Imagine you’ve already made the decision to buy a property on the Costa Blanca...

You start searching.

You find a seafront apartment in Torrevieja.

Then, a villa with a private pool in Ciudad Quesada.

Later, you discover a new-build development in San Miguel de Salinas and another at Alenda Golf, surrounded by nature.

They all seem like great options.

But then a question arises—one that very few buyers ask themselves at the beginning:

Am I really choosing the area that best suits the way I want to live?

Because a property can be transformed through renovation.

You can even sell it a few years down the line.

What is much harder to change is the environment you will live in every single day.

How far your children will have to travel to school.

Whether you will need a car for everything.

How long it will take you to get to the airport.

How peaceful the area is during the winter months.

How close you are to the beach, a hospital, a golf course or a shopping centre.

Ultimately, it is about the quality of life you will have once you close your front door behind you.

That is why we have created this guide.

Not to tell you which is the best place to live in the Southern Costa Blanca.

Because there is no single answer to that question.

But to help you discover which area could be the right one for you.

What will you discover in this guide?

Throughout this article, we will compare the main residential areas of the Southern Costa Blanca using the same criteria for each one, allowing you to assess every location objectively and easily.

We will look at:

• What it is like to live there all year round.

• The atmosphere during summer and winter.

• Proximity to beaches, hospitals, shopping centres, golf courses and Alicante-Elche Airport.

• Nearby Spanish and international schools.

• The most common types of property and the availability of new-build homes.

• Approximate average new-build property prices.

• The advantages and important considerations to be aware of before buying.

• The type of buyer each location is best suited to.

• Future growth and urban development prospects.

By the end of this guide, you will have a much clearer understanding of which area best matches your lifestyle, needs and budget.

This starting point raises a powerful question: instead of simply choosing a property, you are choosing the place where you want to live.

That shift in perspective is precisely what makes this guide different from most property comparisons currently available.

Which locations are we going to compare?

In this guide, we will explore the main areas where much of the residential demand and new-build development in the Southern Costa Blanca is currently concentrated.

From larger cities offering a full range of services to international residential communities, coastal towns and peaceful inland locations.

Alicante: The City for Those Who Want It All

Alicante is much more than the capital of the province. It is a city where the sea, excellent services, and year-round activity come together in a balance that is hard to find elsewhere in the Mediterranean.

Here, you can have breakfast by the beach, work in the city centre, go shopping in the afternoon, and enjoy dinner by the marina without needing to travel far.

That is why, for many international buyers, Alicante is the ideal starting point for life on the Costa Blanca.

What Is It Like to Live in Alicante?

Alicante offers the most urban lifestyle in the Southern Costa Blanca.

It has an extensive public transport network, a high-speed AVE train station, marina, international airport just a short drive away, hospitals, universities, shopping centres, and a cultural and gastronomic scene that remains active throughout the year.

Depending on the neighbourhood, it is possible to do almost everything on foot, which is relatively unusual in many coastal towns.

What Types of Property Will You Find?

The property market in Alicante is extremely varied.

You will find everything from apartments in the historic city centre or near the marina to family-friendly residential developments, luxury properties in Playa de San Juan, and detached villas in quieter residential areas.

New-build developments are mainly concentrated in areas such as Playa de San Juan, PAU 5, Vistahermosa, and other expanding neighbourhoods, although prices vary considerably depending on location, specifications, and proximity to the sea.

International Community

Alicante is one of Spain’s most international cities.

Spanish residents live alongside a significant international community from the United Kingdom, Italy, France, Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands, and numerous Latin American countries. Every year, the city also welcomes thousands of international university students and professionals, helping to create a cosmopolitan atmosphere throughout the year.

If you are looking for a city where it is easy to get by in different languages and meet people from a wide range of nationalities, Alicante is probably one of the most complete options in the Southern Costa Blanca.

Advantages

• A lively city throughout all twelve months of the year.

• Excellent healthcare, education, shopping, and everyday services.

• Excellent connections to Alicante-Elche Airport and the AVE high-speed rail network.

