Are Americans buying more homes in Spain because of the dollar’s strength against the euro?

The attraction to buying homes in Spain is undeniable. The sunshine, history, architecture, and lifestyle are hugely appealing to people from all different types of backgrounds.

It’s common knowledge that plenty of British citizens have emigrated to Spain, most notably to the south coast along the Costa del Sol – but they’re not the only nationals to do this.

In recent times, many Americans have taken a keen interest in the Spanish property market, particularly due to the strength of the dollar against the euro.

With visa laws changing in Spain in 2025, how will that impact Americans and are they moving purely for financial investment opportunities?

Why are Americans buying property in Spain?

There are several reasons why Americans – or anybody – would love to purchase property in Spain, especially in areas like Malaga, Marbella, and the Costa del Sol.

Interest in Spanish properties from Americans has increased 40% in the last three months. This signifies a sudden upturn in curiosity from the US – but why?

We’ve listed three reasons in particular that we believe could be behind any interest from the United States of America.

Popular destinations

Last year (2024) was a big year for American tourism in Spain. A record 4.2 million tourists from the USA visited, an 11.2% increase from 2023.

There is a wide range of incredible destinations in Spain that would entice Americans to purchase property, particularly along the Costa del Sol’s south coast.

Regions like Marbella and the Balearic Islands attract American buyers due to their warm climate (there are approximately 320 days of sunshine all year!), luxurious lifestyle, and vibrant culture.

There are golf resorts dotted throughout the area, as well as beachfront properties, hillside villas, and gated communities that offer privacy, peace, and relaxation.

Currency strength and market trends

The US dollar is currently performing very well against the euro and other European currencies, making purchasing property in Spain more attractive for American nationals.

The US dollar to euro exchange rate is currently at 0.923 – a slight dip from 0.971 at the beginning of 2025. However, it has improved since September 2024, when the dollar-to-euro exchange rate was 0.893.

Given that the dollar is so strong against the euro at present, it’s no surprise to see Americans interested in an overseas investment, where they can get more value.

Plus, following Donald Trump’s election victory in November 2024 and his inauguration in January 2025, the stock market has taken an incredible dip. From February 19th 2025, to the middle of March, the stock market has lost over $4 trillion due to Trump’s economic choices.

With the economy spiralling, a global citizenship company has reported that inquiries into golden visas across Europe have increased by 400% compared to the week prior. With Spain’s golden visa ending in early April 2025, it seems there could be a sudden rush by Americans to purchase Spanish property.

Excellent investment opportunities

For Americans looking for investment opportunities across Europe, the south coast of Spain represents excellent value.

In Malaga, Marbella, and across the Costa del Sol, many luxury townhouses, villas, and apartments have experienced consistent value appreciation – enticing for long-term investments.

Plus, Spain recently introduced Beckham’s Law, which is very beneficial for expats moving to Spain, as they would receive a reduced flat tax rate of 24% on incomes of up to €600,000. A vast difference to the rates for residents in Valencia, which can reach 54%.

Visa difficulties in Spain

While interest from American property owners has increased, they may face difficulties in terms of visas and the time they’re allowed to spend in the country from April of this year.

The golden visa – which permits Spanish residency when a non-EU national purchases property for at least €500,000 – is ending on April the 3rd 2025. This visa allows you to then travel to and from the country whenever you like and holiday in Spain throughout the year.

From April, non-EU nationals will be restricted to the 90-day rule, which stops non-EU nationals from travelling outside a 180-day period.

The travel limit is classed as a tourist visa, so if you want to make a permanent move to Spain, you can choose between the lucrative and non-lucrative Spain visas or even a digital nomad visa if you’re working remotely for a country outside of Spain. This is what any Americans considering the move from the US will need to do from April 2025.

Should you buy property in Spain?

Yes! At Bromley Estates Marbella, we believe everyone should consider purchasing property in Marbella, Malaga, and the Costa del Sol.

It’s a beautiful area of the world, with approximately 320 days of sunshine every year, stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, easy access to incredible golf courses, and fabulous cuisine.

At Bromley Estates Marbella, we’re always staying on top of the latest news from Spain regarding property laws, visas, and much more.

So, if you’d like to chat with a member of our team about anything you’ve read here – or if you’re interested in viewing and purchasing property in Spain – don’t hesitate to contact us immediately.

You can do so by calling +34 952 939 460 (+44 208 068 7606) or by sending your enquiry to info@bromleyestatesmarbella.com.