Thousands of people gathered in central Madrid on Sunday to protest rising housing costs that many say have pushed homes and rent out of reach.
The demonstrations reflect growing frustration over affordability in Spain’s biggest cities, especially Madrid and Barcelona.
Protesters demand affordable housing
Thousands marched through central Madrid carrying signs and chanting slogans about housing rights.
Some banners criticized the impact of mass tourism on local housing.
One sign read: “We want neighbors, not tourists.”
Protesters argued that rising rents and property prices are forcing residents out of city centers.
Housing crisis pressures Spanish government
Spain’s housing crisis has become a political challenge for Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez ahead of national elections in 2027.
Analysts say several factors have pushed costs higher. These include rising demand, tourism, population growth, and limited public rental housing.
At the same time, speculation and market pressure have increased prices in major cities and coastal regions.
Government launches housing plan
Last month, the Spanish government approved a €7 billion housing plan aimed at increasing affordable housing.
The plan includes new public housing construction over four years and support for young renters and first-time homebuyers.
However, lawmakers rejected a separate proposal that would have extended temporary rent freezes.
As a result, housing affordability remains a major source of public frustration.
Many demonstrators called for tighter rules on tourist rentals, which have expanded rapidly in city centers.
Spain welcomed a record 97 million international visitors last year, increasing pressure on local housing markets.
Meanwhile, official estimates suggest the country faces a shortage of around 700,000 homes compared with demand.
Housing costs rose nearly 13% year-over-year at the end of 2025, according to European data.
