Buying a house on the Costa Blanca - The best places for expats

Where to Live on the Costa Blanca? The Most Popular Towns in the Province of Alicante

For many years, the Costa Blanca has been one of the best-known Spanish coastal regions among foreign homebuyers.

That's not surprising. The province of Alicante combines a mild Mediterranean climate, beaches, cities, international communities, golf courses, healthcare, and a wide variety of housing options.

But the Costa Blanca is anything but a single type of residential area.

Living in the center of Torrevieja is completely different from living in a villa in Ciudad Quesada, an apartment in Benidorm, or a home nestled in the mountains of the Marina Alta.

That is why the most important question is not just “Where are the nice homes?”, but above all:

What kind of daily life suits you best?

Why choose the Costa Blanca?

The Costa Blanca appeals to a variety of buyers.

Consider:

• buyers of second homes;
• families;
• retirees;
• investors;
• winter visitors;
• and people who want to emigrate to Spain permanently.

A major advantage is the enormous variety found within relatively short distances.

You can choose from:

• city;
• village;
• where;
• golf;
• Bergen;
• international urbanization;
• or, on the other hand, a more Spanish-style living environment.

The selection also varies widely, ranging from apartments and bungalows to townhouses, fincas, and detached villas.

Southern Costa Blanca or Northern Costa Blanca?

Before looking at specific places, it's helpful to first understand the difference between the north and the south.

Southern Costa Blanca

The southern Costa Blanca is generally flatter and drier.

Among other things, you'll find:

• Old Tower
• Guardamar del Segura;
• Rojales;
• Ciudad Quesada;
• Benijófar;
• The Montesinos;
• San Miguel de Salinas;
• Orihuela Costa;
• Saint Pol
• in Pilar de la Horadada.

The southern Costa Blanca has many international residential areas and modern developments.

This may be appealing to people who enjoy cycling on flat terrain, want plenty of amenities nearby, and want a relatively easy ride to Alicante and Murcia.

Northern Costa Blanca

The northern part of the Costa Blanca is much hillier.

Here you will find, among other things:

• Benidorm
• Altea;
• Calpe;
• Moraira;
• Jávea;
• Denia
• Villajoyosa;
• Finestrat
• Pull
• and various villages in the interior.

The landscape consists of mountains, cliffs, bays, and valleys.

People who value scenic views and nature often end up heading north as a result.

1. Torrevieja – City, Beach, and Plenty of Amenities

Torrevieja is one of the best-known towns on the southern Costa Blanca.

It's not just a small coastal village, but a real city with a large permanent population.

There you will find:

• the beach;
• boulevard;
• port;
• supermarkets;
• stores;
• restaurants;
• medical facilities;
• schools;
• public transportation;
• and a wide range of international services.

That makes Torrevieja an attractive destination for people who want to have plenty of amenities within easy reach all year round.

Who is Torrevieja a good fit for?

Torrevieja is a good fit for:

• retirees;
• families;
• buyers of second homes;
• people who like to live near the sea;
• and buyers who value a wide range of amenities.

If you like to get around on foot, you might want to check out the city center, Playa del Cura, or Playa de los Locos.

Those looking for a quieter place to live may find what they're looking for in Aguas Nuevas, Los Balcones, or other suburbs.

Homes for Sale in Torrevieja

The housing inventory consists of:

• apartments;
• penthouses;
• bungalows;
• townhouses;
• and villas.

There are both new construction and existing buildings.

That makes Torrevieja an attractive option for a wide range of budgets.

Salt Lakes and Nature

Torrevieja is located between the Mediterranean Sea and the famous salt lakes.

You can read more about this in our guide to the salt lakes of Torrevieja and La Mata.

So, if you want nature close by in addition to urban amenities, you’ll find both here.

2. Ciudad Quesada – villas, golf, and international amenities

Ciudad Quesada is part of the municipality of Rojales.

It's not a traditional Spanish village, but a large international residential area.

You'll find plenty there:

• villas;
• detached homes;
• urban developments;
• communal swimming pools;
• restaurants;
• stores;
• sport;
• and international services.

Who is Ciudad Quesada a good fit for?

Ciudad Quesada is of interest to:

• families;
• golfers;
• retirees;
• people who want more outdoor space;
• and buyers who enjoy living in an international setting.

The beaches of Guardamar are just a short drive away.

Popular Neighborhoods in Ciudad Quesada

There are significant differences within Quesada.

Well-known areas include:

• Mrs. Pepa
• Pueblo Bravo;
• Little Pepín
• The Marchioness
• and downtown.

