Retired Americans trade US price hikes for Spanish comfort and class living. Credit: Ana Iacob Photography, Shutterstock
They packed bags and crossed the Atlantic. More and more American retirees are choosing Spain for their retirement, full of culture, comfort and peace of mind.
American Residents Overseas Association I estimate that Around it 108,000 Americans Already alive In Spain, of 5.5 million US citizens living abroad. Experts believe these numbers will be climb Spain’s relatively affordable lifestyle and powerful health care system attract retirees I’m watching In make Their pension go Even further away.
Quality of life wins the crown.
Spain has been selected as the top European destination for American retirees by foreigners network internationalThis highlighted the country’s finest quality of life and abundant leisure activities, ranging from world-class food and sports facilities to the vibrant cultural scene in cities such as Madrid, Valencia and Barcelona.
In the 2025 report, Global Citizen Solutions Ranking It is the number one retirement spot for Spanish Americans, and estimates that the monthly living costs range between $2,000 and $2,500. For many, it makes it easier to grow savings and enjoy a comfortable lifestyle.
Healthcare is another standout. Spain ranks 9th in the Healthcare Index in 2025, far surpassing many other popular retirement destinations and providing high-quality healthcare in a fraction of the private system elsewhere.
Tax: Not as difficult as it looks
Spain’s global taxation system means that retirees need to plan carefully. but Forbes Many people report finding tax rates worth it Thanks to welfare benefits Like Succession allowances, property tax benefits, access to quality medical care, and exemptions for people over 65 years old.
You need documents to retire.
The first thing In do According to In Experts that’s right Let’s start with the investigation Residential requirements To move to Spain. If your pension meets the financial threshold, start Collect documents, request FBI reports, and get the required apostille. after that, obtain US doctors In Please write a letter to make sure you are not infected obtain Spain health insurance. Scarbrow explained.
Keep a printed copy of your bank statement, obtain Your passport photo, fill in Pay the form, and all the fees online. Finally, everything will be translated into Spanish by a sworn translator.
Try it before you buy: Flexible visas offer the taste of living abroad.
For retirees who don’t plan on working or studying, unreliable Spanish visas are a popular option. Allow people Living comfortably with retirement income. Visitor visas can last up to nine months, but give future foreigners the opportunity to try and live in Spain before committing to a permanent move.
Why Spain is one of the safest countries in Europe for American retirees
Safety is another draw. Spain boasts a lower crime rate than many other countries, but Global Citizen Solutions notes that petty thefts can occur in busy tourist spots.
Safety is a Selection subject Drawing for retirees with Spain in mind. The country boasts one of the lowest murder rates in Europe. Eurostat Spain’s Home Office is far outweighed popular retirement destinations like the US.
In 2023, there was a murder rate of about 5.7 per 100,000, and FBI Crime Data Explorer. new Criminal Justice Council Report I’ll do it Most viewed In 2023, violent and property crimes decreased in 2024 compared to 2023, with murders down 16% and cars down 24%. But the crime is still Selection subject The problem, and the murder rate in the US remains high compared to other developed countries.
Spain’s violent crime rate is lowest in Europe, with a major concern for tourists Hotspots
Spain’s overall crime rate is Many Western countries, violent crimes Especially rare Outside Isolated incident. A small theft – Pick-ups in busy tourist destinations such as Barcelona and Madrid – They remain the most common crimes, and these are usually non-violent crime. Spain’s violent crime levels are one of the lowest in Europe and rival other popular retirement destinations such as Portugal and Italy, but petty theft in tourist destinations remains the most common concern.
For thousands of Americans, Spain is more than just a destination. It’s a chance to embrace a rewarding new chapter.
more Spanish Living News.
more Travel News.
