1. Barcelona: A Great Place to Live if You’re a Foreigner
1.1 Digital Nomads in Barcelona: What’s the appeal?
1.2 International Families in Barcelona: Making the City Your Home
1.3 Which Executives Move to Barcelona?
2. Housing Options if You’re Moving to Work in Barcelona
2.1. Executive Apartments in Barcelona
2.2. Apartments for Expats in Barcelona
2.3. Luxury Apartment Rentals in Barcelona
3. The Best Neighborhoods for Expats in Barcelona
3.1. The Eixample: the Urban Heart of Barcelona
3.2. Sarrià–Sant Gervasi: Sophistication in upper Diagonal
3.3. Poblenou: A Technological and International Hub
3.4. Gràcia: The Bohemian Soul of the City
3.5. Other Neighbourhoods: Authentic and Welcoming Barcelona
4. Services and Amenities in Executive Apartments
4.1. Serviced Apartments: Immediate Comfort
4.2. Temporary Rentals: Independence and Flexibility
5. The Rental Process for Expats and Executives
5.1. Key Considerations Before Signing a Short-Term Contract
5.2. The Advantage of Working with a Monthly Rental Agency
Barcelona is not just another beautiful Mediterranean city: it is a magnet for international talent. Understanding the market for executive apartments in Barcelona and the best neighborhoods for professionals and expats is essential if you or your company are considering relocating to the city of Gaudí. Its combination of climate, infrastructure, quality of life, and global connectivity places it among Europe’s most desirable cities for professionals, and the numbers confirm it. In 2024, Barcelona ranked 21st out of 53 cities in the Expat City Ranking, particularly standing out for its high quality of life.
However, for those arriving from abroad looking to rent an apartment in Barcelona, the city can be a bit of a mystery. Everyone knows there is not only a strong professional scene but also a lifestyle that many consider ideal. Yet, the city is diverse, and not all expats are looking for the same thing. Some relocate with their families, either through a corporate transfer or as remote professionals, and they value safety, good schools, and community life. Their needs differ greatly from those of a 20-something digital nomad in tech who moves to the city for its vibrant social scene and nightlife.
In this guide, based on the extensive experience of Lodging Apartments, a company specialised in temporary and tourism rentals, we take you through the best housing choices for executives and expats, regardless of your lifestyle: the top neighborhoods, key services, and practical advice to guarantee a smooth transition. Recent data highlights a clear trend: over 300,000 expats currently live in Barcelona, representing roughly 20% of the city’s population, a figure that highlights the growing demand for housing tailored to international professionals. Here is what you can expect to find.
In recent years, both Barcelona and the wider Catalonia region have seen remarkable growth in attracting foreign investment and international business projects, further strengthening their role as strategic destinations for executives. In 2024, Catalonia Trade & Investment (ACCIÓ) secured over €1.05 billion in foreign investment, hitting record levels and generating more than 8,000 jobs.
Multinational technology and logistics firms are increasingly turning their attention to Barcelona. At the heart of the 22@ district — the city’s so-called Innovation District — more than 1,500 companies now operate across IT, audiovisual media, energy, design and research. Notable examples include gaming firm Scopely, which has opened a technology hub for 700 employees, and Lidl, which is developing major logistics platforms on the city’s outskirts, creating hundreds of jobs within close reach of the capital. Supporting this momentum, the regional government has approved a €3.2 billion expansion of Barcelona-El Prat Airport, strengthening international connectivity and facilitating executive mobility.
Digital nomads are professionals who work remotely from anywhere in the world through digital connectivity. This lifestyle has grown alongside the global shift towards remote work, the expansion of digital industries such as marketing, design, programming, consulting and content creation, and the introduction of specialised visas for international remote workers. According to the Digital Nomad Report 2024 by MBO Partners, 46% of U.S. digital nomads are between 25 and 45 years old. They are typically young, single or in relationships without children, highly qualified professionals who prioritise flexibility, mobility and quality of life over the traditional notion of residential stability.
