The Rising Trend of U.S. Citizens Moving to Spain: Affordable Living, Real Estate, and a Better Quality of Life.
Spain has long been a top destination for expatriates, offering a warm climate, a relaxed lifestyle, and rich cultural heritage. In recent years, an increasing number of U.S. citizens have chosen to relocate to Spain, drawn by its lower cost of living, visa options, and more affordable real estate market compared to the U.S.
With over 41,000 Americans officially residing in Spain—a number that continues to rise—Spain is becoming an attractive alternative for those seeking a new life abroad. Whether for retirement, remote work, investment opportunities, or a change in lifestyle, Spain offers a unique combination of benefits that are hard to find elsewhere.
How Many U.S. Citizens Live in Spain?
As of 2024, Spain is home to around 41,000 U.S. citizens, according to Spain’s National Statistics Institute (INE). This number has steadily increased in recent years, with a 13% rise between 2019 and 2023.
However, the real number may be much higher, as many Americans live in Spain without officially registering. With new visa options, affordable housing, and remote work opportunities, this number is expected to continue growing
Why Are More Americans Moving to Spain?
1. A Higher Quality of Life with a Lower Cost of Living
One of the primary reasons U.S. citizens are moving to Spain is the affordable yet high-quality lifestyle. The cost of living is significantly lower compared to major U.S. cities.
- Rent is 50-60% cheaper than in cities like New York, San Francisco, or Miami.
- Groceries and dining out are far more affordable, with fresh food markets and restaurants offering excellent value.
- Public healthcare is highly rated, and private health insurance costs significantly less than in the U.S.
For retirees or remote workers earning in U.S. dollars, this affordability provides a much more comfortable lifestyle than what they could afford back home.
2. More Affordable Real Estate: A Major Draw for U.S. Buyers
Another key factor behind the increasing number of Americans moving to Spain is the affordability of real estate. Compared to the U.S., Spain offers much lower property prices, making it an attractive market for:
- Retirees looking for a peaceful Mediterranean lifestyle.
- Investors seeking rental income or capital appreciation.
- Remote workers who want to own property in an affordable European country.
How Much Cheaper Are Homes in Spain vs. the U.S.?
Spain's real estate market is far more affordable than in major U.S. cities:
| City | Average Price per m² (sq. ft.) | Comparable U.S. City | Price per m² (sq. ft.) in the U.S. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Madrid | €4,000/m² (€372/sq. ft.) | New York City | €13,000/m² (€1,200/sq. ft.) |
| Barcelona | €4,500/m² (€418/sq. ft.) | San Francisco | €14,000/m² (€1,300/sq. ft.) |
| Valencia | €2,000/m² (€186/sq. ft.) | Miami | €9,000/m² (€836/sq. ft.) |
| Marbella (Costa del Sol) | €3,500/m² (€325/sq. ft.) | Los Angeles | €10,000/m² (€930/sq. ft.) |
(Source: Spanish National Institute of Statistics, 2024)
As seen in the table above, property in Spain is often three to four times cheaper than in the U.S. While prices in major Spanish cities like Madrid and Barcelona have risen, they remain far below those in top-tier U.S. cities.
Additionally, the Costa del Sol and Costa Blanca are particularly popular among American retirees and investors, with luxury beachfront properties available at a fraction of what similar homes would cost in Florida or California.
3. The Best Places in Spain for U.S. Expats
Different regions in Spain cater to different lifestyles. Some of the most popular destinations for American expatriates include:
- Madrid – The capital and largest U.S. expat hub, ideal for professionals and families.
- Barcelona – A cosmopolitan city with strong business opportunities and a vibrant cultural scene.
- Málaga & Costa del Sol – A paradise for retirees, investors, and those seeking year-round sunshine.
- Valencia – Affordable, coastal, and consistently ranked among the best cities for expats.
- Marbella – Luxury living with a strong international community.
At Landcross Partners, we assist U.S. citizens in choosing the right region based on their goals—whether it’s investment, retirement, or relocation.
The Future: Why More Americans Will Continue Moving to Spain
Several trends indicate that the number of U.S. citizens moving to Spain will keep rising:
- Post-pandemic lifestyle shifts – More Americans are seeking lower costs and better quality of life abroad.
- The rise of remote work – Digital nomads are moving to Spain to take advantage of lower costs and the new Digital Nomad Visa.
- Increased U.S. investment in Spanish real estate – As U.S. housing costs remain high, Spain presents an attractive alternative.
Thinking About Moving to Spain? Landcross Partners Can Help
At Landcross Partners, we specialize in assisting U.S. citizens looking to move to Spain. Whether you are:
- Buying a home or investment property
- Applying for a residency visa
- Seeking legal and tax assistance
Our team provides expert guidance every step of the way.
