Firstly, why buy a property in Spain?

Beyond the obvious allure of 3,000 hours of annual sunshine (yes, we counted), Spain continues to shine bright in 2025's global property market. The country recently ranked 4th in Internations' 2024 Expat Insider survey - the only European nation to crack the top 10, which says rather a lot about life on the continent these days.

For the budget-conscious (and who isn't in 2025?), Spain sits comfortably mid-table in Numbeo's 2025 European Cost of Living Index. Translation? Your euros stretch further here than in northern European countries or the US, whether you're buying jamón or jumping into the property market. Those three-bedroom villas with pools still exist for under €100k - though you might need to venture slightly further from the coast than you did five years ago. Need more reasons why 2025 is a good year to buy property in Spain? Read 101 reasons to move to Spain for more inspiration.

The Spanish property market remains remarkably steady as we enter 2025, displaying the kind of resilience that would make a bull proud. Despite global economic hiccups, international buyers continue to flock here faster than seagulls to a dropped ice cream on La Concha beach. 

1. Torrevieja, Alicante

If following the crowd is your thing (and let's face it, sometimes the crowd gets it right), Torrevieja should be top of your list. This Costa Blanca hotspot wasn't just popular in 2023 - it was Spain's fastest-growing city, with a population surge that would make a real estate agent's heart skip a beat, according to the latest INE statistics.

The secret to its success? Besides the obvious draws of five Blue Flag beaches and enough golf courses to satisfy even the most dedicated club-swinger, Torrevieja offers something rather unique: therapeutic salt lakes. Yes, you read that correctly - the local microclimate, rich in salt and iodine, is apparently a godsend for asthma sufferers. Who knew property hunting could be good for your health?

The annual carnival rivals Rio's (well, that's what the locals say), and with waterparks, restaurants, and bars aplenty, you'll never be short of entertainment.

Why buy a property in Torrevieja? For investors, the numbers speak for themselves - strong tourist appeal and a booming expat community make this a solid bet for both rental income and capital appreciation.

Curious about Torrevieja?
From healthcare options to top-rated schools to expat clubs and things to do, get the inside track on expat life in Torrevieja with our complete city guide. [Discover more →]

2. Estepona, Málaga

Fancy yourself a bit more sophisticated? Estepona might be your cup of café con leche. This former fishing village has transformed itself into a resort town without sacrificing its soul - quite a feat on the Costa del Sol. Picture white-washed buildings draped in vibrant flowers, leading to chiringuitos serving fresh catches of the day. It's like a postcard come to life, but with better Wi-Fi.

Part of the 'golden triangle' alongside Marbella and Benahavís, Estepona enjoys a microclimate that delivers a whopping 325 days of sunshine annually. The town strikes that elusive balance between lively and liveable, with a population of 70,000 that swells considerably during peak season.

The property market here offers everything from cosy old town apartments to modern complexes along the coast. And if you're feeling ambitious, there are plots of land available for your grand design dreams - just don't expect bargain basement prices in this neck of the woods.

Why buy a property in Estepona? Estepona offers the best of both worlds - the sophistication of the region, without Marbella's eye-watering price tags. With two blue flag beaches, a thriving old town, and that coveted microclimate delivering 325 days of sunshine, it's perfect for those seeking authentic Spanish living with all the modern amenities. The town's steady growth and proximity to both Málaga and Gibraltar airports make it a smart investment for both lifestyle buyers and those looking for rental potential. 

Curious about Estepona?
From healthcare options to top-rated schools to expat clubs and things to do, get the inside track on expat life in Estepona with our complete city guide. [Discover more →]
 

3. Altea, Alicante

If you're the type who prefers galleries to golf courses, Altea might be your spiritual home. This seaside resort has been attracting Europe's creative types since the 1950s, making it the Costa Blanca's answer to Paris's Left Bank (minus the attitude and plus a lot more sunshine).

Just up the coast from Benidorm - but culturally speaking, light years away - Altea manages to be both sophisticated and surprisingly affordable. The town's crown jewel is its blue-domed church, La Mare de Déu del Consol, which presides over a maze of cobbled streets hosting artists' studios, boutiques, and enough restaurants to keep you eating out for a year without repetition.

Property-wise, you'll find everything from luxury penthouses to more modest apartments, though the old town commands premium prices (as anything worth having tends to do). One in three residents here is an expat, suggesting they're onto something good - and with a microclimate protected by surrounding mountains, you can enjoy your investment year-round.