The Digital Nomad Index 2024 by Nomad List places Barcelona among the world’s top 20 cities for digital nomads. The reasons for choosing Barcelona as a base are clear: mild weather year-round, excellent air and rail connectivity, and a vibrant international community. Neighbourhoods like Poblenou and the Gothic Quarter host numerous modern coworking spaces, making Barcelona an ideal hub for remote professionals. Furthermore, reliable and fast internet connectivity, both in homes and cafés, is well above the European average.
Foreign families moving to Barcelona usually do so for a combination of work, education, and lifestyle reasons. Many relocate after receiving offers from international companies in industries such as tech, biomedicine, engineering, finance, or design. There’s also the rise of so-called “nomad families”, couples and families who travel while working remotely and who represent around 17% of all digital nomads in 2024, according to Nomad List and MBO Partners.
Most come from countries like France, the UK, Italy, and Germany. However, there is also a growing presence of Latin American and U.S. families seeking a more balanced and secure lifestyle. Access to international schools, high-quality healthcare and excellent connectivity with the rest of Europe make the city an ideal destination for those wishing to settle down without compromising their professional ambitions. As explored in our post “BarcelonaApartments for Rent for Families”, many families achieve an ideal balance between professional life, education and wellbeing.
As noted earlier, many international executives relocate to Barcelona for corporate projects, European expansions, or to lead innovation centres. With the growth of the tech and startup ecosystem in 22@, Barcelona has become a key base for managing teams across southern Europe. These relocations are often temporary and last between 12 to 36 months, but some executives decide to stay permanently if they integrate well and find continued career opportunities. This mix of temporary and long-term stays drives demand for apartments offering flexibility, premium services, and convenient locations that make daily professional life easier.
Executive apartments in Barcelona span a range of options, from branded residences catering to senior executives to strategically located studios selected for their proximity to company headquarters. Designed for professionals relocating for corporate projects, medium-term assignments, or international transfers, these residences are typically offered on short-term rental agreements, often renewed quarterly or even month-to-month. They feature fully fitted interiors, including designer furniture, high-quality kitchenware, and linens, with strategic locations and services that enable immediate occupancy. Additional services such as housekeeping or laundry can also be arranged as needed. These apartments are often concentrated near business hubs, including the 22@ technology district and Avenida Diagonal, allowing executives to minimise commute times, optimise productivity, and settle in from day one.
Apartments for expats in Barcelona share many of the same features as those designed for executives. However, in this guide, we have chosen to treat them separately, as they are aimed at those seeking a balance between personal and professional life and who plan to stay longer in the city. Although they can be rented under a short-term contract, tenants typically remain in Barcelona for several months on average, and some may even consider a permanent relocation. Located in residential areas like Eixample, Sarrià–Sant Gervasi, or Gràcia, they tend to offer larger living spaces, fully equipped kitchens, and family-friendly surroundings with nearby amenities. The main difference between expat rentals and apartments for executives lies in the length of stay and the priority given to a family-friendly environment rather than proximity to office areas. Many expats choose monthly rental contracts in Barcelona, which combine flexibility with a higher standard of quality than that typically found in the traditional rental market.
Luxury apartment rentals in Barcelona deserve a category of their own. They are designed for senior executives and professionals seeking exclusivity, contemporary design and personalised services. In areas such as Pedralbes, Diagonal and Turó Park, it is possible to find residences featuring high-end finishes, smart home systems, private terraces, gyms, swimming pools and 24-hour security. These properties offer comfort along with a refined, professional setting that reflects the status of their residents.
In recent years, several hotel brands, including Mandarin Oriental, have expanded their portfolio to include permanent accommodation options under the hallmark of their exclusive signature style, a concept known as Branded Residences.
