especially American, French, and British. Easy to make friends and professional networking.
Disadvantages:
- High price, Barcelona’s most expensive
- Less nightlife and youth scene
- Distance from center and beach (20-30 minutes)
Ideal for: Families with high budget prioritizing elite international education, maximum safety, and quiet residential atmosphere.
2. Eixample: Central and Cosmopolitan
Average price: €5,854/m² (purchase) | €26-28/m² monthly (rental) Typical 3-bedroom rental: €1,800-2,500/month Profile: Young professionals, couples with small children, executives
Eixample is Barcelona’s geometric heart, famous for its perfect grid designed by Ildefons Cerdà and impressive modernist architecture. It’s the perfect option for those wanting to live in the center without sacrificing space and services.
Main advantages:
Privileged central location: Allows walking to most places: offices on Diagonal, shops on Passeig de Gràcia, restaurants, theaters, museums. Everything is 10-15 minutes on foot.
Unique architecture: Living surrounded by masterpieces by Gaudí (Casa Batlló, La Pedrera), Domènech i Montaner, and other modernist geniuses. High ceilings and large windows characterize Eixample apartments.
Nearby international schools:
- Agora Barcelona International School (Dreta de l’Eixample)
- Escola Thau Barcelona (Waldorf pedagogy)
- Liceo Francés (nearby in Sant Gervasi)
- American School of Barcelona (accessible in 20 min)
Exceptional connectivity: Five metro lines (L1, L2, L3, L4, L5) cross Eixample, plus dozens of bus lines and Bicing (bike sharing).
Complete services: All types of commerce, supermarkets, 24h pharmacies, medical centers, gyms, language academies, and extracurricular activities.
Cultural life: Theaters (Teatre Nacional de Catalunya, L’Auditori), cinemas, art galleries, bookstores, and constant cultural events.
Diverse community: Mix of locals, long-term expatriates, and newcomers. Cosmopolitan and international atmosphere.
Eixample subdivisions:
- Dreta de l’Eixample: More premium, near Passeig de Gràcia
- Esquerra de l’Eixample: More family-friendly, quieter streets
- Sant Antoni: Up-and-coming area, renovated market, bohemian atmosphere
- Fort Pienc: More affordable, near Sants station
Disadvantages:
- Traffic and noise on main avenues
- Less green spaces (though has urban parks)
- High price in premium areas
- Tourism in very central areas
Ideal for: Families valuing central location, culture, cosmopolitanism and not wanting to depend on cars. Perfect for expatriates working in the center.
3. Sant Martí: Beach, Technology and Modernity
Average price: €4,500/m² (purchase) | €22-25/m² monthly (rental) Typical 3-bedroom rental: €1,500-2,200/month Profile: Young tech professionals, modern families, beach lovers
Sant Martí is Barcelona’s largest and most diverse district, combining renovated industrial areas, beaches, the 22@ tech district, and traditional residential neighborhoods.
Main subdivisions:
Poblenou (22@): Barcelona’s Silicon Valley
- Price: €4,000-5,000/m²
- Tech hub with startups, tech companies (Adevinta, Typeform, Wallapop)
- Industrial architecture converted to modern lofts
- Young, entrepreneurial, creative atmosphere
- Parc del Centre del Poblenou and Rambla del Poblenou
- Growing international school offerings (OneSchool Global)
- Beach proximity (10-15 min walking)
- Ideal for: Tech professionals, startup founders, young families
Vila Olímpica: Beachfront
- Price: €5,200-5,800/m²
- Olympic development from 1992, modern buildings
- Direct access to Barceloneta and Nova Icària beaches
- Olympic Port with restaurants and nautical leisure
- Coastal parks perfect for children
- International and tourist atmosphere in summer
- Ideal for: Families prioritizing beach and nautical activities
La Verneda and La Pau: Affordable residential area
- Price: €3,500-4,200/m²
- Quiet neighborhoods, modern buildings
- Well connected by metro (L2, L4)
- Local commerce, family atmosphere
- Ideal for: Families with tight budget
Sant Martí district advantages:
- Value for money: More affordable than Eixample or Gràcia with modern apartments
- Beach proximity: Active Mediterranean lifestyle
- 22@ District: Employment opportunities in tech sector
- Green spaces: Parc del Poblenou, coastal gardens, beach
- Connectivity: Metro L1, L2, L4, tram, buses
- Growth: Constant revaluation, new developments
Disadvantages:
- Far from premium international schools (15-25 min by car)
- Less cultural offerings than Eixample or Gràcia
- Some areas still developing
Ideal for: Young and modern families, tech sector professionals, water sports lovers and beach life.
4. Gràcia: Bohemian and Community Charm
Average price: €4,800/m² (purchase) | €24-26/m² monthly (rental) Typical 3-bedroom rental: €1,600-2,200/month Profile: Bohemian families, artists, creative professionals, cultural expatriates
Gràcia was an independent town until 1897 and has preserved its neighborhood character, with charming squares, local shops, and strong sense of community. It’s the favorite option for families seeking authenticity and artistic atmosphere.
Main advantages:
Unique atmosphere: Emblematic squares like Plaça del Sol, Plaça de la Virreina, Plaça del Diamant, each with its own personality. Terraces, cafes, authentic neighborhood life.
Strong community: Active neighborhood associations, local festivities (Festa Major de Gràcia in August is spectacular), family-friendly and welcoming atmosphere.
