Spanish villages see summer population surge, reviving local economies

During the summer months, several small villages in Spain experience a sharp rise in residents and visitors. In Cihuri, La Rioja, children describe the season as a busy period marked by river swims and a bustling daily routine. Higuera de la Sierra in Huelva nearly doubles its population, reaching about 2,200 people, while Sacañet in Castellón triples its usual numbers. The influx also benefits San Cristovo de Cea in Ourense, where the population climbs from 500 to over 750, driven in part by pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago. Local shopkeepers and hospitality businesses report higher sales, and many newcomers stay permanently, providing a boost to the rural economy.

The seasonal growth is attributed to lower living costs compared with coastal resorts, the appeal of community life, and the opportunity for families to exchange homes with friends abroad. Residents welcome the additional footfall, seeing it as essential for sustaining services and preserving village vitality.