Visiting Barcelona’s Eixample means realising that it is easy to navigate thanks to its orderly grid layout, a design by the renowned architect and engineer Ildefons Cerdà. The Eixample, divided between the left and right sides of the imposing Passeig de Gràcia, reflects the essence of the city with its modernist architecture. It is a vibrant, well-connected area with a wide range of services, from restaurants and shops to gyms and coworking spaces. Many executives choose this neighbourhood for its balance between professional life and leisure. The Eixample also offers a wide variety of apartments, from modern studios to grand traditional flats.
Synonymous with elegance, this district combines a quiet, sophisticated residential area with the small and charming village of Sarrià, along with one of the city’s most exclusive neighborhoods, Pedralbes. The area is known for its family-friendly environment, parks, and international schools. Apartments here tend to be spacious, bright, and with open views. This neighborhood is preferred by many expat families and executives who value a discreet, safe environment surrounded by nature.
The popular Poblenou neighborhood has undergone significant transformation thanks to the 22@ technology district. It combines a coastal atmosphere with business innovation and is home to startups, coworking spaces, and creative companies. Rental apartments in Poblenou are usually modern, functional, and bright, often featuring terraces and communal spaces designed for remote work. Its proximity to the sea and lively environment make it ideal for digital nomads and technology professionals. The area attracts a wide variety of nationalities, and its public and semi-private schools offer a multicultural environment.
Gràcia retains the charm of an old Catalan village within Barcelona’s urban fabric. Its sunny squares, pedestrian streets, and creative atmosphere make it highly desirable for professionals seeking authentic neighbourhood life without being far from the city centre. Many executives and expats value Gràcia for its independent spirit, varied dining options, and bright apartments full of character. It is well connected to key business areas and while it shares Poblenou’s mix of digital, creative, and technology professionals, Gràcia offers a more relaxed pace and a strong sense of community. For those working remotely or seeking a balance between professional activity and personal life, Gràcia represents a more bohemian and cultural take on Barcelona living.
Beyond the areas most commonly chosen by executives and expats, Barcelona offers other neighborhoods that reflect the city’s genuine character. Districts such as Sants-Montjuïc, Les Corts, or Horta-Guinardó provide excellent alternatives for those looking to integrate into local life. These areas combine more accessible rental prices with a full range of services, traditional markets, parks, and safe, peaceful surroundings. In Sants-Montjuïc, wide avenues, green spaces, and sea views offer a relaxed lifestyle without sacrificing urban convenience. Les Corts balances modernity and tradition and is considered one of the city’s safest and most amenable districts. Horta-Guinardó maintains a village atmosphere, with quiet streets and a largely local population who welcome newcomers. Choosing any of these neighborhoods allows expats to experience a more local Barcelona, where daily life unfolds at a comfortable pace, providing authenticity, convenience, and affordability. These areas are ideal for executives and professionals seeking a balance between integration, tranquillity, and real connection to life in Barcelona.
The demand for apartments for executives in Barcelona reflects the need to combine comfort and efficiency, a requirement that varies depending on who is arranging the rental. For example, whether the tenant is booking the property directly or it is selected by a company. The majority of properties for rent in Spain include high-speed internet and, at higher budgets, well-designed, modern furnishings. Depending on the neighbourhood and building, more properties are now offering gyms, swimming pools, concierge services, or parking. However, not all apartments provide the same level of amenities. The available services largely depend on the tenant profile, length of stay, and type of building.
Serviced apartments are the preferred option for those who need to arrive, settle in, and begin work without having to focus on anything else. These apartments are fully equipped and managed by companies specialised in temporary or corporate rentals. They offer hotel-style services while maintaining the privacy and autonomy of a home. Typical amenities include weekly or bi-weekly cleaning, linen changes, technical maintenance, concierge support, multilingual assistance, and in some cases, 24-hour reception. Many also feature shared workspaces or coworking areas, fitness facilities, pools, or communal terraces. These features are especially valued by temporarily relocated executives or consultants rotating between projects who require flexibility without compromising comfort. Barcelona has seen significant growth in this type of accommodation, with hybrid models combining living, working, and leisure spaces that reflect the lifestyle of the modern professional.
