Murcia Property Market

Murcia’s real estate market in 2024 is gaining attention for its affordability, sunny climate, and growing appeal among international buyers. The region offers a diverse range of properties, from modern apartments along the Costa Cálida in areas like La Manga and Mazarrón to charming countryside villas and fincas in towns such as Lorca and Caravaca de la Cruz. Murcia’s extensive coastline, golf resorts, and rich agricultural heartland provide a balanced mix of lifestyle options for buyers seeking relaxation and outdoor activities.

International buyers, particularly from the UK, Belgium, and the Netherlands, account for around 20% of property transactions, drawn to Murcia’s lower cost of living and relatively untouched coastal areas. Popular locations like Los Alcázares and San Javier continue to attract expatriates and holiday home buyers looking to enjoy the region’s beaches, golf courses, and year-round sunshine.

Property prices in Murcia average around €1,240 per square meter, making it one of the most affordable regions in Spain. While coastal areas and sought-after golf communities can command slightly higher prices, the region’s overall affordability and value for money make it particularly attractive to investors and buyers seeking a laid-back Mediterranean lifestyle.

Murcia’s combination of affordability, natural beauty, and an increasing international presence positions it as an excellent choice for those looking to invest or settle in a quieter, sun-soaked corner of Spain.
 

What’s it like to live in Murcia province?

Moving to Murcia means fully embracing the laid-back Mediterranean lifestyle. Sun-kissed days drift into balmy nights, and life moves at a much gentler pace.

You can start the day with café con leche and freshly baked pastries at a local cafe. Thanks to the warm and welcoming nature of the Murcianos, you'll soon feel part of the community!

You’ll probably be drawn to the coast as the day wears on. You could be teeing off at one of the world-class golf courses or trying your hand at kitesurfing or windsurfing at La Manga. For a more relaxed experience, you can indulge in the therapeutic mud baths of San Pedro del Pinatar, allowing the mineral-rich mud to work its magic.

Back in town, you’ll naturally adopt the Spanish custom of the siesta, which is almost always observed in the province. As the midday heat peaks, shops close, and a peaceful hush falls over the streets. This is your chance to retreat indoors and enjoy a home-cooked lunch using local produce from the morning market!

As late afternoon approaches, the towns and cities come alive again, so you might join friends to sample the local delicacies at a tapas bar.

The cultural calendar is full of lively festivals, many celebrating the province’s agricultural bounty, such as the famous Lorca Feria and the Murcia Tres Culturas International Festival.

Weekends offer a chance to explore further afield. You could be hiking through the pine-scented trails of Sierra Espuña one day and exploring the Roman ruins of Cartagena the next. Or maybe you’ll join the locals in celebrating one of the local festivals, from the lively Spring Festivals to the solemn processions of Holy Week.

Life in Murcia allows you to achieve a healthy work-life balance. Whether you’re an active retiree, a parent with young children, or a remote worker seeking a change of pace or scenery, moving to Murcia will make every day feel like a holiday.
 

Geography and Climate of Murcia

The province’s year-round temperate climate will undoubtedly appeal if you want to escape the UK weather! In Murcia, you can enjoy over 300 days of sunshine yearly, with mild winters and warm summers. Best of all, the province is sparsely populated and relatively unaffected by heavy tourism, making it a family-friendly alternative to neighbouring resorts.

Golden beaches stretch miles along the Costa Cálida, or “Warm Coast." With its inviting crystal clear waters (perfect for swimming and snorkelling), it really lives up to its name and offers a refreshing respite from the Spanish sun!

Inland, the landscape transforms dramatically. The Sierra Espuña Regional Park presents a stark contrast to the coastal area of Murcia province, with its pine-clad mountains, deep valleys, and interesting flora and fauna. Hiking trails stretch across this natural playground, offering captivating views and the opportunity to spot eagle owls, goshawks and golden eagles.

Murcia’s rich history is evident from its architectural treasures, from the grand Murcia Cathedral to the ancient Roman Theatre in Cartagena. 

