Market Report

Why Spain Stays Popular

Spain is more than a holiday destination. It's one of Europe's most active property markets for international buyers. The numbers tell the story.

Modern townhouse development in Spain

In 2024, over 636,000 properties changed hands in Spain. Nearly 93,000 of those were bought by foreigners. That's not a niche market—it's a structural part of how Spain works.

636K
Total Transactions 2024
93K
Foreign Purchases
14.6%
Foreign Share
19.3%
H1 2025 Share

A 14.6% foreign share might not sound dramatic, but consider what it means: nearly one in seven Spanish property transactions involves an international buyer. In coastal regions, that ratio is far higher.

This isn't new. Spain has maintained this level of foreign participation for years. The market is large, liquid, and genuinely international—making it easier to buy and sell compared to smaller niche markets elsewhere in Europe.

Spain Property Market 2024

Source: Idealista/Registrars data, 2024

Where Foreign Demand Is Highest

Not all of Spain attracts international buyers equally. The data shows clear hotspots—and they're exactly where you'd expect: sun, airports, infrastructure, and established rental markets.

Foreign Demand Share by Province (2025)

Source: Idealista, September 2025

Alicante province—home to the Costa Blanca North and Costa Blanca South—leads with 33.2% of demand coming from foreign buyers. That's one in three interested buyers from abroad.

These aren't random locations. They share common traits: direct flights from major European cities, established expat communities, strong rental demand, and infrastructure that supports year-round living. Our guide to buying in Spain explains what makes these regions attractive.

Foreign Purchases in 2025

Family preparing for summer vacation by the coast
Many buyers start with holiday visits before purchasing

Notary data for the first half of 2025 confirms the trend continues. Foreign purchases remain strong, with volume up 2% year-on-year.

71,155
Foreign Purchases H1 2025
+2%
Year-on-Year Change
19.3%
Market Share

The 19.3% market share in H1 2025 is higher than the 14.6% full-year figure for 2024. This reflects seasonal patterns—foreign buyers are more active in spring and early summer when viewing trips are easier.

What matters is the stability. This isn't a spike or a bubble. It's consistent, sustained demand from international buyers who see value in Spanish property. If you're considering a purchase, our first-time buyer guide is a good starting point.

Why People Keep Choosing Spain

When buyers explain their choice, it's rarely one thing. It's the combination that makes Spain work.

None of these factors alone explains Spain's popularity. But together, they create something hard to replicate: a place where property ownership translates directly into quality of life. Read about daily life on Costa Blanca to see what this looks like in practice.

What the Data Means for Buyers

The numbers paint a clear picture: Spain's property market is large, active, and genuinely international. Prices are rising, but demand remains strong—particularly in coastal regions with good infrastructure and established communities.

For potential buyers, this means:

01

Competition Is Real

In popular areas, good properties move quickly. Preparation matters.

02

Liquidity Is a Feature

A large market means you can sell when you need to—not just buy.

03

Location Matters More Than Ever

The 33% foreign demand in Alicante vs. lower figures elsewhere isn't random.

04

Value Still Exists

Rising prices don't mean bad value. Compare what you get per euro.

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