Costa Blanca and Costa del Sol are two popular regions in Spain known for their beautiful coastal landscapes and Mediterranean climate. Each of these regions has its unique characteristics, making them attractive for property investment. Let’s delve into the details of each region:
A little bit about the Costa Blanca:
The Costa Blanca, located in the southeastern part of Spain, enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot summers. It boasts approximately 300 days of sunshine per year, making it a perfect destination for those seeking a sun-soaked lifestyle.
The Costa Blanca offers a stunning coastline with picturesque beaches and crystal-clear waters. Inland, you’ll find rolling hills, vineyards, and citrus orchards. The region’s natural beauty is complemented by the Montgó Natural Park and the Sierra de Aitana mountain range, offering excellent opportunities for outdoor activities.
Over the years, The Costa Blanca has developed into a thriving tourist destination. Popular cities like Alicante, Benidorm, and Torrevieja have seen significant growth in terms of infrastructure and amenities.
The Costa Blanca boasts a well-developed infrastructure with modern amenities, including excellent healthcare facilities, schools, shopping centers, and transportation options. The region is served by the Alicante-Elche Airport, making it easily accessible for international travelers.
The Costa Blanca offers a wide range of attractions, including historic towns like Altea, beautiful beaches like Playa del Postiguet, and vibrant nightlife in Benidorm. Golf enthusiasts will find numerous golf courses in the area. Additionally, there are water parks, theme parks, and cultural events throughout the year.
The Costa Blanca is the best place to buy property in Spain
It presents various great possibilities: you can choose from beachfront apartments, modern villas, or traditional Spanish-style homes. The region offers a relaxed, coastal lifestyle with a strong expat community.
There are several reasons to consider buying property in the Costa Blanca, including:
- Investment Potential: Property values in some areas of The Costa Blanca have shown consistent growth, making it an attractive investment option.
- Quality of Life: The region’s pleasant climate, stunning landscapes, and access to amenities provide an excellent quality of life.
- Rental Income: If you don’t plan to live in your property year-round, renting it out to tourists during peak seasons can generate rental income.
- Healthcare: Spain has a renowned healthcare system, and The Costa Blanca offers access to modern medical facilities.
Top best places to live on the Costa Blanca
Alicante
- Population: 348.901 (INE 01/01/2023)
- Average Property Prices: 1.820 €/m2
Let’s begin with Alicante, a bustling and enchanting city that is often regarded as the top choice for living on the Costa Blanca. The primary reason is its exceptional climate and its strong appeal to tourists and locals alike.
Alicante offers a wide array of entertainment and leisure options, along with a comprehensive range of services and excellent transportation connections by train and plane to other parts of Spain and Europe.
Moreover, Alicante hosts numerous idyllic beaches – Playa de San Juan, Calas del Cabo de la Huerta, Playa de la Almadraba, Playa de La Albufereta, Playa del Postiguet y del Cocó, and Playa de Urbanova; a picturesque palm grove; and the impressive Castle of Santa Barbara, a historic monument overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.
Benidorm
- Population: 69.738 (INE 2022)
- Average Property Prices: 2.415 €/m2
Among the privileged locations to live on the hospitable Costa Blanca, Benidorm stands out as one of the most popular destinations in the Alicante province, particularly among English and German expats. Therefore, the city can offer diverse gastronomic delights and a multicultural, cosmopolitan atmosphere.
Residents of Benidorm can enjoy a pleasant climate that allows for year-round enjoyment of its extensive beaches, golf courses, and a multitude of theme and water parks like «Terra Natura» and «Aqua Natura».
And of course, do not forget about skyscrapers – the hallmark of this incredible city: Intempo (203m), Gran Hotel Bali (186m), Torre Lúgano (158m), Neguri Gane (145m), Edificio Kronos (140m) and others.
Cabo Roig
- Population: 453 (INE 2022)
- Average Property Prices: 3.514 €/m2
Cabo Roig is situated about 10 kilometers south from a popular city and destination –Torrevieja. This is one of the charming towns found in the Vega Baja del Segura region, alongside notable locations like Guardamar del Segura.
This area can boast stunning landscapes and beautiful beaches with crystal-clear waters that have been awarded with the prestigious Blue Flag from year to year. The Blue Flag award was established by the European Foundation for Environmental Education for those beaches that meet stringent criteria for water quality, all necessary equipment and facilities, as well as safety. Don’t miss these magnificent places: Playa Pequeña Cabo Roig, Playa De La Caleta and Cala Capitán.
Denia
- Population: 47.921 (INE 01/01/2023)
- Average Property Prices: 2.533 €/m2
Denia is a coastal port town in the Spanish Levante area, which enjoys a convenient location between largest cities – Alicante and Valencia.
