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Spain’s warm climate, affordable living, and vibrant culture have made it an attractive destination for Americans seeking a change of pace. If you plan on moving to Spain from the US, this guide covers everything to be well-prepared—from navigating visa options to moving costs, work culture, life in Spain, and relocation steps.
Below are the average costs for a one-bedroom and an American family moving to Spain. The price is calculated based on sea freight, and a shared container for the one-bedroom move.
| Volume | Average cost |
| One-bedroom apartment | $3,500 – $5,500 |
| Three-bedroom house | $7,000 – $10,000 |
Disclaimer: The prices above are estimates.
The cost of moving furniture to Spain from the US varies significantly depending on factors like shipment volume, type of container, and service levels. In peak seasons (May-August), there might be a 25% cost increase.
To move household goods to Spain from the US, you can opt for air or sea freight. Air freight is faster but more expensive. Most people move furniture to Spain using sea freight. You can save money by sharing a container, where several shipments are put into one container, but the delivery time is slower due to extra handling and transfers at each port.
Curious about the exact costs of moving to Spain from the US? Calculate your price:
Estimate My Costs Moving to SpainWhen browsing different moving companies from the USA to Spain, it’s advisable to look at a few things. First, see which services they offer. If you’re bringing a vehicle, you want to look for a moving company that specializes in moving a car from the USA to Spain.
Furthermore, look at credentials, browse reviews, and contact them with questions or doubts. After requesting a free quote, make sure to double-check the included services. Most services include door-to-door delivery and customs clearance.
Top 5 affordable moving companies to Spain from the USA:
If you’re an American moving to Spain, different visas are available depending on your purpose and income. Below, we’ll show you the visa requirements for living in Spain.
To move to Spain from the US, you’ll need a passport that’s valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure date from the Schengen Area (not just Spain). Spain allows US citizens to stay up to 90 days within any 180-day period. After that, you’ll need a visa.
If you’re looking to move to Spain long-term, there are a few visa routes to take:
This visa is for those with a job offer from a Spanish employer, who will sponsor you. If you’re self-employed, you can apply for the Visado de Residencia y Trabajo por Cuenta Propia by demonstrating a viable business plan and financial sustainability. In both cases, it’s usually a one-year permit with the option to renew and apply for permanent residency after five years.
This visa is mostly used by retirees and people with passive income. You’re allowed to live in Spain, but you cannot work remotely or within the country. You’ll have to show sufficient financial resources, equivalent to 400% of Spain’s Indicador Público de Rentas de Efectos Múltiples (IPREM), which is approximately $32,888 plus 100% for each dependent family member. The visa can be renewed annually, with long-term residency available after five years.
Telework (Digital Nomad) Visa
This visa is for remote workers employed by companies outside of Spain. You can live in Spain for up to five years with potential tax benefits. You’ll need a Número de Identidad de Extranjero (N.I.E.) and at least three years of work experience or a relevant degree to qualify to apply.
This visa is for investors who can invest a minimum of €500K ($528K) in Spanish real estate or businesses. There’s no minimum stay requirement and you can bring family members. The application process is roughly five months.
Students can apply for this visa, which allows them to live in Spain for the duration of the program, plus the option to work part-time for up to 30 hours a week. This visa is available for high school, undergraduate, and postgraduate students. You’ll need 100% of the IPREM as funds for each month of the planned program.
Spain is part of the Schengen Area, which means you can live there without a visa for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. If you wish to stay longer, you must leave Spain and wait for a 90-day interval before you can re-enter.
To get a work permit in Spain, you generally need a job offer from a Spanish company, showing that no qualified EU applicant was available. Your employer can help with the application process for the work permit, which allows you to apply for a work visa.
Here is all you need to know when moving to Spain from the USA with a dog.
Whether you’re moving to Spain from New York or Houston, your money will go further overseas. When moving to Barcelona from Los Angeles, for example, you would need around $4,900 in Barcelona to maintain the same standard of living as $8,300 in LA. Many American expats prefer living and working in Spain to save on rent, restaurants, and groceries.
