Trading full-time work for a 16-hour week in Valencia
Gigi Gonzalez, 36, moved from Chicago to Valencia, Spain in 2025 with her husband and now works about 16–20 hours weekly, enabled by Spain’s lower costs and a digital nomad visa. She saved roughly $40,000 to start her business and move abroad, and now enjoys a calmer routine while continuing The First Gen Mentor. She has more than $220,000 in retirement investments and plans to retire by 65 through compounding. While rent is cheaper (~€1,900) and private health insurance costs about €200/month, managing her business across two countries adds tax and visa complexity. She aims to stay long-term and pursue Spanish citizenship after residency.
