Where to live in an affordable house near the sea abroad?
Spain is now one of the most attractive destinations in Europe for real estate investment, even though prices per square meter continue to rise each year. Thanks to its sunny climate, lifestyle, modern infrastructure, and a still accessible market, more and more foreigners are choosing to buy a primary residence, holiday home, or rental property on the Spanish coasts.
Comparison of Coastal Cities: France vs Spain
| Criteria | Nice (France) | Biarritz (France) | Alicante (Spain) | Valencia (Spain) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average Price per m² | €5,130 | €6,200 | €2,100 | €2,217 |
| Annual Sunshine Hours | 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 Attractiveness | Very high | High | Very high | Medium |
| Airport Accessibility | International airport (Nice Côte d’Azur) | Biarritz Pays Basque | Alicante International Airport | Valencia Airport |
Why invest on the Spanish coast?
Spain’s coastal areas offer an exceptional quality of life, combining idyllic landscapes, fine sandy beaches, Mediterranean cuisine, and a reasonable cost of living. Moreover, property prices, although rising, remain much lower than those in France, Germany, or the United Kingdom.
Comparison of Living Costs 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 housing, food, transport, healthcare, and leisure. Base 100 = France in 2019. | |||
The coastal regions attract retirees, young families, and investors looking for rental income. With gross rental yields sometimes exceeding 6% in some 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 like Alicante, Torrevieja, Guardamar del Segura, and Jávea attract buyers with their accessibility, pleasant lifestyle, and affordable properties.
In Guardamar, for example, a modern apartment for sale just 500 meters from the beach can cost between €150,000 and €250,000 — a very competitive price compared to other European markets. Additionally, the proximity to Alicante airport supports seasonal rentals and regular stays.
The Costa del Sol: Luxury and Andalusian Tradition
The Costa del Sol, in southern Spain, includes iconic cities such as Marbella, Málaga, Estepona, and Benalmádena. This region is synonymous with sun, golf, and high-end real estate.
Prices are higher here, but the range is very diverse: renovated studios with sea views, luxury villas, gated communities with pools and gardens. This segment attracts an international upscale clientele, often purchasing for resale or premium tourist rentals.
The Costa Brava: Mediterranean Charm Close to France
Located in northeastern Spain, the Costa Brava is especially sought after for its wild coves, picturesque villages like Cadaqués and L’Escala, and proximity to the French border.
Properties here are somewhat more expensive than elsewhere, but the locations are often exceptional. Ideal for second homes or those wishing to live year-round in a peaceful setting, close to nature and major roadways.
The Costa Cálida and Murcia: The Real Estate Smart Choice
Still relatively unknown, the Costa Cálida, in the Murcia region, offers excellent value for money. The city of Cartagena, the resort of La Manga del Mar Menor, and the San Pedro del Pinatar area feature new developments starting from €100,000.
Less touristic than other coasts, the region appeals to those seeking tranquility, vast beaches, and good deals. It’s also an ideal area for seasonal rental investment, with advantageous tax conditions for foreign residents.
Tax Benefits for Foreigners
Spain has implemented several incentives to attract foreign investors. As a non-resident, you can freely purchase property, rent it out, and benefit from stable taxation. The Spanish tax regime includes:
- Rental income tax at 19% (EU residents),
- No residence tax,
- Reduced notary and registration fees compared to France,
- The possibility to obtain a Golden Visa for any purchase over €500,000.
Tips Before Buying Property on the Coast
Before finalizing your property purchase in Spain, here are some recommendations:
- Use a real estate agency specialized in assisting foreigners,
- Check the legal status of the property (charges, urban planning, co-ownership),
- Obtain an NIE (foreigner identification number), mandatory for any purchase,
- Plan for an additional 10% to 13% in costs (notary, taxes, translation),
- Visit properties in person if possible, or request a comprehensive virtual tour.
Conclusion: Spain, a Promising Destination for Coastal Real Estate
Whether to live, invest, or rent, real estate along 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 varied opportunities depending on your needs and budget.
With good guidance, local market research, and a long-term vision, investing in Spanish real estate allows you to build an asset in a stable, attractive, and sunny country. Don’t wait any longer to discover the best real estate offers in Spain and make your dream of living by the sea come true!