Why buy a property in Altea? If you're looking for a sound investment that comes with a side of soul, Altea delivers in spades. It offers that rare combination of seaside living and artistic atmosphere that's increasingly hard to find on the Spanish coast. Property prices remain relatively affordable compared to its flashier Costa Blanca neighbors, while the strong expat community (one-third of residents) suggests excellent long-term rental potential. 

Curious about Altea?
From healthcare options to top-rated schools to expat clubs and things to do, get the inside track on expat life in Altea with our complete city guide. [Discover more →]
 

4. Marbella, Málaga

If you've ever wondered where the other half live (and play), look no further than Marbella. This grand dame of the Costa del Sol has been Spain's most sought-after resort for over half a century, and she's not showing any signs of slowing down. With an average temperature of 18°C and more designer boutiques than you can shake a platinum credit card at, it's easy to see why.

The numbers tell quite a story: 15 golf courses, 16 miles of beach, four marinas, and 600 restaurants - though who's counting when you're living the dream? The local community is as cosmopolitan as they come, with 40,000 of the 142,000 'Marbelleros' (yes, that's what they call themselves) hailing from 127 different countries. It's like the United Nations, but with better weather and more swimming pools.

Don't let Marbella's reputation for glitz fool you - while the Golden Mile lives up to its name with astronomical property prices, mere mortals can still find their slice of paradise in the coastal developments and mountain areas. And yes, there's more to life here than designer shopping and golf (though with 15 courses, you might want to at least learn the basics).

The old town proves there's substance behind the style, with its maze of spotless alleys leading to the charming Plaza de los Naranjos. On summer evenings, it transforms into one giant open-air restaurant - think of it as fine dining with a side of people-watching.

Why buy a property in Marbella? Beyond the obvious appeal of joining the jet set, Marbella offers solid investment potential as the most dynamic business city in Málaga province, accounting for 14% of regional trade. The infrastructure is top-notch (the Costa del Sol hospital is one of Spain's finest), there are ten international schools to choose from, and the networking opportunities are endless - because let's face it, some of the best business deals are struck between holes three and four on the golf course. 

Curious about Marbella?
From healthcare options to top-rated schools to expat clubs and things to do, get the inside track on expat life in Marbella with our complete city guide. [Discover more →]
 

5 Vera, Almería

If you're tired of the Costa del Sol's glitz and the Costa Blanca's bustle, Vera might just be your ticket to authentic Spanish living - with a twist. This characterful municipality in Almería offers a rather unique two-for-one deal: a traditional walled city 10km inland, and a coastal strip that gives new meaning to the phrase "letting it all hang out" (yes, we're talking about nudist beaches).

With nearly 19,000 residents and growing, Vera has managed to strike that elusive balance between preserving its Spanish soul and embracing international influence. The demographic sweet spot - an average age of just under 40 - keeps the place feeling vibrant without turning it into a youth club. The local population includes a healthy mix of nationalities, though the Moroccan community edges out the northern European contingent in the expat stakes.

The inland village is every inch the postcard-perfect Andalucian pueblo, complete with whitewashed buildings and the requisite charming churches. The Plaza Mayor serves as the town's living room, where you can while away hours listening to the fountain's gentle splashing while pretending to read a book.

Meanwhile, down at Vera Playa, 5km of pristine beaches await - though do check which sections are clothing-optional before settling down for a picnic.

For those concerned about practical matters, the area boasts solid infrastructure with both public and private healthcare options nearby. The education system caters well to international families, with bilingual public schools and the private Valdeserra International School offering everything from finger painting to final exams.

Working remote? The average internet speed of 186 Mbps should keep your Zoom calls flowing smoothly, though you might want to resist the urge to work from the nudist beach. The local economy leans heavily on retail, hospitality, and construction, with a growing professional sector - though you'll need the appropriate visas or EU citizenship to join the fun.

Why buy a property in Vera? Beyond the obvious appeal of having both traditional village life and beach living at your disposal, Vera offers remarkable value compared to its better-known coastal cousins. The steady population growth suggests solid investment potential, while the diverse economy - spanning everything from traditional crafts to scientific enterprises - provides a stable foundation.

The proximity to the spectacular Cabo de Gata National Park (think Hollywood-worthy landscapes where Indiana Jones once roamed) adds an extra dash of appeal. And let's be honest - where else can you find a place where your morning might involve haggling over handmade pottery in the village square, and your afternoon could be spent at a nudist beach? Just remember to pack both business casual and your birthday suit, depending on your plans for the day.

