
Spain is a popular destination for people from all over the world, especially those looking to buy a property in the sun. The Costa del Sol, which literally means “Coast of the Sun”, is a beautiful region in the south of Spain that is renowned for its beaches, golf courses, nightlife, and fabulous weather.
If you are thinking of buying a property on the Costa del Sol, you may be wondering how to decide where to buy. That is why we are here to help you.
Apart from being a great holiday destination, Malaga is also an excellent place to invest in property. Whether you are looking for a holiday home, a permanent home, or a rental investment property, Malaga has something for everyone.
In this article, we will explore the best places to buy property in Malaga, Spain.
With so many different towns and villages to choose from, it can be difficult to know where to start.
This article will help you make an informed decision and find your ideal home on the Costa del Sol.
If you prefer inland areas : Read this article
Factors to Consider When Choosing Where to Buy Property in Malaga and on the Costa del Sol
- Location
The first thing to consider when choosing where to buy a property on the Costa del Sol is the location. This region stretches from Nerja in the east to Gibraltar in the west and covers a distance of over 150 km. Each town and village on the Costa del Sol has its own unique character, so it is important to think about what you want from your location. Here are some factors to consider:
- Distance from the beach
- Proximity to golf courses
- Availability of shops, restaurants, and other amenities
- Accessibility to airports
- Proximity to public transportation
- Local culture and lifestyle
- Education options (for families with children)
- Budget
Your budget obviously plays a big role in deciding where to buy a property on the Costa del Sol. Property prices vary significantly from one area to another, so it is important to work out your budget before you start your search. Some of the more exclusive areas on the Costa del Sol, such as Marbella and Puerto Banus, can be very expensive, but there are also more affordable areas such as Torremolinos and Fuengirola.
Read our article “The real cost of buying property in Spain”.
- Property Type
Another factor to consider is the type of property you want to buy. There are many different types of properties available on the Costa del Sol, including apartments, townhouses, villas, and plots of land. It is important to think about what type of property will best suit your needs and lifestyle. For example, if you want a lock up and leave low-maintenance property that is close to the beach, an apartment might be the best option. If you want more space and privacy, a villa or a townhouse might be a better choice.
- Lifestyle
The lifestyle you want to lead on the Costa del Sol is also an important consideration. Do you want to be close to the action and the nightlife? Or do you prefer a quieter, more laid-back lifestyle? Different towns and villages on the Costa del Sol cater to different lifestyles, so it is important to think about what you want from your new home.

Let’s look at Location: Where to Buy Property in Malaga Spain
As we mentioned, when buying property in Malaga, the first question you need to ask yourself is, where do I want to live? The Costa del Sol is a vast region that offers a variety of locations to suit different lifestyles and budgets.
Here are some of the most popular areas to consider:
Malaga city
Malaga city is the capital of the Malaga province and a hub for culture and entertainment. It is an excellent place to buy property if you are looking for a vibrant city lifestyle. Malaga city has a rich history, and there are many cultural and historical attractions to explore. The city also has a bustling nightlife, and there are many restaurants and bars to choose from.
Some of the best areas to buy property in Malaga city include:
- Centro Histórico
- El Limonar
- Cerrado de Calderon
- Pedregalejo
- El Candado
Marbella
Marbella is one of the most luxurious and exclusive areas on the Costa del Sol, known for its high-end restaurants, designer boutiques, and prestigious golf courses.The town has a cosmopolitan feel, and there are many international schools in the area. The average price for a property in Marbella is around €1 million, but you can find some more affordable options if you’re willing to compromise on location or size.
Some of the best areas to buy property in Marbella include:
- Marbella Centro
- Nueva Andalucía
- Cabopino
- Elviria
Estepona
Estepona is a charming town located on the western end of the Costa del Sol, known for its beautiful beaches, historic old town, and relaxed atmosphere. If you’re looking for a quieter and more traditional lifestyle, Estepona is a great option. The average price for a property in Estepona is from around €300,000, making it one of the more affordable areas on the Costa del Sol.
Some of the best areas to buy property in Estepona include:
- New Golden Mile
- Atalaya/ Isbade
- El Paraiso
- Cancelada
Benalmadena
Benalmadena is a popular tourist destination located between Torremolinos and Fuengirola, known for its lively nightlife, stunning marina, and family-friendly attractions. If you’re looking for a bustling and vibrant lifestyle, Benalmadena is a great option. The average price for an apartment in Benalmadena is from around €200,000, making it one of the more affordable areas on the Costa del Sol, although prices are much higher in the prestigious areas.
Some of the best areas to buy property in Benalmadena include:
- Benalmadena Pueblo
- Torremuelle
- Torrequebrada
Mijas
Mijas Pueblo is a beautiful whitewashed village located in the foothills of the Sierra de Mijas, on the Costa del Sol. It is a popular tourist destination, and many people choose to invest in property here. Mijas Pueblo (the village area) has a traditional Spanish feel, and there are many charming places to explore. Mijas Costa (on the coast) has sandy beaches and numerous golf courses. The area has excellent transport links, and it is easy to get to from Malaga airport.
If you’re looking for a peaceful and authentic lifestyle, Mijas is a great option. The average price for a property in Mijas is around €400,000, making it one of the more expensive areas on the Costa del Sol.
Some of the best areas to buy property in Mijas include:
- La Cala de Mijas
- Mijas Pueblo
- Campo Mijas
- Riviera del Sol
Your Next Step?
We understand how important it is to choose the best location for your property in southern Spain. Our Property Finder Packages are designed to make this process a lot smoother and enjoyable. We are here to help you secure your ideal property, at the best price and in the ultimate location for your needs!
FAQ’s: Where to buy property in Malaga
Q. Is it expensive to buy property in Malaga, Spain?
A. The cost of buying property in Malaga varies depending on the location and the type of property you are interested in. Generally, property prices in Malaga are lower than in other parts of Spain, such as Barcelona or Madrid.
Q. Can foreigners buy property in Malaga, Spain?
A. Yes, foreigners can buy property in Malaga, Spain. There are no restrictions on buying property in Spain for non-residents.
Q. Is it a good idea to invest in property in Malaga, Spain?
A. Yes, investing in property in Malaga, Spain can be a good idea. Malaga is a popular tourist destination, and there is a high demand for rental properties. Property prices in Malaga are rising continually in the most demanded areas.