Almería province's real estate market in 2024 is showing steady growth, particularly appealing to both domestic and international buyers looking for a mix of coastal charm and rural tranquillity. The region offers a variety of property types, from traditional cortijos (farmhouses) in need of renovation to modern apartments in tourist hotspots like Mojácar and Vera. Coastal towns like Roquetas de Mar are experiencing increased demand due to their accessibility and scenic beauty, making them ideal for holiday homes and long-term investment.
Foreign buyers, led by British, German, and Scandinavian nationals, are fueling a significant portion of market activity. In fact, international buyers account for over 30% of all property transactions in the province, highlighting Almería’s growing appeal as a destination for expats. The foreign population in some areas, such as Mojácar, has reached 22%, reflecting the broader trend of international interest in the province.
Despite a moderate increase in property prices, averaging €1,341 per square meter, Almería remains one of Spain’s more affordable coastal regions, offering a compelling alternative to pricier areas like the Costa del Sol. This affordability, combined with the province’s natural beauty and laid-back lifestyle, makes it an attractive option for both investors and retirees looking to settle in Spain.
Geography of Almería province: from desert landscapes to Mediterranean shores
Cuevas del Almanzora Reservoir
One of the first things you’ll notice about living in Almeria province is its climate. Hot, arid and dry (with just 150 mm of rain each year), the average annual temperature is 19.1 °C (66.4 °F), and it’s the second warmest and sunniest city in Europe (after Seville). But that doesn’t mean it’s a sun-scorched wasteland; the region offers an abundance of natural wonders to explore.
Almeríá truly is a land of contrasts. It’s home to one of the most beautiful and ecologically diverse coastlines and Europe’s only desert (made famous by countless spaghetti western movies!)
Take Cabo de Gata, a volcanic natural park on the east coast. Many of its coves are only accessible on foot, giving the sense of discovering a new territory.
Cabo de Gata Natural Park
The region’s coastline stretches for 214 km, and you can find some of the most affordable properties in Spain here. Almeríá city has a working port steeped in Moorish history, and from here, you’re just a stone’s throw from popular resorts like Roquetas de Mar to the south and Mojácar to the north.
In the shadows of the eroded mountains of the Desierto de Tabernas is Nijar, a dazzling white mountain village with links to the region’s earliest history through earthenware ceramics produced using the same techniques as those used in Phoenician times.
Almería province also boasts some of the clearest skies in Europe, providing plenty of opportunities to indulge in some evening stargazing. It’s no wonder one of the world’s most powerful telescopes has been installed in Oria in Almería province.
Almería province produced more than 382,527 tonnes of tomatoes in 2022, so it’s easy to see why it’s known as the World Tomato Capital!
Local delicacies showcase a flavourful fusion of Arabic and Mediterranean cuisines, including the famous ajo colorado (a spicy paprika-infused garlic stew) and comforting porridge-like savoury dish gachas almeriense.
Fresh seafood, such as the prized Red Shrimp of Garrucha, is abundant along the coastline. Further inland, you can sample traditional local dishes like Migas de Almeríá (breadcrumbs sautéed in olive oil, seasoned with chorizo and garlic.)
The province's hot climate and fertile soil contribute to the production of exceptional wines, including the famous Parajes del Valle de Antas and Los Millares vintages.
Almeria province’s signature dish is Plato Alpujarreño, a hearty meal made with meat, vegetables, and flavoursome broth.
The region is also famous for its olive trees, which produce arguably Spain's best pure extra virgin olive oil. To learn more, visit the Castillo de Tabernas Olive Oil Museum.
Some of the best restaurants in the region include Salmatice, Travieso, and VIVO Gourmet in Almeríá city. For authentic tapas-style dining, visit El Quinto Toro in Almería city.
Almería is famous for its olive trees
History & culture of Almería province
Abrucena village in the mountains of the Sierra Nevada in Almería
In the early 19th century, Almería province played a key role in the Spanish War of Independence against the French occupation. The 20th century saw the rise of the mining industry, bringing economic prosperity and environmental challenges. Today, the city has some of the best-preserved war shelters in Europe, and you can visit the underground galleries from Tuesday to Sunday at specified times.