Curious about Vera?
From healthcare options to top-rated schools to expat clubs and things to do, get the inside track on expat life in Vera with our complete city guide. [Discover more →]
 

6 Nerja, Málaga

For those who've had quite enough of the Costa del Sol's concrete jungle, there's Nerja - the rebel of the coast who refused to surrender to the siren call of high-rise development. Perched at the eastern end of the Costa del Sol, this former fishing village is closer to Granada's Alhambra than to Marbella's designer boutiques, and thank goodness for that.

The town's crown jewel is the dramatically named Balcón de Europa (Balcony of Europe), and for once, the hyperbole is justified. This clifftop viewpoint serves up the kind of panorama that makes estate agents weep with joy: cobalt-blue Mediterranean waters, honey-colored coves, and the Sierra Almijara mountains providing a rather spectacular backdrop. It's the sort of view that has probably sealed thousands of property deals at sunset.

Unlike some of its coastal cousins who traded their souls for tourism euros, Nerja has kept its charm intact. The old town remains a delightful maze of flower-festooned balconies and whitewashed houses, while development has been sensibly contained in surrounding urbanisations. And if you're worried about what lies beneath all this surface charm, fear not - Nerja sits atop one of Europe's most extensive cave systems, complete with Paleolithic art (though we wouldn't recommend this as a storage solution for your wine collection).

The town's 21,000 residents include a healthy one-third expatriate population, though you'll still find plenty of authentic Andalucian atmosphere, especially during market days and fiestas. For those with school-age children, there's a choice of five Spanish schools, plus an international school just a bus ride away in Almuñecar - because nothing says "cultural integration" quite like giving your kids options.

Speaking of integration, Nerja's economy isn't just about tourism (though there's plenty of that). The area is one of Europe's major avocado-growing regions, with mangos and papayas thrown in for good measure. So even if the tourism sector takes a hit, you can always fall back on the apparently endless global appetite for avocado on toast.

Why buy a property in Nerja? If you're seeking the Costa del Sol lifestyle without the Costa del Sol excess, Nerja hits the sweet spot. Property options range from traditional houses in the old town to sea-view apartments near the Balcón de Europa and larger villas in the newer developments.

The town's strict approach to development means your view is unlikely to be suddenly blocked by a 20-story apartment block, while the proximity to both Málaga and Granada airports provides easy escape routes for visiting relatives. Add in a cost of living that won't make your accountant wince (unlike some of its western neighbours), and you've got a compelling case for investment. Just be prepared for your home to become very popular with friends back home during avocado season.

Curious about Nerja?
From healthcare options to top-rated schools to expat clubs and things to do, get the inside track on expat life in Nerja with our complete city guide. [Discover more →]
 

7 Los Alcázares, Murcia

If you've ever dreamed of having a swimming pool the size of a small sea, Los Alcázares might be your slice of paradise. This charming coastal town sits on the shores of the Mar Menor - Europe's largest saltwater lagoon - offering what amounts to a 170-square-kilometer natural swimming pool protected from the Mediterranean's mood swings by the La Manga strip.

Unlike some of its flashier Mediterranean cousins, Los Alcázares has evolved from fishing village to tourist destination without losing its soul in the process. The town's population of 18,497 includes a remarkably cosmopolitan mix - 37% are foreigners, putting its international credentials well ahead of neighbouring Cartagena's modest 11%.

Speaking of weather, "year-round sunshine" isn't just estate agent speak here. The climate is so reliable that mornings on the beach often feature yoga enthusiasts saluting the sun, while afternoons might find you choosing between a round of golf (there are 15 clubs to choose from, in case you're particularly indecisive) or a spa day at the swanky La Manga Club.

The town's 7km of sheltered coastline provides the backdrop for most daily activities, from paddle boarding on the glassy lagoon to sampling fresh seafood at pier-perched restaurants. For remote workers, there's good news: local co-working spaces offer seaside productivity from €9 a day - probably the cheapest sea view office you'll ever find.

Infrastructure hits all the right notes: two health centres in town, a modern hospital just 12 minutes away (with free translation services, bless them), and an impressive selection of schools including the "outstanding" King's College Murcia just 20 minutes away. And while the local airport is being converted into a technology centre (goodbye aircraft noise, hello future), the Region of Murcia International Airport is still only 35 minutes away.

