The Rental Crisis in Spain: What’s Going On?
🏠 Rental demand in Spain has skyrocketed—up over 300% compared to 2020! Meanwhile, listings are down, and competition has quadrupled. Renting an apartment now feels like auditioning for a role: landlords assess your income, job stability, and payment history. As a result, low-income families are getting pushed out of the market.
📊 Where’s the competition the fiercest?
🔺 Bilbao +523%
🔺 Barcelona +478%
🔺 Madrid +307%
📉 So, what’s causing this mess?
1️⃣ High demand, low supply – The economy’s recovered, incomes are up, but property prices have shot through the roof, making buying unrealistic for many. That pushes more people into the rental market, boosting demand.
2️⃣ Fewer rental properties – Many owners prefer to sell rather than rent, especially with rising property values. Some even keep properties empty to avoid rent control.
3️⃣ Laws that backfired – In 2019, Spain introduced strict rent caps and eviction protections. The intention was good, but many landlords simply left the market instead of accepting less favorable conditions.
4️⃣ Short-term rentals boom – Platforms like Airbnb and Booking offer better returns, so many switched to tourist rentals, shrinking the pool of long-term options.
⚠️ What are the consequences?
💰 Higher prices – Renting is becoming unaffordable for many.
🚪 Lack of accessible housing – The middle class and low-income families struggle to find a decent place.
🏙️ New rules of the game – Now it’s those with high incomes and stable jobs who win the rental race.
❗ What’s next? Unless the government boosts rental supply and rebalances the law, prices will keep climbing—and inequality will deepen.
Got questions or want to know what’s available right now? Drop us a message! We’ll help you find the place that fits your needs. Book a consultation and let’s talk options.
📞 Phone: +34 603 16 57 98
📧 Email: info@avenidainvest.com
📌 Office: Carrer Bruc 21, 1-1, Barcelona
