What’s the best place to buy real estate in Spain? It comes down to the lifestyle you’re looking for. Whether you’re moving there with family, looking to retire in the temperate country, or seeking a second home destination, there are options galore.
The most sought-after locations on JamesEdition in 2022 were Marbella (17%), Barcelona (2.5%), Estepona (2%), and Madrid (1.5%), followed by Sotogrande, Ibiza, and Mallorca (1% each).
The Costa del Sol is the front-running best place to buy property in Spain, with Marbella and Estepona ranking as the most popular along the coastline. That being said, there are plenty more areas to consider, from bustling Barcelona and vibrant València to the scenic Costa Blanca and the natural beauty of Ibiza.
Whichever province you choose, refer to our Living in Spain guide for detailed information on the country’s lifestyle and expat communities, cost of living and tax system.
1. Costa del Sol: One of the best areas to buy property in Spain along the coast
Population: Approximately 1.6 million
Average price for luxury real estate (JamesEdition’s data): $1.7 million
One of the most popular regions in Spain, the Costa del Sol in Andalucía offers investors, second-home seekers, digital nomads, and ex-pats the ideal combination of beach and city living. Boasting one of the best year-round climates in Europe, there are many places to settle down along the 150-kilometer coastline.
There’s upscale Marbella and Puerto Banús, historic Málaga, cultural Mijas, and Torremolinos with its long beaches and contemporary properties lining a four-kilometer seafront promenade. Additional options include Sotogrande, a prestigious urbanization in Andalucía, and the coastal town of Estepona, where charm and character have been maintained. It’s no wonder the Costa del Sol is viewed by many as the best area in Spain to buy property.
Pros of buying a property along the Costa del Sol
- World-class golf courses
- Relaxed beachside lifestyle
- Discovering the region’s cultural side
Cons of buying a property along the Costa del Sol
- Tourist hotspots hibernate in wintertime (seen as a positive by some)
- Unhurried pace of life may be frustrating
Homes for Sale in Costa Del Sol
2. Barcelona: One of the best cities in Spain to buy property
Population: Approximately 1.6 million (5.6 million metro area)
Average price for luxury real estate (JamesEdition’s data): $1.1 million
Catalonia’s Barcelona is the second largest city in Spain and well known for its eye-catching architecture by Antoni Gaudí. There’s also Las Ramblas to explore, plus green spaces such as Ciutadella, Doctor Pla i Armengol Gardens, UNESCO-designated Güell, and 4.5 kilometers of inviting coastline.
In terms of neighborhoods, there are many to consider, such as Barceloneta for beach vibes, cultural Barrio Gotico, and Sant Gervasi for peace and calm. Within an hour’s drive, you’ll find Tarragona and Girona – also worth checking out.
Pros of buying a property in Barcelona
- Ideal combination of beach, city, and mountain life
- Welcoming international community
- Clean and walkable
Cons of buying a property in Barcelona
- Among the most expensive cities in Spain
- Mass tourism, especially during the high season
3. Ibiza: One of the best islands in Spain to buy property
Population: Approximately 160,000
Average price for luxury real estate (JamesEdition’s data): $2.5 million
There’s much more to this Balearic Island off the coast of València than hedonistic vibes. Additional highlights include the UNESCO-designated Dalt Vila Old Town and the natural beauty of Ses Salines. The isle also houses a handful of impressive marinas like Eivissa, Santa Eulalia, and Botafoch, and there are activities galore to enjoy such as cycling, hiking, and horse riding.
The quieter, relaxed side is perfect for families and people wishing to settle in an island paradise filled with history and culture. And for those seeking a party atmosphere, the Mediterranean hotspot is home to top-class nightclubs, attracting wealthy visitors, celebrities, and world-famous DJs during the summer.
Cosmopolitan residents savor the leisurely pace of life in traditional villages like Sant Josep de sa Talaia and Es Cubells. A contender for the best place to buy a house in Spain?
Pros of buying a property in Ibiza
- Laid-back way of life
- First-rate culinary scene
- All-year-round glorious weather
Cons of buying a property in Ibiza
- Influx of visitors from May to October
- One of the more expensive places to buy property
4. Madrid: One of the best places to invest in real estate in Spain
Population: Approximately 3.3 million (6.7 million metro area)
Average price for luxury real estate (JamesEdition’s data): $1.4 million
Madrid is both the capital and the largest city in Spain; the cosmopolitan metropolis was home to around one million foreign residents as of January 2021. Harmoniously fusing modernity and history, Madrid also has a well-regarded healthcare system and is home to 21 districts and over 100 neighborhoods.
An array of parks offer respite from the bustling streets, such as Capricho, El Retiro, Sabatini Gardens, and Casa de Campo. Popular locations around Madrid also worth considering are Alcobendas, La Navata, Torrelodones, Saint Sebastian of the Kings, and San Lorenzo de El Escorial.