Why buy a property in Los Alcázares? With property prices averaging around €1,500 per square meter, Los Alcázares offers remarkable value for a Mediterranean coastal town, especially one with such a high quality of life. The market attracts a steady stream of international buyers, particularly from the UK, Scandinavia, and Germany - suggesting they might be onto something good.

The town's commitment to controlled growth, combined with its natural assets (that lagoon isn't going anywhere) and year-round appeal makes it an interesting proposition for both lifestyle buyers and investors. Plus, with 15 golf courses in the area, you'll never run out of excuses to avoid improving your handicap. Just remember that when the October festivals roll around, you might find yourself sharing your beach with hundreds of bubbling caldero pots - but that's part of the charm, isn't it?

Curious about Los Alcázares?
From healthcare options to top-rated schools to expat clubs and things to do, get the inside track on expat life in Los Alcázares with our complete city guide. [Discover more →]
 

8 Alcaidesa, Cádiz

For those who find Sotogrande a touch too showy and Gibraltar a bit too British, Alcaidesa offers an intriguing middle ground. This gated community (or urbanización, if you're feeling fancy) has been quietly attracting attention from savvy buyers who've cottoned on to its rather enviable position overlooking the Mediterranean, with Morocco providing a theatrical backdrop across the strait.

Unlike many Costa developments that seem to have been designed by someone with an unhealthy obsession with concrete, Alcaidesa actually had the revolutionary idea of planning things properly. Thanks to its Architectural Control Committee (yes, that's really a thing), buildings must resemble traditional pueblo houses rather than the Costa del Concrete aesthetic that blights some neighbouring areas. The result is a thoughtfully balanced mix of villas, townhouses and apartments that actually looks like a proper town – imagine that.

Nature hasn't been forgotten either. The eastern perimeter borders the Guadalquitón Nature Reserve, where you'll find one of Europe's last remaining coastal cork oak forests (perfect for impressing visiting wine enthusiasts). Three peaceful beaches stretch along the coastline, offering everything from volleyball courts to long contemplative walks with views of Gibraltar Rock – though try not to get too contemplative, or you might trip over the sunbathers.

Why buy property in Alcaidesa? Those in the know (specifically Lorraine De Marco, Director at Space Real Estate, a Marbella estate agent who knows her stuff) suggest Alcaidesa is having a moment, largely thanks to the "ripple effect" from neighbouring Sotogrande. Translation: get in while you can still afford it. The area's strict development controls mean your sea view is less likely to be replaced by someone else's apartment block, which is always a bonus.

The location is rather clever too – twenty minutes from Gibraltar airport (perfect for those emergency Marmite runs), an hour from Málaga's international hub, and just a stone's throw from Sotogrande's swanky sporting facilities. Golf enthusiasts will be in their element with five courses nearby, including the legendary Valderrama – though you might want to check your bank balance before booking a round there.
 

9 Cala de Mijas, Malaga 

If you're after the Costa del Sol dream without Marbella's eye-watering price tags or Fuengirola's somewhat enthusiastic embrace of British culture, La Cala de Mijas might just hit your sweet spot. This former fishing village has grown up rather nicely, managing to retain some of its original charm while acquiring enough modern amenities to keep both permanent residents and tourists thoroughly entertained.

The town's transformation from sleepy fishing hamlet to sophisticated coastal resort reads like a classic Spanish success story. What was once just a handful of houses and a church in the 1960s has blossomed into a rather fetching stretch of the Mijas Costa, though mercifully without the architectural excesses that plague some of its neighbours. The result? A pleasantly urbane beachside town where you can still find authentic Spanish life tucked between the more tourist-oriented offerings.

History buffs will appreciate the four ancient watchtowers dotted around town – remnants of centuries spent scanning the horizon for uninvited guests (though these days they're more likely to spot cruise ships than marauding pirates). A recently restored Moorish tower stands as a particular point of pride, offering spectacular views over what is now a significantly more peaceful coastline.

Why buy property in La Cala de Mijas? Property prices here have been on a steady upward trajectory since bouncing back from the 2008 crash, with Málaga province showing impressive resilience. The good news? You can still find relative bargains, particularly if you're willing to forsake front-line beach positions for something a few streets back. The even better news? With development restrictions in place, that sea view you're eyeing up is less likely to be blocked by an enthusiastic developer's latest high-rise project.

The property market here is predominantly apartments, many in well-maintained complexes with the holy trinity of Spanish property must-haves: communal pools, manicured gardens, and underground parking. While prices might make your eyes water compared to inland Spain, they're still considerably more palatable than those in neighbouring Marbella.

