Living in Spain as an American Expat >> Spain Compared to the US

If you are an American considering moving to Spain, these accounts of the actual experiences of other Americans can support and inspire you. Our reflections on the day-to-day realities of life in Spain will give you a comprehensive understanding of what to expect in Spain compared to the US.

Why Start a New Life in Spain?

Spain seduces Americans with its sunny climate, gorgeous beaches, affordable cost of living, vibrant culture, LGBTQ+ community, and relaxed lifestyle.

When I lost everything in the 2008 housing crash, I needed to find a place where I could live on my pensions. I thought Europe would be too expensive, but when I visited in 2016, I discovered that Spain was much more affordable compared to the US than I had imagined.

The climate reminded me of the Southern California of my youth. The extraordinary personal safety and friendly people sealed the deal. Now that I have lived in Spain for seven years, I appreciate the value of a healthy work/life balance and how the social safety net allows citizens to enjoy life.

READ ALSO: Moving To Spain From The USA >> Easy 2024 Guide for Americans

Living in Spain as an American Retiree

When I moved to Spain alone in 2017 at the age of 70, I intended to retire. Now, I am busier than ever.

I go to Zumba and Pilates classes, take Spanish lessons, and write the things I’ve always wanted to write. I go to theatre, concerts, movies, art exhibits, and dance events. I socialize with friends a couple of nights a week. Madrid is a vibrant city with a lot going on. My social life is on fire, and my health is excellent. I have many young Spanish friends and a few Expat friends. I’ve never been happier.

Steve Aronberg, originally from New Bedford, MA, and his husband, Sven, bought a home in Benalmádena Pueblo on the Costa del Sol in 2017. Steve is retired and has met many other retired expats.

He says, “We have developed a very good circle of friends here who keep us busy and entertained. We have made Spanish friends as well, and I find that most Spaniards are very welcoming to Expats, especially those who are willing to embrace Spanish culture and lifestyle.”

Steve Aronberg

Steve and Sven appreciate Spain’s history and culture, food and wine, climate, and slower pace of life. They are close to Málaga’s international airport, which offers inexpensive flights to many European destinations. Steve adds, “Overall, my life in Spain is far better than I ever could have imagined or afforded in the USA. I can sit out on my terrace that overlooks the Mediterranean with a glass of wine, take in the sunset, and just enjoy my life here.”

Patti Addington moved from Florida to Torremolinos on the Costa del Sol in 2021, looking for a better quality of life for her retirement. She found it.

“As a retiree, I am as happy as I can be in Spain,” says Patti. “My pension goes a lot further here than in my own country.” Although she needs to do what she can to stretch her euros, “I meet new friends for meals three or four times a week, and I can afford to go out to eat. A glass of wine does not break the bank. I take two Spanish classes per week. I have a beautiful flat that overlooks the Mediterranean Sea, and I enjoy staying home to take in the view or strolling the pueblo.”

“My life is Spain is a Godsend. It is a well-earned reward for those endless days that wore me down year after year. I enjoy my own company and pick up and go when I please. I receive invitations to teach English as a volunteer or just visit and explore in the company of new friends.”

Patti Addington

Jeffrey Clawson retired and moved from Los Angeles to Madrid three months ago.

“I wanted to live in a cosmopolitan city. I wanted to live where public transportation was efficient, clean, and safe. I wanted to be among people who value relationships over an insanely stressful life of too much work and constant pressure. I wanted a city that offers world-class art exhibits and performances at an affordable price. I wanted a place where I felt safe and valued as a gay person.”

Jeffrey Clawson

He found all that in Madrid.

“Madrid is a wonder. It has everything I was looking for. I am very happy. I love walking here. I live in central Madrid and each day wander to new places. People are welcoming and friendly. I have found a gay spirituality group and look forward to meeting up each week with them. After adjourning, most of us gather in a restaurant for dinner and, of course, lots of conversation. Spaniards really enjoy that. That is so important to me, because the thing I miss most about Los Angeles are all the friends I left behind.” He adds, “I wanted a big change and got it. I made the right move.”