The province celebrates a variety of fiestas, including the Feria de Almería, held annually in late August. This vibrant festival brings the streets alive with flamenco beats and colourful costumes, and the air is filled with the scent of traditional local dishes like croquetas de Almeríá.
The locals are renowned for their warm hospitality and love for the great outdoors. Whether you’re hiking through the picturesque natural park or enjoying a leisurely stroll along one of the pristine beaches, the warm climate makes spending time outside a breeze. Head to the Las Salinas salt flats to spot wild pink flamingos.
Today, Almería province embraces sustainable tourism and agriculture, celebrating its heritage while adapting to the modern era. The Moorish Alcazaba overlooks the provincial capital and port of Almería city, and the old town is full of interesting monuments to discover, including the impressive Gothic-style cathedral, which was built to defend Almeríá City from pirates and later rebuilt following damage by an earthquake in 1522.
The beauty of Almería province
San Jose in the natural park of Cabo de Gata, Nijar
Almería city’s central zone provides an authentic insight into Andalucian life, from the traditional whitewashed houses and tapas bars to the busy plazas.
The main promenade (Paseo de Almería) offers a lively atmosphere with boutique shops, tapas bars, and charming outdoor restaurants.
Admire the magnificent Spanish Renaissance architecture at the Cathedral of Almería, or head to the Almería museum to explore art collections and artefacts that showcase Almería’s fascinating past.
Soak up panoramic views of the city and sea from the majestic Almería Alcazaba, recognised as a site of archaeological importance and a Historic-Artistic monument.
Wander through the colourful La Chanca neighbourhood between the Alcazaba and the old town. You’ll see many brightly coloured houses carved into the rock face, and some locals still live in the cave dwellings here.
The enchanting Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park is a playground for nature lovers - think rugged landscapes, scenic walkways, and secluded coves. The crystal-clear waters are a haven for snorkelling, swimming or relaxing on the sand, and the city beaches (including Playa de Almería promenade) are another huge draw.
Mini Hollywood Oasys
For a taste of the unexpected, jump on board a Jeep safari to explore the Tabernas Desert and discover a lunar-like landscape that has provided a backdrop for many films and TV shows, including Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, A Fistful of Dollars and Game of Thrones. Don't miss Mini Hollywood Oasys, a film-set turned Western-inspired theme park that celebrates the region's reputation as the Hollywood of Europe.
Want to learn more about the region’s maritime history while you’re living in Almeríá province? Check out the 17th-century fortress of Castillo de Santa Ana on the harbour of Roquetas de Mar.
Roquetas de Mar
Breathtaking beaches in Almería province
Almería region’s mild climate means beach days are possible throughout the year. The province is home to many beautiful beaches, including:
Playa de los Muertos, Almería
Playa de Los Genoveses
A wide, sandy beach surrounded by rolling dunes. This is an excellent spot for walking or picnics.
Playa de Los Muertos
An unspoilt beach is in the coastal town of Carboneras. Its dramatic cliffs and clear waters provide a secluded and peaceful place to sunbathe and snorkel.
Playa de Monsul
Volcanic rock formations, pristine sands, and clear waters make this the ideal beach for nature lovers and photographers.
Playa de San Jose
This laid-back, tranquil beach is in the fishing village of San Jose. Visitors can enjoy water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding or check out one of the beach bars.
Playa de las Salina
This lovely beach offers golden sands and calm, shallow waters close to Roquetas de Mar. Ideal for families with young children, it offers a safe and enjoyable beach experience.
Playa de Aguadulce
This lively beach is in the resort town of Aguadulce. It offers excellent facilities and services, including beach bars, water sports, and beachfront promenades. Its fun and friendly atmosphere makes it a popular tourist spot.
Playa de Vera
This is a naturist-friendly beach in Vera. The soft sands, clear waters and tranquil surroundings make it perfect for relaxing.
Playa de San Miguel
This palm-tree-lined beach in Mojacar offers fantastic views. Swim or sunbathe here, or taste the local cuisine at one of the restaurants.
Essential information
Alcabaza de Almería, Almeria Castle, in Almería
Getting around
Living in Almeríá province means you’ll have access to several different types of public transport, although the transport links are not as extensive as in some other parts of Spain.