Whether you dream of a peaceful retirement in Spain, a family-friendly place to live, or somewhere to work remotely and explore Spain, living in Murcia offers a quality of life that’s difficult to match. Every day presents an opportunity to create adventure, from seaside siestas and mountain hikes to exploring ancient ruins and savouring local wines at sunset.
 

From Orchard to Ocean - Murcia’s Food & Drink Scene

From succulent seafood to Murcia’s famous Calasparra rice, food and drink in Murcia offers a tantalising fusion of Mediterranean flavours to captivate your palate. Murcia’s gastronomic identity is deeply rooted in its geography, history, and agricultural importance, creating a unique cuisine that celebrates land and sea.

Known as La Huerta de Europa (or Europe’s Orchard), Murcia’s fertile lands yield abundant fresh produce. Daily sunshine and moderate rainfall create ideal conditions for growing vegetables, from juicy tomatoes and crisp lettuce to aromatic herbs and colourful peppers. The province is known for its citrus fruits, especially oranges and lemons. Pomegranates from Molina de Segura and apricots from the Mula Valley are not to be missed, and the fresh and dried figs are a local delicacy. Murcia also produces high-quality extra virgin olive oils, many of which have earned protected status.

Seafood plays a starring role in Murcian cuisine, thanks to the province’s extensive coastline, which stretches along the Mediterranean Sea and the Mar Menor Lagoon. From delicate white fish like dorada (sea bream) and lubina (sea bass) to succulent red mullet and tasty squid, the waters off Murcia’s coast provide a bounty of fresh seafood.

The famous Calasparra rice is used in many Murcian dishes. This short-grain rice holds a Protected Designation of Origin status and is perfect for traditional dishes like arroz caldero, a fulfilling one-pot meal made with rice, fresh fish, and seafood.

Zarangollo is a simple but delicious scramble of eggs, courgette and onions, often served in tapas bars. If you have a sweet tooth, tocino de cielo is a rich custard dessert, and paparajotes are a unique dessert of batter-fried lemon leaves.

Murcian cheeses (especially the pimentón-rubbed goat's cheese from Murcia al Vino) offer a tangy complement to cured meat specialities like morcón (a large, cured sausage) and morcilla de cebolla (black pudding with onions) - you’ll find these on charcuterie boards!

Murcia's wine scene encompasses three Denominations of Origin: Bullas, Jumilla, and Yecla. These areas produce vibrant red wines that can be enjoyed alongside hearty meat dishes. If you prefer lighter wines, the fruity rosés made in the province are refreshing during warmer months.

If you want to experience the best Murcian cuisine while living in Murcia, you’ll find all kinds of authentic dining options, from bustling seafood restaurants in the coastal town of Águilas to traditional bodegas in the wine regions.

The two-Michelin-starred Cabaña Buenavista in El Palmar offers an innovative take on regional ingredients and a gastronomic journey through Murcia's flavours.

Food markets, like the Mercado de Verónicas in Murcia city, offer a glimpse into the province’s foodie culture. You can buy Murcia’s high-quality extra virgin olive oils, sample local cheeses and cured meats or pick up fresh ingredients to create your own Murcian-inspired dishes.

Ancient Wonders Meet Modern Marvels

Murcia province's story begins with ancient Iberian settlements, whose legacy is still visible in mysterious rock art scattered across the province. The Romans arrived next, leaving their mark with grand feats of engineering, including the theatre in Cartagena (which still stands today).

However, it was under Moorish rule that Murcia truly blossomed. For five centuries, Arab culture shaped the province, creating sophisticated irrigation systems that transformed the arid land into a lush agricultural paradise (and the reason Murcia is known as “Europe’s Orchard.”)

The Christian Reconquista brought new changes, shown by Murcia's cathedral's breathtaking Gothic and Baroque architecture. Yet the Moorish influence persisted in Murcia’s art, cuisine, and the melodic lilt of the local dialect.

From the silk trade that once rivalled Granada to the mining boom of the 19th century, Murcia province has constantly reinvented itself, and moving to Murcia offers you the chance to become part of its ongoing story. 
 

Sun-Kissed Adventures and Cultural Treasures

The sun-soaked landscape beckons explorers to its golden beaches and rocky mountains. You can relax on the shores of La Manga del Mar Menor, dive into the Mediterranean's crystalline waters or try kitesurfing at Mar Menor, Europe’s largest saltwater lagoon.

