Stories of retirees moving to Spain to stretch their pensions are not new, but Marsha Scarbrough’s inspiring journey is one of resilience and reinvention. The 77-year-old American left behind a career in the film industry and financial instability to settle in Madrid—a decision she now calls “one of the best of my life.”
For over two decades, Scarbrough worked as an assistant director in Hollywood, helping bring American cinema to life. But by the age of 63, her reality had taken a dramatic turn: bankruptcy and a foreclosure process loomed over her, with only her pension to fall back on. Scarbrough owed a significant sum to a friend, and she quickly realised that her pension would not suffice for a comfortable life in the United States. Furthermore, Donald Trump had won the elections and Scarbrough calls herself the “first Trump exile” in this article in El Mundo.
Bold move
Determined to change her fate, Scarbrough made a bold move. She pursued a TESOL certificate—Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages—a qualification that opened doors to a new career. “After completing the course, I was hired by the University of Art and Design in Santa Fe (Mexico) to teach English immersion programmes during the summer to professors and postgraduate students from affiliated universities in South America, Central America, Mexico, and Spain,” explained Scarbrough to Business Insider. In those countries, she found each destination to have its own challenges: political instability, safety concerns, or terrain difficult for her ageing knees.
Finding home in Madrid
It wasn’t until a Spanish professor at the university suggested a visit to Madrid that Scarbrough encountered a destination that suited her needs perfectly. Expecting European capitals to be uniformly expensive, she was pleasantly surprised to find Madrid comparatively affordable. In fact, Madrid is cheaper than many South American cities she has visited.
Why Madrid?
The quality of public transport, healthcare, and infrastructure; the vibrant food scene, and the culture of safety were all factors that drew her in. The appeal of sunny weather and renowned art museums sealed the deal. Upon returning to the United States, she began navigating the paperwork to make the move a reality, including providing medical clearance that she was free of infectious diseases. Seven years on, Scarbrough is enjoying a life of security, culture, and comfort in Madrid. “I’ll be here for a long time, I don’t know how long, but a long time,” she made her intention clear.
Why Spain is the perfect place to retire
Spain continues to be a top choice for retirees seeking sunshine, culture, and an affordable quality of life. The diversity of landscapes, cultures, and even climates makes Spain a perfect fit for all kinds of preferences. Cost is another compelling factor. Compared to North America, living expenses in Spain can be significantly lower, especially outside big cities like Madrid and Barcelona. A comfortable lifestyle is achievable on $2,000 to $3,000 a month, with regions like Valencia and Andalucia providing more affordable options. Spain’s famed Mediterranean diet—fresh fruits, vegetables, and dining out—comes at a fraction of U.S. prices, adding to its appeal. Healthcare in Spain is also highly regarded, ranking among the best globally. Expatriates start with private health insurance, which is both affordable and efficient.
Also read: Discover the charms of Madrid: A guide to its vibrant barrios