I’ve recently seen many people on forums discussing their children’s schooling, with a particular interest in international schools around Barcelona. As it happens, I’ve been researching Agora International School Barcelona myself and have looked into the surrounding areas. I’m sharing my findings here as a reference, hoping to help those who are choosing a school and looking for a place to live.
The Agora school isn’t actually in Barcelona city proper; it’s located in Sant Esteve Sesrovires. However, most families with children attending the school choose to live in the more convenient and well-developed Sant Cugat del Vallès, or the more budget-friendly Rubí. I’ve visited both places and found they are quite different.
Area Selection: Sant Cugat vs. Rubí
Sant Cugat del Vallès is definitely what you’d call an affluent area. The entire district is very well-planned, with plenty of green spaces, clean streets, and comprehensive commercial facilities. It feels like a well-equipped ‘oasis,’ offering a very peaceful and comfortable lifestyle. Of course, the downside is that it’s expensive! Both rent and daily expenses are a notch higher than in Barcelona city. However, the safety and community atmosphere here are top-notch, making it ideal for families. While you’re weighing the high living costs, you should also consider the Agora International School’s tuition fees as part of your overall budget.
Rubí is right next to Sant Cugat and offers a more down-to-earth and authentic local experience. The housing prices and rent here are much more affordable, and the cost of living is significantly lower. The town might not look as polished or glamorous as Sant Cugat, resembling a more typical Spanish town. However, it has all the necessary amenities like supermarkets, restaurants, and local services, making it a great value-for-money option. For families on a tighter budget who still want to be close to the school, Rubí is a very practical choice.
Transport and Cost of Living Comparison
Driving is necessary to get to Agora School from either of these towns, with commute times around 15-20 minutes. Relying on public transport would be quite a hassle. For trips into Barcelona city, both Sant Cugat and Rubí are served by the FGC local train, making it easy to get into the city center. I’ve put together a simple table below to compare the key points most people are concerned about:
| Item | Sant Cugat del Vallès | Rubí |
|---|
| Monthly Rent (2-bed apt) | €1,200 - €1,800 | €800 - €1,100 |
| Community Environment | Well-planned, green, quiet | Typical town, more lively |
| Cost of Living | Higher | Medium-low |
| Drive to School | Approx. 15-20 mins | Approx. 15-20 mins |
| Public Transport | More FGC lines, convenient for city access | Fewer FGC lines in comparison |
Which area to choose really depends on your family’s budget and lifestyle preferences. If you’re looking for the best community environment and educational resources and money is no object, Sant Cugat is the top choice. If you prioritize value for money and want to make your budget stretch further, then living in Rubí is an excellent alternative. I recommend visiting both places in person to get a feel for their different atmospheres before making a decision. Hope this helps everyone!
