Moving to Spain as an American: Stories From People Who Moved

Key Takeaways

• Many Americans move to Spain for a slower, more fulfilling life. People often move to escape long work hours, high stress and the constant demands of homeownership in the US. Spain’s community-focused and relaxed lifestyle is a major draw.

 

• Visa applications can be challenging, but preparation helps. Understanding the process ahead of time makes things smoother and working with someone who knows the ins and outs can be helpful.

 

• Building a community is key to thriving in Spain. Immersing yourself in local traditions, learning basic Spanish and exploring Europe through affordable travel helps newcomers settle in and enjoy daily life there.

In recent years, moving to Spain as an American has become a top choice for those that are looking for a better quality of life.

And it’s easy to see why.

With its sunny climate, affordable living and welcoming culture, Spain offers a refreshing alternative to the fast-paced, “live to work” mentality common in the US. In fact, articles by CNN, Bloomberg and CNBC have all highlighted how Americans are increasingly drawn to Europe for its work-life balance and cost-of-living benefits with Spain often topping those lists.

Number of Americans Living in Spain (2021 – 2024)

Curious to understand this trend beyond just numbers and headlines, Lancier’s team traveled to Spain to interview a dozen of Americans who made the move.

We asked them:

Why did you leave the US?

What was the biggest challenge with visas and housing?

How did you adapt to the Spanish culture?

In this article, we’ll explore why Americans are moving to Spain, how to prepare for the transition and what daily life really looks like when you live there. If you already know that you want to move to Spain, feel free to check out our article on How Much It Would Cost to Move to Spain if you haven’t already.

Why Americans Are Moving to Spain

For many Americans, the choice to move to Spain comes from a desire for something better, something slower, more meaningful and less stressful.

Life in the US can often feel like an endless cycle: long work hours, ever-increasing living costs and little time to truly enjoy life. Over time, this grind takes a toll on both the physical and mental health of people.

Another common theme we heard?

A longing for deeper connections.

Many Americans told us they were tired of surface-level conversations and fleeting social interactions back home. They wanted a place where relationships matter and community is more than just a buzzword.

Reasons why Americans Move to Spain

Escaping the US Work Culture

One of the biggest reasons Americans move to Spain is to break free from the work-centered lifestyle in the US, at least for the people we interviewed that were still in their working days.

People often described life in the States as a constant treadmill—always moving, never really getting anywhere. Many felt trapped by work obligations, household responsibilities, and the pressure to “keep up.”

As one retired couple from Portland, Oregon, put it: “I felt like my house owned me. Every minute was spent on yard work or repairs. I just didn’t want that life anymore.”

Another expat shared a similar sentiment: “In the U.S., I felt like I lived to work. Here, I finally have time to enjoy my life and family.”

In Spain, there’s a different rhythm. Days feel longer, meals last hours, and spending time with loved ones isn’t squeezed into a hectic schedule—it’s a priority.

For many, the decision to move comes after a major life event—retirement, a career shift, or health issues that force them to rethink what’s really important.

One couple told us about their breaking point: “I would come home and all I could think about was the lawn that needed mowing or the garden that needed tending. It just never stopped.”

In Spain, that constant hum of to-do lists fades. Instead, you’ll find yourself lingering over coffee or chatting with neighbors without glancing at the clock.

Lower Cost of Living and Financial Relief

Affordability is another driving force behind the move to Spain.

Housing, healthcare, groceries—you name it. Across the board, costs are significantly lower than in the U.S. This financial breathing room lets expats stretch their budgets while improving their quality of life.

One American couple shared how much they saved just on rent: “We rented a large apartment by the beach for half of what we paid back home.”

Cost of Living in Spain

While housing is more affordable, it’s worth noting that buying property comes with extra expenses—think agent commissions, notary fees, and land registry costs. (Tip: Check out our guide on the pitfalls to avoid when buying property in Spain)

Healthcare is another area where Spain outshines the U.S. system. For many Americans, medical bills are a constant source of stress. In Spain, private insurance is affordable, and the public healthcare system is high-quality and accessible.

That peace of mind—knowing you won’t be financially crushed by medical costs—is life-changing.

More Safety and Family-Focused Communities

If you’re moving with your family, safety and community are probably top priorities.

Spain delivers on both fronts.

Parents told us how relieved they felt letting their kids play outside without constant worry. Neighborhoods, especially in cities like Valencia and Alicante, feel warm, welcoming, and close-knit.

One expat mentioned: “We walk through the streets at night without a second thought. That just wasn’t possible where we lived in the States.”

For families, that sense of security and belonging makes a world of difference. In Spain, you’re not just moving to a new place—you’re becoming part of a community.

Warm Climate and Outdoor Living

For those tired of living through harsh winters, Spain’s sunny climate is transformative.

“I’ve lived in freezing temperatures my whole life. Now I wake up to the Mediterranean view every morning,” one retiree shared.

The Mediterranean lifestyle encourages outdoor living, whether it’s swimming in the ocean, strolling through local markets or sipping coffee at a plaza café.

The focus on enjoying life’s simple pleasures is woven into daily life for Americans who live in Spain.

The climate isn’t just warm—it’s restorative. One American with a chronic back issue told us how the mild weather had drastically improved his quality of life: “The climate here is so much better for my health. I can walk more, enjoy the outdoors, and feel more active than I ever did back home.”

The Moving Process

Let’s face it—moving is never easy.

Even when you’re relocating to a place as appealing as Spain, the process can feel like flying without a net. There’s excitement, of course, but also nerves, uncertainty, and a hundred questions swirling in your head.

How do you handle the visas?

What about finding a place to live?

How do you manage your finances in a new country?

