Americans have shared why so many of them are moving to Spain, as US population in the country has increased by 25% in two years, hitting 50,000.
Some Americans attributed their move to politics, in particular the Trump’s administration, according to a survey sent out by Spanish organisation The Local.
Some survey respondents cited concerns over gun violence, while others claimed the fabric of the US society had fallen apart, and the political divide ran through “every aspect” of American life.
Jim G, a retiree who moved to Spain in 2020, said: “Very sad to see how the fabric of the US society has fallen apart.”
Spain’s public healthcare system, which is free for primary and emergency care, also attracted Americans as it is overall much more afforable than the States.
American John Johnston, who now lives in Marbella, believes that “quality private health care” is also better in Spain.
Spain’s cost of living was also cited as a reason, despite salaries being less than €30,000 (£24,770) on average in most industries, according to Talent.com, compared to $66,622 (£52,901) in the States, according to Social Security Administration.
American retirees moved because their pensions could stretch further, as well as the working population who had moved on Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa.
Another factor is the ease and affordability of travelling to different European countries, which was a combined reason for Lawrence from Los Angeles who moved to Madrid “as a base to see Spain and Europe, also for the lower cost of living“.
Overall quality of life was also thought better in Spain by some respondents, cultural events, transport, moderate climate, and year round activities, and the ability to walk more. Personal reasons were also at play, such as having family ties in Spain, or moving for love.
There were obviously setbacks upon arrival to Spain, with over half complaining about lengthy visa application processes, lots of paperwork when moving, and trouble applying for appointments online.
Added to that was finding a place to live, as Spain is currently in a housing crisis, highlighted by the many anti-tourism protests this year calling for tighter restrictions on tourist housing so that locals can afford or have space to live.
Valencia resident Eric Kenney said: “Finding a place to rent was our biggest challenge. A lot of places won’t rent to people with foreign or investment incomes”.
Respondents also cited the language as a challenge, with some having expected that the majority would speak English.