Madrid Mass March Highlights Spain’s Housing Crisis

On 24 May 2026, thousands gathered in central Madrid to protest rising rents and a shortage of affordable homes. The demonstration, organized by the Madrid Tenants’ Union and backed by the UGT and CCOO unions, featured chants, banners and demands for swift government action.

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Spain’s housing market, traditionally oriented toward homeownership, now faces a severe shortage. Tourism reached a record 97 million international arrivals in 2025, and immigration-linked population growth have boosted demand, while construction lags. Eurostat reports a 13 % year-on-year rise in housing costs at the end of 2025; the Bank of Spain estimates a deficit of about 700,000 homes between 2021 and 2025. Rents have roughly doubled in the past decade, outpacing wage growth.

Thousands in Spain's capital protest increasing housing costs

Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez (PSOE) heads the government. The Madrid Tenants’ Union coordinated the march; its spokesperson Fernando de los Santos addressed the media. CCOO secretary-general Unai Sordo voiced union concerns. Protesters such as teacher Estrella Baudu, advertising worker Irene Guinea and cultural programmer Nuria Nadim shared personal hardships.

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The Sánchez administration presented a €7 billion public-housing plan as a “significant step” to expand rental stock and aid young renters. In February, Sánchez announced a €120 billion public-investment fund aimed at housing and infrastructure. A proposed rent-freeze extension failed in Parliament, leaving existing controls unchanged. The regional delegate estimated 23,000 march participants.

Thousands in Spain's capital protest increasing housing costs

Demonstrators called for tighter regulation of tourist-focused short-term rentals, arguing they intensify price pressure. Union leaders accused the government of “snail-pace” reforms and warned the crisis is “escalating rapidly.” Protesters noted many young workers spend up to 70 % of income on rent and live in overcrowded conditions.

Thousands in Spain's capital protest increasing housing costs

Organizers claimed more than 100,000 participants, while the regional delegate reported 23,000. No independent verification has been released, leaving the exact figure uncertain.

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• “We want neighbors, not tourists,” — Banner displayed during the march

Thousands in Spain's capital protest increasing housing costs

• “The government may say it is taking measures, but the reality for those of us who rent is that we are receiving notices from our landlords who want to evict us,” — Fernando de los Santos, university professor and tenants’ union spokesperson

Thousands in Spain's capital protest increasing housing costs

• “Housing measures, although some are moving in the right direction, are advancing at a snail’s pace, while the housing crisis is escalating rapidly,” — Unai Sordo, CCOO secretary-general

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• “If we’re paying very high rent, it’s impossible for us to save up to buy a flat, so it’s a vicious circle we’re never going to escape,” — Irene Guinea, 29-year-old advertising worker

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The €7 billion housing plan will begin construction of new public units over the next four years, and the €120 billion fund is slated for regional projects. Legislative proposals to curb tourist rentals are expected to be debated soon. Housing remains a central issue in the run-up to the 2027 general election.

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