Moving abroad isn’t just about packing up your belongings—it’s about stepping into the unknown. And that’s scary.

One American described it perfectly: “You look up at this mountain of tasks and think, ‘How am I going to do this?’ But once you start climbing, step by step, it all comes together.”

That’s the key: taking it one step at a time. With proper planning, patience, and a little help along the way, what seems overwhelming becomes totally doable.

Visa Processes

One of the first (and most crucial) hurdles is getting the right visa.

For most Americans moving to Spain, the options are typically:

• Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV): Ideal for retirees or those living off savings or passive income.

 

• Golden Visa: Designed for people making a qualifying real estate investment of at least €500,000.

 

Read our blog on How Americans Can Move to Spain for a step-by-step guide or go to our Residency page to get more details for more details on the moving preparations.

While the visa requirements are clear on paper, the real-life process can be messy—and wildly inconsistent depending on which Spanish consulate you’re dealing with.

One American expat shared their frustration: “We submitted everything exactly how the consulate said, but they tore it apart and asked for more.”

It’s not uncommon for applications to bounce back for small details. Something as simple as the date format can trip you up.

“Even writing down your birthday can become a problem if you don’t know the format,” another person warned.

The paperwork is extensive, often requiring translated documents, apostilles, and proof of income or insurance. And while you can certainly handle the process yourself, working with a professional can save you a lot of time—and headaches.

The bottom line? Be prepared for curveballs. Stay patient, double-check everything, and don’t be afraid to ask for help.

Life in Spain as an American

Settling into Spain is about more than unpacking boxes or setting up utilities.

It’s about stepping into an entirely new way of life.

For many Americans, moving to Spain means trading in the hustle of daily routines for something slower—where relationships, simplicity, and meaningful experiences come first. Adjusting to a new culture isn’t always easy. But if you ask those who’ve made the move, they’ll tell you the rewards far outweigh the challenges.

A More Open Society

Finding your place in Spain starts with building connections. Read our articles on the Best Places to Live in Spain by the Sea or the Best Places to Live in Spain for Families.

For many Americans, that means joining local groups, exploring new neighborhoods, and taking part in cultural events. As one expat put it: “The community here feels like an extended family. Everyone helps each other out.”

It’s a stark contrast to life in the US, where neighbors might exchange a quick wave but rarely engage beyond that. In Spain, people take time to know one another—sharing meals, stories, and everyday moments.

Many Americans we spoke with said they felt a sense of belonging almost immediately. Cities like Valencia and Alicante are known for their vibrant expat communities and offer plenty of ways to meet people through organized meetups, local festivals, and casual gatherings at neighborhood cafés.

“We’ve met people from all over the world here. It’s enriching to hear so many stories and experiences,” one American explained.
And while meeting new people can be intimidating at first, most find the warmth of Spanish hospitality refreshing.

“At first, we were nervous about making friends,” a retired couple told us. “But everyone we’ve met has been incredibly welcoming.”

Spain’s culture naturally fosters connection—whether it’s lingering over tapas with locals, joining in neighborhood celebrations, or just chatting with your barista each morning.

Daily Life and Simple Joys

What does everyday life in Spain really look like?

For many Americans, it’s about embracing a slower, simpler rhythm.

Picture this: waking up to the sun rising over the Mediterranean, sipping fresh coffee at a local café, and taking a leisurely stroll through bustling markets filled with vibrant produce and friendly vendors.

One retiree described their mornings like this: “Every morning, I sit with my wife, have coffee, and enjoy the Mediterranean view. It feels like a dream.”

Food plays a huge role in Spanish culture. Fresh, seasonal ingredients are part of daily life, and shopping at local markets isn’t just about groceries—it’s an experience.

“You don’t realize how much you miss this connection to your food until you live here. The markets are full of life,” one American commented during a community meetup.

And then there’s the travel.

Spain’s location and affordable transportation options make exploring Europe incredibly accessible. Weekend trips to Paris, quick getaways to Portugal, or beach holidays in Italy become not just possible—but part of normal life.

“You can catch a flight anywhere for €50. It’s incredible how connected everything is,” shared a US military retiree. For many, what once seemed like a distant dream—weekend escapes to new countries—becomes just another Friday afternoon decision.

Overcoming Challenges

Of course, not everything is perfect.

Moving to Spain comes with hurdles. And if you’re expecting everything to go smoothly, you might be in for a surprise.

Many Americans mention the bureaucracy as one of the toughest parts of the transition.

“Even when you do everything right, they’ll ask for something else. It’s part of the process here, and you learn to roll with it,” one person told us with a laugh.Paperwork can be slow. Processes can seem inconsistent. And patience? You’ll need a lot of it.

Then there’s the language barriers which can also be challenging. In bigger cities, you’ll find plenty of English speakers—but head into smaller towns or government offices, and Spanish proficiency becomes essential.

“Even simple things, like writing your birthday on forms, can trip you up if you don’t know the format,” a couple shared.
But here’s the thing: most expats agree that the rewards are worth the struggles.

“At first, it’s overwhelming,” one American admitted. “But once you settle in, you realize how much life here feels like what life should be.”

Healthcare Is Affordable and Reliable

If you’ve dealt with the U.S. healthcare system, you know how stressful (and expensive) it can be.

That’s why many Americans in Spain say the healthcare system is one of the biggest benefits of moving.

• Private insurance: Typically costs between €50 to €200 per month.
• Public healthcare: High-quality, accessible, and often free for residents.

One American shared: “The healthcare system here is incredible. It’s both affordable and high-quality. I can’t believe the difference from what we dealt with back home.”

For retirees and families, having access to reliable medical care without breaking the bank is life-changing.

Spain’s combination of public and private healthcare options ensures that everyone can find something that works for their needs—and budget.