• A wide variety of restaurants, cultural attractions, and leisure activities.

• A broad range of properties and neighbourhoods to choose from.

Things to Consider

• Traffic can be heavy in certain areas and at particular times of the year.

• Properties close to the sea tend to command some of the highest prices in the province.

• Parking in the city centre can be difficult unless your property includes a private parking space.

Who Is Alicante Best Suited To?

Alicante is an excellent choice for families, professionals, remote workers, students, international buyers, and anyone who wants to enjoy the Mediterranean lifestyle without giving up the convenience and amenities of a major city.

Elche: City Life, Industry, International Schools and Its Own Coast

Elche brings something different to this comparison: a major city with its own economic activity, a full range of services, international schools, an airport nearby, and even its own coastline within the municipality.

Although the city centre is inland, the municipality extends all the way to the Mediterranean and includes coastal areas such as Arenales del Sol and La Marina. Its identity is also strongly linked to the Palmeral of Elche, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

What Is It Like to Live in Elche?

Elche remains active throughout the year and does not depend on tourism to function.

It has hospitals, Miguel Hernández University, shopping centres, sports facilities, schools, restaurants, and a strong business sector.

The city also has a long industrial tradition, particularly linked to footwear and its supporting industries, as well as major industrial estates and business areas. One of the most important is Elche Business Park, located close to the airport and Alicante, where companies from the fashion, logistics, food, services, and other sectors are concentrated.

This economic activity generates employment and helps explain the city’s year-round character.

Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández Airport is only a short drive away, while Arenales del Sol can be reached from the city centre in approximately 20–25 minutes.

What Types of Property Will You Find?

The property market is highly diverse: urban apartments, family homes in established neighbourhoods, detached houses and villas in outlying districts and residential areas, new-build developments, and properties close to the coast.

This gives buyers the flexibility to choose between living right in the city, enjoying more space on the outskirts, or moving closer to the Mediterranean without leaving the municipality.

Schools and Family Life

Elche stands out particularly for its educational options.

It is home to Newton College, one of the province’s leading international schools, offering international education programmes and welcoming students from many different nationalities, among other educational options.

This combination of schools, university, employment opportunities, hospitals, and proximity to the airport makes Elche particularly attractive to families planning to settle permanently in the area.

International Community

Elche has a significant international population, while retaining a more local and distinctly Spanish character than Torrevieja, Ciudad Quesada, or Orihuela Costa.

It can be particularly appealing to international families who want to integrate into life in a Spanish city while still having access to international schools, excellent transport connections, and the Mediterranean within easy reach.

Advantages

• A lively city throughout the year.

• Strong business and industrial sectors.

• Very close to Alicante-Elche Airport.

• Hospitals and a university.

• Excellent educational options, including international schooling.

• Its own coastline and beaches within the municipality.

• A wide variety of property types.

• Alicante within easy reach.

Things to Consider

• The city centre is not directly on the Mediterranean.

• Regular trips to the beach will require a short drive.

• The lifestyle varies considerably depending on whether you live in the city, an outlying district, or by the coast.

• If you are looking primarily for a resort-style atmosphere or a large international residential community, other locations may be a better fit.

Who Is Elche Best Suited To?

Elche is particularly well suited to families, professionals, business owners, and international buyers who prioritise services, schools, employment opportunities, and excellent transport connections while still wanting both Alicante and the Mediterranean within easy reach.

Its main difference compared with many of the other locations in this guide is simple: Elche is not a tourist destination that happens to remain active all year round; it is a major city that also has the Costa Blanca on its doorstep.

What Types of Property Will You Find?

Apartments close to the beach are the most common type of property, although in recent years a growing number of new-build developments have appeared, offering communal areas, swimming pools, and more contemporary designs.

Properties close to the marina and beaches tend to command the highest prices.

International Community

Santa Pola has a significant population of residents from Northern Europe.

The British, Belgian, Dutch, French, and German communities have a well-established presence, particularly in certain residential developments and areas close to the coast. There is also a growing community of residents from Eastern Europe, attracted by the climate, quality of life, and proximity to the airport.

