Buying a Home in Sant Joan d’Alacant: Living Between Alicante and the Beach

Are you looking to buy a house in Sant Joan d’Alacant? If so, you’re considering a place that might be of interest to those who want to live near Alicante but would rather not be right in the middle of the city.

Sant Joan d’Alacant is located directly northeast of Alicante and inland from Playa de San Juan and Muchavista. As a result, the municipality combines a more traditional Spanish residential character with the coast relatively close by and major urban amenities in the immediate vicinity.

The housing market here is very different from that of typical beach towns. You won’t find a long boardwalk lined with vacation apartments here, but rather a mix of apartments, townhouses, family homes, modern residences, and villas in and around established residential neighborhoods.

For permanent residence, Sant Joan d’Alacant may therefore be of interest to people who:

Want to be close to Alicante;
who value the beach but don't necessarily need to live right by the ocean;
want daily amenities nearby;
look for a more year-round living environment;
and want to be less dependent on a purely tourist-driven coastal market.

Be sure to check out our current listings, our existing homes, and the available new-construction homes.

Where is Sant Joan d’Alacant located?

Sant Joan d’Alacant is located in the province of Alicante, just northeast of the city of Alicante.

The municipality is located inland from the coastal area around Playa de San Juan and Muchavista and borders several towns in the Alicante metropolitan area.

That makes the location appealing to people looking for a balance between:

city;
beach;
local amenities;
and residential housing.

So you won't be living in a remote village here, but you won't be right in the heart of Alicante's busiest downtown area either.

Sant Joan d’Alacant is not the same as Playa de San Juan

This is an important geographical difference.

Sant Joan d’Alacant is an independent municipality.

Playa de San Juan is part of the municipality of Alicante.

The names are very similar and are sometimes easily confused in real estate listings, but administratively and in terms of residential profile, they are different locations.

A home in Sant Joan may be relatively close to Playa de San Juan, but it is not necessarily right on the beach.

Sant Joan d'Alacant or San Juan?

You may come across both spellings.

The official Valencian name is Sant Joan d’Alacant. In Spanish, San Juan de Alicante is often used.

That is why you will see both names in real estate listings.

When looking for a place to live, it's especially important that you don't accidentally search for "Playa de San Juan" when you actually mean the village of Sant Joan.

Why Buy a Home in Sant Joan d’Alacant?

Sant Joan d’Alacant is particularly appealing when the desire for a permanent home outweighs the desire for a vacation atmosphere.

Here you'll find a year-round living environment featuring:

stores;
supermarkets;
schools;
health care services;
hospitality industry;
sport;
public transportation;
and its connection to the greater Alicante metropolitan area.

In this respect, Sant Joan clearly differs from small coastal developments that are heavily focused on vacations.

A Spanish town in the Alicante region

Sant Joan feels more like a self-contained Spanish town than a tourist suburb.

That can be appealing if you're actually moving to Spain and want to build a life there.

Alicante is close by for:

larger stores;
culture;
work;
train connections;
port;
specialized services;
and metropolitan amenities.

At the same time, you don't have to live right in the middle of the busiest neighborhoods.

Buying an Apartment in Sant Joan d’Alacant

Apartments make up a significant portion of the housing supply.

An apartment might be a good option if you:

want low maintenance;
want to live in a central location;
considers the elevator important;
want amenities nearby;
and doesn't need a large lot.

When looking at an apartment, always check the building's technical and financial condition.

Consider:

lift;
parking space;
salvage;
community;
facade;
dak;
and scheduled work.

Apartment in the city center

An apartment in or near the city center can be particularly convenient for permanent residents.

You may then be able to take care of many everyday errands on foot.

In the long run, that might be more important than a large patio or swimming pool.

This can be a good housing option for retirees, young couples, and people who don't want to maintain a large yard.

Apartment with a garage

A private parking space is also valuable in an urban residential setting.

Check with a garage:

width of the site;
slope of the driveway;
height;
room to maneuver;
elevator connection;
and legal registration.

Garages can be quite cramped, especially in older buildings.

Apartment with a shared pool

In more modern residential complexes, you can find apartments with shared amenities.

For example:

swimming pool;
garden;
leeway;
and a fenced-in area.

That might appeal to families or people who want to swim but don't want to maintain a private pool.

On the other hand, there are higher community costs.

Community

When you own an apartment, you usually pay dues to the homeowners' association.

Ask in advance about:

current contribution;
reserve fund;
insurance;
lift;
swimming pool;
gardens;
scheduled work;
and any debts.

A low monthly premium isn't necessarily better when there are hardly any reserves.

Special Assessments

A derrama is an additional payment for special work.

