Where to live in a cheap house by the sea abroad?
Spain is now one of Europe's most attractive destinations for property investment, even though prices per square metre continue to rise every year. Thanks to its sunny climate, art of living, modern infrastructure and still-affordable market, more and more foreigners are choosing to buy a primary or secondary residence or a rental property on the Spanish coast.
Comparison of coastal towns: France vs Spain
| Criterion | Nice (France) | Biarritz (France) | Alicante (Spain) | Valencia (Spain) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average price per m² | 5 130 € | 6 200 € | 2 100 € | 2 217 € |
| Annual sunshine | 2 724 h | 1 835 h | 3 000 h | 2 660 h |
| Average temperature | 17 °C | 14 °C | 18,5 °C | 18 °C |
| Number of beaches | 15 | 6 | 10 | 19 |
| Tourist appeal | Very strong | Strong | Very strong | Average |
| Airport accessibility | International airport (Nice Côte d'Azur) | Biarritz Basque Country | Alicante international airport | Valencia airport |
Why invest on the Spanish coast?
The Spanish coast offers an exceptional quality of life, combining idyllic landscapes, fine sandy beaches, Mediterranean cuisine and a reasonable cost of living. What's more, property prices, although on the rise, are still well below those in France, Germany or the UK.
Comparative cost of living in Europe (2019-2024)
| Year | France (base 100) | Spain | Germany |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 100 | 82 | 97 |
| 2020 | 102 | 83 | 98 |
| 2021 | 104 | 85 | 100 |
| 2022 | 108 | 88 | 104 |
| 2023 | 110 | 91 | 106 |
| 2024 | 113 | 93 | 109 |
| Note: Index based on the average cost of accommodation, food, transport, care and leisure. Base 100 = France in 2019. | |||
Coastal regions attract retirees, young families and investors looking for rental yields. With a gross rate of return that sometimes exceeds 6% in certain seaside towns, Spain remains a safe bet.
The Costa Blanca: the pearl of the east
Located in the province of Alicante, the Costa Blanca is one of the most popular destinations for property purchases. Towns such as Alicante, Torrevieja, Guardamar del Segura and Jávea offer easy access, a relaxed lifestyle and affordable property.
In Guardamar, for example, a modern flat for sale 500 metres from the beach can cost between €150,000 and €250,000, a very competitive price compared with other European markets. What's more, Alicante's proximity to the airport makes it ideal for seasonal rentals and regular stays.
The Costa del Sol: luxury and Andalusian tradition
The Costa del Sol, in the south of Spain, is home to emblematic towns such as Marbella, Málaga, Estepona and Benalmádena. This region is synonymous with sun, golf and luxury real estate.
Prices are higher here, but there is a wide range of properties on offer, from renovated studios with sea views to luxury villas and gated communities with swimming pools and gardens. This segment attracts a high-end international clientele, with properties often purchased for resale or premium tourist rentals.
The Costa Brava: Mediterranean charm just a stone's throw from France
Located in the north-east of Spain, the Costa Brava is particularly sought-after for its wild coves, typical villages such as Cadaqués and L'Escala, and its proximity to the French border.
Properties here are a little more expensive than elsewhere, but the locations are often exceptional. Ideal for second homes or for those who want to live all year round in a peaceful setting, close to nature and the main roads.
The Costa Cálida and Murcia: the best property deals
Still little known, the Costa Cálida in the Murcia region offers excellent value for money. The town of Cartagena, the seaside resort of La Manga del Mar Menor and the San Pedro del Pinatar area are home to new developments starting at €100,000.
Less touristy than other coasts, the region attracts customers looking for peace and quiet, huge beaches and good deals. It's also an ideal area for seasonal rental investment, with tax benefits for foreign residents.
Tax benefits for foreigners
Spain has introduced a number of incentives to attract foreign investors. As a non-resident, you are free to buy a property, rent it out and benefit from stable taxation. The Spanish tax system provides for :
- Taxation of rental income at 19% (EU residents),
- No council tax,
- Reduced notary and registration fees compared with France,
- The possibility of obtaining a Golden Visa for any purchase over €500,000.
