As of May 2026, 3,279 people across 1,087 households were living in emergency accommodation in Barcelona, including 1,657 children, according to data from the city council. These facilities, typically repurposed hostels and guesthouses, were designed for short-term stays, but average durations have more than doubled in five years, reaching 202 days in 2025, up from 103 days in 2020.
Chronic Stays Due to Housing Crisis
More than 75% of families now stay in emergency housing for over six months, while 5% have been living in these conditions for more than five years. The Barcelona Inclusive Housing Network (XHIB), which manages longer-term supported housing, reported that people stay in those homes for an average of 27 months. However, the surge in demand has overwhelmed the system.
The city council attributes the crisis to a severe imbalance between low incomes and high housing costs. The average single-parent family in emergency housing earns €1,047 per month, above the official poverty threshold, but still cannot secure private rental accommodation due to intense competition for affordable rooms.
Living Conditions and Complaints
Residents report deteriorating living conditions. Cathy Martínez, a divorced mother of three, has lived for months in a small guesthouse room near shared bathrooms and laundry areas, describing it as damp and noisy. She claims repeated complaints to social workers have been penalised, and she has lost custody of her youngest child as a result.
It is already hard enough to be vulnerable, to be homeless, without having to remain silent.
She says she was told she was "marked down" for speaking to the media and for persistent demands for better conditions. The lack of private kitchens, poor food quality, and limited space contribute to rising discontent among residents.
Inspections and Response
The Municipal Institute of Social Services says inspections have been reinforced by both the contracted provider, BCD Travel, and city social services teams. So far this year, 59 complaints have been recorded out of 1,657 emergency accommodation places, just 2.3% of total placements. The council maintains a high resolution rate for incidents but acknowledges that the system was not designed for multi-year occupancy.
Sònia Fuertes, Commissioner for Social Rights at Barcelona City Council, stated: "Unfortunately, spaces designed for temporary stays are becoming a basic welfare service." She stressed that the root cause is the lack of affordable housing alternatives.
Prevention Over Emergency Response
To address the root causes, the council is focusing on preventive aid to help families at risk of eviction remain in their homes. Last year, over €9 million was allocated to rent support schemes. The 2025 call for new inclusive housing projects will be part of the upcoming Barcelona Housing Plan, which aims to add 221 new supported homes to meet rising demand.
Primary sources: Barcelona City Council, barcelona.cat. Reported by 3cat.cat, Catalan News, 3CatInfo Barcelona.
