Question
What do people miss about America after moving to Spain? I live in Florida, and while I’m absolutely bored with my life here, I’m also really scared of moving to Spain and not liking it.
Answers
These are the answers of Spainguru’s Facebook group members:
“Been in the Algarve (Portugal) almost two years. I haven’t made it to Spain yet, but I will definitely head over soon to get a good sense for myself. I miss efficient delivery services, but otherwise, zero regrets. The first year was tough, but the second year is lovely.”
“Going to be brutally honest… I don’t regret it per se, but after 4+ years, we are actively exploring other options due to taxes. If you have no taxable income, it’s great. But if you earn a U.S.-level income, taxes hit hard.”
Join Spainguru free webinars about taxes and moving to Spain.
“Wherever you go, there you are. I had a full life in California and made a full life in Spain. Making friends is easier here, but you have to put yourself out there. Move for adventure, not just because you’re bored.”
“You can always move again or return. A move doesn’t have to be permanent. Planes fly in all directions.”
“I sometimes feel guilt about leaving aging parents behind. My parents are in their late 70s and 80s. We visit twice a year and keep in touch often, but it’s hard emotionally. Still, living in Spain has been a good decision.”
“I told my parents in their 80s that we were moving, and they’re taking it hard. But we’ve already sold most of our stuff and booked our tickets. It’s tough, but we’re committed.”
“I just miss Amazon Prime from the U.S.—the selection. We have Prime in Spain, but the offerings don’t compare.”
“Settling in is not easy—finding doctors, dealing with bureaucracy, the empadronamiento, the TIE—but it’s worth it once you’re through the challenges.”
“Bureaucracy in Spain can cause anxiety. I sometimes think Portugal might’ve been easier for quicker citizenship, but I’m still happy here.”
“We miss the culture of where we used to live in California—Mexican food, music, and people. But Spain has its own charm.”
“My suburban U.S. life felt empty even though we had everything—nice home, jobs, cars, schools. A shooting in our area made me realize life is short. Moving to Spain has been hard, but no regrets.”
“My spouse is hesitant about giving up our big home and lifestyle in the U.S., but I just want a more fulfilling life with less stress.”
“Being bored is a mindset. Find passion and curiosity wherever you are, and you’ll thrive.”
“I lived in Florida, then Massachusetts, and now Spain. Would never move back. Although I do miss good paper towels!”
“I don’t regret moving at all. We moved from California to Valencia with four suitcases and haven’t looked back.”
“I miss proper movie theater popcorn, but friends bring me butter seasoning from the States now.”
“I’m a young single mom doing a student visa. Spain feels like the right choice with my family here.”
“If you’re bored, make a change. It doesn’t have to be Spain.”
“Later in life, you’ll regret not trying something different. You’re not signing a lifelong contract—just go explore.”
Poll Results
In the poll titled “How many of you have regretted your decision of moving to Spain?” the results from 225 votes were:
- No regrets: 72%
- Sometimes: 16%
- Might have picked a different country: 5%
- Yes, a lot: 4%
- Regrets during the first year only: 2%
- Thought Spain was in Mexico: 1%
This clearly shows that while challenges exist, the overwhelming majority do not regret moving to Spain.
Conclusion
Moving to Spain is a life-changing decision that stirs a lot of fears—especially when you’re comfortable yet bored. Based on firsthand experiences from expats, the biggest lessons are:
- The first year can be tough, but many report improvements after that period.
- Taxes and bureaucracy are real pain points, especially for those earning abroad.
- Emotional strain around aging parents and missing U.S. conveniences is common, but manageable.
- The decision to move should be about gaining life experiences, not escaping boredom.
- Most importantly, moves aren’t permanent. If it doesn’t work out, you can always return or try another place.
Overall, most expats report no regrets, and many express personal growth, happiness, and a better quality of life in Spain.
Disclaimer:
This article is based on the contributions and experiences of Spainguru community members and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult official sources or an immigration professional for personalized guidance.
