The Costa del Sol is tightening its grip as one of Europe’s leading property safe havens, even as Spain’s wider housing market heads into a slower 2026.
While national forecasts point to cooling sales and softer price growth, Malaga’s luxury belt is being tipped as one of the continent’s most resilient real estate strongholds.
According to high-end estate agency The Agency Marbella, prime property prices on the Costa del Sol are set to continue rising, driven by relentless international demand and a chronic shortage of top-location homes.
‘Investing in the Costa del Sol is a safe bet,’ said Leif Orthmann, Managing Partner of The Agency Marbella.
‘The property sector will continue to grow, as will prices and demand. It’s a globally consolidated destination.’
Why the Costa won’t cool off
Experts say the region’s strength lies in a structural lack of supply, which effectively acts as a price floor, limiting the risk of sharp corrections even if global economic conditions worsen.
Speaking to Idealista, sales director Benjamin Beza highlights the lifestyle appeal of year-round sunshine, Mediterranean living, gastronomy and what he calls a ‘unique quality of life’ that continues to attract wealthy buyers.
The Golden Triangle leads the charge
The spotlight remains firmly on the so-called Golden Triangle – Marbella, Benahavis and Estepona – where property values have surged more than 50% since the lows of the 2008 financial crisis.
- Marbella remains the most dynamic market in terms of transaction volume.
- Benahavis commands the highest average prices.
- Estepona is seeing the fastest percentage growth, supported by a broader housing supply.
In Marbella’s premium segment alone, prices are forecast to rise between 7% and 8% this year – slightly below 2025’s 12% jump but still outperforming the national average.
Luxury homes in Marbella currently range between €15,000 and €35,000 per square metre, depending on the segment.
A mature, global luxury market
Industry insiders say Marbella has evolved beyond a holiday hotspot into a permanent home base for high-net-worth individuals.
Buyers continue to arrive from the UK, Germany, the Netherlands and Belgium, with growing interest from the US and Gulf states. Compared to cities like London or New York, Marbella offers more space and lifestyle per euro invested.
‘With the same capital, you get more space, better quality of life and a fully consolidated prime market,’ the agency adds – a combination that remains highly attractive to international investors.
