living Andorra
The European microstate of Andorra is one of the most beautiful corners of the continent, and millions of people go on a holiday in Andorra every year. Those who visit rarely want to leave, and some actually don’t. That’s because some visitors decide that living in Andorra full time is the way forward for them, and make arrangements to stay there.
In this blog post, we’ll answer the question of “Is Andorra a good place to live?” and look at a few of the most important living in Andorra pros and cons. So, let’s delve deeper and explore this wonderful country some more!
What is it like living in Andorra?
What is living in Andorra actually like? Especially compared to a holiday there. Well, the alpine beauty and the outdoor adventure that you experience on holiday is all still there, but you’ll also be even more warmly welcomed into the community. With a population of approximately 80,000 people, Andorra has the charm of a small town but with all the infrastructure and amenities you’d expect in a modern and thriving European country.
Benefits of living in Andorra
Let’s take a closer look at some of the benefits of living in Andorra. For starters, the quality of life in Andorra is consistently ranked among the best in the world, as the country enjoys a clean and beautiful natural environment with low pollution levels, while there is also very little crime even in the urban areas. Whether you’re looking to raise a family, to retire or to work, the microstate can provide a peaceful and secure setting, which more and more people are seeking in the fast-paced world of today.
As well as being generally peaceful, Andorra is also a land of fun, thrills and adventure. There are so many Andorra winter activities and Andorra summer activities, and if you live there you’ll be even closer to the action. Andorra is a year-round playground for its residents, a haven for skiers, snowboarders, hikers, cyclists and nature lovers in general. The country’s emphasis on outdoor activity is part of a broader wellness culture, where people prioritise physical health, fresh air and an active lifestyle.
Among the other benefits to living in Andorra is the country’s high-quality and efficient public healthcare system, its favourable tax system and its position in the heart of Europe. The fact that Andorra isn’t actually a member of the European Union, nor a part of the Schengen Area, could be considered a disadvantage, but it does have special agreements and arrangements with other nations.
Cost of living in Andorra
When it comes to the cost of living in Andorra, expenses can of course vary based on individual preferences and lifestyle choices. However, overall, the cost is considered moderate and manageable.
Recent data ranks Andorra around the mid-range in terms of European living costs, placing it 20th on the continent, with average monthly expenses for a single adult estimated at approximately €1,222.
Additionally, since Andorra uses the euro as its official currency, it’s especially convenient for newcomers from other eurozone countries or anyone planning to continue financial activities in euros after relocating.
Housing, groceries and transportation costs
As is the case in most countries, the cost of living in Andorra is largely dependent on housing, groceries and transportation. Looking at these three elements in a little more detail, a one-bedroom apartment in an Andorran city is estimated to cost around €1,020 on average, according to Numbeo, while a one-bedroom apartment in the Andorran countryside is estimated to cost around €810 on average.
As for groceries, the average cost of a litre of milk is €1.11, for a loaf of bread is €1.21, for 12 eggs is €2.03 and for a kilogram of rice is €1.90. Then, in terms of transport in Andorra, a one-way ticket on local passport is estimated to cost €1.90 on average.
Practical tips for expats living in Andorra
Let’s finish up by answering a few more questions you may have about living in Andorra. One might be “Can a UK citizen live in Andorra?” and the answer here, as is the case for most countries, is usually yes. You won’t usually require a visa for a trip of less than 90 days, but you will need a work permit if you plan to live and work in Andorra on a longer-term basis. Since Andorra isn’t part of the EU, there is no freedom of movement the same way as some other European countries, but many people are able to obtain a work permit, with this process able to be kicked off via the Andorra government website or by visiting an Andorran embassy to request further information.
Another common question is “Can I speak English in Andorra?”. The answer is that in most of the country you will be able to speak English, since this is a common second language for many Andorran residents. Keep in mind that the official language of Andorra is actually Catalan, but Spanish, French, Portuguese and English are all commonly spoken in the principality too.
Hopefully you now have a better idea of whether or not Andorra is a good place to live. The first step, of course, would be to visit for a short trip, whether a skiing holiday in Andorra or a summer Pyrenean adventure. The second step, if you fall in love with the region, would then be to further investigate the details outlined here.