As short-term rental experts in Barcelona, at Lodging Management we have witnessed Barcelona become a favoured destination for expats and digital nomads alike. Backed by various international studies and rankings, the city has solidified its reputation as an ideal place for both work and business opportunities.
The Boston Consulting Group’s recent report, Decoding Global Talent 2024, ranked Barcelona as the 8th most attractive city for working abroad, surpassing cities like Tokyo, Los Angeles, and Paris. Meanwhile, the 2023 Barcelona Observatory Report highlights the city’s appeal for visitors and entrepreneurs, and The Economist’s Resilient Cities Index places Barcelona among the world’s top ten most resilient cities.
What draws expats and digital nomads to Barcelona, and what type of accommodation are they seeking for their temporary stays?
A Thriving Hub for Startups and Coworking Spaces
One of Barcelona’s major attractions is its vibrant business environment, with a strong presence of startups, coworking spaces, and business accelerators. This dynamic environment cultivates innovation, collaboration, and professional development.
Barcelona also hosts major international events like the prestigious Mobile World Congress, which draws experts and leaders from the tech and creative industries. These gatherings provide excellent networking opportunities, allowing professionals to forge valuable connections and share knowledge.
The city’s Mediterranean climate is another draw, with mild temperatures year-round that make outdoor activities like walking through the city’s streets and parks, exploring historic areas, or enjoying iconic beaches like Barceloneta a regular part of life. These spaces are ideal for unwinding after a productive day and contribute to a healthy, active lifestyle.
Barcelona’s rich cultural attractions add to its appeal as well. Renowned for its treasure trove of modernist architecture, the birthplace of Gaudí features his iconic works, such as the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell. The city is also home to a diverse array of museums, galleries, and festivals, ensuring there is always something new and exciting to discover.
Finally, Barcelona’s food scene is a major attraction, with everything from traditional Catalan tapas to Michelin-starred restaurants. The diversity of different cuisines available ensures there is something for every taste, turning every meal into an opportunity to explore the city’s restaurants.
What Expats and Digital Nomads Want in a Short-Term Rental
As Barcelona’s popularity grows among expats and digital nomads, so too does the demand for short-term rental properties. For these individuals, finding the right place to live is one of the first and most important steps of settling into the city. They are not only looking for a place to live comfortably, but a space that allows them to be productive and move around easily.
Drawing on our two decades of experience as short-term rental experts in Barcelona, we have compiled a few key factors this demographic considers when choosing their rentals:
Flexibility
Since their stays can range from a few months to a year, they need rental options that don’t lock them into long-term commitments. Short-term contracts are often ideal, offering flexibility to extend or shorten their stay based on their personal or professional needs.
Prime Location
Location is another important consideration. Many expats prefer to be close to the city centre or in well-connected neighbourhoods with easy access to coworking spaces, cafes, restaurants, and interesting attractions. Popular neighbourhoods like El Born, Gràcia, Poblenou, and the Eixample offer the ideal balance of vibrant atmosphere and convenience. Proximity to public transport, bike-friendly streets, and walkable areas are also favoured by guests, as is access to green spaces for those who enjoy outdoor activities.
Work-Ready Spaces
A well-equipped workspace is a must for digital nomads. Apartments with reliable Wi-Fi, a comfortable desk, and proximity to coworking spaces are highly sought after.
Amenities and services
Many expats and digital nomads prefer fully furnished apartments that are move-in ready. They look for homes that come with everything from furniture and appliances to kitchenware and linens. The inclusion of additional services like regular cleaning, maintenance, and laundry are often a deciding factor, allowing tenants to focus on their work and enjoy their free time without having to worry about household chores.
Expert Guidance
Relocating to a new city can be challenging, which is why professional assistance can make all the difference. As short-term rental experts in Barcelona, we not only help our clients find suitable accommodation but we also offer advice on the best areas to live, the necessary paperwork, and tips on living in the city. This support can significantly ease the transition and allow newcomers to focus on their personal and professional goals. Barcelona remains a top choice for expats and digital nomads who are looking for much more than just a place to live. At Lodging Management, we are dedicated to making the relocation process as smooth as possible, offering tailored short-term and seasonal rental solutions that meet the expectations of demanding tenants, while also helping property owners adapt their homes to meet this growing demand.
