The income gap between different municipalities in Spain reveals a social reality that persists in historical, economic and demographic factors. Inside annual report of the Tax Agency corresponding to the 2022 financial year, which analyzes the tax return In cities with more than 1,000 inhabitantsnotable differences are highlighted in the average gross income of Spaniards according to place of residence. Yes ok Big cities often top the list for highest incomesIn sparsely populated rural areas, incomes tend to be much lower, reflecting an economic structure dependent on sectors such as agriculture and livestock that have less diversification and employment opportunities.
In the case of Galicia, one of the most deprived points in terms of average income is in the province of lugo. It is about Cervantesa small municipality of approximately 1,200 inhabitants. This Galician enclave, which occupies the last place in terms of income in the autonomous community, has a average annual gross income of 16,340 euroswell below national standards. Although Galicia has seen a slight increase in its average income in recent years, Cervantes residents are far from reaching these figures, largely due to the depopulation and to aging of its population.
Cervantes: a natural and cultural paradise in the shadow of the economy
Cervantes, located in the Lugo Mountains and framed within the Ancares Natural Park, is a municipality with vast natural and heritage wealth. The region, characterized by its deep valleys and mountains covered in lush forests, is home to unique biodiversity and has historic structures such as pallozas And pre-Roman constructions which reflect the ancient history of this region. In addition, its natural landscapes make it a ideal destination for lovers of hiking and rural tourism.
However, this natural and cultural wealth was not enough to stop the Exodus of its inhabitants to other municipalities in search of better job opportunities. The local economy depends largely on activities such as agriculture and the cattle breedingsectors in which income is limited. This has caused many Cervantes residents to decide to emigrate, especially young people, leaving behind a municipality with an aging population and an economy that depends on a small group of workers.
Although the Cervantes City Council has attempted to revitalize the local economy through incentives for rural tourism and projects for the recovery of historical heritage, these efforts are limited by the lack of infrastructureAndservices which attract new settlers.
