Last Updated on April 18, 2026 by Bruno Bianchi
Question
My husband and I are considering living in Spain, probably near Barcelona. We are in an interracial relationship and have four small children.
I’ve seen a lot of great reasons to move to Spain, and it’s my top pick, but I want to hear the ugly so I can really be sure. What are things that you DON’T like about living in Spain?
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These are the answers of Spainguru’s Facebook group members:
Cultural and Social Environment
“The most common misconception about Spain is that Barcelona is the ultimate place to be. There is so much more to Spain. Look around.”
“Spain is not as openly racist as the U.S., but there is still discrimination, often subtle. For example, my mixed-race kids have been mistaken for someone else’s children or assumed to be adopted.”
“We’ve faced occasional profiling, such as being followed in stores or getting odd looks in upscale neighborhoods.”
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Explore Cities →“Many Spaniards aren’t used to seeing interracial families, especially outside major cities.”
“Despite occasional awkward questions, our family has felt safe and accepted, especially after learning the language and integrating into the culture.”
Safety and Crime
“Barcelona is relatively safe but notorious for pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in tourist areas.”
“In smaller towns, crime rates are generally low, and families report feeling safe.”
“We’ve never felt physically threatened, though we’ve experienced some theft on public transport.”
Education System and Language
“Schools in Barcelona teach in Catalan by law, which can be challenging for kids new to the language.”
“Private schools offer bilingual education in Spanish and English, but they can be expensive.”
“Our kids adapted quickly, but be prepared for a learning curve in both Spanish and Catalan.”
Housing and Cost of Living
“Rents are high in Barcelona and Madrid, though smaller towns are much more affordable.”
“We moved to Valencia because housing was cheaper and family life seemed easier.”
“Be prepared for unpredictable rental terms and requests for several months’ rent in advance.”
Work and Bureaucracy
“Spain’s bureaucracy is slow and complicated. Expect long waits for residency paperwork, school enrollment, and healthcare registration.”
“Starting a business or freelancing comes with high taxes and heavy regulation.”
“If you’re self-employed, monthly social security contributions can be steep.”
Healthcare System
“Public healthcare is good but slow. If you need quick access to specialists, private insurance is worth considering.”
“We pay about €1,200 a year for private insurance with great coverage—much cheaper than in the U.S.”
Cultural Norms and Daily Life
“Spaniards are direct and often ask personal questions like ‘Where are you from?’ or ‘How much do you pay for rent?'”
“Customer service can be inconsistent. Many stores close in the afternoon for siesta and are shut on Sundays.”
“Expect long meal times, late-night dining (8-10 PM), and a slower overall pace of life.”
Discrimination and Racism Experiences
“Our family has experienced both acceptance and microaggressions. Some locals have been incredibly welcoming, while others seemed wary.”
“We’ve been refused housing after landlords saw our IDs. It’s subtle, but housing discrimination exists.”
“Schools are generally inclusive, though some parents reported their kids being teased about race.”
“While many locals are accepting, especially younger generations, occasional racist remarks still happen.”
Conclusion
Spain offers a high quality of life, beautiful weather, and a family-focused culture, but moving as an interracial family requires some preparation.
Challenges such as adjusting to cultural norms, encountering subtle racism, and navigating bureaucratic hurdles can arise.
However, many families report a positive experience, especially after learning the language and integrating into the local community. Consider smaller cities with lower crime rates, family-friendly amenities, and a welcoming atmosphere for the best experience.
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article reflect the contributions and experiences of Spainguru community members and do not represent the views of Spainguru. This article is not intended as legal advice. For personalized guidance, consider consulting a qualified legal expert.
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