Thousands Rally in Madrid Against Rising Housing Costs

Thousands of people rallied in central Madrid on Sunday against rising housing costs that have made home purchases and rentals unaffordable for many residents. The protest occurred despite recent economic growth, particularly in Madrid and Barcelona. Demonstrators carried banners and chanted slogans focused on housing access.

Spain maintains a high rate of home ownership and limited public rental housing. Rents have increased due to higher demand from tourism and population growth. Housing prices rose nearly 13 percent year-on-year by the end of 2025, according to Eurostat data. The Bank of Spain estimates the country needs 700,000 additional homes to meet demand.

Last month the government approved a 7 billion euro plan to build more public housing over four years and provide support for young renters and buyers. A separate measure to extend temporary rent controls did not pass Parliament. Spain received a record 97 million international visitors last year, increasing pressure on available units in city centers.

Over the past several years similar demonstrations have taken place across the country, with calls for tighter limits on short-term tourist rentals.