Advice before buying a property on the coast
Before going ahead with your property purchase in Spain, here are a few recommendations:
- Use the services of an estate agent specialising in assisting foreigners,
- Check the legal status of the property (charges, town planning, co-ownership),
- Obtain an NIE (foreigner's identification number), which is compulsory for all purchases,
- Allow for between 10% and 13% in additional costs (notary, tax, translation),
- Visit the property in situ if possible, or request a full virtual visit.
Conclusion: Spain, a destination with a future for coastal real estate
Whether you're looking to live, invest or rent, property on the Spanish coast remains a strategic choice. From the Costa Blanca to the Costa Brava, via the Costa del Sol and the Costa Cálida, each region offers different opportunities to suit your needs and budget.
With the right support, a study of the local market and a long-term vision, investing in property in Spain means you can build up your assets in a stable, attractive and sunny country. Don't wait any longer to discover the best property offers in Spain and make your plans for a life by the sea a reality!
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Spain stands out as one of the most popular and affordable destinations in Europe. It offers a perfect balance between a sunny climate, a high quality of life and a real estate market with prices significantly lower than in many other European countries, especially for properties located on its vast Mediterranean coasts.
Yes, it is quite feasible. For this budget, it is advisable to focus on regions like Murcia (Costa Cálida) or certain areas of Andalusia (provinces of Almería or Cadiz). It will often be one or two-bedroom apartments or small traditional village houses, sometimes a few minutes from the beach, offering excellent value for money.
Buying a habitable house directly by the sea for 50,000 or 60,000 euros is very difficult. However, this budget can give access to properties requiring renovation, studios or small houses located a little further inland. Bank repossessions can also occasionally present opportunities in this price range.
To find the most competitive prices by the sea, the Costa Cálida (Murcia region) is often cited as the best option. The Costa de Almería and parts of the Costa del Azahar (Castellón province) also offer properties at very attractive prices, far from the hustle and bustle and prices of the most touristy areas.
Absolutely. There are no restrictions for a British citizen wishing to buy a property in Spain. The main administrative formality is obtaining a NIE (Foreigner Identification Number), essential for any transaction.
The main advantages are economic: the price per square meter is on average 30 to 50% lower than in the UK, the cost of living is lower and property taxation is often softer (no council tax, generally moderate IBI).
The first crucial step is obtaining the NIE. Next, opening a bank account in Spain is recommended. The process continues with the signing of a reservation contract (contrato de arras) and then the deed of sale before a Spanish notary.
You should plan for an additional budget of around 10% to 15% of the property purchase price. This amount covers the Property Transfer Tax (ITP) for a second-hand property (between 4% and 13% depending on the region) or VAT (10%) for a new property, as well as notary, land registry and lawyer fees if you use one.
Yes, Spanish banks grant loans to non-residents. In general, they finance up to 60-70% of the property purchase price (the lower of the sale price and the bank's valuation). A personal contribution of at least 30% to 40% is therefore necessary to cover the rest of the price and the costs.
Rental profitability is very attractive, especially for seasonal rentals. In tourist areas, the gross yield can easily reach 5% to 7% per year, or even more. However, it is crucial to study the attractiveness of the area in high and low season.
The most popular and comprehensive real estate portals for searching for properties in Spain are Voguimmo, Idealista, Fotocasa and Pisos.com. For an international clientele, the Kyero site is also an excellent resource.
Be wary of offers that are too good to be true. It is paramount never to pay money without having signed a reservation contract. It is also essential to have the legal status of the property (debts, urban planning compliance) checked by a professional (lawyer or gestor) before committing.
Yes, the NIE is absolutely mandatory. You can apply for it at the Spanish consulate in the UK before your departure, or directly in Spain at an authorized police station. A lawyer or advisor can also carry out this procedure for you via a power of attorney.
Yes, the cost of living in Spain is on average 20% to 30% cheaper than in the UK. This difference is particularly noticeable on expenses such as food (market shopping, restaurants), leisure and local transport.
The real estate market on the Spanish coasts is very dynamic and attracts a constant international clientele. A property well located, at a correct market price and in good condition generally resells well. Demand for properties with sea views or easy beach access remains particularly strong.