Unlike other destinations with a predominantly tourist-oriented character, Santa Pola maintains a good balance between local and international residents, making it easier to enjoy a more natural sense of integration throughout the year.

Who Is Santa Pola Best Suited To?

Santa Pola is an excellent choice for:

• Families who want to live by the sea.

• Those who appreciate an authentic Mediterranean fishing-town atmosphere.

• Buyers who travel frequently and value being close to the airport.

• Retirees looking for a peaceful lifestyle without giving up convenient access to everyday services.

• People who enjoy water sports and nature.

Santa Pola: Seaside Living Without Giving Up the Local Lifestyle

If Alicante represents an urban Mediterranean lifestyle, Santa Pola offers a much quieter, more traditional coastal alternative, where the sea is part of everyday life.

Its fishing heritage is still very much alive, reflected in the harbour, local cuisine, and the atmosphere throughout the year. Although the population increases significantly in summer, Santa Pola maintains a stable year-round community thanks to its permanent residents and a sizeable international population.

What Is It Like to Live in Santa Pola?

Santa Pola offers kilometres of beaches, a lively seafront promenade, and all the essential services you need, without the pace of a large city.

Its proximity to the airport—around 15 minutes away—and to Alicante makes it a very attractive option for those looking for a peaceful lifestyle without feeling isolated.

The area also offers a wide range of water sports, including sailing, windsurfing, paddleboarding, and diving.

What Types of Property Will You Find?

The property market is extraordinarily diverse.

In the town centre, apartments and residential buildings predominate; Aguas Nuevas and Sector 25 offer residential complexes, bungalows, villas, and modern developments; Los Balcones has a quieter, more residential character, while La Mata offers a much closer connection to the beach.

In addition, La Hoya is becoming one of Torrevieja’s major areas of residential expansion, with numerous new-build developments.

For this reason, comparing Torrevieja based solely on an average property price can be misleading: within the same municipality, you will find completely different locations and types of property.

International Community

This is one of Torrevieja’s most distinctive features.

According to municipal data from May 2026, more than 62,000 of its 113,453 registered residents were foreign nationals, representing around 120 different nationalities. Among the largest international communities are Ukrainians, Colombians, Russians, and British residents, alongside significant Swedish, Belgian, German, Polish, Norwegian, Dutch, and Finnish communities.

For anyone moving here from another country, this makes it easier to find shops, associations, services, and communities connected to different languages and cultures.

A City That Is Changing

Torrevieja is also undergoing a significant urban transformation.

The planned redevelopment of the Playa de Los Locos seafront, the transformation of Eras de la Sal, and the residential development of areas such as Sector 25 and La Hoya will gradually reshape different parts of the city over the coming years.

Advantages

• Year-round life and services.

• A hospital within the municipality.

• Numerous beaches and coves.

• A wide variety of properties and new-build developments.

• One of the largest international communities in the area.

• The option to choose between city living, beachside living, and quieter residential areas.

Things to Consider

• Choosing the right area is essential: the lifestyle can vary considerably from one neighbourhood to another.

• The population and traffic increase significantly during the summer months.

• In some neighbourhoods, much of everyday life can be enjoyed on foot; in others, having a car is far more practical.

• With ongoing urban development, it is advisable to check what is planned around a property before buying.

Who Is Torrevieja Best Suited To?

Torrevieja is an excellent choice for families, retirees, international buyers, and anyone looking to live by the Mediterranean all year round, with access to a wide range of services and the freedom to choose between very different residential environments.

Perhaps that is what truly sets Torrevieja apart from the other locations in this guide: Torrevieja does not offer just one way to experience life on the Costa Blanca. It offers many, all within the same city.

Torrevieja: Services, Beaches and One of the Largest International Communities on the Costa Blanca

Torrevieja is probably one of the most difficult places to summarise in this guide.

Life in the town centre is very different from life in Aguas Nuevas, Los Balcones, La Mata, or the newer residential areas around La Hoya. And that variety is precisely one of Torrevieja’s greatest strengths: you can find everything from an urban apartment within walking distance of the sea to large new-build residential developments or villas in much quieter areas.