Jeffrey Clawson

 Working In Spain as An American

Alexandria Nichols moved from Austin, Texas, to Madrid in 2011. She has been working as a teaching assistant in central Madrid for 12 years.

“I have been lucky to find a school that sponsored me and appreciated me. The most interesting part of my job is working with all ages and adjusting my teaching methods to find the best fit for each grade.”

I earn less, but my money seems to go further here.”

Alexandria Nichols

Jordan Stanlee, a musician with experience playing for musical theatre in the US, moved from Dallas/Ft. Worth, Texas, to Madrid three and a half years ago after he lost his job at the beginning of the pandemic. His first job was working in a charter school as an English teaching assistant,

“This is a path that many people take since there seems to be an ongoing need for qualified English assistants in public, private, and charter schools. For me, doing this really helped to understand the culture and learn Spanish.”

Jordan Stanlee

He applied to work in a musical theatre production in Spain in 2018 while he was still in the US, but it didn’t work out. In 2022, the same company contacted him out of the blue about a new production of Aladdin in Madrid. After a live audition, the producers announced that he had the job in January 2023. He’s been playing in the orchestra of Aladdin ever since.

“The work/life balance in Spain is notably more comfortable and less stressful than in the US. You work when you’re working, and you rest when you’re resting.”

Jordan Stanlee

Audrey Ardanaz moved from New Jersey to Madrid eight years ago, although she’d lived in Spain for a year as a graduate student at the University of Alcala. She’s worked as an English teacher and a copywriter in Madrid.

“Working in Spain means purposely interacting with your co-workers. It can be seen as strange if you’re constantly keeping to yourself. They enjoy having lunch together, having break times together, and doing after-work activities together.

Work days can feel longer because you typically work from 9-6 (sometimes 7), as there is always a one-hour lunch break that everyone takes. It is very uncommon and unusual to “skip lunch” or eat a quick lunch at your desk. However, it is also typical to have a short Friday where you will end the work day at 2 or 3 pm.”

Audrey Ardanaz

Ashton Dorminvil moved from Brooklyn, NY, to Madrid seven years ago. He works as a teacher,

As a child, Danilo Martinez immigrated from Honduras to Baton Rouge, LA. Six years ago, he moved from Washington, DC, to Madrid as an English teaching assistant. Today, he is the operations manager for a corporate language service.

“I have worked in language my entire time in Spain. I am grateful that my language and education make me an expert and qualified candidate for my line of work. The only downside is that it can be tough to transition out of the language/education field.”

Danilo Martinez

Hamilton “Beau” Bone came to Spain in 2010 from Virginia to work as an English teaching assistant. He worked in Bilbao and Lleida before being transferred to Málaga “and never looked back.” Now he works as a realtor on the Costa del Sol out of Málaga City.

“Spain’s been good to me because I made a very big effort at integrating into Spain.”

He thinks one of the biggest mistakes Americans make is not accepting how things are done for better or worse. He admits he spent his first three years complaining about how things could be done faster, better, and more efficiently.

“It’s one of my two biggest regrets about moving here.”

His other regret was failing to get a Spanish tutor before and just after arriving to help him learn the language.

“I do speak fluent Spanish now and will start learning French this fall.”

“I’ve been self employed or autonomo for five years now, and to be honest I wouldn’t change a thing! When I finally got permission to work (via pareja de hecho) I spent a few months looking on Linkedin and even infojobs (a Spanish job website with limited offers) and found absolutely nothing….after being burned out on teaching English for some years…

I found that I needed to get a job, soon and something I was good at, business. So I ended up going freelance and working with a real estate agency. What I didn’t know was that….Spanish companies love freelancers as much as the Hacienda does….Why?

Because they don’t have to pay any social security and you’re easy to work with. The Spanish IRS does also because they love to make it tough for the little guy! Make sure you have a well recommended accountant set up! 

