Where to Live in Mallorca
Neighbourhoods compared by vibe, average rent, and who they suit — from Palma's streets to the mountain villages.
2 neighbourhoods in North
Pollença / Port de Pollença
Avg rent
€900–€1,600 / mo
Affluent, tranquil, traditionally expat
The classic English expat heartland of Mallorca. Pollença town is stunning — a Calvary hilltop, weekly market, and genuine community. Port de Pollença is calmer, less developed than the south, and enormously popular with British long-termers.
Best for
Pros
- ✓Beautiful setting
- ✓Strong expat community
- ✓Outstanding hiking (Tramuntana nearby)
Cons
- ✗Far from Palma (55 km)
- ✗Limited in winter
- ✗Can feel like an expat bubble
Alcúdia / Port d'Alcúdia
Avg rent
€800–€1,400 / mo
Family-friendly, well-connected, resort-y
Alcúdia has one of Mallorca's best medieval walled towns. Port d'Alcúdia opens onto the island's widest sandy bay. Popular with German families. Better amenities than you'd expect for a resort town, and quieter than the south.
Best for
Pros
- ✓Long sandy beach
- ✓Well-preserved old town
- ✓Good German-speaking services
Cons
- ✗Very quiet October–April
- ✗Tourist infrastructure can feel overbearing in summer
Rent reality check
Prices have risen sharply
Mallorca rents increased 40–60% between 2020 and 2025. Budget significantly more than you'd expect from older expat guides.
Avoid summer searches
Tourist rental demand inflates prices June–September. The best deals on long-term contracts are found October–February when competition is lower.
Long-term vs tourist rental
A proper Contrato de Arrendamiento de Vivienda (LAU) gives you tenant protections. Avoid month-to-month tourist contracts for year-round living — they're costly and insecure.