Irish Family in Spain: Free Nursery & School
Tired of exorbitant childcare costs? Discover how one Irish family found financial freedom and a better quality of life by relocating to Spain’s Costa del Sol. This family’s story highlights the compelling reasons behind their move: affordable living, access to free nursery and school options, and a sun-soaked, relaxed lifestyle. Faced with crippling childcare expenses in Ireland, they sought a solution and found it in a country that perfectly balances work and family life. The family now owns a villa with stunning views and a thriving real estate business, proving that bold moves can pay off. News Directory 3 explores the challenges and triumphs of their transition, shedding light on the surprising benefits of embracing a new culture and seizing opportunities. What are their future plans?
family Finds a Better Life Through Spain Relocation
Updated June 03, 2025
Spain is increasingly becoming a sought-after destination for those seeking a fresh start.For many Europeans, especially those from northern countries, spain offers an appealing combination of good weather, a relaxed lifestyle, and relatively low living costs. One family’s story exemplifies this trend.
Sandra Laurie, along with her husband, warner, and their two children, Oliver and Abi, decided to leave Ireland in 2017 for Spain’s Costa del Sol. The high cost of childcare in Ireland, nearly 2,000 euros monthly, coupled with other economic pressures, motivated their move to a more affordable and sunny climate. The family now enjoys life in a villa with a pool and sea views, purchased in 2022.
“We had already met other families who lived on the Costa del Sol, and their relaxed and outdoor lifestyle with the children made us realize what we were missing,” Sandra Laurie said. “We said: ‘Its now or never’.The Costa del Sol offered sun, family life and a healthier way of life.”
Before relocating,the Laurie family faced meaningful financial strain. Despite earning good salaries, childcare expenses consumed a large portion of their income.Medical costs for their son’s asthma added to the burden, forcing them to make challenging choices between healthcare and essential bills. This constant stress prompted them to seek a change.
Upon arriving in Spain, the Lauries experienced an immediate advancement in their lifestyle. Childcare costs drastically reduced to about 200 euros per month, thanks to subsidized and free nursery options and primary schooling. The family also noted lower daily expenses, such as affordable dining and free outdoor activities.
“Despite good salaries, the cost of life in Ireland caused life to be extremely difficult… We basically worked to pay another person to raise our children,” Laurie said.
The move also provided unexpected benefits for their children, who are now fluent in multiple languages and enjoy a more active, outdoor lifestyle. The family appreciates the welcoming and inclusive nature of the Spanish culture.
With an initial investment of 50,000 euros from the sale of their Irish home, the Lauries established a real estate business in 2018.Their success in property investment allowed them to purchase their dream home. Sandra laurie believes they coudl not have achieved the same level of success in Ireland due to higher operational costs and less support for working parents.
“Living abroad, especially in Spain, has given us something we never had in Ireland: Time,” Laurie concluded.”It is time to enjoy life, raise our children, build a business and prosper, not just survive.”
What’s next
The Laurie family intends to remain in Spain indefinitely, encouraging others to consider the benefits of relocating for an improved quality of life and financial stability.