In 2026, Barcelona decided to go big: the city council approved the most ambitious budget in its history. For the first time, spending will exceed €4.18 billion, with nearly a quarter of a billion allocated to housing programs. This 33% increase over last year’s expenditures isn’t just a number on paper—it’s a clear signal: affordable housing has become the top priority for the Catalan capital.
With renting and buying property in Barcelona long a puzzle for most residents, the authorities are focusing on expanding opportunities for those dreaming of their own home or at least a stable apartment. Notably, neither families, small businesses, nor individual entrepreneurs will feel any additional tax burden—the city’s coffers will be replenished without increasing levies.
New Priorities
The focus is not only on building new homes but also on effective management of the existing stock. More than €80 million will go toward the construction and maintenance of social housing, with the main emphasis on rentals. Another €50 million is earmarked for programs to renovate and modernize old buildings. Here, the priority is energy efficiency and prolonging the lifespan of housing, fully in line with modern sustainable development trends.
City authorities are going beyond just repairs and construction. The budget allocates funds for land purchases and the launch of new projects in strategically important areas, such as the large-scale La Sagrera (La Sagrera) redevelopment zone. In addition, there are resources set aside for implementing the right of first refusal, enabling the municipality to buy apartments before they reach the open market.
Supporting the vulnerable
Special attention is given to those most in need. Rent subsidy programs and other forms of assistance are being expanded to reach more single-parent families and seniors over 55. Authorities believe that only a comprehensive approach can help ease the tension in the housing market, even if only slightly.
However, even such significant investments do not guarantee immediate results. Barcelona continues to struggle with a shortage of supply and high prices, especially in the rental sector. Mayor Jaume Collboni insists that increased funding offers a chance to speed up ongoing projects and lay the groundwork for expanding the municipal housing stock in the future. But much will depend on how effectively city services perform and how closely they manage to cooperate with other levels of government.
A market under pressure
The real estate market in Barcelona resembles a chess game, where every move can shift the balance of power. Despite all efforts, housing prices remain out of reach for most residents. Limited supply and high demand are driving both renters and buyers to desperate measures, forcing the city to search for new tools to stabilize the situation.
The authorities are betting on long-term solutions but admit: without support from regional and national bodies, it will be difficult to turn the tide. Nevertheless, the current budget is not just about putting out fires—it’s an attempt to build a new strategy where housing stops being a luxury and becomes a basic right.
Challenges and Expectations
In 2026, Barcelona is not just increasing spending—it’s changing the entire housing policy philosophy. Housing is now one of the city’s top three priorities, alongside social support and public safety. The key question is whether these record investments will translate into real change for residents.
The city stands on the brink of change, and the speed and effectiveness of these new projects will shape the future for thousands of families. For now, Barcelona’s residents are watching with keen interest as the city hall tries to outsmart the market and restore the city’s reputation as a place where owning a home is not just a dream, but a reality.
Recall that Jaume Collboni has served as mayor of Barcelona since 2023. Previously, he was known as one of the leaders of the Socialists’ Party of Catalonia and held various positions in the city administration. Under his leadership, the city has repeatedly launched major social and infrastructure projects, with affordable housing and urban development always among his top priorities.