For a unique experience, discover the otherworldly landscapes of the Barrancos de Gebas, a lunar-like terrain of dry white badlands and deep ravines. You’ll almost feel like you’re stepping onto another planet!

Hikers should head to the Sierra Espuña Regional Park, where pine-clad peaks offer fantastic vistas and cool respite from the heat of the coastline. For an unusual adventure,  try “psicobloc” (rock climbing without ropes over water) along the stunning cliffs of Cabo Tiñoso.

Murcia’s cultural heritage comes alive in its museums and galleries. The Salzillo Museum houses lifelike baroque sculptures that seem to breathe, while the Roman Theatre Museum in Cartagena allows you to embark on a journey through time. Visit the Museo de la Ciencia y el Agua to explore the properties of water through interactive exhibits (including the chance to walk on water!)

Foodies can join cooking classes or a wine-tasting tour in one of the region’s acclaimed bodegas. As night falls, watch a flamenco show in a traditional tablao and allow the passionate rhythms of this iconic dance to stir your soul.

For an authentic taste of the local lifestyle, visit a traditional market or go on a tapas crawl through Cartagena’s historic centre. Golf, sailing, and rock climbing are also popular.

Need a little retail therapy? The Nueva Condomina shopping centre is Murcia’s largest mall. For a more traditional experience, check out historic Murcia and Cartagena's boutiques and artisan shops.

Essential Info

Murcia is home to 469,177 people according to figures recorded in 2023.

Healthcare

Murcia province offers an exemplary healthcare system with access to public and private medical facilities. The healthcare infrastructure will be a significant draw for those considering moving to Murcia, especially those who are retired or have a young family.

Spain’s public healthcare system is renowned for its affordability and high quality and is readily available throughout Murcia province.

The province’s largest hospital is the Virgen de la Arrixaca University Hospital in Murcia. It offers treatments in many specialities, including oncology, cardiology, and neurology.

It also houses a state-of-the-art maternity unit and neonatal intensive care, providing peace of mind for growing families.

Elsewhere in the province, Santa Lucía General University Hospital in Cartagena provides a comprehensive range of healthcare and medical services.

If you're searching for private hospitals, QuirónSalud Murcia and Hospital Mesa del Castillo offer luxurious amenities and home comforts alongside high-quality medical services.

Private hospitals often appeal to expats, as they usually have shorter waiting times and employ English-speaking medical staff.

Local clinics and medical centres dot the landscape in Murcia province’s smaller towns and rural areas, so even residents in more remote parts of the province can access general practitioners and basic medical services. Many of these smaller facilities coordinate with the larger hospitals in the province, ensuring continuity of care for more complex health issues.

Well-stocked pharmacies are available in Murcia’s towns and cities. Many pharmacists in Spain are trained to offer healthcare advice on minor ailments, providing an accessible first point of contact for medical issues.

Spain’s healthcare system consistently ranks among the best in the world. For more information on how to access healthcare in Spain, take a look at our Healthcare in Spain article.

Employment

Moving to Murcia presents exciting opportunities for professionals, entrepreneurs, and people looking for a new career path.

Tourism is a cornerstone in the Murcia job market, especially in the picturesque Costa Cálida. Tourism offers a variety of seasonal and year-round job opportunities in hospitality, from front-of-house roles in luxury resorts to management positions in boutique hotels. The province’s growing reputation as a golf destination has also created niche opportunities in sports tourism.

Agriculture and food processing are also significant. Leading food companies like El Pozo and Hero España are major employers, offering a range of roles from agricultural technology to food science and logistics.

The renewable energy industry in Murcia is booming, with solar and wind projects creating employment opportunities in engineering, installation, and maintenance.

The region’s strong commitment to sustainability has driven significant growth in eco-tourism and organic farming, paving the way for unique career paths for the environmentally conscious.

Murcia’s Technology Park hosts numerous tech companies and is home to a growing community of IT professionals, software developers, and digital marketers.

