In recent years, residential mobility in Catalonia has undergone a profound shift. More and more residents of Barcelona are choosing to leave the big city in search of a quieter, more affordable, and higher-quality lifestyle, opting to live near Barcelona in more pleasant environments. Municipalities in the Vallès Oriental, such as Granollers, have become the preferred destinations for this new migratory trend, giving rise to what many now call the New Vallès.
This phenomenon reflects not only urban and economic dynamics, but also a shift in life priorities, where concepts such as enjoying the city without suffering its downsides are gaining prominence.
In this article, we explain why more and more Barcelonians are choosing the Vallès Oriental as the place to build their new life.
Urban exodus: figures that confirm the trend
According to the Statistical Institute of Catalonia (Idescat), in 2022 more than 13.500 people left major Catalan cities to settle in smaller municipalities. Barcelona lost around 10,079 net inhabitants, confirming a consolidated urban flight.
Furthermore, a report from the Institut Metròpoli indicates that over the next five years, up to 70,000 people could leave the metropolitan area of Barcelona in search of towns near Barcelona that offer more accessibility and a better quality of life.
The “New Vallès” has been a real revelation in recent years. Municipalities such as Granollers, Cardedeu, Mollet del Vallès, and La Garriga are experiencing continuous growth, attracting those seeking a more relaxed lifestyle without giving up the connectivity and services of the big city.
Where to live near Barcelona? Real options for 2025
This is one of the most frequently asked questions today among those hoping to improve their quality of life: Where to live near Barcelona?
The best options combine accessibility, natural surroundings, services, and still reasonable prices. Some of the most in-demand towns are:
| Municipality | Estimated Population | Distance to Barcelona | Main Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Granollers | 62,000 | 30 km | Commercial and services capital |
| Cardedeu | 19,000 | 35 km | Residential and family-friendly environment |
| L’Ametlla del Vallès | 9,000 | 37 km | Quiet area with chalets and nature |
| La Garriga | 16,000 | 38 km | Thermal tourism and historical heritage |
| Mollet del Vallès | 52,000 | 20 km | Urban profile and competitive prices |
| La Roca del Vallès | 10,000 | 30 km | Nature, residential life, and outlet shopping centre |
- Granollers: The county capital of Vallès Oriental and the region’s main residential destination. With excellent infrastructure and a wide range of services, Granollers is ideal for those seeking the perfect balance between urban living and natural surroundings.
- Cardedeu: Known for its peaceful atmosphere and extensive green spaces. Ideal for those who want a more rural environment, yet just 30 minutes from Barcelona.
- La Garriga: This town stands out for its modernist heritage and thermal tourism, but is also known for its excellent quality of life, with many single-family homes and privileged natural surroundings.
- Mollet del Vallès: One of the closest cities to Barcelona, which has grown significantly in recent years thanks to its relatively low housing prices and good connectivity.
- L’Ametlla del Vallès: A more relaxed destination, ideal for those who want to be surrounded by nature and enjoy tranquillity, with easy access to the city.
- La Roca del Vallès: With a privileged natural environment and a strategic location just 30 kilometres from Barcelona, La Roca stands out for its peaceful residential atmosphere. In addition, its well-known outlet mall, La Roca Village, provides economic dynamism and a wide range of leisure and services.
Advantages of living in the Vallès Oriental
Moving to towns near Barcelona, such as those in the Vallès Oriental, is not only an economic decision, but also a strategic one for those seeking a more balanced lifestyle. Granollers and other municipalities in the region offer numerous advantages for anyone wanting to enjoy the benefits of living close to the Catalan capital, but in a more relaxed environment.
Here are some of the main advantages of living in the Vallès Oriental:
1. More affordable and spacious homes
One of the biggest attractions of moving to the Vallès Oriental is the affordability of housing. In Granollers, the average price per square metre is around €2,300/m², much lower compared to Barcelona, where average prices can exceed €4,500/m² in high-demand neighbourhoods. This means that for the same budget, you can obtain a larger home, whether it be a spacious flat, a terraced house, or a detached chalet, often with gardens and outdoor space.
Additionally, being surrounded by nature, many new residential developments in the Vallès Oriental are designed to offer sustainable homes in green environments—perfect for families seeking outdoor spaces. This difference in the cost of housing is a key factor for those seeking a better quality-price ratio and more personal space without sacrificing proximity to Barcelona.
2. Higher quality of life
The Vallès Oriental is known for its high quality of life. Unlike large cities, here you can enjoy more nature and a more relaxed pace, which has a positive impact on well-being. Residents have access to a wide variety of urban parks, hiking trails, and green areas for family activities, exercise, or simply unwinding after work.
The fresh, clean air, combined with less traffic congestion and lower noise levels, allows people to live at a slower, calmer pace. This translates into less stress, more well-being, and an overall improved quality of life. Living in the Vallès Oriental also means being close to natural areas such as the Montseny Natural Park or the Serralada Litoral Park, perfect for lovers of outdoor activities.
3. Excellent connectivity with Barcelona
Despite the tranquillity it offers, the Vallès Oriental is perfectly connected to Barcelona, making it an attractive location for those who need to commute to the capital for work or study. The Rodalies Renfe train network (lines R2 and R3) connects towns such as Granollers to Barcelona in just 30 minutes. In addition, the AP-7 motorway provides fast car access, making the distance between both areas easily manageable.
This allows residents to enjoy the calm of the Vallès while still accessing all the services and opportunities that Barcelona offers. This excellent connectivity also benefits remote workers, enabling them to reach the city whenever necessary without giving up the advantages of living in a more peaceful environment.
4. A more balanced lifestyle
Remote work has completely transformed the way people think about where they live. Increasingly, people prefer to move to towns near Barcelona rather than living in the city. They seek a balance between personal and professional life. Living in the Vallès Oriental offers more space, peace, and the possibility of enjoying a more relaxed and balanced lifestyle.
Additionally, remote work has enabled many professionals to look for a less hectic environment where they can combine well-being and productivity. The proximity to Barcelona allows easy access to the city without experiencing the daily stress of a large metropolis.
Conclusion: Living near Barcelona in the Vallès Oriental
Moving to Granollers and the Vallès Oriental is becoming increasingly popular. It offers the services and amenities of a large city in a safe and relaxed environment.
The good connections, affordable housing, and proximity to nature make the Vallès Oriental an ideal alternative for those who want a life change without moving far from the capital.
If you’re looking to live near Barcelona, enjoy a calmer environment, and pursue a better quality of life, the Vallès Oriental offers the perfect balance between city, nature, and well-being.
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