Americans moving to Spain

Are you dreaming of moving to Spain from the US? Your dream can actually come true! Invest in Spain and get residency in a few short months. This article gives you useful information about how to best relocate to Spain from the US.

About Spain

Spain’s incredible international reputation comes from its delicious cuisine, breathtaking landscapes, and rich culture. Located in the South of Europe, this democratic country is blessed with sunny weather and a relaxed Mediterranean way of living. 

Praised for its high quality of life, Spain is one of the most globally popular destinations for international expats.  Since the 2013 launch of the Spain Golden Visa program, it is now possible for foreigners to invest in Spain and receive Spanish residency — ultimately leading to Spanish citizenship. The scheme has enjoyed great success and has attracted many foreigners and their families on the lookout for broader worldwide opportunities. 

Why move to Spain from the US

Benefits of living in Spain as a US expat

Living costs for Americans in Spain

If you are planning to move from the US to Spain, you will find that the cost of living in Spain is lower than in the US.

Renting costs

The rental costs in Spain is approximately 50% cheaper in Spain than in the US. To give you an estimation cost, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center costs around €600 in Spain vs. €1,200 in the US. A one-bedroom apartment outside the city center costs around €500 in Spain vs. €900 in the US.

Costs of groceries

The cost of groceries is considerably cheaper in Spain than in the US. Spain being a major producer of fruits and vegetables in Europe, you will be able to find fresh food for very cheap prices. Meat, wines, and cheese are also cheaper in Spain than in the US, and famous for their excellent quality. Make sure to try some of Spain’s local specialties such as the Jamon Serrano and Vermouth. 

Restaurant prices

Spain is famous for its excellent cuisine throughout the world. Eating out in Spain is relatively cheap compared to the US and the rest of Europe. In Spain, you can find amazing products and restaurants at very affordable prices. A meal in an inexpensive Spanish restaurant will cost around €10, while a two-course meal for two people in a mid-range restaurant will cost around €40. 

For those who enjoy drinking out, bars selling tapas, local drinks, beers, and cocktails are plentiful in Spain and very cheap. 

Americans retiring in Spain

Moving to Spain from the US

Obtain Spanish residency

Several visa options are available to American expats moving to Spain:

• Tourist visa
• Retirement visa
• Work visa
• Self-employment visa
• The investor visa (Spain Golden Visa)
• Permanent residency

Get a Spanish passport

One of the easiest ways to obtain a Spanish passport is to apply for the Spain Golden Visa. Provided that you have made an investment of at least €500,000 in the Spanish economy, you can get a Spanish passport in ten years’ time.

Ranked 4th in the world, the Spanish passport guarantees visa-free access to 187 countries, unlimited access to European countries, and the right to live, work and study in Spain without restrictions.

To learn more about the Spain Golden Visa program and its investment routes, take a look at our ultimate guide by local experts.

Talk to our advisors

If you are thinking about moving to Spain from the US, get in touch with us. One of our dedicated Global Citizen Solutions advisors will answer your queries. 

We offer a service tailored to your specific needs and requirements. Our team of experts will work diligently from start to finish, ensuring a successful application.

Professionalism and integrity are at the core of all we do.

Buying property in Spain

There has never been a better time to buy Spanish property than now. With the property prices going down, buying real estate in Spain is a fantastic life investment. Not only can buying property in Spain give you Spanish residency, but it can also bring you great investment returns, due to the high demand in short-term rentals. Some of the best places to invest in real estate in Spain are Barcelona, Malaga, Madrid, Valencia, and the Balearic islands.

Below is an estimation of Spain real estate market prices per m2 per region:

• Balearic islands = €3,113 pm2
• Madrid = €2,350 pm2
• Catalonia = €2,000 pm2
• Basque Country = €1,950 pm2
• Andalusia = €1,800 pm2
• Valencia region = €1,363 pm2

American expats living in Spain

Because of its excellent climate and high quality of life, there is a very big expat community living in Spain. British, French, and Germans make out the highest number of expats living in Spain, however, the number of American expats living in Spain is also rising. Wherever you decide to live in Spain, you will find like-minded individuals to connect with!

Frequently Asked Questions about Americans moving to Spain