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Costa del Sol
Costa del Sol – a buyer's guide to property
The Costa del Sol is the coastline of the province of Málaga in Andalusia: from Nerja in the east to Manilva on the border with Cádiz. It is the most international property market in Spain: Marbella, Estepona, Mijas, Fuengirola and Benahavís attract buyers from all over Europe, while Málaga has grown into the technology and cultural hub of the south. Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport is one of the largest in the country and has direct flights from Poland.
Where to buy on the Costa del Sol
The western part (Marbella, Benahavís, Estepona, Casares, Manilva) is the premium market: villas, apartments in gated communities with sea views, and dozens of golf courses. The central part (Mijas, Fuengirola, Benalmádena, Torremolinos) combines beaches, entertainment and proximity to the airport with more affordable prices. Málaga itself is a city for year-round living, with a port, museums and a fast-growing housing market.
Towns where we have properties
Estepona (217), Mijas (189), Fuengirola (115), Marbella (104), Casares (58), Malaga (55), Manilva (46), Benahavís (40), Torremolinos (40), Benalmadena (26), Velez-Malaga (16), Torrox (13)
What properties and at what prices
Our database currently holds 960 properties on the Costa del Sol across 330 new-build developments, with prices from 213 000 €. The vast majority are apartments in new complexes with pools, spa areas and gyms, followed by villas and townhouses near golf courses. Prices are higher than on the Costa Blanca, but the rental market and resale values are the strongest in Spain.
Costs of buying a new-build property in Andalusia
On top of the developer's price you pay 10% VAT (IVA), stamp duty (AJD) at the Andalusian rate (one of the lowest in Spain), plus notary, land registry and lawyer's fees. In total, around 12–14% on top of the price. The buyer does not pay any agency commission.
How we buy with Aria Spain
Together we choose developments, arrange viewings or online presentations, check the developer and the documents, sort out your NIE number, bank account and mortgage, and we are there in person for the signing at the notary and the handover. In Polish, with no commission for the buyer. Our founder Katarzyna Wabia spoke about the Costa del Sol premium market in Forbes.
Frequently asked questions about the Costa del Sol
Is the Costa del Sol more expensive than the Costa Blanca?
Yes, new homes of a comparable standard usually cost noticeably more here, and prices in Marbella and Benahavís are the highest in Spain. In return, you get the most liquid resale market and the highest rental rates.
Where is the cheapest place to buy on the Costa del Sol?
Usually in Manilva, Casares, Torremolinos and inland in Mijas; in our database, prices on the Costa del Sol start from 213 000 €.
What is the climate like on the Costa del Sol?
Around 320 days of sunshine a year, mild winters (16–18°C during the day) and hot but breezy summers; the Sierra Blanca and Sierra de Mijas mountains shelter the coast from the north, hence the name "sunshine coast".
Is it worth buying on the Costa del Sol to let?
The region has the longest season and the highest rental rates in Spain, and demand for long-term lets is growing with the influx of tech workers to Málaga. Holiday letting requires registration in Andalusia; we check whether a given development allows it.
Do you help with a mortgage for a property on the Costa del Sol?
Yes. Spanish banks usually lend non-residents up to 60–70% of the property's value; for larger amounts we work with mortgage advisers specialising in the premium market.