This could include, for example:

facade;
dak;
lift;
pipes;
garage;
or a swimming pool.

Before making a purchase, ask whether such work has already been approved or discussed.

Buying a Townhouse in Sant Joan d’Alacant

A townhouse may be a good option for families looking for more space than an apartment offers.

For example, you may have access to:

multiple bedrooms;
private patio;
patio;
garage;
multiple floors;
and, if available, a communal swimming pool.

Pay special attention to the layout.

A large living area spread over three or four floors can be less practical on a day-to-day basis than a slightly smaller home on two levels.

Ground-floor bedroom

This could be important for future-oriented living.

A townhouse featuring:

living room;
kitchen;
bedroom;
and bathroom

The ground floor can remain usable more easily in the future.

Additional bedrooms upstairs can then be used for children or guests.

Buy a villa in Sant Joan d'Alacant

Those looking for more space may also come across villas or larger detached homes.

These are located outside the most densely populated streets of the city center.

A villa can be attractive for the following reasons:

privacy;
own lot;
parking space;
garden;
private pool;
and more interior space.

On the other hand, this requires more maintenance.

Villa or apartment?

The choice depends mainly on your daily life.

Apartment

This is more appropriate if you:

want low maintenance;
you want to do a lot of walking;
want amenities nearby;
considers the elevator important;
and doesn't need a large yard.

Villa

This is more appropriate if you:

privacy;
garden;
swimming pool;
parking space;
and more space

considers important.

Private Pool

When considering an existing villa with a pool, you shouldn't just look at its appearance.

Check the following, among other things:

technical condition;
pump;
filter;
any leaks;
tile work;
registration;
and the area around the pool.

An older swimming pool can be a significant renovation expense.

Single-story villa

For retirees or those looking toward the future, a single-story villa can be an attractive option.

Be sure to also check whether:

access from the street;
parking space;
patio;
swimming pool;
and garden

are relatively flat.

A single-story home on a steeply sloping lot is not automatically fully accessible.

New Construction in Sant Joan d’Alacant

Depending on current availability, new construction may also be available.

These may include modern apartments, residential complexes, townhouses, or other types of housing.

New construction can be attractive for the following reasons:

modern layout;
recent installations;
energy performance;
lift;
parking space;
and less direct renovation work.

But the exact location remains more important than just the year of construction.

New construction on the outskirts of town

New projects are often built where land is still available.

That could mean that a modern home is farther away from:

center;
supermarket;
school;
or public transportation

than an older home.

Therefore, always compare the actual walking routes.

What is included in new construction?

Check the specifications.

Don't automatically assume that:

all kitchen appliances;
full air conditioning;
solar panels;
parking space;
salvage;
furniture;
lighting;
swimming pool;
or landscaped outdoor space.

A rendering is not an inventory list.

Buying Off-Plan

Are you buying before the project is completed?

In that case, you should pay special attention to:

floor plan;
site plan;
orientation;
surrounding buildings;
technical description;
and planning.

In addition, have an independent legal review conducted to determine how permits, contracts, payment schedules, protection of advance payments, and conditions of acceptance are handled.

Turnkey new construction

One advantage of a pre-built home is that you can experience it in its actual setting.

You can rate it right away:

sound;
zon;
view;
street;
parking space;
distance to amenities;
and the quality of the outdoor space.

This is particularly valuable for permanent residence.

Existing Buildings

Existing homes can actually be attractive precisely because of their established location.

You'll see right away:

how busy the street is;
where the supermarket is located;
how green the neighborhood is;
who your neighbors are;
and how the house relates to the surrounding buildings.

Renovation

An older home in a good location may be more appealing than a brand-new home further from the city center.

But calculate the renovation costs in advance.

Possible tasks include:

kitchen;
bathroom;
electricity;
pipes;
the frame;
air conditioning;
painting;
and floors.

The beach is relatively close by

One of the appealing aspects of Sant Joan d’Alacant is that you don’t have to live right on the water to be close to the coast.

For beaches, be sure to check out Playa de San Juan and Muchavista.

That might be appealing if you like to visit the beach regularly but don't necessarily want to deal with the higher prices or crowds of a beachfront location.

Living inland from Playa de San Juan

This could be an interesting compromise.

You may receive:

more living space;
a quieter residential street;
permanent living environment;
and less exposure to salt and wind.

At the same time, the coast remains accessible.

San Juan Beach

Playa de San Juan is part of Alicante and has a different residential profile.

There you'll find plenty of:

larger apartment buildings;
residences with swimming pools;
beach;
hospitality industry;
and tram lines.

If you're looking for a beach and an urban coastal neighborhood, you might find Playa de San Juan a better fit.