The primary airport serving Almeríá province is Almería Airport, which is around 9 km east of Almería city. This airport offers domestic and international flights, but options are limited compared to other Spanish airports.
Railway transport in the province is also limited. Almeríá province is not yet connected to the Spanish high-speed AVE network, although this may change in the future. A regular railway service connects Almeríá city to Granada and onwards to Madrid. However, the services are infrequent and journey times are long.
A public bus system operates in Almeríá city, but the province has no tram or metro system. Intercity buses, operated by companies such as ALSA, connect major towns and cities in the province. Bus services are usually reliable but may be infrequent, particularly in rural areas.
As a result, driving is a popular and often necessary mode of transport in Almeríá province. The A-7 coastal motorway runs through the province, connecting it with other parts of Andalucia and Spain. Secondary roads link smaller towns and villages, although these can be winding and require careful driving, especially in mountainous parts of the province.
Taxi services are available in Almeríá city and other major towns. Apps such as Uber and Cabify have limited presence in Almeríá province.
If public transport is important to you, Almeríá city offers the best options. But wherever you live in Almeríá province, owning a car is best if you want to explore all the province has to offer.
It may be difficult to reach other major Spanish cities without a car. Direct bus services to cities like Granada, Málaga, and Madrid are available, but journeys can take a long time.
The lack of high-speed rail connections means travelling to distant cities involves either a long bus journey or connecting flights.
Tabernas Desert, Europe's only desert
Schools and education
There are 711 schools and education centres in Almería province, with suitable options for all age ranges, including nursery and pre-school facilities for children up to 3. Most Spanish state-run public nurseries are open between 9.00 am and 1.00 pm, whereas private nurseries set their opening hours and are often open longer.
The Babysits website is a useful resource if you’re looking for a babysitter or nanny. Kids aged 3 to 6 can attend infant school or kindergarten, which normally runs between 9:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., including a two-hour lunch break at midday.
If you’re moving to Almeríá while your kids are young, you might prefer to enroll them at a Spanish school to help them learn the language at an early age. Remember, whether you choose a public or private Spanish school, children in Spain must learn both Spanish and the regional language.
For children aged 0-3, there are numerous guarderías (nurseries) and escuelas infantiles (infant schools) across the province. These provide early childhood education and care, with public and private options available. In Almería city, for instance, there's the public Escuela Infantil Municipal "El Alquián" and the private Guardería Infantil "Arco Iris."BabySchool offers bilingual education from age four months upwards.
Formal education begins at age 3 with Educación Infantil (preschool), followed by Educación Primaria (primary school) from ages 6 to 12. Most schools in Almería are public (colegios públicos), funded by the government. Examples include CEIP Madre de la Luz in Almería city and CEIP Juan XXIII in Albox.
There are also concertados, which are private schools subsidised by the government. These often have a religious affiliation. An example is Colegio Compañía de María in Almería city.
For secondary education (Educación Secundaria Obligatoria, or ESO), students attend institutes from ages 12-16. Notable public institutes include IES Alborán in Almería city and IES Cardenal Cisneros in Albox.
Almería also has several fully private schools, some offering international curricula. The British School of Almería in Roquetas de Mar follows the British curriculum.
For alternative teaching styles, there are a few Montessori schools in the province, such as Montessori School Almería in the capital city. These focus on child-centred education and self-directed activity.
Higher education is primarily provided by the University of Almería, a public institution located in the capital city that offers a wide range of degree programs. It serves students from across the province and beyond.
Vocational training is also available through various centers, offering practical skills-based education. For instance, the IES Almeraya in Almería city specialises in hospitality and tourism training.
Several adult education centres throughout the province offer courses for those who wish to complete their basic education or learn new skills. The Provincial Institute of Permanent Education in Almería city is one example.
It's worth noting that while the province offers a range of educational options, most schools outside the capital and larger towns are public schools.
International and alternative education options are more limited and concentrated in urban areas or coastal regions with significant expat populations. For example, SEK Alborán is an international school in the coastal town of El Ejido.
Language education is a priority in Almería, with many schools participating in bilingual programs, typically offering some subjects in English alongside Spanish. However, the level of English proficiency can vary significantly between schools.
