Real estate and property recommendations based on comparisons between other US cities

Use this guide to help visitors quickly understand which Spanish markets feel like the US cities they know, what to expect in property type and lifestyle, and which areas suit different buyer profiles.

  • Marbella / Costa del Sol → like Miami or Santa Monica: luxury villas, beach clubs, international lifestyle.

  • Málaga City → like San Diego: cultural hub, coastal city life, tech growth, apartments + sea views.

  • Valencia → like Austin: creative, affordable, beach access, growing expat scene.

  • Alicante / Costa Blanca → like Tampa: sunny, affordable, strong holiday rental market.

  • Seville → like New Orleans: cultural, historic, charming old town living.

Property Types You’ll Find

  • Modern apartments in city centers

  • Beachfront condos and flats

  • Luxury seafront villas in Marbella & Ibiza

  • Historic townhouses in Seville & Granada

  • Country fincas / villas in Andalusia and Mallorca

Who It’s Best For

Retirees – Estepona, Alicante, Valencia: affordable apartments near healthcare & expat services.
Digital Nomads – Málaga, Valencia: modern flats with coworking spaces and strong internet.
Families – Marbella, Valencia: townhouses near schools, parks, and family services.
Investors – Málaga, Alicante: holiday apartments with high rental demand.

Steps to Buying Property in Spain

  1. Get an NIE (foreigner tax ID)

  2. Define your goal: residency, rental income, or lifestyle

  3. Choose 3 target locations to compare

  4. Check local rental rules (short-term rentals often need a license)

  5. Budget for purchase + 10% fees + furnishing

  6. Hire a lawyer and notary to check the property

  7. Visit or test-stay before committing

Ready to Start?

  • Explore our area guides for Costa del Sol, Valencia, and Alicante

  • Book a consultation call with our relocation & real estate experts

  • Download our Property Buyer’s Checklist to plan your move