We have compared the Spanish capital, Madrid, with New York. This comparison can give you an idea of the living expenses in Spain; however, keep in mind that prices may be lower in less central areas.
| Item | Madrid, Spain | New York, USA |
| Meal (Inexpensive Restaurant) | $15.82 | $30.00 |
| Pint of Beer | $3.69 | $9.00 |
| Regular Cappuccino | $2.42 | $5.95 |
| Eggs (dozen) | $3.18 | $3.49 |
| Single Transport Ticket | $1.58 | $2.90 |
| Monthly Rent (1-bed, City Centre) | $1,445.53 | $1,589.62 |
| Average Monthly Net Salary (After Tax) | $2,384.64 | $4,414.7 |
Source: Numbeo
Many Americans moving to Spain are attracted by the sunny climate, welcoming culture, beautiful landscapes, and the laid-back Mediterranean lifestyle. Spain’s healthcare system is highly regarded, and private insurance is available at an affordable price. Learning Spanish can be challenging for American expats, as well as adapting to the slower-paced bureaucracy.
Yes, especially in cities like Madrid and Barcelona, you’ll find American communities of expats who moved to Spain permanently. The coastal towns are preferred by retirees and digital nomads. While there are not as many Americans living in Spain as other European expats, there are plenty of opportunities to find community.
Many Americans living in Spain need some time to get accustomed to the more relaxed view of punctuality and the cultural importance of family and work-life balance. It’s a lot less go-go-go in Spain compared to the US. You’re advised to embrace this more relaxed lifestyle and learn Spanish, as it’ll make daily life much easier.
In the work culture in Spain, there is a strong emphasis on family and friends, with longer lunch breaks. Many Americans living and working in Spain changed their “work-to-live” mentality into a “live-to-work” lifestyle, and love this change of pace.
The work hours in Spain are regular 9-5, with overtime not being the norm. There are more public holidays and paid vacations compared to the US. Most Americans working in Spain take extended holidays in slower months, like August.
Are you set on moving to Spain from the US, but unsure where to settle? We’ll look at different, popular Spanish cities and their lifestyle, popular neighborhoods, and key attractions.
Barcelona has a great art scene, a rich history, and vibrant nightlife. This is where cosmopolitan meets traditional Spanish culture. The most popular neighborhoods for Americans are the bohemian Gràcia, the artsy El Born, and the more upscale Eixample. There’s a large expat community, it’s easy to get around, and there’s always something to explore!
The Spanish capital has a bustling international community, but it’s more traditional than Barcelona. Expats are drawn to Madrid’s business environment, cultural richness, year-round events, and social scene. Wealthier expats often settle in Salamanca, while younger Americans choose neighborhoods like Malasaña and Chamberí.
This coastal town is more affordable than Madrid and Barcelona and has become popular with Americans who emigrate for a more relaxed lifestyle. Valencia is known for its beaches, sunny Mediterranean climate, family-friendly vibes, and the annual two-week Fallas Festival. El Cabanyal has access to the beach, while Benimaclet has a strong community and proximity to international schools. The Ruzafa neighborhood mixes tradition with trendy spots.
As Picasso’s birthplace, this artsy beach town offers warm weather year-round and laid-back vibes. Malaga is popular among retirees who have grown tired of winters. Being close to Andalusian destinations, it’s a good base for exploring the region. The most popular neighborhoods are Centro Histórico for its cultural landmarks, Soho for its more creative feel, and Pedregalejo for beachfront living.
With its sunny climate, vibrant culture, and slower pace of life, many Americans are enticed by the idea of moving to Spain permanently. However, living in Spain also comes with some challenges and adjustments. We’ve listed the pros and cons of living in Spain below.
Have you decided to move to Spain from the US? Let’s get you ready for this new adventure. Use this checklist with all the steps to move to Spain from the USA for a smooth journey.