Residents of Almería province have access to primary care centres (centros de salud) and local GP surgeries. Pharmacies are also readily available, ensuring quick access to over-the-counter medication and healthcare products for acute health problems.
For more information on how to access healthcare in Spain, take a look at our Healthcare in Spain article.
Work
If you’re looking for jobs in Almería province, there are many opportunities for employment in various industries. Traditionally, agriculture has been a major employer in the province - and it’s easy to see why with Almería’s reputation as “the Greenhouse Capital of Europe” thanks to its greenhouse cultivation of fruits and vegetables. As a result, the agri-food sector, including processing and exporting produce, provides many job opportunities.
Tourism is another primary industry, particularly in coastal areas such as Mojácar and Roquetas de Mar. You can find employment in hotels, restaurants and leisure facilities in these places. The service sector (administration, retail and transport) also contributes to the job market in Almeríá province.
Renewable energy is also emerging as a growing industry, with solar and wind farms providing employment opportunities in installing and maintaining energy plants and associated services.
Other options include construction, healthcare, education, and the public sector. Almería city is the provincial capital, and you can find a range of professional and administrative roles here, although you will probably need to speak Spanish.
Wondering where to live in Andalucia? Read on to learn more about some of the best places to live in Almería province.
Mojácar, Almería
Mojacar
Beautiful beaches, year-round sunshine, and an alluring authentic Spanish ambience - what’s not to love? This sleepy, whitewashed village sits on a hill, providing incredible ocean views. The town is split into the historic pueblo and the coastal area. It offers an affordable cost of living, fresh Mediterranean food, and a warm welcome from the locals. The cost of living is reasonable compared to other parts of the Costa del Sol. Local markets, restaurants and bars offer locally sourced produce and authentic cuisine. Golf courses, historic sites, outdoor activities, and excellent healthcare and amenities make Mojacar an idyllic expat or retirement destination. It also has a well-established expat community, making integration easier for newcomers.
This charming pueblo blanco is inland in Almeríá province’s scenic Alpuharras Valley. In the centre, the charming flower-adorned streets are lined with shops and plazas, and the mild year-round climate makes Albox the ideal destination for outdoor pursuits such as cycling and hiking. Low living costs, fresh local produce, and welcoming residents make Albox an appealing village if you’re looking for an authentic, off-the-beaten-track place to live in Andalucia. It offers a peaceful alternative to busy coastal resorts while still being within one hour’s drive of the Mediterranean Sea. It also has a sizeable existing expat community.
Living in Vera offers an enticing combination of coastal life and Spanish charm. Close to the coast but not directly on it, this affordable seaside town boasts over six miles of attractive Blue Flag beaches along the Costa de Almería. The historic centre is packed with authentic whitewashed buildings and lively streets, including the well-preserved old quarter and the 16th-century Church of the Incarnation. If you enjoy outdoor activities, it is close to several golf courses, nature reserves, and the Sierra Cabrera mountains. Vera’s central location makes it an excellent base for exploring the region, as it offers easy access to both coastal areas and inland attractions. Thanks to its excellent healthcare facilities and local amenities, the town has a thriving expat community. It’s also within easy reach of Almería Airport, which is just 12 minutes away by car.
This bustling town in the northern part of Almeríá province offers a blend of well-preserved historic quarters and up-and-coming residential areas. Its prime location means you’ll have easy access to the local Mediterranean beaches and mountains and good transport links with major cities such as Almería. It’s a great family spot with high-quality healthcare, international schools, and a lively social scene. The cost of living is generally lower than in coastal areas, so it’s also an attractive prospect for retirees and digital nomads.
This quaint village sits at the foothills of the Sierra Cabrera mountains inside Almería’s Valley of Almanzora. If you’re looking for somewhere to live with genuine Spanish charm, Turre will provide a traditional taste of Andalucian life with its whitewashed buildings and lively annual fiestas. The locals enjoy a relaxed pace of life, proximity to beaches and golf courses, and good transport links to the provincial capital, Almeríá. Despite its small size, Turre has a growing expat community and offers all of the essentials, including shops, restaurants and healthcare facilities. It is close to larger towns like Mojácar and Garrucha for additional services. The cost of living in Turre is generally lower than in coastal areas. The local market and surrounding agricultural land give you access to plenty of fresh, locally sourced produce.