As of now, I currently pay the maximum quote (around 400 euros monthly) and would caution anyone to really investigate well about being autonomo, I wouldn’t change it for anything BUT…it is expensive here and taxed highly. Very soon i’ll set up a LLC to make things a bit more streamlined. 

Hamilton “Beau” Bone

Michelle moved to Alicante from Atlanta, GA, in 2011 after meeting and marrying her Spanish husband. Today, she works in marketing and is fluent in Spanish. She points out that rates of pay in Spain are generally much lower than in the USA. However, people with Expat contracts and remote workers are often paid well above Spanish market rates. The low cost of living and excellent public services make up some of the difference. Work-life balance, paid leave, and respect for workers’ rights may make up the rest.

 Living in Spain with an American Family

Marisa Lopez moved to Spain 19 years ago when she was single and between jobs. Now, she is happily married to a “tall, dark, and handsome Madrileño” and lives in Sitges with her two daughters, ages 10 and 12. Her girls are trilingual dual citizens learning their fourth language.

Marisa says, “I’m grateful that our daughters are growing up in a tolerant society as citizens of the world. It has also been a blessing to raise my children where universal healthcare is a given, higher education is affordable, sustainability is valued, and gun violence is virtually non-existent. Family and friends seem to come first here, and there’s a healthy balance between work and life. It’s less ambitious and competitive, which has its pros and cons, but I appreciate that vacations are high on the list of priorities.”

Marisa Lopez

U.B. Morgan and Will Shank came to Spain 18 years ago with their almost three-year-old daughter. They settled in Seville, which proved to be too provincial. In 2006, they moved to Barcelona.

UB and Will explain, “The variety of educational choices for grade school and beyond was a major factor in choosing Barcelona. It has been a great place to raise our daughter, who now speaks three languages fluently. Compared to the US, it has been a very relaxed place to have a family. Helicopter parenting and fear culture were not part of our parental experience where it probably would have been had we stayed in the US.”

Now, their daughter has left for university, and Will needs a wheelchair because of medical issues. They have found that the quality and affordability of Spanish medical care have never been an issue.

“Handicap access has given us another view of living in Europe. Barcelona is constantly improving access. The public transport is quite handy and accessible. As a queer family, we have never felt any prejudice and have not been subject to discrimination. Spain as a whole has been an openly embracing culture.”

U.B. Morgan and Will Shank

Living in Spain as a Self-Employed American

Cepee Tabibian moved from Houston, TX, to Madrid in 2015. During the pandemic, she migrated to Málaga, where she started her own business, She Hit Refresh. This community-based business helps women aged 30+ from the US, Canada, and the UK move to Europe.

She says, “We have a slew of resources for anyone interested in moving abroad from our membership community (the Refresher’s Lounge) to our Move Abroad After 30 Masterclass to our podcast and more! I love the freedom and flexibility that running my own business provides, and it would be hard to return to working for a Spanish company.

The salaries are quite low, and I found the work culture, at least the office where I worked, to be too rigid for me. For me, one of the greatest perks of being self-employed in Spain is the potential to earn significantly more on your own than working for a local company. Did you know that the average monthly salary in Spain is just €2,250?

However, the biggest challenge to be self-employed here is navigating the tax and social security system. Spain ranks as one of the most expensive countries in Europe to work for yourself due to these high costs.”

Cepee Tabibian

Marisa founded Connectary, a consultancy specializing in personal branding and strategic storytelling.

She says, “The toughest parts about moving abroad were seeing less of my family back home and walking away from the promise, opportunities, and higher pay offered by the US job market.

Thankfully, I can now work online with anyone in the world. I live five minutes from the Mediterranean Sea. When I need a break, I walk to the beach.”

She continues, “Working for myself was a natural answer to Spain’s less vibrant job market, parenting young children, and living in a seaside town. With the increase in opportunities online, I can now work in English, and control my schedule and earning potential. Self-employment in Spain leaves much room for improvement, but the freedom it brings to design a life and career on my terms is immeasurable.”

Marisa Lopez

Hamilton works as a real estate agent in Málaga. He also designs and restores homes,

“What I love most about Spain is that it’s taught me that friends and family are more important than work, often in America we think the opposite. Or we make excuses, but it should never be the case. Life is too short.”

