City Life or Quiet Villages? Choosing Where to Live in Asturias

May 5
4 min read

A rainbow after an afternoon rain in Gijón, Asturias.

If you’re considering a move to Asturias, Spain, one of the first things to decide is not just where you’ll live, but how you want to actually live your day-to-day.

Will you pick a small, well-connected city like Gijón or Oviedo, or would you prefer a quieter life in a coastal town or mountain village?

It’s not just a location choice. It shapes your daily routine, your social life, and how easily you settle into life in northern Spain.

Here’s how you can figure out which option suits you best.

City Life in Asturias: Easy, Connected, and Low-Stress

Asturias doesn’t have large, overwhelming cities. That’s part of its appeal.

Cities like Oviedo, Gijón, and Avilés have everything you need, but on a smaller and manageable scale.

Oviedo is known for being clean, safe, and well-organized.
Gijón combines beach living with a lively social scene.
Avilés offers a quieter, more affordable alternative.

If you’re moving to Asturias, especially from abroad, cities may make the transition easier, especially if you are still learning Spanish.

You’ll find:

Healthcare, schools, and services close by
Walkable neighborhoods
Public transport options
More flexibility if your Spanish is still a work in progress

Many people are surprised by how close everything is. Even in the larger cities, you’re never far from nature. You can get to the coast or the mountains in less than 30 minutes.

Town and Village Life: Slower, Scenic, and More Immersive

A quiet village street in Piloña, Asturias.

Step outside the cities, and Asturias changes completely.

Here you’ll find the landscapes that make the region famous: green valleys, rugged coastline, and traditional communities.

Popular areas include:

Llanes, a coastal town with growing international interest
Ribadesella, known for its relaxed seaside lifestyle
Cangas de Onís, a gateway to the Picos de Europa.

These places offer a very different experience compared to southern Spain. Rather than large developments or resort-style living, you’ll find traditional towns, local culture, and unspoiled surroundings.

Life here can be quiet and connected to nature, but it does come with some trade-offs.

You may need:

A car for daily life
Spanish for everyday communication
More planning for services and amenities

Some people see this as a drawback, while others find it exactly what they seek in their transition to Spain.

Do You Need to Speak Spanish in Asturias?

Language is one of the most important practical factors when deciding where to live.

Spanish is the main language used throughout Asturias, although the region also has its own traditional language, Asturian, which you may hear in rural areas or see on signage.

In day-to-day life:

In cities, you can get by with basic Spanish at first
In towns and villages, Spanish becomes essential

English isn’t widely spoken outside tourist areas, so you’ll usually need Spanish for everyday tasks like appointments, shopping, and paperwork. Plus, it’s such a treat to be able to stop and chat with your neighbors, shopkeepers, and others. Small talk can make a big difference.

Cities are usually more forgiving as you learn the language. In smaller communities and being able to communicate makes a big difference in how comfortable and connected you feel.

Cost of Living in Asturias

One of the biggest reasons people consider moving to Asturias is affordability.

Compared to other parts of Spain:

Property prices are generally lower.
Coastal areas tend to be less commercialized with public access.
Daily expenses are generally reasonable.

Cities like Gijón and Oviedo are slightly more expensive locally, but still affordable compared to major Spanish cities. In rural areas, you’ll often find better value, especially if you’re looking for more space.

For many buyers, Asturias offers something that’s becoming rare: coastal or countryside living without high prices.

City vs. Town Living in Asturias: Quick Decision Guide

If you’re unsure where to live in Asturias, this breakdown can help clarify things.

Consider a City (Oviedo, Gijón, Avilés) if you:

Require easy access to services, healthcare, and schools.
Prefer an active social and cultural life.
Prefer public transportation and walking to reliance on a car.
You are still building confidence in Spanish.

Consider a Town or Village (Llanes, Ribadesella, Cangas de Onís) if you:

Value peace, space, and natural surroundings
Work remotely or are retired.
Seek more property for your budget.
Prefer a slower pace of life.
Feel comfortable using Spanish every day.

Consider a Middle Ground if you:

Want quieter surroundings without full isolation.
Like being within 10 to 30 minutes of a city.
You are relocating gradually.
Seek access to both the coast and the countryside.

This option is often the best long-term fit for people moving to Asturias.

So, Where Should You Live in Asturias?

There isn’t a single right answer, but there is a right fit for your lifestyle.

If you want convenience, accessibility, and a smoother transition, starting in a city is often the easiest option.

If you’re looking for space, nature, and a more significant lifestyle change, towns and villages offer something special.

One common mistake is choosing based only on scenery. The reality of daily life—transport, shopping, communication—matters just as much over time.

Final Thoughts

Living in Asturias isn’t just about choosing a place—it’s about choosing a pace of life.

Whether you settle in a coastal city or a quiet village, the region offers a slower, greener, and more authentic alternative to other parts of Spain.

Thinking About Moving to Asturias? Start Here

If you’re considering relocating or buying property, narrowing down the right area early can make a big difference.

Asturias offers a wide range of lifestyles within a relatively small region. That variety is part of its appeal—but it can also make the decision harder if you’re unsure what to prioritize.

Want Help Finding the Right Area?

If you’re not sure whether a city, coastal town, or rural village is right for you, getting local insight can make things much clearer.

You can: