Benefits of living in Spain vs the USA

Are you thinking of moving to Spain but need a little convincing? 

We get it. Moving to a whole different continent can seem daunting – there’s so much to think about. But for many, now is the time to make that life-chanting leap. And there are plenty of reasons to give you that much needed motivation.

Let’s take a look at the benefits of living in Spain compared to the U.S. and see if we can’t ignite that wanderlust! 

Healthcare

Okay, first things first, healthcare is significantly better in Spain than it is in the States. Spain’s healthcare system is ranked 26th in the world by Statista, with the U.S. coming in at a lowly 69th place. With Spain’s healthcare based on principles of free access and equity for all, with free access for all citizens and the option of private healthcare for those who can afford it, it’s certainly one of the key benefits of living in Spain for American expats.

Cost of living

When looking at the cost of living in Spain compared to the U.S., there’s a stark difference. Let’s take two of the largest cities in each as a comparison:

Source: http://www.numbeo.com/

While the salaries may be lower in Spain, you certainly get more bang for your buck in Spain than you do in the States.

Work-life balance

In the U.S., the first thing people often say when they meet someone is “so, what do you do?” In Spain, locals are a lot more inclined to ‘work to live’, rather than ‘live to work’. There’s a very strong culture of living in the moment, socialising and enjoying the things that matter – connecting with others, savouring delicious food and enjoying beautiful weather and the great outdoors.

Not to say that’s not the case in the U.S. But Spain definitely has a better handle on enjoying work and life in equal measure.

Social life

One of the best things about living in Spain, especially in a big Spanish city, is the vibrant social life. It’s not a country that waits for the weekend to have fun – weekdays are buzzing during the evening, with outdoor terraces alive with people chatting into the night. Parks are full of people, streets are buzzing, especially during the summer, and it’s easy to meet people, with a whole host of meetup groups and so many hobbies to take up.

Add world-famous music festivals right on your doorstep, vibrant street parties such as Valencia’s Las Fallas, and a whole host of other cultural celebrations, and you’ve got a world of unforgettable experiences waiting for you.

Food

Spain’s privileged position in the heart of the Medieterranean makes it one of Europe’s finest food countries. In fact, around a quarter of all fruit and vegetables in the EU are cultivated in Spain. Cities like Valencia, which was awarded the title of European Green Capital in 2024, and Barcelona, home to some of Spain’s best markets, are teeming with delicious fresh fruit. And best of all, because fresh fruit and vegetables are plentiful, they’re incredibly affordable!  

According to a study by Sapien Labs, only 30% of Spaniards consume ultra-processed foods several times a week or more, compared to 60% of Americans. 

Weather 

Spain’s fabulous weather is one of big draws for many thinking of making the move. The country enjoys around 3,000 hours of sunshine every year, with average highs of over 90ºF (32°C) during the summer and around 66°F (19°C) during the spring and autumn months. 

With such a varied climate in the U.S., it’s difficult to make the comparison. But one of the key differences for most will be the mild winters – Spain sees average temperatures of 52°F (11°C) during the winter, with plenty of winter sunshine.

Public transportation

Spain’s big cities are renowned for their excellent public transportation, including metros, buses, trams and trains. Travelling around the likes of Barcelona, Madrid, Valencia and Seville is easy, reliable and affordable, and Spain is also becoming increasingly cycle-friendly, with bicycle-sharing systems like Barcelona’s Bicing and Madrid’s BiciMAD complemented by expansive cycle path networks in around Spain’s major cities.

Crime rate

For most Americans, a relative lack of crime and increased safety is one of the main benefits of living in Spain. For starters, in stark contrast to the U.S., Spain has some of the most restrictive, tightly-regulated gun laws in the world. 

According to World Population Review, the United States has a crime index of 49.2, making it the 57th highest country in the world out of 197 in terms of crime rate, while Spain’s crime index is 35.8, putting it 111th on the list. Spain also has a safety index of 64.2 compared to 50.8 for the U.S.

Location

If you’re keen to explore other European countries and discover other cultures you’ll be perfectly positioned. With Portugal, France, Italy, the U.K., Ireland, Germany and many more countries just a short flight away, living in Spain offers American expats an incredible array of experiences. 

So, what are you waiting for? Looking to make the move from the U.S. to Spain? Every year at TEFL Iberia, we help U.S. citizens relocate and start a new life in Spain. As one of Spain’s best TEFL providers, we offer a gateway for people wanting to live and work in Spain, with expert assistance obtaining visas and accommodation, together with a fully-accredited course that qualifies you to teach English anywhere in the world.  

Still seems like a pipe dream? Take a look at our guide on moving to Spain from the U.S. and you’ll see just how achievable it really is!  

Want to know more? Contact us today to take your first steps to living and working in Spain.