A May article published by The Economic Times highlights how Spain is quickly becoming a go-to escape for marginalized Americans. Particularly, U.S residents with Hispanic roots and LGBTQ+ minorities are actively looking for a more inclusive place to call home. Following the U.S President’s re-election, Americans seem to complain about his populist administration, citing growing stress and gun violence. This is why Spain is seen as a more welcoming environment, where diversity is considered a strong point. Surely a country where many are hoping to find peace and stability, escaping from social regression and disillusionment, which are spreading like wildfire across the once-renowned ‘Land of the free’.
The article focuses on why American minorities are motivated to leave the U.S for the Iberian jewel, including a more affordable lifestyle and low crime rates. According to a Daily Beast report, villa purchases by American residents have risen by 57% in recent years, including 520 properties bought across the Land of Flamenco.
Among real estate experts quoted are:
- Mark Stucklin, who runs the independent website Spanish Property Insight and cites the election of Trump as the main reason for this surge, which has been ongoing since 2020.
- Graham Hunt, who owns the Valencia Property real estate firm, and affirms Americans represent his top clientele, accounting for 34% of their sales in 2024 alone.
As citizenship applications rise, Spain is rapidly reshaping its laws. The Golden Visa program was recently ended to help Spanish residents face the housing crisis. But why this sudden change? Too many eligible American buyers who purchased homes worth over $560,000 were receiving one-year residence permits.
Research says Americans are mostly drawn to living on the Mediterranean coast and choose northern Spain towns. Additionally, the write-up suggests U.S citizens can apply for multiple visas, from the digital nomad one to that for entrepreneur’s or non-lucrative (retirement).