You can read more about this in our guide to the popular neighborhoods of Ciudad Quesada.

Torrevieja or Ciudad Quesada?

This is a common comparison.

Torrevieja is more urban and is located right on the sea.

Ciudad Quesada offers more low-rise buildings, villas, outdoor space, and golf.

If you'd like to walk to the boulevard and the beach, you'll get to Torrevieja faster.

If you value a garden, a pool, and quieter streets, Quesada might be a better fit for you.

3. Rojales – A Spanish village close to international amenities

Rojales has a very different character than Ciudad Quesada, even though both are located within the same municipality.

The center of Rojales has a more traditional Spanish feel.

There you will find:

• historic center;
• Segura River;
• Cuevas del Rodeo;
• local restaurants and bars;
• market;
• and Spanish-style residential streets.

Who is Rojales a good fit for?

Rojales may be of interest to people who:

• want to live more like the Spanish;
• but still want to be close to Quesada;
• Want to get to Guardamar quickly;
• and don't want to visit a big tourist beach resort.

It strikes a good balance between local village life and international amenities.

4. Guardamar del Segura – a beach town and compact Spanish town

Guardamar del Segura is popular for its combination of long sandy beaches, dunes, parks, and a compact town center.

Unlike many other residential developments, Guardamar actually has a town center where you can reach many amenities on foot.

Who is Guardamar right for?

Guardamar might be a good fit for:

• beach lovers;
• families;
• retirees;
• people who enjoy hiking;
• and buyers who want to combine city life with nature.

If you're looking for a beach within walking distance, you'll find plenty of options here.

Homes for Sale in Guardamar

The selection consists mainly of:

• apartments;
• penthouses;
• new construction;
• and homes in surrounding residential areas.

If you're looking for a large, detached villa with a large lot, you'll usually end up a bit further inland.

5. Orihuela Costa – beaches, golf, and international residential developments

Orihuela Costa is part of the municipality of Orihuela, but is located dozens of kilometers from the historic city.

The coastal area consists of various residential and beach zones.

Consider:

• La Zenia;
• Flamenco Beach
• Cabo Roig;
• Campoamor;
• Villamartín
• The Dolses;
• in Punta Prima.

Who is Orihuela Costa a good fit for?

Orihuela Costa is of interest to:

• golfers;
• buyers of second homes;
• families;
• beach lovers;
• and people who enjoy living in an international environment.

The area has many residential developments with communal swimming pools and a wide selection of new construction properties.

Golf in Orihuela Costa

Golf enthusiasts have several courses nearby.

Consider Villamartín, Campoamor, and the surrounding golf areas.

As a result, homes near the golf course are popular with both permanent residents and second-home buyers.

La Zenia Boulevard

La Zenia Boulevard is a major shopping destination.

You can read more about this in our guide to shopping on the Costa Blanca.

For permanent residents, it's nice to have large stores and restaurants nearby.

6. Orihuela City – History and Authentic Spanish City Life

The city of Orihuela is completely different from Orihuela Costa.

Here you will find:

• historic buildings;
• cathedral;
• university buildings;
• Spanish shopping streets;
• local restaurants and bars;
• and residential neighborhoods with much less foreign influence.

Who is Orihuela City a good fit for?

Orihuela might be of interest to people who:

• want to live more like a Spaniard;
• consider culture important;
• don't necessarily have to live by the beach;
• and look for a larger home within their budget.

For a vacation home by the sea, Orihuela Costa makes more sense.

For those looking for a permanent urban lifestyle in Spain, Orihuela might actually be a more interesting option.

7. Benijófar – a small village with many amenities

Benijófar is located near Rojales and Ciudad Quesada.

The village is compact, but has a relatively large number of amenities.

Among other things, you'll find:

• restaurants;
• stores;
• supermarkets;
• pharmacy;
• hospitality industry;
• and new construction.

Who is Benijófar a good fit for?

Benijófar is appealing to people who:

• want to live in a small community;
• want to reach amenities on foot;
• don't have to live right on the beach;
• but we do want to be close to Guardamar and Torrevieja.

The village has become more international, but it still has a distinctly Spanish center.

8. Los Montesinos – a quieter village life near Torrevieja

Los Montesinos is located between Torrevieja and the interior.

The village has a compact center with restaurants and daily amenities.

Who is Los Montesinos right for?

This may be of interest to people who:

• want to live in a quieter area;
• seeking less tourism;
• want to stay close to Torrevieja;
• and would like to stay in a more traditional village.

Here you'll find both existing homes and new residential developments.

9. San Miguel de Salinas – hilly and quieter

San Miguel de Salinas is located a little higher up and further inland.

