Top Cities in Spain for Developers & Software Engineers

Spain, the enchanting land of flamenco, sun-soaked beaches, and captivating history, is also making waves in the tech industry. With its growing startup ecosystem and a thriving IT sector, it has become an attractive destination for software developers seeking exciting opportunities.  From major tech players like Amazon and Facebook to significant startups founded in Spain like Typeform and Cabify, there are a host of tech winners thanks to the Spanish ecosystem.  Let’s explore the top cities in Spain for developers and software engineers, where innovation meets culture and career dreams become a reality.

Barcelona – The Mediterranean Tech Hub

Nestled on the northeastern coast of the Iberian Peninsula, Barcelona stands out as one of Spain’s leading tech hubs. The city boasts a vibrant startup scene, fueled by a mix of local talent and a steady influx of international developers. Barcelona’s allure lies not only in its breathtaking architecture and sandy shores but also in its top-notch educational opportunities.  Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya (UPC) is known for its strong engineering and computer science programs, and Universitat de Barcelona (UB) is a prestigious institution with a solid computer science department.

Barcelona is host to many tech events, including the Mobile World Congress, one of the world’s largest and most influential mobile technology conferences, held annually in Barcelona. 4YFN (4 Years From Now) runs concurrently with MWC, dedicated to startups and entrepreneurship. The Barcelona Tech City Summit is a gathering of key players in the tech industry, entrepreneurs, and investors to discuss trends and opportunities. These are a few reasons Barcelona is atop the list of top cities in Spain for developers.

U.S. Companies with Barcelona hubs:  Amazon, Facebook, Cisco

Barcelona startups:  Glovo – on-demand delivery, Typeform – online surveys and forms

Madrid – Where Tradition Meets Innovation

As Spain’s capital and largest city, Madrid offers a unique blend of rich history and contemporary tech opportunities. The city is a magnet for multinational tech companies and startups alike, making it a fertile ground for software developers seeking dynamic roles. Madrid’s robust tech ecosystem is supported by a range of incubators, accelerators, and innovation centers. Whether you’re interested in fintech, e-commerce, or cybersecurity, Madrid has something to cater to every tech enthusiast’s taste.`

Madrid is home to several universities that specialize in software development, including:

• Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (UPM), a top-rated technical university with excellent computer science and engineering programs.
• Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), one of Spain’s oldest and most prestigious universities, offering comprehensive computer science degrees.

U.S. Companies with Madrid hubs:  Google, Microsoft, IBM

Madrid startups:  Cabify – ride-hailing, Jobandtalent – online job marketplace

Valencia – The Rising Star of Tech

Nestled on the southeastern coast, Valencia is rapidly emerging as a hotbed for software developer talent. Boasting a lower cost of living compared to Barcelona and Madrid, the city is increasingly attracting tech entrepreneurs and startups. Valencia’s emphasis on digital transformation and commitment to tech-based solutions make it an ideal destination for developers looking to have a lasting impact on society. Additionally, the city’s cultural richness, highlighted by its famous Fallas festival, adds a unique charm to the tech community.

Valencia boasts several technically focused universities, including Universitat Politècnica de València and Universitat de València.  UPV is highly regarded for its engineering programs, including computer science and software engineering, while UV is a prominent university with a strong focus on CS studies. It also features Lanzadera, a startup accelerator and incubator based in Valencia, fostering entrepreneurship and innovation in the tech industry.

Valencia startups:  PlayFilm – interactive video technology, HEMAV – drone solutions

Bilbao – The Tech Renaissance

Known for its transformation from an industrial port city to a thriving cultural and technological hub, Bilbao offers software developers a diverse range of opportunities. As the largest city in the Basque Country, Bilbao hosts a burgeoning tech scene, fueled by the region’s strong focus on research and development. The city’s commitment to sustainable technologies and smart city initiatives provides developers with a chance to work on cutting-edge projects that align with the global tech agenda.  It also features the University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), which is recognized for its engineering programs and dedication to research in computer science.

Major companies with Bilbao hubs: Siemens Gamesa, Iberdrola

Bilbao startups:  Ontruck – logistics / freight transportation optimization

Seville – Where History Meets Innovation

Seville, with its storied past and stunning landmarks, is gradually becoming a go-to destination for tech-savvy professionals. The city’s strategic location in the south of Spain and its investment in digital infrastructure have resulted in a flourishing tech ecosystem. Seville’s unique appeal lies in its ability to preserve its historical essence while embracing modern technological advancements. As a software developer in Seville, you’ll find ample opportunities to work on exciting projects that bridge the gap between the past and the future.  Sevilla also features the Universidad de Sevilla, offering quality computer science and engineering programs with a focus on innovation.

Major companies with Seville hubs: Abengoa, Accenture

Bilbao startups:  YBVR – virtual reality immersive experiences, Carto – location intelligence

Spain:  Time Zone Aligned Talent for all of Europe

Spain’s irresistible blend of culture, history, and technological advancement makes it a dream destination for software developers seeking new horizons. From the cosmopolitan allure of Barcelona to the cultural riches of Seville, each city offers a distinct experience while providing abundant opportunities for professional growth. If you’re looking for a strong culture of developer innovation, the top cities in Spain for developers have something remarkable to offer.

Terminal opens up the fantastic talent in Spain to growing companies in Europe and U.S.  Time-zone aligned full-time and contract developers can be a powerful accelerator for your business, and the ability to work remotely from anywhere is very transformative.  Interested in learning more? Talk to us today or start browsing our talent for free!