Rising Tensions in Spain Due to Housing Crisis
Spain is witnessing rising tensions as residents protest against high housing costs. In cities like Barcelona and Madrid, locals have demonstrated against the impact of short-term vacation rentals on housing affordability.
Barcelona Mayor Jaume Collboni has openly discussed the problem. Residents argue that mass tourism has become unaffordable for them, with real estate companies converting apartments into vacation rentals. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez addressed this issue recently in Barcelona.
“Finding an apartment in Barcelona definitely gave me a better understanding of how competitive the housing market can be,” travel writer Jordi Lippe-McGraw, who moved to Barcelona recently, shared with Fox News Digital.
In September, protests highlighted concerns over the expansion of Barcelona-El Prat Airport due to environmental and overtourism issues. Official data indicates that the region welcomed 26.1 million visitors in 2025, contributing $15.4 billion in direct tourism spending.
Amidst the growing pressure, efforts are underway to address tourism’s impact. According to José Antonio Donaire, the commissioner for sustainable tourism, “Barcelona began rethinking tourism … back in 2017.” The new message is clear: limit tourist influx.
The eviction of 87-year-old María del Carmen Abascal in September further highlighted the affordability crisis. After her death, mass protests took place in cities like Madrid and Barcelona.
Concerns also surround short-term vacation rentals. On April 1, Barcelona introduced a combined city and regional surcharge, raising the total overnight tax for hotel guests, making it one of Europe’s highest.
Moreover, in September 2026, Barcelona finalized restrictions on short-stay cruise tourism. The municipal tourist tax surcharge for such visitors reached a maximum of $27 per day.
Lippe-McGraw, living in a quieter neighborhood, commented on the palpable crowds in tourist areas while noting locals’ warm welcome towards her family.
“Everybody has been welcoming us, even in day-to-day interactions,” she noted, emphasizing respect for local customs and efforts to learn the language.