Have you wondered about the pros and cons of living in Spain?

This guide is for you!

Making the decision to move abroad is never simple, and choosing Spain as your destination brings both unique opportunities and challenges.

With over six years of experience living and working in Barcelona, I've navigated these waters firsthand.

My goal with this article is to provide you with a realistic, nuanced view of what life in Spain entails, so you can make an inform decision on whether this is the right place for you.

Here's a detailed breakdown of the pros and cons, drawn from my personal journey and insights gathered over the years.

19 Pros and Cons of Living in Spain

1. Pro: Work-Life Balance

Having worked in Spain for over six years, one of the standout benefits is the focus on work-life balance. Many companies offer horario intensivo (intensive working hours) during the summer months, allowing employees to finish work earlier in the day. This means you can enjoy more of the fantastic weather, spend time with family, or simply relax. This flexibility, combined with the Spanish philosophy of "working to live," is something I haven’t experienced in other countries. It truly enhances your quality of life.

2. Con: The Housing Crisis

However, Spain's relaxed approach to life doesn't extend to the housing market, especially in big cities like Barcelona and Madrid. Housing prices have skyrocketed in recent years, making it increasingly difficult to find affordable accommodation. If you're planning to live in a major city, be prepared for fierce competition and high rents. I've seen friends struggle to find apartments without moving further out from city centers, where affordability is slightly better.

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3. Pro: Diverse Landscapes

Spain’s landscape diversity is astonishing. Walking the Camino de Santiago opened my eyes to the country’s contrast. My personal favorites include Bilbao in the north for its culinary haven, while the vibrant south, particularly Seville and Granada, offers stunning architecture and welcoming vibes. One of my most memorable experiences was my first solo trip in southern Spain, soaking in the beauty of the mountains in Granada.

4. Con: Lax Laws on Okupas

Spain has an ongoing problem with okupas—individuals who occupy empty homes without permission. The laws protecting property owners from this are weak, which has led to growing frustration in major cities. It's something to be aware of, particularly if you're looking to rent or buy property in areas where the problem is prevalent.

5. Pro: Healthcare

Spain’s healthcare system is one of its strong suits. The public healthcare system is robust, though I always recommend expats consider private healthcare for quicker appointments and more personalized care. Overall, you’ll find that the quality of care is high and the costs, compared to other countries, are manageable.

6. Con: High Taxes

Despite the benefits, taxes in Spain can feel steep, especially if you’re self-employed or running a business. It's important to research how taxes will affect your income and savings before committing to a long-term move. The tax system can be complex, so seeking local advice is a must.

7. Pro: Warm and Welcoming People

One of the best parts of living in Spain is how welcoming and warm the people are. Spaniards are known for their hospitality and friendliness, which can make settling in much easier. From friendly neighbors to helpful strangers, you'll rarely feel like an outsider.

8. Con: Bureaucratic Nightmares

On the flip side, Spain's administrative processes can be a major headache. Whether you're applying for a NIE (foreigner identification number) or dealing with residency paperwork, you'll likely encounter inefficiencies and delays. It took me months to get some of my paperwork in order, and patience is definitely needed here.

9. Pro: Rich Cultural Life

Spain’s culture is vibrant and deeply rooted in tradition. Festivals like Las Fallas in Valencia, La Feria de Sevilla, San Fermín in Pamplona, and La Mercè in Barcelona are just a few examples of Spain’s love for celebration. You'll never be bored, as there’s always something happening to experience the rich cultural tapestry.

10. Pro: Equal Paternity and Maternity Leave

Spain is one of the few countries where maternity and paternity leave are of equal length, giving both parents an equal opportunity to bond with their child. This has been an incredible benefit for me as I welcomed my first child this year. The country’s progressive family policies offer a supportive environment for raising children, which is something I truly appreciate.

11. Pro: Public Transport

Spain boasts an efficient and affordable public transport system. In fact, if you're in Catalonia in 2024, la cercanía—the regional train system—is free, a major plus for both commuters and tourists alike. The AVE (high-speed train) connects most major cities, making weekend getaways easy.