If you’re a digital nomad or remote worker, the province offers reliable internet infrastructure in urban areas, with a growing number of co-working spaces to choose from. In Murcia City, the Fair Internet Report says the typical home user sees internet speeds in the region of 91—420.93 Mbps.

Murcia’s strategic location and excellent transport links have also made it a key player in the logistics sector. The Port of Cartagena is one of Spain’s major ports. It generates jobs in shipping, freight forwarding, and supply chain management.

Job seekers can browse current job vacancies on Spanish job portals like InfoJobs and Trovit or international platforms like LinkedIn and Indeed. You can also look for jobs on Facebook groups such as Jobsworth Murcia and Murcia Expat Forum. 

The Spanish Chamber of Commerce offers resources for business start-ups, and Murcia's growing startup community supports innovative ventures.

While knowledge of Spanish is advantageous in many sectors, Murcia province has an international outlook, so it's possible to find jobs where Spanish language skills aren't essential, especially in tourism, technology and multinational companies.
 

Check out our article on finding a job in Spain to learn more. 
 

Schools and Education

Education in Murcia combines traditional Spanish schooling with international options. Murcia city has 66 public schools, 28 concertos, and 51 private schools, making it easy for expat families to find a school that meets their child’s academic needs.

The early education system in Murcia is well-established. State-run public nurseries are open between 9.00 am and 1.00 pm and provide a nurturing environment for babies and children aged 0 to 3. If you need extended childcare hours, private nurseries in Murcia are open until 5.00 pm or later.

Murcia’s public school system is free and taught in Spanish. This allows younger expat children to learn Spanish amongst their peers. Unlike other Spanish provinces, Murcia’s schools operate only in Spanish.

International schools in Murcia include King's College Murcia (within the La Torre Golf Resort) and El Limonar International School, with campuses in Murcia City and El Palmar. These schools usually follow the British or American curriculum and offer internationally recognised qualifications such as IGCSEs and the International Baccalaureate (IB).

For adult learners, The University of Murcia, one of Spain’s oldest institutions, and the Polytechnic University of Cartagena offer programmes covering everything from robotics and biotechnology to arts and humanities.

Murcia’s universities offer some courses and complete degree programmes in English. This extends to postgraduate education, with some master’s and doctoral programmes now taught in English.

The province also boasts several vocational training centres offering practical, career-oriented education in hospitality, agriculture, and technology. These programmes are often integrated with local businesses, allowing students to gain valuable work experience.

Many schools, especially popular international ones, have long waiting lists. To make an informed decision, you will need to visit potential schools, speak to current students and their parents, and gain an understanding of the enrollment process.

Take a look at our article on Finding the Right School in Spain for more information.

Getting Around

The province benefits from a sophisticated and well-integrated network that connects its sun-drenched beaches, bustling cities, and charming coastal towns. If you’re considering moving to this vibrant corner of southeastern Spain, knowing the transport option is crucial to help you navigate daily life and explore all the province offers.

The Región de Murcia International Airport (Corvera Airport Murcia) is a modern facility approximately 25 km from Murcia city. This airport, which replaced the San Javier airport in 2019, offers an expanding schedule of domestic and international flights, connecting Murcia province to major European cities and other Spanish destinations. The airport’s strategic location and efficient services make it an ideal gateway for Murcia province residents and visitors.

A dedicated bus service runs between the airport and the city centre, taking around 45 minutes to complete the journey. Taxis and car rental services are also available.

Murcia is set to benefit from the expansion of the Spanish high-speed rail network. This network provides a train link between Murcia and Madrid, with a journey time of around three hours.

Local train services link Murcia with Barcelona and Valencia, while the Cercanías (commuter train network) offers rail connections between Murcia city and nearby towns like Alicante and Lorca.

Within Murcia city, TMP operates an urban bus service, with routes linking all major areas of the city. Intercity bus services connect Murcia with other towns and cities within the province and beyond. These services are especially useful to access the more picturesque coastal areas and rural villages not served by the rail network.

Although the public transport network in Murcia province is continually improving, many residents and expats find that driving a car gives them more freedom to explore. A network of well-maintained roads and motorways crisscrosses Murcia province. The AP-7 motorway (The Mediterranean Motorway) connects Murcia with other parts of southern Spain.

