Lifestyle and Community
Close-knit Community: Gibraltar's population is small (around 39,000 people), which fosters a tight-knit and friendly community where it's easy to get to know people.
Multicultural Environment: The culture is a mix of British, Spanish, and Moorish influences, making it a vibrant and diverse place to live.
Language: English is the official language, but many residents are bilingual in Spanish. A local dialect, Llanito, combines elements of both languages.
Cost of Living
Day to day: The cost of living can be high, depending on where you are coming from, however it is on a par - or often lower - than many European cities, particularly London.
No VAT: The absence of Value Added Tax (VAT) can make shopping for certain goods cheaper compared to other places.
Housing
Limited Space: Housing is limited and can be expensive. Most people live in apartments or flats rather than houses.
Modern Developments: There are new, luxury developments like Ocean Village for those seeking high-end living, but prices are higher. Older properties offer more affordable opportunities.
Work and Economy
Thriving Financial Sector: Gibraltar is a hub for online gaming, finance, and insurance industries. Job opportunities in these fields are common.
Cross-Border Workforce: Many people live in Spain (e.g., La Línea) and commute to Gibraltar for work due to the lower cost of living in Spain.
Weather and Outdoor Life
Mediterranean Climate: Hot summers and mild winters, with plenty of sunshine.
Outdoor Activities: The Rock of Gibraltar offers hiking opportunities, while the surrounding waters are great for boating, diving, and dolphin watching.
Beaches: Being almost entirely surrounded by sea, Gibraltar has several beaches offering different vibes, such as the peaceful Sandy Bay or the more family orientated Camp Bay.
Transport and Accessibility
Compact and Walkable: Everything is within walking distance, and public transport is affordable and reliable.
International Access: Gibraltar has its own airport with flights to the UK, and the border with Spain provides easy access to the Costa del Sol and beyond.
Healthcare and Education
High-Quality Services: Healthcare is free for residents and comparable to the UK NHS.
British System: The education system follows the British curriculum, and there are opportunities for higher education locally and in the UK.
Culture and Entertainment
Events and Celebrations: National Day (September 10th) and other local events showcase Gibraltar's unique identity.
British Pubs and Mediterranean Dining: The mix of British and Spanish influences is reflected in the food and nightlife.
Challenges
Crowded at Times: The small size can make it feel cramped, especially during tourist seasons.
Traffic and Parking: Limited space means parking can be a challenge, and traffic congestion is common during peak times.
Border Delays: The land border with Spain can experience delays, which might inconvenience commuters and residents.
In summary, Gibraltar offers a mix of British comforts and Mediterranean charm, but its small size and high costs might not suit everyone. If you value community, sunny weather, and unique cultural experiences, it can be a rewarding place to live.