Every year, many Americans move to Spain to teach English and experience life abroad in a more meaningful way. For some, it is about travel and cultural immersion. For others, it is a chance to gain international experience, step into something new, and build a different kind of life for a season.
If you are considering teaching English in Spain as an American, this guide covers the big things to know before you go, from cost of living and cultural differences to qualifications and what day-to-day life can look like.
How does the cost of living in Spain compare to the US?
Cost of living is one of the biggest questions Americans have before moving abroad. The good news is that, in many cases, Spain still feels noticeably more affordable than the United States. Current cost-of-living data shows that overall living costs in Spain are about 26% lower than in the US on average, while rent is about 42% lower.
To give that some real-world context, average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in a city center is currently about €889 in Spain, compared with about €1,460 in the United States. For a one-bedroom outside the city center, the average is about €692 in Spain versus €1,185 in the US.
That said, your actual costs will still depend a lot on where you live. Madrid and Barcelona usually feel more expensive than smaller cities or towns, especially when it comes to housing. Still, for many Americans, everyday costs like rent, groceries, public transportation, and dining out can feel more manageable in Spain than they do back home.
If you want to reference the current exchange rate, the European Central Bank’s euro reference rate on March 16, 2026 is €1 = $1.1478.
What are some important cultural differences between the US and Spain?
Moving abroad always comes with some level of culture shock, even when the destination feels familiar in some ways. Spain and the United States share certain Western cultural norms, but daily life can still feel noticeably different once you arrive.
Here are a few differences many Americans notice early on:
People often stand closer in conversation
This is a big one that takes some getting used to. Americans usually prefer more personal space during conversations. In Spain, people often stand closer and may use more physical gestures while talking. It can feel unfamiliar at first, but over time it usually becomes one of those small differences you simply adjust to.
Meals happen later in the day
Meal times in Spain are often later than what many Americans are used to. Lunch may happen around 2 p.m., and dinner often starts around 9 or 10 p.m. It can take a little time to get used to, especially in the beginning.
The infamous Spanish siesta
While Americans hustle and bustle all day, the Spanish take a few hours mid-day, usually from 2-5 pm, for a little shut-eye to recharge their batteries. Many non-historians mistakenly attribute the invention of the siesta to the Spanish, but it actually is a borrowed tradition from the Romans. Learn more about the interesting history of the siesta.
Public transportation is more common
Many Americans rely heavily on cars because of distance and infrastructure. In Spain, buses, trains, and metro systems are much more central to daily life, especially in cities. That can make getting around feel easier and less expensive than many Americans expect.
If you are looking for a more detailed description of what cultural differences there are between the US and Spain, check out our post on Cultural Differences Between Spain and the US. Similarly, check out our post on Cultural Similarities between Spain and the US.
What are the most popular cities in Spain for an American to live?
Spain has a population of nearly 50 million people spread out over 17 distinct and diverse regions, each with its own historical and cultural quirks.
The most popular cities in Spain for American expats are:
- Madrid: Madrid is the largest city and capital of Spain, the undisputed epicenter of Spanish political and economic life. It’s got all the amenities of the modern world, including a first-class transportation system and medical infrastructure.
- Galicia: Located in northwestern Spain, Galicia is known for its coastline, stone towns, and relaxed feel. It is a good choice if you want something quieter and more local.
- Valencia: If year-round sunshine on the beach is your vibe, this coastal city might be your cup of tea.
- Seville: The capital of the autonomous region of Andalucía, Sevilla is steeped in a rich cultural history. It’s also situated in the most affordable region in Spain, so you can save lots of money while living and teaching here.
- Malaga: A port city on the Southern coast, historic Malaga is one of the oldest cities in Spain, having been founded by the ancient Phoenicians in 770 BC.
What qualifications does an American need to teach English in Spain?
Americans, generally speaking, in several regards, have a huge leg-up over other nationalities when it comes to ESL.
Degrees from accredited American universities are (no pun intended) universally recognized as legitimate worldwide. Our passports are highly coveted and enable easy access to most countries (including Spain). And many schools abroad, in Spain and elsewhere, prefer American accents over other English accents because they are considered “neutral” in their tone.
To land a high-paying, rewarding ESL position in Spain, all Americans really need is:
- Clean criminal background
- 4-year university degree (or currently be enrolled in an associates or bachelors degree program)
- Native-level English
- Valid US passport
Why this path still makes sense for Americans
Spain continues to be one of the most appealing destinations for Americans who want to teach abroad. The lifestyle, accessibility, cultural experience, and continued value placed on English learning all help keep this path relevant.
For Americans looking for a way to live abroad without needing years of classroom experience first, Spain remains one of the more approachable and rewarding options.
What online communities can help Americans adjust to life in Spain?
One of the best ways to make your move easier is to learn from people who have already done it. Online communities can be helpful for everything from housing tips and paperwork advice to everyday cultural questions.
Here are a few expat groups and communities worth exploring:
- American Expats in Spain
- Expats retired or working and living in Spain
- Americans in Spain
- Reddit communities focused on expat life in Spain
Could Spain be your next move?
If teaching English in Spain has been on your mind, you do not have to figure everything out alone. At RVF International, we help future teachers understand the process, prepare their applications, and feel more confident about the move abroad.
If you want a clearer path into teaching in Spain, explore our Spain program and see what the experience can look like.
Ben Bartee is a Bangkok-based American journalist, grant writer, political essayist, researcher, travel blogger, and amateur philosopher. Contact him on Linkedin and check out his Portfolio.