Sant Joan or Playa de San Juan?

Saint John of Alicante

This is more appropriate if you're looking for:

Spanish residential area;
permanent residence;
daily necessities;
greater variety in housing types;
and the coast is nearby, but not right on our doorstep.

San Juan Beach

This is more appropriate if you're looking for:

beach;
apartments;
boulevard vibe;
larger residences;
and coastal life.

Muchavista

Muchavista is located on the coast near El Campello and is practically adjacent to the beach area leading to Playa de San Juan.

Anyone considering Sant Joan because of its proximity to the sea might therefore also want to compare homes in the Muchavista area.

The exact municipality and location remain important in this regard.

Sant Joan de El Campello?

El Campello is located right on the sea and has its own harbor and coastal center.

Sant Joan is located inland.

So the choice comes down mainly to:

living right on the coast versus living in a residential area near the beach.

El Campello is a better fit when the ocean plays a central role in your daily life.

Sant Joan is a better fit when amenities and permanent housing are at least as important.

Sant Joan of Alicante?

Alicante is much larger and more urban.

Alicante offers:

large city center;
train;
TRAM;
port;
stores;
culture;
labor market;
and many urban amenities.

Sant Joan is smaller and more residential.

This can be appealing to families or people who don't want to live right in the middle of a big city.

Sant Joan of San Vicente del Raspeig?

San Vicente del Raspeig is also located in the Alicante metropolitan area, but further inland.

San Vicente has a distinctly urban character and is located near the University of Alicante.

Sant Joan is more logically located toward the coast and Playa de San Juan.

So, anyone who values the beach will be more likely to choose Sant Joan.

Sant Joan of Santa Pola?

Santa Pola is located south of Alicante and right on the coast.

Santa Pola offers:

port;
the beach;
coastal center;
and a strong maritime character.

Sant Joan, on the other hand, offers a more inland, residential location within the Alicante region.

Sant Joan of Guardamar?

Guardamar del Segura has a distinctive coastal landscape featuring long sandy beaches, dunes, and pine forests.

Sant Joan is much closer to Alicante and doesn't have as much of a vacation vibe.

If you work full-time or spend a lot of time in Alicante, you might find Sant Joan more convenient.

If you prefer beaches and nature, Guardamar might be a better fit for you.

Sant Joan in Ciudad Quesada?

Ciudad Quesada has a completely different residential profile.

Ciudad Quesada has a lot to offer:

villas;
private swimming pools;
international residents;
golf;
and sprawling residential neighborhoods.

Sant Joan offers:

more urban daily amenities;
Alicante is getting closer;
Spanish living environment;
and the coast is relatively close by.

Who might be interested in Sant Joan?

Sant Joan d’Alacant is a particularly good fit for people who:

move to Spain permanently;
want to live near Alicante;
who value the beach but don't necessarily need to be right on the water;
want amenities nearby;
have children;
or look for a home that’s less geared toward vacationers.

Permanent residence

Would you like to move to Spain permanently?

In that case, Sant Joan has an interesting profile because daily life there isn't dependent on the tourist season.

If you're looking for a permanent place to live, you should pay special attention to:

work;
school;
supermarket;
health care;
public transportation;
parking space;
and social environment.

Living with Children

Sant Joan may be of interest to families because of its location within the Alicante metropolitan area.

However, a child-friendly home is more than just three bedrooms.

Education

Anyone moving to Spain with children would be wise to research school options before making a final decision on where to live.

Be sure to also read our general information about education in Spain.

University of Alicante

The University of Alicante is located in San Vicente del Raspeig, not in Sant Joan d’Alacant.

That distinction is important.

Sant Joan is located within the same broader metropolitan area and may be of interest to people who regularly travel to Alicante or the surrounding municipalities.

Health Care

An important feature of Sant Joan is its location within the larger healthcare and metropolitan region of Alicante.

For permanent residents, proximity to larger medical facilities can be an attractive feature.

How you can access Spain's public health care system depends on your personal situation and coverage.

Learn more about health care in Spain and about hospitals and clinics on the Costa Blanca.

Retirement in Sant Joan d’Alacant

For people who want to spend their retirement in Spain, Sant Joan may be an attractive option if everyday amenities are more important than resort life.

Please note in particular:

lift;
level access;
stores;
health care;
public transportation;
parking space;
and future dependence on cars.

Living Without a Car

In the center of Sant Joan, you can reach various everyday amenities on foot.

For longer trips, public transportation or a car is still the most practical option.

If you want to live completely without a car, you should pay particular attention to the exact location in relation to:

stores;
bus stops;
medical facilities;
and connections to Alicante.

