THE PROPERTY
SP E C I A L PROPERTY PULL-OUT
Sun, sea and Why the Costa del Sol staying power: continues to endure A NEW report from Engel & Völkers shows property prices across the Costa del Sol have climbed again in 2026 - reinforcing the region’s enduring appeal as one of Europe’s most desirable places to live and invest. Average prices now sit at around €3,500 per square metre for houses and over €4,200 for apartments, reflecting steady annual growth of up to 5 per cent. In prime areas such as Marbella’s Golden Triangle, prices can exceed €5,000 per square metre, driven by strong demand and a thriving luxury market. Yet beyond the numbers, what defines the Costa del Sol today is its stability. The
market has moved beyond the post-pandemic surge into a more balanced phase, where well-presented, realistically priced homes continue to perform strongly. Buyers are more considered, but confidence remains high. International demand continues to underpin this resilience. Buyers from the UK, Germany, Scandinavia and the Netherlands remain key players, alongside growing interest from other global markets. Increasingly, however, the profile of buyers is shifting. The region is at-
tracting remote workers, entrepreneurs and young families who are choosing to relocate permanently in search of lifestyle, climate and space. This evolution is reshaping the Costa del Sol into a year-round destination. Areas such as Malaga, Mijas Costa and Estepona are becoming established residential hubs, supported by strong infrastructure, international schools and healthcare. Communities are increasingly diverse and globally connected, while maintaining the relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle that defines the region. The market’s long-term appeal remains rooted in its fundamentals: consistent inter-
national demand, limited supply and an exceptional quality of life. For many buyers, the Costa del Sol offers more than property… it offers a lifestyle. While established hotspots like Marbella and Estepona remain as popular as ever, areas such as Axarquia are beginning to emerge as alternatives, offering a different pace within the same sought-after coastline. Looking ahead, growth is expected to continue at a more sustainable rate. The Costa del Sol’s success has never been about short-term momentum, but its ability to evolve while preserving what makes it one of Europe’s most compelling destinations.