In 2025, one of the most surprising international relocation trends has been the dramatic rise in Americans moving to Spain. With a 57% year-on-year increase in US property purchases in Q1 alone, and over 500 homes snapped up in just three months, Americans have become the fastest-growing foreign buyer group in Spain.
But what’s fuelling this mass migration? From political fatigue to lifestyle aspirations, let’s explore why Americans moving to Spain is no longer just a dream—it’s a booming reality.
A Shift Across the Atlantic: Why More Americans Are Choosing Spain
1. Political Climate and Quality of Life
Increasingly, Americans are citing political unrest, polarisation, and economic uncertainty as reasons to leave the United States. Spain, by contrast, offers stability, a lower cost of living, world-class public healthcare, and a Mediterranean lifestyle that is hard to beat.
In fact, recent interviews and reports have labelled the phenomenon “an exodus”—with Americans trading in urban chaos and divisive politics for tapas, sunshine, and slow living. As this Daily Beast article put it, the movement is fuelled by Americans who are “voting with their feet.”
2. A Strong Dollar and More Buying Power
In 2025, the US dollar remains strong against the euro, giving American buyers more bang for their buck. Cities like Valencia, Málaga, or even inland towns in Andalucía offer spacious homes at a fraction of US prices. This is a huge draw for Americans moving to Spain, especially retirees and remote workers.
3. New Visa Pathways
Although Spain officially ended its Golden Visa scheme in April 2025, alternative visas have picked up the slack. Most Americans moving to Spain are now applying for:
- The Digital Nomad Visa – Ideal for remote workers who meet the income threshold.
- The Non-Lucrative Visa – Perfect for retirees or those with passive income.
We explain both options in our dedicated guides:
- Digital Nomad Visa Spain – 2025 Guide
- Non-Lucrative Visa Spain – What You Need to Know
Where Are Americans Moving in Spain?
While many UK expats tend to head straight for the Costa del Sol or Costa Blanca, Americans moving to Spain are spreading out more broadly.
Popular Destinations:
- Madrid & Barcelona – For job opportunities, culture, and international schools.
- Valencia – A rising favourite due to its affordability, beach access, and vibrant expat scene.
- Granada & Seville – Culturally rich, more affordable, and full of old-world charm.
- Málaga – A popular choice for both young professionals and retirees alike.
Unlike some nationalities that stick to expat enclaves, Americans moving to Spain often integrate more deeply into local communities. This is reflected in a growing number of Americans buying homes inland or in smaller cities that offer authentic Spanish life.
Buying Property in Spain as an American
Although Americans face no restrictions on buying property in Spain, the process is different from the US system and can feel complex without proper guidance.
Our team at Matthew James Removals Spain often works with clients navigating their first overseas purchase. If you’re planning to buy, be sure to check out our complete guide on Buying Property in Spain as an American.
We also offer professional packing, shipping, and customs support to ensure your belongings arrive safely—whether you’re moving a few boxes or an entire household.
The Rise of Long-Term Relocation (Not Just Second Homes)
Unlike previous waves of buyers who invested in holiday homes, the majority of Americans moving to Spain in 2025 are coming to stay long-term. Many are:
- Retiring early in places like Alicante and Cádiz.
- Relocating with children and enrolling in bilingual or international schools.
- Bringing their jobs with them, thanks to remote work flexibility.
This shift means removals services must adapt to longer-term relocations rather than short-term shipping. At Matthew James, we now offer door-to-door moves, full customs support, and long-term storage in Spain for American families making the big leap.
For more, visit:
👉 Our International Removals to Spain Services
👉 International Storage Options
Challenges Faced by Americans Moving to Spain
While the lifestyle change is appealing, there are practical hurdles to consider:
- Bureaucracy: Spain’s paperwork can be slow and confusing. From getting an NIE number to setting up utilities, patience is key.
- Language: While English is spoken in larger cities, daily life still requires basic Spanish in most areas.
- Cultural Adjustment: From siesta time to relaxed customer service, adapting to the Spanish way of life takes time.
We cover all of this in our practical relocation guides, including:
What This Means for the Future
As this trend grows, expect to see:
- More bilingual services tailored to American clients
- An increase in property prices in high-demand areas
- Continued pressure on visa processing times
If you’re among the growing number of Americans moving to Spain, it’s essential to partner with an experienced international removals company. From initial planning to final delivery, we’ve helped hundreds of US clients start their new lives with confidence and care.
Ready to Move? Let’s Get Started
At Matthew James Removals Spain, we understand the needs of American expats—because we’ve helped hundreds make the move. Whether you’re shipping from New York, Texas, California, or Florida, we provide a complete service from collection to customs clearance and delivery.
📦 Need help moving your life to Spain?
Visit our contact page or request a free quote today:
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