How to choose the right area in Mallorca according to your life stage

Mallorca is not a homogeneous island. Living in Palma is very different from living inland, in a quiet coastal area or in a family-oriented residential neighbourhood. For this reason, one of the most common mistakes when moving to the island is choosing an area based solely on general references or holiday experiences.

At Balear Invest, we work with a clear principle: the right area depends on each person’s stage of life. Below, we outline which areas tend to suit each profile best, with specific examples.

Singles and those prioritising urban and social life

This profile usually looks for vibrancy, walkable services, restaurants, culture and year-round activity.

Areas that tend to work best:

• Palma city centre (Jaume III, Sindicat, La Missió): urban living with everything within walking distance.
• Santa Catalina and Son Espanyolet: social atmosphere, dining scene and an international community.
• El Terreno and La Lonja (renovated areas): close to the Paseo Marítimo and the city centre, with an active nightlife.

May not be suitable if you…

• Are looking for absolute quiet or large outdoor spaces.
• Feel uncomfortable with nightlife or tourist activity.

Couples seeking balance and medium-term stability

At this stage, the need for more space and tranquillity often arises, without giving up access to services or proximity to Palma.

Recommended areas:

• Portixol and Molinar: high quality of life, seaside living and close to the city centre.
• Son Armadams / Son Dureta: well-connected residential neighbourhoods.
• Blanquerna area: close to the historic centre and urban schools.
• Marratxí (Pont d’Inca, Pla de na Tesa): more property for the same budget and good transport links.

Key priorities for this profile:

• Good connectivity
• Areas with year-round life
• Homes suitable for long-term living

Families with children: stability and services

When children are involved, the choice of area has a major impact on daily life.

Areas that tend to be a good fit:

• Colegiado / Son Rapinya / La Vileta: close to schools and green areas.
• Blanquerna area: near the historic centre and urban schools.
• Marratxí: family-oriented residential developments, space and tranquillity.
• Calvià (Bendinat, Costa d’en Blanes): residential environment and international schools.

Key priorities here:

• Nearby schools and nurseries
• Larger properties
• Safe and quiet surroundings
• Other families with children living in the area

Remote workers and international professionals

This profile seeks to combine functionality with an attractive living environment.

Commonly chosen areas:

• Palma city (well-connected neighbourhoods, not necessarily the centre).
• Esporles, Santa Maria, Alaró, Inca: villages with character and good connections.
• Portixol / Molinar for those who value working close to the sea.

Key factors:

• Reliable internet connection
• Bright, well-designed homes
• Services available all year round

Retirees and those seeking calm and quality of life

At this stage, the pace of life changes. The focus is on wellbeing, surroundings and comfort.

Areas that often suit this profile:

• Inland villages such as Santa Eugènia, Sencelles or Binissalem.
• Quiet coastal areas: Santa Ponça, residential Cala Mayor, Colònia de Sant Jordi.
• Established residential areas close to medical services.

What is especially valued:

• Tranquillity
• Accessibility
• A stable, year-round community

The right area is not the most popular one, but the one that fits you

Moving to Mallorca is not a one-size-fits-all decision. An area that is ideal for one person may not work for another, even with a similar budget.

At Balear Invest, we help our clients translate their stage of life into the right property decision, analysing not only the home itself, but also the surroundings, lifestyle and long-term outlook.

Because choosing the right area is, ultimately, choosing how you want to live in Mallorca.