In Badia del Vallès, few residents realize that in just a year, they will be facing a new mandatory levy. Starting in 2026, a metropolitan tax will be introduced for 4,815 apartment owners—representing a significant portion of the city’s population. The average payment will be around €13.75, but for many, this news has come as a complete surprise.
Until now, most property owners in this municipality were exempt from paying this tax thanks to existing benefits. If the cadastral value of a home was less than €49,000, there was no need to pay. Most apartments in Badia del Vallès fell under this category. However, things are about to change: the new fiscal policy, approved by the leadership of the Área Metropolitana de Barcelona, cancels these previous exemptions.
The reason for these changes stems from court rulings that found it unfair to have different rates for companies and individuals. As a result, starting in 2026, almost 75% of local homeowners who previously did not pay this levy will become new taxpayers. For a quarter of them, the amount will be symbolic—less than five euros. Another quarter will pay between six and ten euros, while the rest will face payments ranging from 14 to 18 euros.
Financial pressure on residents and official response
Mayor Josep Martínez Valencia admits that this will be a significant blow to many families’ budgets. He points out that the municipality desperately needs funding from various sources, including regional and metropolitan funds, to maintain infrastructure and social programs. Nevertheless, the authorities plan to freeze the property tax rate (IBI) for 2026 in an attempt to soften the tax burden.
In recent years, annual property tax payments have already increased by €15–20. Now, another mandatory fee will be added to these expenses. Authorities emphasize that these funds go towards public services, but for many residents, that offers little consolation.
Ignorance and dissatisfaction among residents
In daily life, the issue of new taxes is barely discussed. Many people are simply unaware of the upcoming changes. Even staff at local pharmacies and stores are surprised when they hear about the new fee. Only real estate professionals are aware of the changes, as they have already encountered similar charges in neighboring cities.
In the coming months, residents of Badia del Vallès will have to learn more about the new rules and prepare for additional expenses. For a city with modest incomes, this will be a serious challenge—and for the authorities, a test of their ability to explain and defend their decisions to the public.