If you want to venture deeper into the province, a network of regional roads (with the prefix RM) provides access to Murcia’s hidden gems. The RM-1, RM-2, and RM-3 link various parts of the province and offer scenic drives through Murcia’s diverse landscapes.

Murcia continues to embrace bike-friendly initiatives. Many of its urban areas have dedicated cycle lanes, and there is a growing network of rural cycling routes to explore.

Plans are in place to expand the tram network in Murcia city to enhance urban transport links further.

If you’re considering living in Murcia, its compact size and efficient transport links mean it’s possible to live in a rural setting or coastal area and still enjoy easy access to city amenities and cultural attractions.

 

Where to Live in Murcia

Los Alcázares

This picturesque coastal town promises an idyllic expat lifestyle. Retirees will enjoy its peaceful environment, good healthcare facilities, and welcoming expat community. Families will appreciate the safe neighbourhoods, nearby international schools, and opportunities for outdoor activities. Digital nomads can also thrive here, with reliable internet connections and lower living costs than larger cities.

Moving to Los Alcázares means you’ll enjoy a relaxed pace of life centred on the beautiful beaches and warm waters of the Mar Menor Lagoon. You can spend days swimming, paddleboarding, kitesurfing in the lagoon's calm waters, or simply relaxing on the golden sands. The town’s promenade is ideal for leisurely walks or cycling, and there are plenty of excellent golf courses in the local area.

Los Alcázares enjoys excellent transport links, so exploring other parts of the province is easy. Historic Cartagena is a 20-minute drive away, and the regional capital is 45 minutes by car. If you love nature, the hiking trails and beaches of Calblanque Regional Park are within easy reach.

You’ll find a mixture of modern apartments and townhouses in the town centre, ideal if you fancy living close to the local amenities. If you’re looking for more space and privacy, you can find detached villas with private pools in the surrounding areas, especially in popular urbanisations like La Serena Golf or Roda Golf & Beach Resort.

Los Alcázares property prices start from €49,950
Check out our moving to Los Alcázares guide for everything you need to know.

Murcia City

Life in Murcia city centre and the surrounding suburbs offer a vibrant urban experience with an authentic Spanish flair. The heart of the city intertwines historic charm and modern convenience, making it an attractive place for expats seeking a rich cultural life combined with all the amenities of a regional capital.

Murcia city revolves around its stunning architectural landmarks, such as the Baroque Cathedral of Murcia and the Episcopal Palace. The city’s many plazas (such as the lively Plaza de las Flores) provide the perfect spot to enjoy tapas and people-watching. If you love culture and history, you’ll appreciate living near the Teatro Romea and the Salzillo Museum. If shopping is more your bag, you can explore both traditional markets and modern shopping centres like the Thader shopping centre.

The city centre offers various housing options, from renovated apartments in centuries-old buildings to modern flats in new developments. Many properties feature lovely balconies overlooking the city’s bustling plazas or the iconic Segura River. If you prefer more space, you’ll find spacious townhouses and detached villas in the suburbs of La Alberca, Santo Ángerl, and El Palmar. Areas like Espinardo (home to the University of Murcia) have a youthful vibe, whereas Puente Tocinos is more family-focused.

Murcia city is well connected, with an efficient bus network and tram system. The city’s central location within the province means you’re never far from beautiful beaches, mountain ranges, and historic towns. Retirees will find excellent healthcare facilities and plenty of cultural attractions to discover. Families can take advantage of good schools, including international options, and there are lots of parks and recreational areas to keep the kids occupied. The city also has a growing tech scene with co-working spaces, so it will appeal to digital nomads and young professionals.

Murcia property prices start from €54,500

Águilas

This charming coastal town combines Mediterranean beauty with authentic Spanish culture. There are fewer expats here than other Costa del Sol resorts, so you can immerse yourself in the local culture. The town comes alive during its famous carnival in February.

Families will likely be drawn to the safe neighbourhoods and opportunities to enjoy an outdoor lifestyle, although international schools are less common here than in larger cities. The closest international schools can be found in Murcia city and Cartagena.