Pros of buying a property in Madrid
- Vibrant capital
- Brimming with art and culture
- Top-quality public transport
Cons of buying a property in Madrid
- One of the priciest cities in Spain
- Lacks the appeal of coastal areas
5. Mallorca: One of the best places to buy a house in Spain
Population: Approximately 950,000
Average price for luxury real estate (JamesEdition’s data): $1.6 million
People are attracted to the biggest Balearic Island for numerous reasons, including the well-developed infrastructure, relaxed outdoorsy atmosphere, UNESCO-designated Sierra de Tramuntana, and pristine golf courses. On top of that, a host of hidden coves and sandy beaches pepper the island, such as Cala Agulla, Portals Vells, and Playa de Canyamel.
Mallorca is awash with real estate hotspots and the property market is buoyant and competitive. There’s the vibrant capital of Palma – full of contemporary bars and innovative restaurants – the traditional picture-postcard town of Andratx, and the idyllic village of Valdemossa. Additional locations worth considering include Santa Ponsa, Calvià, and Pollença. The island boasts an active community of artists, writers, and musicians, and draws people in with its creative energy.
Pros of buying a property in Mallorca
- Scenery and nature
- Friendly ex-pat community
- Outdoor activities aplenty
Cons of buying a property in Mallorca
- More isolated than the mainland
- Strict property zoning laws
6. Costa Blanca: One of the best areas in Spain to buy property by the sea
Population: Approximately 1.4 million
Average price for luxury real estate (JamesEdition’s data): $1.2 million
The Costa Blanca has oodles of appeal, making it one of the best places in Spain to buy property. Covering more than 200 kilometers of unparalleled Mediterranean coastline in the southeast of the country, the region is incredibly beautiful – dotted with picturesque coves, pine-covered mountains, and towering limestone cliffs.
Moreover, real estate sales are soaring, so it’s an opportune time to invest in this scenic part of Spain. Extending from Pilar de la Horadada in the south to Dénia in the north, the area spans the likes of charming Jávea, characterful Altea, and unspoiled Moraira.
Pros of buying a property along the Costa Blanca
- Spectacular landscape filled with beaches and bays
- Not overrun by tourists
- Flourishing ex-pat community
Cons of buying a property along the Costa Blanca
- Quieter atmosphere than other parts of the country (seen as a benefit by some)
- More expensive than other coastal regions in Spain
Homes for sale in Costa Blanca
7. Canary Islands: One of the best places to buy property in Spain
Population: Approximately 2.25 million
Average price for luxury real estate (JamesEdition’s data): $0.9 million
Positioned off the northwest coast of Africa, The Canaries are home to eight main islands – the most popular are Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, and Lanzarote. Featuring rugged volcanic terrain, black and white sand beaches, and a sub-tropical climate, the isles have plenty of appeal for people looking to settle in a new country, with each offering something different.
Lanzarote benefits from a thriving art and culture scene, while Fuerteventura is more tranquil and arguably boasts the best beaches. Meanwhile, Gran Canaria is the second most populated, with a rural interior offering a peaceful atmosphere and a mountainous landscape. Tenerife, the largest and most populous, is home to a sizable British ex-pat community.
Pros of buying a property in the Canary Islands
- Inexpensive cost of living
- Sun and warmth
- Easygoing way of life
Cons of buying a property in the Canary Islands
- More prone to rain than other parts of the country
- Somewhat remote location
Homes for Sale in the Canary Islands
8. València: One of the best places in Spain to buy property
Population: Approximately 800,000 (1.4million metro area)
Average price for luxury real estate (JamesEdition’s data): $0.9 million
Foreign demand and rental prices are soaring in València, and it’s an increasingly popular destination for people seeking a Mediterranean lifestyle. Credited as the home of paella, the third city sits just a few kilometers from the sea and boasts the most Blue Flag playas in Spain.
The area is also home to a large port, a lively promenade, and a historic center – a maze of streets and plazas. One of the most relaxed metropolises to settle down in, real estate is cheaper than in Madrid and Barcelona. That being said, there are upmarket districts to consider like Viveros and Alameda, should you wish. Additional places in the Valèncian Community that are worth exploring are Calp, Altea, and Benissa.
Pros of buying a property in València
- One of the cheaper cities to live in Spain
- Urban and beach life
- Fairly small with good public transport
Pros of buying a property in València
- Almost everything is closed on a Sunday (could be viewed as a pro)
- Less thriving cultural scene than other cities
Find your perfect property in Spain
Looking for the best place to buy a property in Spain? Browse JamesEdition’s selection of deluxe real estate in Spain, spanning sea-facing houses in Marbella, apartments overlooking the coast along the Costa Blanca, rural retreats and villas in Ibiza, countryside hideaways and coastal homes in Mallorca, city center condos in Valencia and Madrid, plus more.
Read more:
- 15 Essential Steps to Buying a Property in Spain
- 7 Best Places to Retire in Spain, from Bilbao to Costa Blanca
- 8 Best Places to Live in Spain, from Costa del Sol to Costa Blanca
- Property Investment in Spain: How to Invest in 2023