From certain areas, you can enjoy beautiful views of the salt lakes and the coast.

Who is San Miguel right for?

For people who:

• to find peace;
• don't need a beach within walking distance;
• want more space;
• or want to live near Orihuela Costa without being right in the middle of the tourist area.

Keep in mind, however, that there are differences in elevation and that you'll be more reliant on a car.

10. Santa Pola – Harbor, Beach, and Local Life

Santa Pola has strong ties to the sea and fishing.

The city has:

• port;
• the beach;
• center;
• restaurants;
• local market;
• and connections to Tabarca.

Who is Santa Pola a good fit for?

Santa Pola is a good fit for people who:

• Find a real coastal town;
• I'd like to have fish and harbor life nearby;
• Want to be relatively close to Alicante;
• and would rather live in a Spanish city than in an international residential community.

11. Elche – a real city with plenty of everyday amenities

Elche is located slightly inland and is one of the largest cities in the province of Alicante.

The city is known for the Palmeral de Elche, but it also has:

• stores;
• hospitals;
• education;
• university;
• sport;
• public transportation;
• and large commercial areas.

Who is Elche a good fit for?

Elche might be of interest to:

• families;
• professionals;
• students;
• people looking for Spanish city life;
• and buyers who don't necessarily need to live by the sea.

For permanent residence, Elche offers many amenities that are not available in smaller coastal towns.

12. Alicante – City, Beach, and Airport Nearby

Alicante is the provincial capital.

Here, you combine:

• beach;
• stores;
• culture;
• hospital care;
• public transportation;
• restaurants;
• port;
• and a nearby airport.

Who is Alicante a good fit for?

Alicante is interesting for:

• urban families;
• professionals;
• people who want to live without a car;
• buyers of second homes;
• and people who like to combine city life with the beach.

The housing market varies greatly from neighborhood to neighborhood.

An apartment in the city center feels completely different from living around Playa de San Juan.

13. Benidorm – city, high-rises, and year-round amenities

Benidorm is much more than just a tourist beach resort.

The city is bustling all year round and offers many amenities.

There you will find:

• the beach;
• stores;
• hospitality industry;
• health care;
• public transportation;
• entertainment;
• and modern apartment complexes.

Who is Benidorm a good fit for?

Benidorm might be of interest to:

• people who want to live in the city;
• beach lovers;
• retirees;
• people without cars;
• and buyers who like to have plenty of amenities nearby.

Those looking for peace and quiet will likely turn their attention to nearby towns.

14. Finestrat – New Construction and Views Near Benidorm

Finestrat has seen a lot of residential development in recent years.

There you'll find both the traditional village of Finestrat Pueblo and modern residential areas heading toward Benidorm.

Who is Finestrat right for?

For people who:

• Search for modern new construction;
• consider the view important;
• Want to be close to Benidorm;
• but don't want to live right in the city center.

Many projects are located on hilly terrain.

That means beautiful views, but it also means that a car is often practical.

15. Villajoyosa – a colorful Spanish coastal town

Villajoyosa is located between Alicante and Benidorm.

The city is known for:

• colored houses;
• historic center;
• the beach;
• fishing port;
• and chocolate production.

Who is Villajoyosa a good fit for?

For people who:

• Find a real Spanish coastal town;
• Want to be close to Benidorm;
• but prefer a more intimate atmosphere.

The combination of city and beach makes it an attractive option for permanent residence.

16. Altea – character, hills, and views

Altea is known for its white historic center and church with blue domes.

The area is hilly and has many homes with a view.

Who is Altea right for?

Altea might be a good fit for:

• people who value atmosphere;
• homebuyers with a larger budget;
• lovers of nature and scenic views;
• and people who aren't as concerned about flat terrain.

For people with mobility issues, it’s a good idea to carefully consider the location of the home.

17. Calpe – Beach and Mountain Scenery

Calpe is easily recognizable by the Peñón de Ifach.

The place combines:

• long beaches;
• port;
• center;
• apartments;
• villas;
• and nearby mountains.

Who is Calpe a good fit for?

Calpe is appealing to:

• beach lovers;
• hikers;
• cyclists;
• buyers of second homes;
• and permanent residents.

The surrounding area is hillier than Torrevieja or Guardamar.

18. Moraira – smaller and more exclusive

Moraira has a compact town center, a harbor, and several beaches and coves.

The town has few high-rise buildings and many villas.

Who is Moraira a good fit for?

Moraira is interesting for:

• people looking for peace and quiet;
• villa buyers;
• people who want a small coastal town;
• and buyers with a larger budget.