Local commerce: Mercat de la Llibertat, independent shops, alternative boutiques, specialized bookstores.
Culture and art: Cines Verdi (art cinema), independent theaters, art galleries, artist studios.
Schools: Several quality Catalan public schools, ESCOLA THAU (Waldorf pedagogy), and proximity to Sant Gervasi international schools (15-20 min).
Connectivity: Metro L3, L4, FGC (Gràcia station), multiple buses. 10-15 minutes from center.
Green spaces: Parc Güell (Gaudí’s masterpiece), small gardens in squares.
Subdivisions:
- Vila de Gràcia: Neighborhood heart, more lively
- Camp d’en Grassot: Quieter, family-friendly
- La Salut: Upper area, near Parc Güell, more residential
International community: Growing number of expatriates attracted by authenticity and quality of life.
Disadvantages:
- Narrow streets, can be difficult to park
- Fewer international schools in the neighborhood
- Can be noisy in main squares at night
- Old apartments may need renovation
Ideal for: Families valuing community, local culture, authenticity, and bohemian atmosphere. Expatriates wanting Catalan cultural immersion.
5. Les Corts: Residential Tranquility near Camp Nou
Average price: €4,900/m² (purchase) | €22-24/m² monthly (rental) Typical 3-bedroom rental: €1,500-2,000/month Profile: Families with children, professionals, sports fans
Les Corts is a quiet residential district located between the center and upper area, known for housing Camp Nou (FC Barcelona stadium) and offering a very safe family atmosphere.
Main advantages:
Safety and tranquility: One of Barcelona’s safest neighborhoods, ideal for families with young children.
International schools:
- Col·legi Alemany (Deutsche Schule)
- Liceo Francés nearby (15 min)
- Several quality charter schools
Local commerce: Mercat de Les Corts (traditional market), supermarkets, family businesses.
Green spaces: Jardins del Palau Reial de Pedralbes, Parc de l’Espanya Industrial, Parc de Cervantes (rose garden).
Connectivity: Metro L3, L5, FGC, Trambaix. Quick access to Diagonal and highways.
Camp Nou proximity: For football fans, living next to the stadium is a dream. Barça Museum and official store.
Atmosphere: Quiet streets, modern and some classic buildings, residential atmosphere without tourism.
Disadvantages:
- Less nightlife and youth scene
- Less cultural offerings than Eixample or Gràcia
- Somewhat far from beach (25-30 min)
Ideal for: Families prioritizing tranquility, safety, and proximity to German or French schools.
Other Neighborhoods to Consider
Pedralbes: Maximum Exclusivity
Ultra-premium area with villas, private gardens, consulates, and embassies. For families with very high budgets seeking maximum privacy.
Horta-Guinardó: Affordable Alternative
Quiet residential neighborhoods in upper area, more economical (€3,500/m²), well connected, with parks like Parc del Guinardó.
Sants: Maximum Connectivity
Near Sants Station (AVE, regional trains, metro, buses), ideal for families who travel frequently.
Neighborhood Comparison Table
| Neighborhood | Price €/m² | 3-bed Rental | International Schools | Safety | Beach | Summary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sarrià-SG | 6,086 | €2,200-3,000 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ❌ | Premium, elite schools |
| Eixample | 5,854 | €1,800-2,500 | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ❌ | Central, cosmopolitan |
| Sant Martí | 4,500 | €1,500-2,200 | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ✅ | Beach, tech, modern |
| Gràcia | 4,800 | €1,600-2,200 | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ❌ | Bohemian, community |
| Les Corts | 4,900 | €1,500-2,000 | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ❌ | Quiet, family-friendly |
Tips for Choosing Your Neighborhood
1. Visit at different times: Tour the neighborhood on weekdays and weekends, day and night, to truly understand the atmosphere.
2. Talk to residents: Ask expatriates already living there about their experience. Facebook groups like “Barcelona Expats” are useful.
3. Consider your daily routine: Where will you work? Where will children go to school? Minimize commute time.
4. Research schools first: School defines your search radius. Some schools have school bus, others don’t.
5. Realistic budget: Consider total cost: rent + community + utilities + transport + school.
6. Duration of stay: If temporary (<2 years), prioritize convenience and services. If permanent, invest in community and integration.
Useful Resources for Expatriates
Associations and groups:
- Barcelona Expats (Facebook Group)
- Internations Barcelona
- Barcelona Metropolitan (expat magazine)
- Newcomers Network Barcelona
Housing search websites:
- Idealista, Fotocasa (main ones)
- Spotahome, HousingAnywhere (verified)
- Barcelona Expat Housing (specialized)
School information:
- Barcelona International Schools Association
- British Council Barcelona
- The Lemon Tree Education
Conclusion
Barcelona offers exceptional options for families and expatriates, each neighborhood with its distinctive character. Sarrià-Sant Gervasi reigns as the premium option for those prioritizing elite international education. Eixample offers cosmopolitan life in the city’s heart. Sant Martí combines modernity, technology, and sea proximity. Gràcia provides authenticity and bohemian community. Les Corts offers residential tranquility perfect for families.
The key is defining your priorities: education?, location?, budget?, lifestyle? There’s no universal perfect neighborhood, but there is the perfect neighborhood for you and your family.
For personalized advice on finding housing in Barcelona adapted to your family, contact Pedro Ochoa Inmobiliaria. We have agents specialized in assisting expatriates and international families.
