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The Costa Blanca stretches over 200 kilometres along Spain’s southeastern Mediterranean coast, from Dénia in the north to Pilar de la Horadada in the south. It is one of Europe’s most popular destinations for property buyers, retirees, digital nomads, and families seeking a Mediterranean lifestyle with over 300 days of sunshine per year.

This guide covers everything you need to know about living on the Costa Blanca and buying property here — from the best towns and property prices to healthcare, schools, transport, and practical tips for making the move.

North vs South Costa Blanca

The Costa Blanca is divided into two distinct areas with different characters:

  • North Costa Blanca (Dénia to Benidorm): More mountainous, quieter, upmarket. Towns like Jávea, Moraira, Altea, and Calpe attract a mix of British, Dutch, German, and Scandinavian buyers. Higher property prices but stunning landscapes.
  • South Costa Blanca (Alicante to Pilar de la Horadada): Flatter terrain, larger expat communities, more affordable. Torrevieja, Orihuela Costa, and Guardamar del Segura are popular with British, Scandinavian, and Belgian buyers. Strong rental market.

Best Towns and Areas

Jávea (Xàbia)

Upmarket coastal town with three distinct areas: the old town, the port, and the Arenal beach. Popular with British and Dutch expats. Properties from €2,000–€4,000/m². Excellent restaurants and sailing.

Moraira

Small, exclusive coastal village with a charming old centre and marina. Very international community. Properties €2,500–€5,000/m². Known for quality dining and quiet lifestyle.

Altea

The “cultural capital” of the Costa Blanca. Whitewashed old town perched on a hilltop above the sea. Artists, galleries, and international restaurants. Properties €2,000–€3,500/m².

Calpe (Calp)

Dominated by the iconic Peñón de Ifach rock. Mix of Spanish and international residents. Good beaches and seafood. Properties €1,800–€3,000/m².

Benidorm

Spain’s most famous resort town. High-rise beachfront, vibrant nightlife, and surprisingly good value property. Properties from €1,200–€2,500/m². Strong rental yields.

Alicante City

The provincial capital with an international airport, castle, old town, and urban beach lifestyle. Properties €1,800–€3,000/m². Excellent transport connections.

Torrevieja

One of the largest expat communities in Spain. Very affordable with properties from €800–€1,800/m². Salt lakes, beaches, and a well-established English-speaking infrastructure.

Orihuela Costa

Purpose-built resort area south of Torrevieja. Golf courses, beaches, and family-friendly urbanisations. Properties €1,000–€2,200/m². Very popular with Scandinavians and Brits.

Property Market Overview 2026

  • North Costa Blanca average: €2,000–€3,500/m²
  • South Costa Blanca average: €1,000–€2,000/m²
  • ITP (transfer tax): 10% in the Valencian Community
  • New build IVA: 10% + 1.5% AJD
  • Rental yields: 5–8% gross for holiday lets, 4–6% long-term

Climate

The Costa Blanca enjoys a Mediterranean climate with over 300 days of sunshine per year. Average winter temperature 10–17°C, summer 25–32°C. The north is slightly cooler and greener; the south is drier and warmer. Rainfall is low, concentrated in autumn.

Cost of Living

Monthly costs for a couple: €1,500–€2,500 (south) to €2,000–€3,000 (north), including rent or mortgage, utilities, groceries, eating out, and transport. Significantly cheaper than northern Europe.

Healthcare

Excellent public and private healthcare. Major hospitals in Alicante, Benidorm, Torrevieja, and Dénia. The Hospital de Torrevieja and Hospital de Dénia are well-regarded. Private clinics with English-speaking staff throughout the coast. EU citizens can use EHIC/S1; others need private insurance (€60–€200/month).

Transport

Alicante-Elche Airport (ALC) handles 15M+ passengers with flights across Europe. The TRAM light rail connects Alicante to Benidorm and towns between. AP-7 motorway (toll-free) runs the length of the coast. Buses connect all towns. RENFE trains from Alicante to Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia.

Schools and Education

Several international schools: King’s College (Alicante), El Limonar International School (Villamartín), Laude Lady Elizabeth School (Benitachell), The British School of Alicante. Spanish state schools are free for residents. Many bilingual options available.

Lifestyle

The Costa Blanca lifestyle centres on outdoor living: beaches, hiking in the mountains, golf (30+ courses), sailing, diving, and cycling. The food scene ranges from traditional Spanish tapas to international restaurants. Markets, festivals, and fiestas happen year-round.

Practical Tips for Moving

  1. Visit several times before committing
  2. Explore both north and south — they are very different
  3. Get your NIE number early
  4. Open a Spanish bank account
  5. Hire an independent lawyer before signing anything
  6. Budget 12–15% on top of purchase price for costs
  7. Learn basic Spanish — it makes a huge difference
  8. Register on the padrón at your local town hall

Your Costa Blanca Property Experts

Mediter Real Estate specialises in helping international buyers find their ideal property on the Costa Blanca, as well as the Costa Cálida, Costa del Sol, and Costa Almería.

Contact us today for a free consultation.

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