Every year, millions of American visitors travel to Spain to immerse themselves in a different culture, a distinct rhythm of life, and an unforgettable experience. Whether it’s a short trip along the Andalusian coast or several years living in Madrid or Barcelona, most who come to Spain are captivated by the country’s lifestyle and traditions. That includes the American sailors stationed at the U.S. Naval Base in Rota, Cádiz, in the southwest of Spain. This location, which holds strategic importance for the U.S., is also seen by many young sailors as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
So much so, in fact, that the Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) offers a detailed description of what life is like in Rota on its official website. “For many visitors, Spain is a truly unforgettable place, and living in Rota offers an experience unmatched in the U.S. or anywhere else,” NAVSEA explains. According to the agency, Spain’s rich culture is one of the main reasons many service members request to be stationed at the Rota base. Drawn by “captivating art, exciting festivals, and romantic sunsets,” sailors are often surprised by the lifestyle they encounter in southern Spain.
“When you arrive in Spain, you’ll realize you’re in a special place. The unique blend of cultures and deep-rooted history—combined with local traditions and exceptional cuisine—offers an unforgettable experience,” NAVSEA notes.
One of the most noticeable differences, according to NAVSEA, is Spain’s calendar of celebrations. Unlike in the U.S., Spain features what the Navy describes as “a seemingly endless calendar of festivals, holidays, and cultural events”—something that’s especially appreciated by the hundreds of American service members stationed in Cádiz. NAVSEA also highlights the regional diversity across Spain, from Galicia to Almería to Badajoz. Despite its relatively small size, the wide range of cultural traditions found throughout the country is a major draw for Americans abroad. “Spain is a blend of the old and the new, the modern and the traditional. For visitors, Spain means bullfights, towering cathedrals, world-class art, Moorish palaces, whitewashed villages, and radiant sunshine,” the agency says.
In addition to the cultural allure, Spain has become a hot spot for expats looking to buy property, particularly in the Costa del Sol, known for its luxurious real estate and stunning beaches. However, potential buyers must navigate a complex landscape filled with legal and financial pitfalls. As of April 20, 2025, Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez's proposal to hike taxes to 100 percent for expats seeking to purchase a home in the country has not proceeded, at least not yet. The proposed tax would primarily target individuals from outside the European Union, aiming to curb the inflation of the property market attributed to wealthy foreign buyers.
For now, Spain offers many legal protections for international property buyers, but that doesn’t mean purchasing a home is risk-free. The Costa del Sol is one of Spain’s most sought-after locations for luxurious real estate, boasting 300 days of Mediterranean sun. The area features beautiful beachfront apartments, golf residential villas, and gated communities in Estepona, Marbella, Benahavis, and the newly developed La Nueva Milla Dorada. This area, named after the Milla Dorada of Marbella, is approximately 20 years old and offers pristine beaches with fine, golden sand and crystal-clear waters.
When considering buying property in Spain, expats must avoid common mistakes that could lead to costly headaches. The Euro Weekly News outlines five key pitfalls:
- Not hiring a lawyer: From purchasing a home or flat that has been illegally modified to property restrictions that sellers do not disclose, having a lawyer is critical to save money and avoid unnecessary hassles.
- Underestimating costs: Many buyers focus solely on the listing price, overlooking additional taxes and fees that could increase the total purchase cost by up to 15 percent. Resale properties are subject to a 7 percent Transfer Tax (ITP), while newly built properties incur a 10 percent VAT (IVA) and a 1.2 percent Stamp Duty (AJD).
- Buying in the wrong location: It’s essential to visit potential locations several times throughout the year to ensure they meet your needs and have the desired amenities.
- Being tempted by underreporting: Some buyers may be asked to underreport their purchase price to save on taxes, but this can lead to significant capital gains tax consequences later.
- Neglecting property inspections: Although not common practice in Spain, conducting a full property inspection is vital to uncover hidden issues that could lead to costly repairs.
In addition to these mistakes, buyers should also be aware of rental laws, tax obligations, and the potential risks associated with purchasing off-plan properties, which may still be under construction.
Spain has long been a popular destination for retirees from the UK, Germany, and France, but according to a recent study by the Global Intelligence Unit, it has also emerged as one of the best countries for American retirees. The study ranked Spain first, surpassing Portugal, Costa Rica, and Uruguay. Factors contributing to this ranking include the low cost of living, excellent quality of life, and good public and private healthcare systems.
Madrid, in particular, stands out as a favored choice among American retirees. Known for its long history and culture, the capital offers a relatively low cost of living, with estimates suggesting that a single person can live there for around $2000 to $2500 USD per month (approximately €1,765 to €2,207). However, these figures may be slightly optimistic given the rising costs in Spain. Official data indicates that the number of Americans living in Spain has increased by 10,000, reflecting the country’s growing appeal.
In summary, Spain continues to attract Americans for various reasons, from its rich culture and vibrant lifestyle to its real estate opportunities and favorable conditions for retirees. As the landscape evolves, potential buyers and expats must stay informed and prepared to navigate the unique challenges of living in this beautiful country.