Homes for sale here are generally priced differently than in many parts of the Southern Costa Blanca.

19. Jávea – Old Town, Harbor, and Bays

Jávea actually has three different centers:

• historic downtown;
• port;
• Arenal.

In addition, the town is nestled between Montgó, cliffs, and several bays.

Who is Jávea a good fit for?

Jávea is a good fit for:

• nature lovers;
• families;
• international residents;
• villa buyers;
• and people who love rugged coastlines.

The terrain is hilly, and residential areas are scattered throughout.

As a result, a car is practically a necessity in many areas.

20. Dénia – city, port, and long beaches

Dénia is a larger coastal town in the Marina Alta region.

There you will find:

• historic center;
• castle;
• port;
• long beaches;
• restaurants;
• stores;
• and many permanent facilities.

Who is Dénia a good fit for?

Dénia is interesting for:

• families;
• retirees;
• people who like to live in a real city;
• beach lovers;
• and people who value fine dining.

It feels more urban than Moraira, but much smaller-scale than Alicante.

21. Jalón and the Valle de Pop – tranquility and the countryside

Jalón, also known as Xaló, is located in the inland region of the Marina Alta.

The landscape consists of:

• vineyards;
• almond trees;
• Bergen;
• small villages;
• and rural homes.

Who is Jalón right for?

Jalón is of interest to:

• people seeking peace;
• hikers;
• cyclists;
• people who want less tourism;
• and people looking for a place to live who value space.

If you want a beach within walking distance, this isn't the place for you.

But those looking for nature and the countryside will find exactly what they're looking for.

Marina Alta—what exactly is it?

The Marina Alta is a comarca in the northern part of the province of Alicante.

Well-known places include:

• Denia
• Jávea;
• Teulada-Moraira
• In Benissa;
• Pull
• Stoney
• Orba;
• in Alcalalí

The area combines coastal and mountainous landscapes.

That's why it's popular among people who value nature.

But keep in mind that there are hills, longer distances, and a greater reliance on a car than in urban coastal areas.

Where can you live without a car?

Would you like to rely on a car as little as possible?

In that case, be sure to look for places with a real downtown area and plenty of amenities within walking distance.

For example:

• Alicante;
• Downtown Torrevieja;
• Guardamar;
• Benidorm
• Denia
• Moose;
• or a central part of Santa Pola.

A villa on a hill can be beautiful, but it often means you have to drive even to buy bread.

Where should you live if flat terrain is important to you?

The southern Costa Blanca is, on average, much flatter.

Consider:

• Guardamar;
• Torrevieja
• Saint Paul
• Downtown Rojales;
• Benijófar;
• and parts of Orihuela Costa.

Ciudad Quesada has more elevation changes.

On the northern Costa Blanca, slopes are much more common.

For people with limited mobility, this is an important selection criterion.

Where should I live to be within walking distance of the beach?

For beaches within walking distance, you might want to check out, among others:

• Old Tower
• La Mata;
• Guardamar;
• Saint Paul
• Orihuela Costa;
• Alicante;
• Benidorm
• Villajoyosa;
• Calpe;
• Jávea;
• in Denia

But “close to the beach” can have a major impact on price and the type of home.

An apartment located 300 meters from the sea is often priced quite differently from a villa ten minutes inland.

Where can I find a villa to live in?

For villas, the following areas are particularly attractive:

• Ciudad Quesada;
• Los Balcones;
• San Miguel de Salinas;
• Orihuela Costa;
• Finestrat
• Altea;
• Moraira;
• Jávea;
• and parts of Dénia.

Which region is the best fit depends largely on your budget and the desired lot size.

Where should I live if I'm looking for an apartment?

You'll find a lot of apartments in:

• Old Tower
• Guardamar;
• Alicante;
• Benidorm
• Calpe;
• Denia
• and the coastal areas of Orihuela Costa.

An apartment can be a practical choice for a second home because it requires little maintenance.

Where should I live if I want to play golf?

Golfers have a particularly wide range of options in the following areas:

• Ciudad Quesada;
• Algorfa
• Orihuela Costa;
• San Miguel de Salinas;
• and various areas in the Northern Costa Blanca.

La Marquesa Golf is located near Ciudad Quesada.

La Finca Golf is located near Algorfa.

Orihuela Costa has several golf courses in the immediate vicinity.

Where should you live with children?

Families have different priorities than vacationers.

Consider:

• schools;
• sport;
• friends;
• hospital;
• stores;
• accessibility;
• and activities outside the summer season.

Places with many permanent residents are often more practical.

