Life
A Balearic love affair -
Why Are So Many Brits Moving to the Balearic Islands?
By Claire Miller
Many Brits like myself have long had a love affair with sunny destinations, but in recent years, the Balearic Islands have emerged as a particularly popular choice for those looking to relocate. Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza, and Formentera have attracted a growing number of British expats who are drawn to the region's alluring combination of climate, lifestyle, and opportunity. As of 1st January 2023 a whopping 19,625* Brits had chosen to relocate to these stunning isles. So what exactly is it about the Balearics that we all find so appealing? My own reasons for making the move to Mallorca were a combination of work & family. But I needed to research a little further to find out the wider consensus. I caught up with three other Brits who have made the islands their home, here were my findings:
A Climate That’s Hard to Resist
One of the most obvious reasons for this is the weather. The UK’s unpredictable and often gloomy climate is a far cry from the sunny, warm conditions of the Balearics. With over 300 days of sunshine a year, the islands offer a far more pleasant alternative to the often overcast skies of Britain. This is particularly appealing to retirees and remote workers who are seeking a more enjoyable day-to-day environment. The opportunity to live in a place where outdoor activities can be enjoyed year-round is an attractive proposition for those looking to enhance their quality of life.
A Laid-Back Lifestyle
The lifestyle in the Balearics is another major draw. The pace of life on the islands is notably more relaxed than in the UK, offering a welcome escape from the stress of British urban living. The local culture places a high value on family, community, and taking time to enjoy life, whether that means leisurely meals, afternoon siestas, or weekend beach outings. This slower pace is particularly appealing to those who have grown weary of the high-pressure environment that often characterises life in the UK.
A Sense of Community
For many British expats, the sense of community they find in the Balearics is another significant factor. The islands are home to well-established expat communities, where newcomers often find it easy to integrate and make friends. Social clubs, local markets, and community events offer plenty of opportunities to meet like-minded individuals. This sense of belonging is enhanced by the fact that many locals are welcoming to foreign residents, often speaking English and showing a genuine interest in different cultures.
Most common reasons
Cala Macarella, Menorca
A Better Work-Life Balance: David’s Story
For David, who relocated from the Cotswolds to San Clemente in Menorca, the move was all about achieving a better work-life balance for himself and his wife. The couple, who both had demanding careers in the UK, found themselves constantly stressed and struggling to find time for each other. The move to Menorca has transformed their lives in ways they never imagined.
"Back in the UK, we were always on the go, juggling work and personal commitments," David explains. "But here in Menorca, the pace of life is so much more relaxed. We’ve been able to slow down, prioritise our well-being, and actually spend quality time together. I still work remotely, but now I do it from a terrace overlooking the gardens of our finca, and I can finish my day with a swim in the sea. It's a level of balance we never thought was possible before."
David’s story is a testament to the appeal of the Balearic Islands for those looking to escape the pressures of the UK and embrace a lifestyle that values leisure and family time.
A Better Life for the Kids: Anna’s Perspective
For Anna, who moved from London to Alcudia, North Mallorca, the decision to relocate was driven by a desire to provide her two children with a better life—one filled with opportunities to learn new cultures and languages, and to grow up in a healthy, outdoor environment.
"Our kids are thriving here," Anna shares. "They’re learning Spanish and Catalan, which is incredible, and they’re exposed to such a rich mix of cultures. I love that they’re growing up in a place where they can be outside every day, connected with nature, and part of a vibrant international community. It’s something we could never have given them in London."
Anna’s children, like many others in the Balearics, benefit from an education system that encourages multilingualism and multicultural awareness. The emphasis on outdoor activities and the natural environment further enhances their development, making the islands an ideal place for families looking to provide their children with a well-rounded upbringing.
Alcudia, North Mallorca
A European and International Identity: Phil’s Experience
Phil, who moved from York to Palma, finds the cosmopolitan atmosphere of the city one of its biggest attractions. For him, living in Palma is about embracing a sense of being both European and International.
"Palma is such a melting pot," Phil enthuses. "You’ve got the local Mallorcans, Spaniards from the mainland, and people from all over the world living here. It feels like a truly global city, but with that Mediterranean charm. I love that I can sit in a café and hear five different languages being spoken around me. It’s given me a real sense of belonging to a larger, European community."
Phil’s experience highlights one of the key appeals of the Balearics—its ability to offer both a strong local identity and an international outlook. The islands attract a diverse range of people, creating communities that are as varied as they are welcoming. For many Britons, this blend of local tradition and global influence is a significant factor in their decision to move.
For David, Anna, and Phil, the move to the Balearic Islands has been about more than just swapping the grey skies of Britain for the sun-soaked Mediterranean. It’s been a chance to redefine their lives—whether that’s finding a better work-life balance, giving their children a multicultural upbringing, or embracing a new European identity. The Balearic Islands offer a unique lifestyle that combines the best of Mediterranean living with the benefits of being part of an international community.
As more British people look to escape the stresses of modern life and seek out new opportunities, it’s clear that the Balearics will continue to be a top choice, offering a new beginning for those ready to take the leap.