Torrevieja can no longer be considered simply a tourist destination. In May 2026, the town surpassed 113,000 registered residents, confirming its position as a major year-round residential destination.

What Is It Like to Live in Torrevieja?

It is one of the most comprehensive options for anyone looking to live in the Southern Costa Blanca throughout the year.

Torrevieja has a hospital, health centres, schools and secondary schools, extensive sports facilities, supermarkets, restaurants, shops, and Habaneras Shopping Centre.

The sea is an integral part of the town itself, with beaches such as Playa del Cura, Los Locos, and Los Náufragos, as well as small coves and the extensive coastline of La Mata. Torrevieja also benefits from a truly distinctive natural setting: the La Mata and Torrevieja Lagoons Natural Park, home to its famous Pink Lagoon.

What Types of Property Will You Find?

Apartments, bungalows, and residential developments are the most common types of property, with significant price differences depending on proximity to the sea, views, and communal facilities.

The supply of new-build properties is more limited than in Torrevieja’s major expansion areas, which is understandable given that La Mata is a much more established neighbourhood. When new developments become available close to the sea, prices can be noticeably higher than in more inland areas of the municipality.

International Community

La Mata shares Torrevieja’s remarkably international character, with the municipality’s population register including residents from around 120 different nationalities.

The area has a well-established community of residents and property owners from Northern and Central Europe, as well as Eastern Europe. British, Scandinavian, Belgian, German, Polish, and other European buyers are a familiar part of its international community.

It is worth avoiding specific percentages for La Mata itself, as the available municipal data groups nationality figures for Torrevieja as a whole.

Advantages

• A long sandy beach right on the doorstep.

• The La Mata and Torrevieja Lagoons Natural Park just a short distance away.

• A more relaxed atmosphere than central Torrevieja.

• Essential everyday services within easy reach.

• Convenient access towards Guardamar and Alicante.

• A well-established international community.

Things to Consider

• Activity and occupancy increase considerably during the summer months.

• Some specialised services will require a short journey to other parts of Torrevieja.

• Proximity to the sea and sea views have a significant impact on property prices.

• The supply of new-build properties is more limited than in areas such as La Hoya or Sector 25.

Who Is La Mata Best Suited To?

La Mata is ideal for those who consider the beach and a peaceful lifestyle among their top priorities, while still wanting a city with a hospital, shopping centres, and a wide range of services just a few minutes away.

It can also be particularly attractive to those planning to spend extended periods in Spain or establish their permanent residence here and who prefer a smaller-scale coastal setting rather than living in the heart of Torrevieja.

La Mata: Living Next to One of Torrevieja’s Best Beaches

Although it is administratively part of Torrevieja, La Mata deserves a section of its own because the experience of living here is quite different.

The Mediterranean is at the heart of life in La Mata. Its expansive beach, seafront promenade, and proximity to the La Mata and Torrevieja Lagoons Natural Park create an environment where the beach and nature play a much greater role than urban life.

What Is It Like to Live in La Mata?

La Mata has a smaller, more relaxed feel than central Torrevieja. It offers supermarkets, a pharmacy, restaurants, local shops, and essential everyday services, while the rest of Torrevieja is only a few minutes away.

The beach is an integral part of the town itself, with the natural park beginning practically on its doorstep. Its location to the north of Torrevieja also provides easy access towards Guardamar and the N-332.

Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández Airport is approximately 30–35 minutes away by car, depending on traffic and your exact starting point.

What Types of Property Will You Find?

The property market includes apartments in the town centre, homes close to the beach, penthouses, residential complexes, and new-build developments.

There are also residential areas on the outskirts, such as El Raso, which offer a different lifestyle: modern developments, communal swimming pools, and greater reliance on a car.

Location has a major impact on property prices here. A home close to the sea, next to the pine forest, or with attractive views can command a considerably higher price than an apparently similar property further inland.

As a market reference, the average asking price for properties in Guardamar was approximately €2,797/m² in June 2026, while advertised new-build properties generally command higher prices. It is important not to confuse the two figures: location, views, terraces, communal facilities, and proximity to the sea can create significant price differences between developments.