An apartment or a villa for retirement?

An apartment can give you more independence if you want to drive or garden less as you get older.

A villa offers more privacy but generally requires more maintenance.

So don't just choose the home that seems most appealing right now; also consider what will remain practical in the long run.

Second home in Sant Joan d’Alacant

Sant Joan is less of a classic second-home destination than the seaside resorts themselves.

That can actually be appealing if you don't just visit Spain for beach vacations.

You'll be living among more permanent residents, and Alicante and the coast are nearby.

If you're looking for a beach house in the truest sense, Playa de San Juan, El Campello, or Santa Pola might be better options.

A second home that will later become a permanent residence

Sant Joan might be an interesting option if you're buying a second home now and plan to move there permanently later.

In that case, select the following from the start:

everyday convenience;
lift;
parking;
health care;
stores;
public transportation;
and comfort at home in winter.

That way, you won't have to move again later.

Investing in Sant Joan d’Alacant

Would you like to invest in Spanish real estate?

Be sure to evaluate Sant Joan primarily from the perspective of the permanent housing market in the Alicante region.

Take a look at, among other things:

location;
housing type;
number of bedrooms;
parking space;
lift;
community;
accessibility;
and future marketability.

A home doesn't have to be right on the beach to be attractive to the local market.

Long-Term Rentals

The following are particularly important for long-term tenants:

work;
schools;
health care;
public transportation;
parking space;
stores;
on the Internet.

This gives Sant Joan a different rental profile than a coastal apartment that is primarily intended for vacation use.

Vacation Rentals

Are you interested in renting out your property for short-term tourist stays?

Before purchasing, check whether this is possible for that specific property.

That may depend on:

regulations of the Valencian Community;
municipality;
urban planning context;
homeowners' association;
and registration requirements.

Don't automatically assume it's a vacation rental just because the beach is relatively close by.

Community and Rentals

For apartments and residential complexes, the bylaws and resolutions of the homeowners' association are relevant.

Have it inspected in advance if renting is part of your purchase plan.

Buy a Home Near Alicante Airport

The airport is also important for international buyers.

Sant Joan is located within the broader Alicante metropolitan area, but you won't be living right next to the airport.

If proximity to the airport is your top priority, locations south of Alicante—such as Santa Pola—or certain areas closer to Elche may be more practical.

If you prefer Alicante city and the coast, Sant Joan might actually be a better fit for you.

Getting to Alicante

For many residents, Alicante is an important part of their daily lives.

Consider:

work;
shopping;
culture;
stations;
larger services;
and the hospitality industry.

That's why, when looking at a home in Sant Joan, it's a good idea to consider not only the distance in kilometers, but also the actual route and public transportation options from that specific street.

Parking Lot

If you drive to Alicante or the coast regularly, having your own parking spot is convenient.

For apartments, you should check whether the parking space:

is included;
is registered separately;
is sufficiently spacious;
and is easily accessible.

Electric car

For new construction or recently built residences, charging capabilities can be a relevant purchasing criterion.

Check what is technically and legally possible within the garage or community.

Don't automatically assume there's a charging station just because the building is new.

Cycling

Because of its urban location, the relatively short distances between Sant Joan, the coast, and the surrounding municipalities may make cycling an attractive option.

However, always assess the actual route, traffic conditions, and cycling infrastructure.

The shortest route isn't necessarily the most pleasant one.

Climate and Winter Use

If you live there year-round, the home should be comfortable even in winter.

Check:

insulation;
glazing;
air conditioning with a heating function;
sun exposure;
ventilation;
and any moisture problems.

Just because it's a coastal region in Spain doesn't mean homes never feel cool in January.

South-facing terrace

A south- or southwest-facing patio can be appealing for winter sun.

But in the summer, shade can become important again.

A home with a well-designed outdoor space and sun protection can therefore be more pleasant than just the “perfect” orientation.

Patio or balcony?

For permanent residence, a usable patio can be much more valuable than a narrow balcony.

Check to see if you actually have room for:

table;
chairs;
plants;
and sun protection.

Square meters alone don't say much about usability.

Ground-floor apartment

A ground-floor apartment may have additional outdoor space.

Be sure to check:

privacy;
moisture;
street level;
drainage;
safety;
and the legal status of the garden or patio.

For future-oriented living, a single-level layout can actually be appealing.

Penthouse

A penthouse usually offers more outdoor space and privacy.

But check:

lift;
wind;
zon;
waterproofing;
dak;
and community responsibilities.

For year-round living, the patio must not only be attractive but also practical.

How much does a home cost in Sant Joan d’Alacant?

It doesn't make much sense to give a general estimate.