Alternatively, many professionals opt for temporary rental apartments in Barcelona to have a deeper and more authentic experience of the city. These are fully furnished and equipped homes, but the tenant decides whether or not to contract cleaning and services. This type of rental offers independence and often larger spaces or a more residential location. In areas such as Eixample, Les Corts, or Sarrià-Sant Gervasi, tenants can find spacious apartments with balconies, natural light, and quality furnishings without relying on external services. These apartments are often warmer and more accessible for professionals relocating with family.
If you’re looking for an apartment in Barcelona and have decided on the independence that a short-term rental in Barcelona offers, take into account that the system requires careful attention to legal and administrative details to ensure a safe and efficient experience. In recent years, scams targeting foreign tenants have increased, making it essential to secure the transaction through a specialised company or a certified property agent (API).
Tenants are required to present their passport or NIE, demonstrate financial solvency through an employment contract or proof of income, and provide a security deposit equivalent to several months’ rent. In the case of executives relocated by their companies, it is common for the employer to manage the contract and payments directly, simplifying the process and ensuring regulatory compliance.
The duration of short-term contracts typically ranges between 32 days and 11 months, with the option to extend if both parties agree. Their flexibility makes them the ideal solution for international professionals, consultants, or expats staying in the city for a defined period. However, not all contracts are the same: it is essential to understand the conditions and included services before signing.
As discussed throughout this guide, a short-term rental agreement occupies an intermediate position between traditional residential and tourism accommodation. In this model, the tenant is not seeking a permanent residence, but rather a fully equipped and functional home for a professional stay.
At Lodging, we understand that professionals who choose this type of housing value three aspects above all: contractual clarity, efficiency of management, and the quality of the property. For this reason, our short-term contracts specify the services included (cleaning, maintenance, utilities), renewal terms, and any applicable penalties for early termination.
It is also important to verify that the property meets all habitability requirements, holds the necessary energy certificates, and that the managing company is registered with the Catalan Register of Real Estate Agents (AICAT). This final point ensures transparency and legal protection—standards that Lodging applies to all of its rental processes and one of the reasons why it is a preferred partner for property owners seeking to rent their homes in Barcelona with full confidence.
For newcomers to Barcelona, the support of a monthly rental agency is invaluable. It not only simplifies the administrative process but also ensures that the contract complies with local regulations and that the tenant enjoys a seamless stay.
In this regard, Lodging has become one of the leading companies in the management of high-quality short-term apartments in Barcelona, offering a portfolio that ranges from modern studios in Eixample to spacious family homes in Sarrià-Sant Gervasi.
Our management model is based on comprehensive service, from the search and selection of the most suitable property to continuous assistance throughout the stay. This approach, grounded in trust and transparency, allows executives and expats to settle in with complete peace of mind and focus on their professional activities from day one.
Drawing on extensive experience in the tourism rental sector, Lodging anticipates the most common needs of international tenants, such as language support, maintenance, flexible payment options, and multilingual assistance. These details make the difference between a simple rental and a truly personalised living experience.
Additionally, our partnerships with leading companies in fields such as interior design and smart home technology allow our apartments to offer superior comfort and functionality without compromising affordability.
For professionals and expatriates considering relocation and wanting information about the best neighborhoods for executives in Barcelona, there are many options available. Barcelona offers a growing professional landscape with an exceptional quality of life, offering possibilities to suit every lifestyle and budget.
Its cultural diversity, efficient transport network and Mediterranean atmosphere make it a city that naturally welcomes you to stay. Choosing executive apartments in Barcelona means finding the right balance between productivity and well-being.
Doing so with the expert guidance and reliability of Lodging ensures that you select a well-located property with clear contracts and professional services, guaranteeing a smooth and worry-free experience.
Start your next chapter in Barcelona today.
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