This town attracts holidaymakers and year-round residents due to its beautiful beaches, favorable climate, and a rich vary of attractions such as the Castle of Denia, historical hermitages, and places of archaeological finds. Also, you can find here a rich range of museums: Ethnological Museum, Archaeological Museum of Denia, Sea Museum, Toy Museum of Denia, Arts Centre L’Estació de Dénia
Finestrat
- Population: 7.909 (INE 2022)
- Average Property Prices: 2.700 €/m2
Picturesque Finestrat is a great choice in Spain. Every day, it offers all the advantages of being near the bustling city of Benidorm while providing a peaceful and secure environment for residents and their families. Here, you can relish the opportunity to live in one of the many villas with private pools or within resorts with beautiful common areas where inhabitants can always relax with comfort and safety.
By choosing to call Finestrat home, you’ll enjoy excellent link not only to Alicante but also other parts of Spain and Europe. Also, you’ll have the perfect choice of perfect golf courses, fine dining establishments, and some of the finest Mediterranean beaches within easy reach. Moreover, Finestrat stands out as one of the prime locations for indulging in surfing and various other water sports.
Jávea
- Population: 28.731 (INE 01/01/2023)
- Average Property Prices: 2.957 €/m2
Situated in the northern part of the Costa Blanca, Javea is a cozy coastal town thanks to the shores of the Mediterranean Sea. Besides its magnificent nature, this resort offers a vibrant nightlife and a diverse culinary scene, allowing guests to enjoy its numerous terraces, both in winter and summer.
Jávea ranks among the most picturesque towns in the Alicante province, featuring an abundance of beaches like Playa La Granadella, Playa del Arenal, Cala de Portixol, Cabo Negro, Cala Blanca, and others; coves and shelters of Sierra Cortina; natural parks like Montgó; reserves such as San Antonio; and a centuries-old fishing port, dating back to the XV century.
Orihuela Costa
- Population (Orihuela): 84.568 (INE 01/01/2023)
- Average Property Prices: 2.334 €/m2
Orihuela Costa is a suitable destination for those seeking a tranquil seaside lifestyle with year-round opportunities for beachfront walks and relaxation. Life in this area revolves around its picturesque coastline, particularly its headlands, offering peace and security.
Orihuela Costa provides a multitude of activities for all preferences and age groups, facilitating the enjoyment of a Mediterranean way of life and a favorable climate throughout the year.
We highly recommend a visit to some of local places of interest, like Centro Comercial Zenia Boulevard (shopping mall), Casino Mediterraneo Orihuela-Costa (gambling), El Capitan (sport center), Pesadillas Escape Room (games end quests), etc.
Torrevieja
- Population: 91.731 (INE 01/01/2023)
- Average Property Prices: 1.782 €/m2
Torrevieja, a coastal city in the southern part of the Valencian Community, is renowned for its scenic promenades along long sandy beaches and the striking Laguna Rosa, found within the Natural Park of the Lagunas de La Mata and Torrevieja. Situated along the Mediterranean coast, Torrevieja benefits from a favorable climate with over 320 days of sunshine annually and excellent connectivity to Alicante and its international airport. In essence, Torrevieja is a place ideal for both visiting and long-term living.
What to do in Torrevieja? If you are an active person, there’s no doubt you’ll find something to do here: Jet Ski, Buggy & Quad tours (rentals), Parasailing, Electric Bicycle Tour through the Natural Parks of Torrevieja… are you ready?
A little Bit About the Costa del Sol:
The Costa del Sol, located in the southern region of Spain’s Andalusia, also enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot summers. It’s often referred to as the «Sun Coast».
The region is known for its beautiful beaches, lush golf courses, and the Sierra Blanca mountain range. There’s a rich diversity of flora and fauna, making it ideal for nature lovers.
The Costa del Sol has a long history of tourism development, especially in cities like Marbella and Malaga. The region has become a hotspot for luxury living.
The Costa del Sol offers excellent infrastructure, including international schools, healthcare facilities, shopping centers, and numerous golf courses. The Malaga – The Costa del Sol Airport serves as a major gateway for travelers.
The region is famous for its glamorous resorts, historic towns like Ronda, and cultural attractions like the Picasso Museum in Malaga. Beach clubs, fine cuisine, and vibrant nightlife are also highlights.
The Costa del Sol is the best place to buy property in Spain
The region offers a range of property options, from upscale apartments in Marbella to rustic country estates in the countryside.
Here are some reasons to consider buying property in the Costa del Sol:
- Luxurious Lifestyle: The Costa del Sol is synonymous with luxury living, attracting a well-heeled international crowd.
- Investment Potential: The region has a strong history of property appreciation, making it a lucrative investment option.
- Tourism Opportunities: With a thriving tourism industry, renting out your property can yield substantial income, especially in peak seasons.