Hamilton Bone

Living in Spain as a Young Single From the US

For me, flirting is difficult if you have to use Google Translate. Your success at intercultural dating will be about as good as your Spanish language skills. However, a Spanish saying, “en la cuna o en la cama,” translates as “in the cradle or in the bedroom.” A relationship with a local is the crash course in Spanish that gets many people speaking fluently!

Alexandria observes, “Dating as a Guiri (foreigner) is not easy because the Spanish think you will just want to return back to the States and the other nationalities usually only stay for a year or two before leaving!”

There are many happy stories of Americans having very successful long-term relationships with Spaniards, Expats, and other Americans. However, finding love as an Expat in Spain may take more work than in the US.

In Spain, dating often emphasizes spontaneity and shared experiences, emphasizing group social activities and informal meetups. Unlike the more structured dating scene in the US, relationships here typically evolve naturally from friendships and social circles. Concentrating on building these groups may be your best pathway.

Americans Living in Spain’s LGBTQ Community

Spain is enthusiastically LGBTQ+ friendly. Steve lists the acceptance and tolerance of the LGBTQ+ community as one of the main reasons he and his husband moved to Spain. The communities of Chueca in Madrid, Torremolinos near Málaga, and Sitges near Barcelona are hotspots (pun intended).

Danilo says, “Gay life in Spain is amazing! I feel safe here. I have been able to be more myself here than ever before. So much so that I found love and a permanent home here.”

Danilo Martinez

Ashton observes that “Madrid is gayer than New York City. Even though NY has more gay inhabitants, the gay culture in Madrid emphasizes visibility all across the city.”

Ashton Dorminvil

Jordan agrees, “The LGBTQ+ community in Madrid is noticeable not only in Chueca, the known gay neighborhood in the city center, but throughout the city as a whole. As the first country in the EU to approve gay marriage, it is noticed that LGBTQ+ lives are valued as part of the community.”

Jordan Stanlee

Living in Spain as an American of Color

In my observation, racism is different in Spain than it is in the US. Americans of African descent may get the occasional inappropriate comment, but it comes from ignorance more than hostility.

Ashton says, “Spain is a very homogenous place and is quite new to immigration, in modern times. Therefore, misconceptions about other cultures generally arise from ignorance and lack of exposure to said cultures.” He recognizes that Spaniards see him as “American first and Black second” and how he has benefited from that socially. He adds, “Racism exists in both the United States and in Spain. However, it comes in different forms. Choose your pick! (haha) In the States, due to the culture of social awareness and our history, one can hold people accountable for their behavior when you feel they are discriminating against you. That’s not always true in Spain.”

Ashton Dorminvil

Danilo has had a slightly different experience.

“As a Latino, I do feel like I’m being watched a bit more than my Caucasian friends. It is strange how being a US citizen and being a native English speaker then sets me apart from those arriving from Latin America. I am happy that I’ve never experienced discrimination here, but it does concern me to know that it does happen to those without my privileges.”

Paying Taxes in Spain as an American

Taxes in Spain can be a challenge. After 182 days of residency, you become a Spanish tax resident. With a couple of exceptions, you will always be an American tax resident. You need to file taxes in both Spain and the US. Spain taxes your worldwide income at rates higher than American rates. Spain’s different regions may add additional taxes.

Patti has found a tax company that she trusts, “I let them file my Spanish taxes after I file my American taxes. My money comes from my retirement from America. All my jobs were for the State or National government, and I own nothing, so I pay nothing.”

CeePee also has a final piece of advice regarding income taxes in Spain, “Find a qualified expert who can help you navigate taxes, don’t do it on your own.”

Listen to CePee!

Is Spain Friendly to American Expats?

