Spain/Barcelona
Barcelona is Spain's second largest city, with a metro population of nearly six million people, and the capital of Catalonia. It's comparable to being the "San Francisco" of Spain, having a more relaxed pace than Madrid and access to plenty of beaches and mountains.
Why Barcelona?
The city has plenty of resources for trans folks and easier for expats to integrate into. The weather is also comparable to LA, with less extreme temperatures than Madrid.
Barcelona is also located in Catalonia, which has had the most progressive laws of any of the other autonomous regions of Spain.
Why not Barcelona?
Barcelona is one of the most expensive cities in Spain. Expect to pay about €1100-1500 for a 1-bedroom apartment.
The city also attracts a high number of tourists, causing some antagonism towards those perceived to be a tourist.
The language barrier can be a challenge for those who do not speak Spanish or Catalan. While you can get around touristy areas with English, doing more "non-touristy" things like finding an apartment, visiting the social security office, or setting up a bank account may require more Spanish or a friend/agent who speaks Spanish or Catalan.
Housing
The rental market in Barcelona is highly competitive, with two main types of leases:
Short-Term Rentals
- Lease term: usually 6-11 months, sometimes up to 2 years
- Agency Fee: Paid by the tenant (usually 10% of annual rent + 21% VAT).
- Deposit: 2 months’ rent (3 months if you have a pet).
- Often comes furnished but may vary.
Long-Term Rentals
Only 20% of the market falls under this category.
- Lease term: 12+ months
- Agency Fee: Paid by the owner.
- Deposit: 2 months’ rent (Can be 3 months if you have a pet).
- Pets: Only 30% of properties accept pets, mostly in unfurnished rentals.
Typical apartment rental rates
- 1-bedroom: €1,100 - €1,500/mo
- 2-bedroom: €1,400 - €2,000/mo
- 3-bedroom: €2,000 - €3,000+/mo
Sites for finding housing
Trans Healthcare
TODO
LGBTQ+ Friendly Neighborhoods
There is no single "gayborhood" in Barcelona, however LGBT folks tend to live in the core neighborhoods of Eixample, Bari Gothic, Gracia, Sant Antoni, Barceloneta, and Poblenou. There is a neighborhood featuring a cluster of cis-gay-catering establishments in the southeast corner of L'Esquerra de l'Eixample ("Eixample Left").
Trans-friendly Neighborhoods
Eixample and Gracia are your best bets, but note this is purely based on Aster's personal vibes after two weeks.