This Town Ain't Big Enough for the Both of Us

The beautiful city of Barcelona has an estimated population of 5.7 million. Located in the north-eastern tip of Spain, the city boasts a vibrant culture and historic past that entices people from all over the world to visit. One could spend the morning visiting the stunning La Sagrada Familia church that towers 172.5 meters (566 feet) above the ground, following that, they could cool off by swimming in the Mediterranean Sea, and finally they could finish their day by visiting the historic Spotify Camp Nou and support Barcelona FC (soccer team) along with 99,354 loyal fans. Despite these enticing tourist attractions, the reality for Barcelona residents is much more grim. The city, like many regions around the world, is facing a severe housing crisis, with 5,100 people without housing or living in inadequate conditions – a number that has increased by 22% since 2022. According to the Arrels Foundation, just over half of the unhoused population receives assistance, leaving 1,231 people to sleep on the city’s streets, a record high and a notable 16% increase compared to 2021. Scholars have long debated the underlying factors that have contributed to these outcomes, with culprits ranging from inflation and rising rents to broader issues such as unemployment and high housing cost.