Digital nomads will benefit from reliable internet connections and a lower cost of living compared to other towns and cities. The slower pace of life and beautiful surroundings provide an inspiring backdrop for remote working, although dedicated co-working spaces are limited.

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retirement retreat or an active seaside adventure, expat life in Águilas revolves around its beautiful coastline. The town boasts over 30 beaches, ranging from popular urban stretches to secluded coves. The maritime promenade is ideal for walking or cycling and offers gorgeous sea views and access to many different beaches. It’s within an hour’s drive of Lorca Golf Resort and Aguilón Golf.

It has good transport links. Historic Lorca is about 30 minutes away by car, and Cartagena and Murcia can be reached in about an hour. It’s close to Cabo Cope-Puntas, which offers hiking trails and unspoiled beaches.

The town centre features a mix of traditional Spanish townhouses and modern apartments close to all amenities and the bustling port area. If you’re looking for a property that offers more space and privacy, detached villas and larger homes with gardens can be found in developments like Águilas Playa Sol or Calabardina.

Águilas property prices start from €63,900

Camposol

This unique urbanisation combines the charm of rural Spain with the comfort of a purpose-built residential community. Situated near historic Mazarrón, this inland development is a popular choice for expat retirees seeking a peaceful lifestyle in the Spanish sunshine.

Retirees form a major part of Camposol’s population. The area boasts a local medical centre and is within reach of larger hospitals and healthcare facilities in Mazarrón and Cartagena. There is a welcoming and well-established expat community, with many clubs, societies, and social events geared at English-speaking residents.

Camposol may be less suitable for families with school-age children, as international schools are not immediately available in the local area. The nearest options are in Murcia city or Cartagena, both about an hour away by car.

Camposol’s lifestyle centres on its community amenities rather than beaches. The urbanisation has an 18-hole golf course, Camposol Golf, which provides a social hub for its residents. There are also tennis courts, bowling greens, and a commercial centre with shops, bars, and restaurants. Although it’s not on the coast, the beaches of Mazarrón and Bolnuevo are just a 15-20-minute drive away.

Camposol is well-connected by road. The historic port city of Cartagena is about 45 minutes away, while Murcia city can be reached in just over an hour. The nearest airport, Corvera, is also about 45 minutes away.

Property options in Camposol are primarily detached villas and semi-detached houses, many of which have private pools and gardens.

If you’re looking for an affordable, purpose-built community, Camposol provides a different experience from coastal resorts and traditional Spanish towns. It will likely appeal to those seeking a quiet retirement in a community with an established expat presence.

Camposol property prices start from €62,250
Check out our moving to Camposol guide for everything you need to know.

San Pedro del Pinatar

This charming coastal town sits on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea and the Mar Menor lagoon, providing a unique living experience combining beachside relaxation with natural landscapes.

San Pedro del Pinatar’s peaceful atmosphere makes it particularly enticing to retirees. It also offers good healthcare facilities and a welcoming expat community. The town’s flat terrain and pleasant year-round climate make it ideal for active retirement. Families will be drawn to safe neighbourhoods and outdoor activities, but international schools are limited in the immediate area, with the closest international schools being in Murcia or Cartagena.

Life in San Pedro del Pinator revolves around its beautiful coastline and the Mar Menor lagoon. One of the town’s unique features is the Salinas y Arenales de San Pedro del Pinatar Regional Park, a protected natural area known for its salt flats, sand dunes, and diverse wildlife.

The historic city of Cartagena is about a 30-minute drive away, while Murcia city can be reached in about 45 minutes. The nearby La Manga strip, a narrow stretch of land between the Mediterranean and the Mar Menor, offers additional beaches and leisure opportunities.

You’ll find a mix of traditional Spanish townhouses and modern apartments in the town centre, ideal for people who like to be close to amenities. If you’re looking for a property that offers more space and privacy, you can find detached villas and larger properties in the surrounding areas, particularly in developments near the coast or overlooking the salt flats.

The town is close to several excellent golf courses, including Roda Golf, La Serena, and the famous La Manga Club.

San Pedro del Pinatar property prices start from €64,000
Check out our moving to San Pedro del Pinatar guide for everything you need to know.