In my experience, Spaniards are friendly, interested, and curious about Americans. Because American expats are still somewhat rare, we are a bit exotic, and they want to practice English. Here’s what our other American Expats living in Spain think:

CePee says, “Absolutely, Spaniards are very welcoming to US Expats. Spain’s long history with tourism, especially on the coast, means that locals are used to and friendly towards visitors from the US. While Americans have been a minority among Expats compared to Europeans who flock to the sun and beaches, there’s been a noticeable uptick of more Americans making the move to Spain.”

Steve agrees and has had very similar experiences.

“I find that most Spaniards are very welcoming to expats, especially those who are willing to embrace Spanish culture and lifestyle.”

Danilo’s experience has been overwhelmingly positive,

“I find Spanish people to be very interested in English and the American culture.”

Jordan loves the sense of safety and community that is prevalent in Spain.

“There isn’t nearly as much “stranger danger” in Madrid. In other words, meeting and chatting with people in a restaurant, bar or even just walking on the street is common and accepted. Having a level of Spanish (not to say being completely fluent is necessary) is certainly important. A small effort of understanding and speaking the language goes a long way.”

Ashton’s experience is that there’s a lot in common between Americans and Spanish people.

“The Spanish and Americans are a match made in heaven. Both cultures value the beauty of “instant rapport. “We’re bubbly, talkative, loud, and cheerful. I think the Spanish are equally as friendly as Americans.”

Audrey has a small word of warning but otherwise agrees wholeheartedly.

“While one always has to be conscious of certain privilege they might be bringing over and their language abilities, I think in general the Spanish are curious and friendly to American expats. Many of them have visited the US, want to visit the US, or have family or friends who have had a connection to the US, so it’s not uncommon for there to be some type of immediate spark during interactions.”

Is It Cheaper to Live in Spain than in the US?

Here’s what our Expats have to say, but you can get a good idea of your personal cost of living in Spain by using our Spain Cost of Living Calculator.

Jeffrey says, “I find life in Madrid (perhaps the most expensive city in Spain) is about half the cost of life in Los Angeles. And while I always stressed about money in LA, here I am not. It’s amazing, I have less money, do more of what I like to do, and yet have no stress that I won’t have enough. I really like that.”

According to Steve, that 50% of your US budget is pretty accurate.

“In my estimation, the cost of living where we reside in Spain is about 50% of what it cost to live in our home in Alexandria, VA, just outside of Washington, DC. I have found that the only thing more expensive here is gasoline and electronics.”

Jordan points out a solid reason that the cost of living in Spain is much lower than in the US.

“Food and rent are generally cheaper than most comparably-sized cities. However, it’s all relative since the average salary is lower than an American salary.”

Danilo does add an important part of the budget that can push up your spending considerably.

“I would say that living in Spain is cheaper in general. However, it’s not very cheap if you have to factor in regular international travel and time between Spain and the USA.”

Patti and Ashton have noticed that Spain, like many countries, is feeling the impacts of inflation.

“It is about half the cost to live in Spain as to live in America. Prices are beginning to rise in Spain but not as bad as in America or some of the other countries but still when you are on a fixed income you feel the tug on your wallet.”

Patti

“It is generally cheaper to live in Madrid than in the US with regard to health care and travel expenses, like having a car, paying for insurance, gas, etc. Groceries and eating out are generally also cheaper than in the states. The cost of renting has risen about 20% from 2017 to 2024, although the cost of living is still cheaper than it is in the states.”

Ashton

CePee benefits from a US salary and Spanish prices like many remote workers in Spain.

“The cost of living for me is significantly less expensive in Spain than in the US. The main reason? I have a US salary but pay Spanish prices. While rent, groceries, and transportation are very affordable for most US citizens in Spain, it’s important to remember that locals often struggle to keep up with rising costs on a local salary.”

Alexandria thinks that the differing lifestyles offer some unexpected savings, too.

“Spain is cheaper to live in than the USA. I earn less but my money seems to go further here. I walk everywhere or if necessary, take the metro. Meanwhile in the States, I have to pay for a car, insurance, and gas. Food and drinks cost a lot less, especially since gratuity isn’t expected on top of the menu price (and tax!). Healthcare is affordable and I use it. I don’t know how much cheaper my life is in Spain, but I feel like I spend more money on the things I want to invest in, rather than things I’m obligated to pay.”

