There are many people who decide to leave cities to return to the peoples, those considered within what is known as “empty Spain.” To this trend has joined another modality, that of the peoples that “pay you to live there” and, in some, there is also work. With cheap housing, aid and facilities to attract new neighbors “especially young families”, more and more immigrants are in these locations to start a quieter and more affordable life.
The YouTube channel I am Fabián Dicosta He has visited one of these villages to speak with local and foreign residents about what it is like to live and work there. Opinions draw a panorama with lights and shadows. Tranquility, nature and community, but also few jobs and need to move to other locations to work.
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“Here I pay 200 euros of rent in a house of the town hall and I live much better than in the city,” says a neighbor. Life is slower and healthier: “You can go for a walk, you have a pool in summer, activities for children and we all know each other. It is much healthier than living in a Madrid, where all has been hurried and overwhelmed.”
“Cheap housing, but little work”
One of the biggest attractions are housing prices. The City Council offers houses for rent at prices that are around 200 or 300 euros, depending on the size and if they have subsidies. In addition, in recent years, basic services have installed and improved. “We have school until primary, nursery, medical center with emergency and public transport to nearby towns,” explains a resident.
However, employment remains the weak point. “There are some companies here, but not enough for everyone. Most of us work in nearby villages, 15 or 20 minutes by car,” explains another neighbor who moves to Aranda de Duero. In some cases, the job search is complicated, they explain. “It’s ugly to say it, but many times it goes for plug. If you have no contacts, it is difficult to find a job,” admits a waitress.
In this town, Spanish coexist with people from Romania, Bulgaria, Colombia, Argentina or Morocco. “There has never been racism here, we are all the same,” says a local neighbor. However, some foreigners clarify that, at first, the reception can be distant. “It’s like when you see something unknown, it’s a little scared. But over time you get used to and integrate,” explains a foreign resident.
The key, they say, is to participate in the life of the people, among which are going out to the bar, relating, aiming children to activities and not being locked at home. “If you open, people welcome you without problem,” they agree.
Is it worth moving?
The answer depends on each situation. “I recommend it. You live quieter, without stress, and if you have a family it is ideal. But you have to come with a card, some savings and, if possible, with a contact that helps you find work,” advises a neighbor.
Life in rural Spain can be an opportunity for those who seek to escape the frantic rhythm of cities, provided that work reality is taken into account. “Here you have peace, nature and community, but to make a living you have to take the car and go out to look for work outside” it gives as a summary one of the interviewees.