Consider:

• Alicante;
• Moose;
• Old Tower
• Guardamar;
• Rojales;
• Ciudad Quesada;
• Benidorm
• Denia
• and Jávea.

Be sure to check out our guide to kid-friendly activities on the Costa Blanca.

Where should retirees live?

For those who plan to retire in Spain, medical care and accessibility are often particularly important.

Also keep in mind:

• lift;
• stairs;
• flat terrain;
• shops within walking distance;
• pharmacy;
• public transportation;
• and winter sun.

Torrevieja, Guardamar, Alicante, Benidorm, and Dénia can therefore be convenient options.

Those who value a villa and a peaceful setting more highly might want to consider Ciudad Quesada, Moraira, or other residential areas.

Where to Live for Nature?

For mountains and rugged natural landscapes, the Northern Costa Blanca is a more appealing destination.

Consider:

• Altea;
• Calpe;
• Jávea;
• Denia
• Pull
• in Finestrat

The southern Costa Blanca is particularly interesting for its flat landscapes and wetlands.

Consider:

• the salt lakes of Torrevieja;
• La Mata;
• Guardamar Dunes;
• El Hondo;
• and the landscape of the Vega Baja.

You can find more inspiration in our guide to hiking and biking on the Costa Blanca.

New construction or existing property?

Once you have a general idea of where you want to live, the next question is what type of home you're looking for.

New Construction

New construction on the Costa Blanca is popular because:

• modern architecture;
• recent installations;
• energy performance;
• the terrace;
• swimming pools;
• and requires little direct maintenance.

View the current new construction listings.

Existing Buildings

Existing homes often offer:

• more choices;
• more central locations;
• larger plots;
• immediate availability;
• and sometimes more living space for the same budget.

It is therefore usually a good idea to consider both categories.

How much does a home on the Costa Blanca cost?

There's no single answer to that.

The price is influenced by:

• municipality;
• neighborhood;
• distance from the sea;
• view;
• lot;
• housing type;
• new construction or existing buildings;
• condition;
• and amenities.

An apartment in Torrevieja is nothing like a villa in Moraira.

And even within Ciudad Quesada, prices can vary considerably from one neighborhood to another.

Therefore, always check the current listings instead of relying on general “starting prices.”

Mortgages in Spain

Would you like to apply for financing?

In that case, a Spanish mortgage might be an option.

Find out in advance how much you can actually finance.

This will help you avoid viewing homes that ultimately exceed your overall budget.

Don't forget the purchase costs

When buying a home in Spain, you'll pay more than just the purchase price.

Consider:

• taxes;
• notary;
• registration;
• legal assistance;
• and any financing costs.

The exact costs vary, among other things, between new construction and existing buildings, and by autonomous region.

Moving to the Costa Blanca Permanently

Anyone moving to Spain permanently needs to consider more than just housing.

You may also encounter:

• NIE;
• residence;
• standard;
• health care;
• schools;
• insurance;
• car;
• and tax matters.

For more information, see NIE and residency, health care in Spain, and our emigration checklist.

First the place of residence, then the house

This may well be the most important piece of advice.

Don't just start by looking at houses.

First, determine:

How would you like to live here?

Would you like to:

• Take a walk to the beach every morning?
• Living in a Spanish village?
• International neighbors?
• Can you get by without a car?
• Play golf?
• Space and privacy?
• City and Culture?
• Or maybe mountains and nature?

Only then will it become clear which places are truly right for you.

Buying a Home on the Costa Blanca with Casas Palmeras

Casas Palmeras assists Dutch and Belgian buyers in finding and purchasing a home on the Costa Blanca.

As a Dutch real estate agent on the Costa Blanca, we look not only at the property itself, but also at the surrounding area and your plans for the future.

Among other things, we can help you with:

• Select region and city;
• Compare current housing listings;
• new construction and existing buildings;
• viewings;
• purchase guidance;
• legal support;
• and support through the handover.

Learn more about our approach.

View the current listings or the available new construction projects.

Would you like us to conduct a targeted search based on your budget, family situation, and preferred living environment? If so, please fill out the questionnaire for your housing search or contact Casas Palmeras with no obligation.

There’s no single “best” place to live on the Costa Blanca for everyone. Those who want both the beach and the city can feel right at home in Torrevieja or Alicante. For villas and international amenities, Ciudad Quesada is often a top choice. Guardamar offers a beach and a compact Spanish town center, while Altea, Calpe, Jávea, and Dénia appeal to those seeking mountains and a more rugged landscape. The right choice, therefore, doesn’t start with the home itself, but with the kind of life you want to lead every day.