Habitante vs. residente
This article explains the differences between the Spanish words 'habitante' and 'residente', which both mean resident or inhabitant.
Habitante
The word 'habitante' refers to an individual who lives in a particular place. It is often used in a more general sense to describe anyone who inhabits an area, regardless of whether they are there temporarily or permanently.
Los habitantes de la ciudad disfrutaron del festival.
(The inhabitants of the city enjoyed the festival.)
La selva amazónica es hogar de numerosos habitantes indígenas.
(The Amazon rainforest is home to numerous indigenous inhabitants.)
Cada habitante tiene el derecho de expresar su opinión.
(Every inhabitant has the right to express their opinion.)
Residente
'Residente' generally refers to someone who resides in a place, often implying a more permanent status or legal residency. This term is frequently used in official contexts to describe someone living in a location for an extended period, such as legal residents or residents of a housing complex.
Es residente en un edificio en el centro de la ciudad.
(He is a resident in a building in the city center.)
Los residentes deben pagar una cuota mensual por el servicio de basura.
(Residents must pay a monthly fee for trash service.)
Se volvió residente permanente después de cinco años viviendo en el país.
(She became a permanent resident after living in the country for five years.)
Summary
'Habitante' and 'residente' can both refer to someone who lives in a place, but 'habitante' is more general and can apply to any inhabitant of an area, while 'residente' often implies a more permanent or legal status.