The Rise of the American Diaspora: Moving to Spain from the US

 

Thinking of moving to spain from the US? In recent years, there’s been a noticeable surge in US citizens packing their bags and heading eastward to set up home in Spain. This European country, with its sun-drenched beaches, rich cultural history and a vibrant lifestyle, has proved increasingly attractive to Americans seeking a change of scenery.

The Sur in English reported just this week that US reservations to Andalusian destinations soar by 52.5% this summer.

Málaga and New York will be linked by a direct flight at the end of this month, operated twice a week by United Airlines with just a six hour journey in the air. This new connection has become a key factor in the boost of American arrivals to Andalusian destinations this summer.

A Growing Trend: The Increase in US Citizens Moving to Spain

Spain has always been a favored destination for expatriates, but there’s been a marked increase in the number of Americans specifically choosing to live in this beautiful corner of Europe. According to Right Casa, more than 39,812 US nationals resided in Spain as of February 2023. This number has risen by over 13% since 2019, making US expats one of the largest foreign communities in the country.

The reasons for this shift are manifold, from the lower cost of living to the appealing Mediterranean lifestyle. However, one factor that stands out is the increasing number of educational facilities catering to Americans. Just last year, the Atlas American School of Málaga opened its doors in Estepona, offering American families a familiar educational platform for their children in the Costa del Sol.

Moreover, Spain also offers an appealing opportunity for those seeking to pursue their professional goals. With a thriving economy and companies increasingly recognizing the value of global talent, Spanish cities are becoming attractive hubs for US professionals.

For example, Madrid is one of Europe’s leading cities for technology companies. It’s home to a thriving start-up scene and offers Americans the chance to work at global tech giants such as Amazon, Google, and Microsoft.

The Allure of Spain: Why US Citizens Are Falling in Love

The Culture

Aside from the professional opportunities, there’s also a lot to love about Spanish culture. The country is renowned for its welcoming and relaxed atmosphere, as well as its delicious cuisine. Throw the tomato fights of La Tomatina and flamenco dances into the mix, and you have yourself a recipe for a vibrant, exciting lifestyle that’s hard to find in other countries.

The Climate

When it comes to the climate, Americans will be pleased to know that the south of Spain has more hours of rays than anywhere else in Europe – a crucial consideration for those looking for a sunnier escape. With an average of around 3,000 hours of sunlight a year, you can be sure that days at the beach or exploring the countryside won’t be few and far between.

The Landscape

Let’s not forget Spain’s diverse landscape – from beautiful beaches to stunning mountains and historic cities – US citizens are never short of things to do and places to explore. Visit the gorgeous Costa del Sol for a spot of sun, or head only 2.5 hours North for some snowboarding in Sierra Nevada. You can even take a stroll through the ancient streets of Seville or Granada and experience Spain’s rich history first-hand.

The Cost of Living

There’s no denying that Spain is also significantly more affordable than other European countries – particularly for US citizens. Rent, food, transportation and entertainment are all significantly cheaper when compared to cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, or New York.

The cost of living in a city in southern Spain, such as Estepona, remains notably lower too. This is especially true for expenses such as rent, utilities, groceries, daycare and health insurance. For instance, the average rent for a 1 bedroom apartment in the city centre of Estepona is around €850.00, while rent in San Francisco can easily exceed €3,000.00 for a similar apartment.

The healthcare system is world-class and the slower pace of life lends itself to a better work-life balance. All of this combines to make Spain an attractive destination for US citizens.

Click on this link to view the average cost of living in Spain.

The Community

There’s nothing better than being able to enjoy the freedom of living in a foreign country. With over 300,000 Americans living and working in Spain, you can easily find yourself caught up in a vibrant expat community – one that allows you to explore your own culture while learning about another’s. And the Spanish people are famously friendly, helping to make the transition that much easier.

The Path to Spanish Citizenship: Can US Citizens Live in Spain?

Spain is a country full of opportunity, but can US citizens live in Spain? The answer is yes.

Although not all US citizens can automatically obtain Spanish citizenship, there are ways to get a residence permit or visa. You can also apply for long-term residency if you plan on staying in Spain for an extended period. Moving to Spain from the US is a long-term goal for many expats, and luckily, it’s achievable through various criteria.

You can apply for a residency permit in Spain by demonstrating adequate economic means, such as having enough income to cover all expenses related to your life in Spain or providing proof of real estate investment. You may also be granted Spanish residency if you are married to a Spanish citizen.

As an American citizen, you can also live in España for up to 90 days as a tourist. However, if you want to stay longer, a visa or residence permit is necessary.