The price depends heavily on:

apartment or villa;
new construction or existing buildings;
location;
living space;
patio;
parking space;
swimming pool;
and technical condition.

The proximity to Alicante and the coast is also a factor.

So be sure to check out our current listings for current asking prices.

Compare Sant Joan with surrounding areas

In this region, it’s best not to limit your search too strictly to a single municipality.

You can also compare the same housing preferences in, for example:

Alicante;
San Juan Beach;
El Campello;
San Vicente del Raspeig;
and other surrounding residential areas.

Just a few kilometers can make a big difference in:

housing type;
price;
accessibility;
distance to the beach;
and their everyday living environment.

Total Budget

In addition to the purchase price, please also consider:

purchase costs;
renovation;
community;
parking space;
furniture;
air conditioning;
insurance;
and any maintenance costs.

Here's how to compare homes more fairly.

Purchase Costs

When buying a house in Spain, there are additional costs on top of the purchase price.

New construction and existing properties are treated differently for tax purposes. In addition, there may be costs associated with a notary, the property registry, legal counsel, and any financing.

Therefore, always have a customized cost estimate prepared for a specific property.

Mortgage

Dutch and Belgian buyers can apply for a Spanish mortgage under certain conditions.

The possibilities depend, among other things, on:

income;
financial obligations;
age;
taxation;
home value;
and immigration status.

Learn more about a mortgage in Spain.

NIE number

To buy real estate in Spain, you need a NIE number.

An NIE is not the same as a residencia.

Learn more about NIE and residency in Spain.

Legal Review

For a home in Sant Joan d’Alacant, the following items, among others, can be inspected:

ownership;
children;
Land Registry;
Census;
built-up area;
patio;
parking space;
salvage;
swimming pool;
previous renovations;
as a community.

When it comes to villas, outbuildings, swimming pools, and previous additions also deserve special attention.

Dutch real estate agent for Sant Joan d’Alacant

Are you looking for a Dutch real estate agent to help you find a home in Sant Joan d’Alacant?

Casas Palmeras assists Dutch and Belgian buyers along the Costa Blanca and in the Alicante region.

We can help you compare Sant Joan with Alicante, El Campello, and other nearby residential areas, so that you don’t just choose a home, but also the location that truly fits your daily life.

First, determine why you're considering Sant Joan in particular

This place is especially interesting if you're looking for a combination of:

Alicante is nearby;
the beach is relatively close by;
everyday life in Spain;
and a less touristy residential area than those right on the coast.

If you'd like to walk to the beach every morning, Playa de San Juan or El Campello might be better options.

If you want to live in the heart of a big city, Alicante is a better fit.

If you're looking for a place to live that's halfway between the city and the coast, Sant Joan becomes a more appealing option.

Four Housing Profiles in Sant Joan d’Alacant

Central Apartment

This is a good option for anyone who values shops, amenities, and low maintenance.

Modern apartment in a residential complex

A great option for anyone looking for an elevator, parking, a pool, and modern living amenities.

Townhouse

A great option for families looking for more bedrooms, a garage, and their own outdoor space.

Villa

This is a good option for anyone looking for privacy, their own lot, and possibly a private pool, and who is willing to accept a bit more maintenance.

Who is Sant Joan d’Alacant best suited for?

Buying a home in Sant Joan d’Alacant can be particularly appealing if you want to live on the Costa Blanca permanently or for an extended period, but not necessarily right on the beach or in the heart of Alicante.

This location can offer a good balance for people who value everyday amenities, accessibility, and proximity to the coast more than just the vacation atmosphere.

Those looking primarily for international developments, golf courses, and large detached villas will find other residential areas further south with a different character.

View properties in Sant Joan d’Alacant and the surrounding area

Would you like to know which homes currently meet your needs?

Then take a look at our current listings, our existing homes, the available new-construction homes, and current new-construction projects.

Would you like us to help you find, for example, an apartment near amenities, a new-construction home with a pool, a townhouse with a garage, a single-story home, a villa with a private pool, or a permanent home near Alicante and the beach? If so, please fill out the questionnaire for your home search or feel free to contact Casas Palmeras.

Buying a home in Sant Joan d’Alacant is particularly appealing to homebuyers who want to take advantage of the Alicante region without living right in the middle of the big city or directly in a tourist beach area. Sant Joan is located inland from Playa de San Juan and close to Alicante, allowing you to combine daily amenities, the coast, and city life. When choosing a home, pay particular attention to the exact street, accessibility, parking, elevator, outdoor space, distance to shops, and how important it is to you to actually be able to walk to the beach. In this region in particular, a difference of just a few kilometers can result in a completely different living experience.