International Community

Guardamar has a sizeable international community that forms part of everyday life in the municipality throughout the year.

Its international residents come from many European countries, with established British, Belgian, Dutch, French, German, and Scandinavian communities, alongside residents from Eastern Europe and other nationalities.

Despite this international presence, Guardamar retains a strong local and Mediterranean identity, creating an appealing balance for those who want an international environment without feeling that they are living exclusively in a residential development designed for foreign residents.

Advantages

• Long sandy beaches.

• Pine forests, dunes, and extensive natural areas.

• A compact town that is convenient for everyday life.

• Year-round services.

• Good connections to the airport.

• Torrevieja and Ciudad Quesada within easy reach.

• A choice of both urban and residential properties.

• An international atmosphere without losing its local character.

Things to Consider

• The population and traffic increase considerably during the summer.

• Properties close to the sea, pine forest, or with attractive views can command a significant price premium.

• Some residential developments on the outskirts require a car for most everyday activities.

• New-build availability is more limited and concentrated in specific areas compared with major expansion zones such as Torrevieja, San Miguel de Salinas, or Orihuela Costa.

Who Is Guardamar Best Suited To?

Guardamar is an excellent choice for families, couples, retirees, and international buyers who want to live close to a beautiful sandy beach and nature, but prefer a smaller and more peaceful town than Torrevieja or Alicante.

It is particularly attractive for those looking for that difficult-to-find balance between the sea, nature, everyday services, and tranquillity, without being too far from the airport or the main urban centres of the Southern Costa Blanca.

Guardamar del Segura: Beaches, Nature and Year-Round Living

Guardamar del Segura has something that clearly sets it apart from many other coastal towns in the province: here, the beach sits alongside extensive natural areas and a town centre that remains active throughout the year.

Its long stretch of coastline, dunes, and pine forests create a distinctive setting. This is not simply a town with a beach; it is a place where the sea and nature are part of everyday life.

What Is It Like to Live in Guardamar?

Guardamar is compact and easy to navigate, with many essential services concentrated in the town centre. In certain areas, it is perfectly possible to manage much of your daily life on foot.

The town offers supermarkets, restaurants, schools, medical centres, sports facilities, and local shops, while nearby locations such as Torrevieja and Ciudad Quesada provide an even wider range of services just a short drive away.

Its location is also particularly convenient for frequent travellers: Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández Airport is approximately 25–30 minutes away by car, depending on traffic and your exact starting point.

What Types of Property Will You Find?

Ciudad Quesada is known for villas, detached homes, bungalows, townhouses, and residential developments with swimming pools.

Detached properties play a much more prominent role here than in Torrevieja, Alicante, or Guardamar, and it is relatively common to find homes with gardens, private swimming pools, solariums, or larger plots.

New-build properties also have a strong presence, particularly contemporary villas, bungalows, and smaller residential developments.

Here, price per square metre should be interpreted with particular care. With a villa, the size of the plot, swimming pool, basement, terraces, and outdoor areas can have just as much influence on the final price as the built area itself.

International Community

This is probably one of Ciudad Quesada’s most distinctive characteristics.

Since its early development, the area has attracted international buyers and today has a very well-established international community, with a particularly visible British presence, alongside Dutch, Belgian, Norwegian, Swedish, and other European residents.

You can see this international character in everyday life: international restaurants, specialist shops, and businesses accustomed to serving customers in several languages are all part of the local environment.

For those moving from another country, this can make settling in considerably easier. However, buyers looking for a predominantly Spanish lifestyle should explore the different areas carefully before deciding where to live.

Advantages

• Excellent selection of villas and properties with outdoor space.

• La Marquesa Golf within the local area.

• The beaches of Guardamar and La Mata just a short drive away.

• Wide range of everyday services.

• A very well-established international community.

• Strong selection of new-build properties.

• A residential atmosphere throughout the year.

Things to Consider

• Having a car is highly recommended for everyday life.

• It is not a coastal location, although the beaches are nearby.

