National report on housing inequalities – Spain

An extract from Deliverable 2.1 “Contextualized analysis of the housing situation – Papers on (sub)national trends”

Persistent housing inequality in Spain is driven by affordability, space constraints, financial vulnerabilities, and regional disparities. Affordability issues are particularly acute for renters, low-income households, and residents in specific regions. High housing costs impose significant financial strain, especially in large urban centers where demand exceeds supply, exacerbating gentrification and displacement. Overcrowding remains a key issue, particularly in smaller homes in densely populated areas. Financial vulnerabilities further complicate the housing landscape, with high mortgage arrears revealing the precarious nature of homeownership. Regional disparities persist, with urban areas facing higher costs and rural areas struggling with depopulation, aging housing stock, and limited infrastructure. A preference for homeownership and inadequate public rental investment have created systemic barriers to quality housing.