Internal migration dynamics in Spain: Winners and losers from the recent economic recession

Abstract

This paper analyses the impact of the 2008 economic crisis on the spatial distribution of interprovincial migration in Spain, with a particular focus on changes in provinces' relative attractiveness. First, the paper examines the distribution of the net migration rate across provinces over the period 2002-2013. Next, by comparing the precrisis (2002-2007) and crisis (2008-2013) periods, the paper investigates which provinces became more attractive locations for migrants during the crisis and explores some of the factors behind it. The empirical evidence unveils two key results. First, major changes took place in spatial patterns of migration flows in Spain in the wake of the 2008 recession. Second, the rich provinces that best weathered the economic downturn, especially those with a relatively small construction sector and a good performance of industry and services, became appealing destinations during the crisis.