Spain Attracts More International Buyers
Where Are International Buyers Investing in Spain in 2024?
Spain's property market remains a magnet for global buyers — but who's buying where?
The latest data from Spain’s notaries provides a fascinating snapshot of foreign property ownership trends in 2024. While some familiar faces continue to dominate, there are a few surprising shifts in the rankings — and one new player making a serious impact.
The Usual Suspects: Brits, Germans, and the French
As expected, British buyers continue to hold strong positions in popular sun-drenched regions:
#1 in Andalusia and Murcia
#2 in the Balearic and Canary Islands, just behind the ever-present Germans
But the British grip is loosening in some key areas. In the Valencian Community — historically a stronghold for UK buyers — the Dutch and Belgians have surged ahead, pushing the British off the podium altogether. A surprising shift, and one that signals changing preferences in coastal property investment.
The French also continue to assert their influence, especially in regions bordering their home country. They rank first or second in Catalonia, Navarre, and Aragon, with the Germans not far behind, often taking the runner-up position. The two groups also dominate the Balearics and Canaries, Spain’s premier vacation destinations.
The Big Surprise: Americans Step Onto the Stage
Perhaps the most significant headline from the 2024 data is the rapid rise of American buyers.
Previously a minor presence in Spain’s property scene, US buyers now:
Top the charts in five regions, including Galicia, Castile and León, and Castile-La Mancha
Rank second in two more, giving them podium spots in seven out of Spain’s seventeen regions
This puts American buyers level with the French in total podium appearances — a remarkable feat given the geographical and logistical distance.
They even make a splash in Madrid, sharing the top three with Chinese buyers. A curious intersection of two economic superpowers, proving that while trade tensions persist, both Americans and Chinese agree on one thing: Madrid property is worth the investment.
Looking Ahead: What’s Driving the Shift?
The growing interest from US buyers could be fueled by several factors:
A strong dollar and relative affordability in Spain
Golden Visa incentives and digital nomad-friendly policies
Post-pandemic lifestyle changes and the appeal of European living
A growing appetite for property-based investments abroad
As talk swirls about the possibility of a Trump 2.0 presidency, it’s unclear whether this momentum will continue, slow, or accelerate. But one thing is clear: Americans have arrived — and they’re buying.
Final Thoughts
International property buying trends offer more than statistics — they reveal lifestyle shifts, economic confidence, and cross-cultural aspirations. For developers, agents, and investors, keeping an eye on these movements is more important than ever.
And for buyers? The world is still coming to Spain. Whether you're British, Dutch, American, or anything in between, the Spanish sun continues to shine on smart investment opportunities.