12. Con: A Challenging Job Market

Spain’s job market isn't as buoyant as other European countries. While there are opportunities, especially in tech or tourism, finding a high-paying job can be tough but not impossible even if you don’t speak Spanish fluently. However, in major cities, many expats have managed to thrive by finding roles in multinational companies or remote work.

13. Pro: Pet-Friendly Environment

If you're a pet lover, Spain will feel like home. It's common to see pets everywhere, from parks to cafés. Services like Trusted Housesitters are popular here. This platform allows you to take care of homes and pets while the owners are away, offering you free accommodation in return. It's an ideal solution for expats who want to explore the city without the financial burden of short-term rentals.

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14. Con: Inadequate August Services

Spain essentially shuts down in August, with most businesses and services going on a long holiday. It’s nearly impossible to get anything done, from government paperwork to small administrative tasks. While the beaches may be packed, most other aspects of daily life slow to a crawl. If you have anything important to take care of during this month, you'll likely have to wait until September for any progress.

15. Pro: Incredible Food

Spain is a food lover’s paradise. Whether it's a simple tapas bar or a high-end restaurant, you’ll enjoy some of the best cuisine Europe has to offer. Regional dishes vary widely, from the seafood of Galicia to the paella of Valencia, so there’s always something new to try.

16. Con: Low Wages

Salaries in Spain are often lower than in other European countries, particularly in sectors like tourism or education. Many expats find that they’re only just getting by, especially when factoring in the rising cost of living in major cities.

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17. Pro: Safety

Spain is one of the safest countries in Europe. Even in larger cities, crime rates are relatively low, and I’ve always felt secure, even while traveling solo through southern Spain. This sense of safety is a major comfort, especially for women traveling alone.

18. Pro: Wonderful Weather

Spain is famous for its sunny climate, but don’t be fooled—it can get cold, especially in places like Madrid, Bilbao, and San Sebastián. Winters can be chilly, and the north sees quite a bit of rain. Still, compared to northern Europe, the weather is a significant advantage most of the year.

19. Pro: Wonderful Weather

Spain is a beautiful and diverse country, full of opportunity, but it isn’t without its challenges. Hopefully, these 18 pros and cons give you a well-rounded perspective on what to expect, helping you decide if Spain is your next home. With my own experience guiding you, I’m confident you’ll be better equipped to make the right choice for your journey!

📜 Living in Spain Planning Guide 📜

Before Moving to Spain

🔍 Research the visa process, residence permits, and other essential documentation early on.

💡 Did you know it’s mandatory to have official documents translated by a sworn translator? Consider hiring a translation service like Translyt for handling any official documents.

💡 Important: If you're moving from a non-European country, private health insurance is required for your visa application.

🧑‍⚕️ Finalize your local health insurance plan with Innoinsure for comprehensive coverage, or opt for the digital insurance services of Feather or ASSSA.

If you are a digital nomad or need travel insurance, SafetyWing provides flexible coverage for individuals living abroad.

🐕 If your pets have joined you, use Petplan for their health insurance and well-being.

Once in Spain

🏠 Use platforms like Spotahome get 15% off with code: CTSPAIN15 or Flatio to find your new home in Spain. They offer verified listings and short- to long-term rental options.

Are you on a tight budget? Check out Trusted Housesitters for free accommodation in exchange for pet sitting (Get 12% off annual memberships with code 12TRUST).

💸 Money Transfers: Set up a reliable currency exchange and transfer service like XE Money Transfer to avoid high banking fees when transferring funds internationally.

🚗 Need a rental car? Use DiscoverCars to easily compare and find the best deals for car rentals in Spain.

💡 Can you live and work in Spain without speaking Spanish?

The answer is YES! But learning Spanish will make your life so much easier. Start learning Spanish using Preply’s language tutor to learn the basics, and expect to see massive improvements within the first few months.