Moving to Jaén

This week we look at moving to Jaén in Andalucia. Thanks to Matthew for the next in his “Go Expat In…” series

You’ll want to spend more than a year in (this) province

Ups
Great if you’re the adventurous type as you’re journeying into unfamiliar territory. South-central Spain, Jaén borders the more famous provinces of Córdoba and Granada. It’s Andalusia, but not as you know it.

Downs
If you’re a new expat, Jaén doesn’t offer the comfort zone of the costas. You’ll need to factor in the hot summers and cold winters too. Blimey, it all sounds a bit Extremadura.

In and out
Granada airport (GRX) is the closest airport. Its full name is actually El Aeropuerto de Granada-Jaén Federico García Lorca. Don’t get too excited as it lies over 95km to the south of the provincial capital, also called Jaén.

Education
Considering the number of expats in the area, international schools are conspicuous by their absence. So you’re just going to have to go local. Which will be easier on your wallet plus your kids will be able to switch between languages with the ease of somebody flipping channels on a TV remote.

Shop until you drop…
Jáen the city’s known as the world’s olive-oil capital. No surprise when the province’s Spain’s biggest producer. Check out La Aceitera Jaenera in the town centre, where you’ll be able to pick up olive oil, related cosmetics, and actual olives.

Property types
Like most of Spain, rural areas are associated with poverty. So there’s been a mass migration to the city. So, you’ll be able to pick up properties in towns and villages for as little as €30.000.

Market watch
Apartments, €30.000+. Villas and townhouses, €70.000+.

In Praise Of

“Jaén’s the place for country lovers. It’s mountainous with seas of olive groves, Spain’s largest national park and the area with most towers/castles/fortresses in Europe, not forgetting its fabulous Renaissance cities of Ubeda and Baeza and healthy olive oil. Add to these the vast seasonal changes, meaning it offers a very different climate and way of life to any coastal area.” Rachel Webb (Andalucia for Holidays)

• Are you an expat in Jaén? What do you like/dislike about it? Let us know below.

Matthew Hirtes

Matthew Hirtes, our resident broadsheet journalist, moved to Las Palmas de Gran Canaria back in 2004. He’s travelled extensively through Spain, covering it for such publications as Telegraph Travel, Metro, and The Independent. The author of Going Local in Gran Canaria: How To Turn a Holiday Destination into a Home, Matthew truly is a resident expert.

Matthew writes for two sections of Spain Buddy: Moving to Spain and Spanish Football as well as providing Reviews