Audrey sees the low cost of living as a big drawcard for people considering retiring to Spain.

“The cost of living, in line with lower salaries, is cheaper in almost every regard. Many of my American friends here are actively trying to get their parents to retire in Spain precisely because of the lower cost of living, where their savings will go a lot further, and where there’s a lot more assistance and better quality of life for senior citizens.”

READ ALSO: Cost Of Living in Spain vs. the US

Life in Spain vs the US

Life in Spain is different from life in the US. It’s not all roses and rainbows, but the benefits become apparent once you adjust.

Our new research compares the livability of Spain to the US and UK, and these Americans support our study’s findings.

Danilo says, “I do feel like my life is more balanced in Spain. In my experience, the work load is more or less the same, but the social aspects of the Spanish culture make all the difference in providing a more worthwhile experience.”

For Audrey, “The lifestyle is unbeatable in my opinion. While there are some growing pains to settle into, especially if you’re used to getting around everywhere in a car, there are many things that instantly feel better.

People are always outside, always living life; life is not lived behind closed doors, in suburban communities. Life is on the streets, and it’s common to be together with friends and family multiple times during the week. It’s common to drink throughout the week as well (but not looked down upon if you don’t).

In a recent study, it was reported that Spanish people have some of the longest lifespans, not necessarily because of the diet or from being physically active, but because while both are true, it has much more to do with their social interactions and connections with others.

I love the general open-mindedness about people and their joy for life and for having a joyful life. I particularly like their more liberal mindset. I love that there is a general level of humanity that people share for each other.”

According to Steve, “It takes some getting used to some of the cultural differences. The lack of personal space; the fact that Spaniards just aren’t as polite as Americans; the amount of bureaucracy, paperwork, and inconsistent rules involved in getting anything done with local and national authorities; the timing of when people eat their meals and the daily siesta and Sunday store closings.

I adapted quickly to most of these, but to live here you must understand that you are living in a different country than the USA with different norms.”

Patti finds much to love about Spanish culture, “Being ‘older’ in Spain is not a crisis. Grown children respect and care for their parents and seem to truly appreciate an’ older’ point of view. Age in Spain is not a curse but something to be treasured like fine wine.

I have friends of all ages here in Spain, and I felt ‘avoided’ in the US because I was getting older. It is so refreshing to see a ‘real papa’ holding a child’s hand while she roller skates down the road or pushing a pram while mom catches up with a friend.

Men in Spain appear to want to nurture their offspring and encourage their women to succeed in a career of their choice. I have never witnessed such behavior by men my age, in America. In my opinion, Americans have a lot to learn from the Spanish.”

Initial Concerns and Fears On Moving to Spain

Of course, leaving your country and settling in a new one seems scary. Although the unknown can feel overwhelming and intimidating, it is filled with potential and possibilities. Help, like this website and its resources, is readily available. You will meet challenges, and you will resolve them one by one. For the first year, your life will be a learning curve. After that, you will relax and take daily life in your stride.

READ ALSO: Moving To Spain From The USA >> Easy 2024 Guide for Americans

Social Life and Community

In Spain, family and friends are far more important than work. This cohesion creates a much less stressful life and a strong sense of community and connection.

This healthy work/life balance may be what Americans love most about Spain. As an Expat, making new friends takes effort, but Spanish people are exceptionally friendly and curious about Americans. In my experience, as I pursue my interests, I naturally find friends with similar interests. I’ve made friends in Spanish class, at the studio where I take Zumba and Pilates, in a meditation group, and on the dance floor. Volunteering in English immersion programs (Pueblo Inglés, Estación Inglesa, Vaughan Town) has been a rewarding experience and a rich source of both Spanish and Expat friends.

Conclusion

Marisa says it best, “No one place is perfect, but at the end of the day, I’m so happy I took the leap.”

READ ALSO: How to Move To Spain From The US >> Easy 2024 Guide for Americans