Thousands protest in Madrid over rising housing costs and rent crisis in Spain

By  News On Air   May 24, 2026

In Spain, thousands of people today rallied in central Madrid against soaring housing costs that have pushed many citizens out of the property market despite the country’s recent economic growth. The housing crisis has emerged as a major political challenge for Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez ahead of the 2027 general elections. Protesters demanded stronger government measures to control rising rents and improve access to affordable housing.

According to Eurostat which is the statistical office of the European Union, housing costs in Spain rose by nearly 13 per cent year-on-year at the end of 2025. Analysts say the surge has been driven by booming tourism, population growth linked to immigration and a shortage of public housing.

The Bank of Spain estimates that the country faces a shortfall of around seven lakh homes. Spain also recorded a sharp rise in tourism, welcoming a record 97 million international visitors last year.