Mijas-based Keith Spitalnick, Director of Target Property Spain can’t recommend La Cala de Mijas highly enough: "It's the only village in Mijas Costa where you've got a full working village on the beach side of the main road, which is the A7. So it means once you're in the village, you don't need to cross the road to get to the beach. And it's a village with a lot of heart and soul."

Curious about La Cala de Mijas?
From healthcare options to top-rated schools to expat clubs and things to do, get the inside track on expat life in La Cala de Mijas with our complete city guide. [Discover more →]
 

10 Calonge, Girona

For those seeking the elusive 'authentic Spain' (while still having decent Wi-Fi), Calonge offers a rather clever compromise. This dual-personality municipality manages to pack both a medieval mountain village and a bustling beach resort into one neat package – think Game of Thrones meets Club Med, but with better tapas.

The inland village of Calonge proper is every bit the Spanish dream: labyrinthine streets that would confound even the most determined delivery driver, medieval ramparts, and enough religious architecture to make a historian weep. Here, locals chat in Catalan and celebrate time-honoured traditions like the Feast of Sant Jordi – though you'll need more than a passing acquaintance with the language to join in the gossip at the local café.

Meanwhile, its coastal counterpart, Sant Antoni de Calonge, has transformed from sleepy fishing village to sophisticated seaside resort. The marina bustles with activity, while the commercial centre offers enough shops, bars and restaurants to keep both locals and visitors well-fed and watered. For the energetic, the Playa Torre Valentina walkway offers a spectacular coastal path through pine woodland to the dramatically-named Cala del Racó dels Homes bay – though after a long lunch of paella and local wine, you might want to save that for another day.

Why buy property in Calonge? While not exactly a bargain-hunter's paradise (this is the Costa Brava, after all), Calonge offers significant bang for your euro. The area attracts a sophisticated crowd of Barcelona weekenders and northern European holiday home owners who've cottoned on to its perfect positioning: within easy reach of Girona airport (35 minutes), Barcelona, and even France for when you fancy a croissant instead of a churro.

The property market here focuses on villas with private gardens and pools – though even the 'modest' apartments start at 2-3 bedrooms, many with those coveted sea views that'll make your Instagram followers seethe with envy. Yes, it's pricier than some Spanish coastal areas, but you're paying for that rare combination of authentic village life and seaside sophistication, plus the bragging rights of owning in one of Catalonia's most cultured corners.

Curious about Calonge?
From healthcare options to top-rated schools to expat clubs and things to do, get the inside track on expat life in Calonge with our complete city guide. [Discover more →]
 

11. Adeje, Tenerife 

If you're seeking eternal springtime without the tourist tat that plagues parts of Tenerife, Adeje might just be your sweet spot. This historic town sits a few sensible kilometres inland from the south coast's resort extravaganza, offering a slice of authentic Canarian life while keeping the island's pleasure palaces within easy reach.

Perched beneath the watchful gaze of Mount Teide (a casual 12,200 feet of volcanic majesty), Adeje manages to pull off that rare trick of being both genuinely historic and thoroughly practical. The town dates back to the original Spanish colonisation, though these days the colonial architecture shares space with modernist newcomers like the Sacred Museum – think traditional meets contemporary, but without the architectural identity crisis you might find elsewhere.

As the region's administrative hub, Adeje serves a population of 47,000 souls with a refreshingly even split between Spanish nationals and expatriates. This means you can enjoy both traditional tapas and a decent full English breakfast, though we'd strongly recommend leaning towards the former if you want to make friends with the locals.

Why buy property in Adeje? While the coastal strip below town might be awash with resort developments and holiday lets, Adeje proper offers a more interesting proposition. Here you'll find everything from characterful colonial townhouses to modern apartments, all at prices that won't upset your financial advisor. It's become a savvy choice for those working in the coast's tourism sector who prefer their home life with a dash of authenticity.

The natural surroundings are rather spectacular too. The ominously named Barranco del Infierno (Hell's Ravine) offers hiking trails through gorges bursting with flora and fauna, leading to the island's tallest waterfall. Meanwhile, the nearby coast boasts 14 beaches of varying hues, and waters teeming with dolphins and pilot whales – though we'd recommend viewing these from a boat rather than during your morning swim.

Curious about Adeje?
From healthcare options to top-rated schools to expat clubs and things to do, get the inside track on expat life in Adeje with our complete city guide. [Discover more →]