- Golf Paradise: Golf enthusiasts can enjoy some of Europe’s finest golf courses.
Top best places to live on the Costa del Sol
Estepona
- Population: 74.493 (INE 2022)
- Average Property Prices: 3.150 €/m2
Estepona, with its beautiful beaches, renowned local restaurants, excellent golf courses, and tranquil lifestyle, stands out as one of the top choices for expats in Spain. It appeals to retirees and families seeking a quieter atmosphere. Despite ongoing development, Estepona retains its Andalusian charm and is considered a dynamically developing area on the Costa del Sol.
Property prices in Estepona are reasonable in terms of price – quality, and also, it’s placed less than an hour from Málaga airport. With a budget of around 250,000-300,000 euros, you can purchase a spacious apartment or even a villa slightly farther from the coast.
Being among famous «White towns» of Andalusia, Estepona fascinates with the Spanish measured village lifestyle rather than the overloaded and touristy environments of many other coastal resorts in the region.
Fuengirola
- Population: 45.531(INE 01/01/2023)
- Average Property Prices: 3.084 €/m2
Fuengirola strikes a balance between expat convenience and Spanish authenticity. Being incredibly popular among British, Irish, Nordic, and German expats, this area has its own charm, which is reflected in its beautiful beach – Playa de Fuengirola, various dining options (Los Boliches neighborhood), and, finally, reasonably priced properties for sale.
Compared to some coastal alternative towns, Fuengirola has not only decent urban infrastructure, but also it is one of the more affordable places for expats to live on the Costa del Sol.
What to do in Fuengirola in addition to beach holidays? As an option, you can spend a good time walking down Bioparc (zoo), Plaza Constitucion (downtown), Fuengirola Street Market or Paseo Maritimo Promenade (piers & boardwalks).
Marbella
- Population: 161.860 (INE 01/01/2023)
- Average Property Prices: 4.342 €/m2
Marbella is a renowned upscale destination on the Costa del Sol, known for its appeal to the wealthy and famous persons from all over the world. Areas like Puerto Banús, with designer boutiques and fine dining establishments, cater to those seeking a luxurious life on the Spanish coast. Nueva Andalucía area is the ideal place for those desiring to reside in an impressive, high-end villa in Spain. While living in Marbella comes at a premium in terms of property costs and the cost of living.
The luxury resort can boast some of Spain’s finest international schools: The British International School of Marbella, Swans International School Marbella, The English International College – there is plenty to choose from!
Málaga
- Population: 579.076 (INE 2022)
- Average Property Prices: 2.594 €/m2
Málaga is an attractive destination for expats, situated at the heart of the Costa del Sol. It serves as the region’s main airport hub and boasts excellent high-speed train connections to other parts of Spain.
Property prices in Málaga (2.594 €/m2) are notably more reasonable compared to major cities like Madrid (4.015 €/m2) and Barcelona (4.141 €/m2). It will suit those expats who are seeking a dynamic lifestyle with a plenty of cultural events and opportunities to connect with other foreigners, enamored with Spain.
The rich history of Malaga dates back to the XI-century starting from the Moorish era, the landmarks of Málaga are well-known as the archeological finds of Roman walls, its confusion of different styles (Roman, Moorish, Renaissance), and most important, its stunning panoramic views of the city and its skyline.
Mijas
- Population: 92.920 (INE 01/01/2023)
- Average Property Prices: 2.662 €/m2
Mijas offers two popular distinct options for expats. The area of Mijas Pueblo, placed on a hillside overlooking the coast, provides impressive views and embodies the essence of Spanish Mediterranean living. However, property availability in this charming whitewashed village is limited, and property offers tend to be quickly sold out.
On the other hand, the area of Mijas Costa, including areas like La Cala de Mijas, Riviera del Sol, and Calahonda, hosts a wider range of housing options and accommodation for a broader audience.
Nerja
- Population: 21.450 (INE 2022)
- Average Property Prices: 3.226 €/m2
Nerja in the Malaga province is a compelling choice for expats who are going to move to Spain, in the Costa del Sol. About 30% of Nerja’s residents are foreigners that creates a vibrant expat community while maintaining its Spanish authenticity.
The town offers Spanish public schools, making it suitable for families looking to integrate into the local culture and learn Spanish. International schools are also conveniently located in or nearby Nerja: Almuñécar International School, Hispánica Colegio Internacional, Escuela De Idiomas Nerja.
Property prices in Nerja tend to be higher closer to the coast, but more affordable options are available a short distance inland.
In summation, both the Costa Blanca and the Costa del Sol offer a Mediterranean dream lifestyle, but your choice should depend on your personal preferences, budget, and investment goals. It’s advisable to work with a local real estate agent who can provide expert guidance based on your specific needs and priorities. Our specialists from «Alegria» are true professionals in their field and will be happy to help you make the right choice.