• The lifestyle can vary considerably depending on the residential area you choose.

• Some areas have a distinctly international character.

• When comparing villas, looking solely at the price per square metre can be misleading.

Who Is Ciudad Quesada Best Suited To?

Ciudad Quesada is particularly well suited to families and international buyers who prioritise a villa, garden, swimming pool, tranquillity, and space over living directly by the sea.

It is also an excellent choice for golf enthusiasts and anyone who values being able to settle quickly into a well-established international community.

Its proposition is quite simple: instead of living directly on the beach, you have it just a few minutes away in exchange for more space, greater tranquillity, and a residential setting.

Ciudad Quesada and Rojales: Villas, Golf and a Thriving International Community

Just a few kilometres from Guardamar, you will find a completely different way of experiencing life on the Costa Blanca.

Ciudad Quesada belongs to the municipality of Rojales, but over the decades it has developed a distinct residential identity of its own. Here, the focus shifts away from seafront promenades towards villas, residential developments, swimming pools, golf, and a particularly well-established international community.

And although it is not directly on the Mediterranean, the beaches of Guardamar and La Mata are approximately 10–15 minutes away by car from much of Ciudad Quesada.

What Is It Like to Live in Ciudad Quesada?

Ciudad Quesada is primarily a residential area, with low-density development in many neighbourhoods and a surprisingly wide range of services.

Supermarkets, restaurants, cafés, pharmacies, clinics, and numerous local businesses mean that many everyday needs can be met without travelling to a larger town or city.

One of its main attractions is La Marquesa Golf, an 18-hole golf course located within the residential area itself.

The trade-off is mobility. Although some areas have restaurants and shops within walking distance, having a car is highly recommended when living here, particularly in residential developments further away from the main commercial areas.

What Types of Property Will You Find?

The choice is extensive: apartments, bungalows, townhouses, detached villas, large residential developments with communal swimming pools, and properties located around golf courses.

There is also a significant supply of new-build property, ranging from contemporary apartments and residential developments to villas and high-end projects in areas such as Campoamor and Las Colinas Golf. Properties currently on the market include new-build homes at around €4,000/m², with others considerably exceeding this level depending on the location, property type, and standard of the development.

As a general market reference—including both new-build and resale properties—Orihuela Costa reached €3,042/m² in June 2026, the highest level recorded in Idealista’s historical data and 6.8% higher than a year earlier. In Cabo Roig, the reference price reached €3,662/m².

International Community

Orihuela Costa has a distinctly international character.

There has long been a particularly strong presence of British and Irish residents, alongside established Belgian, Dutch, German, and Scandinavian communities, as well as buyers from many other European countries.

This international character is clearly reflected in the area’s restaurants, shops, and services, where it is common to find businesses catering to different nationalities and offering assistance in several languages.

For buyers looking to settle quickly into an international community, this can be a major advantage. Those seeking a predominantly Spanish environment, however, should pay particular attention to the specific residential area they choose.

Advantages

• Numerous beaches and coves.

• Wide variety of property types.

• Strong selection of new-build properties.

• Several golf courses nearby.

• Zenia Boulevard and an extensive range of shops.

• Excellent choice of restaurants and leisure activities.

• Well-established international community.

Things to Consider

• It is a very large and spread-out area: having a car is highly recommended in many residential communities.

• Traffic can increase considerably during the summer, particularly around the N-332 and access roads to the beaches.

• Not every residential area offers the same range of services within walking distance.

• There can be significant price differences between inland locations and properties closer to the Mediterranean.

• It is advisable to choose the specific area first and the property second—not the other way around.

Who Is Orihuela Costa Best Suited To?

Orihuela Costa is particularly well suited to international buyers, families, golf enthusiasts, and anyone looking for residential communities, swimming pools, beaches, restaurants, and international services within the same general area.

It also offers plenty of options for a second home, although some areas have a sufficiently large permanent population and enough year-round services to make full-time living a realistic option.

Its greatest strength is also the reason why careful research is essential before buying: Orihuela Costa offers many different ways to experience life on the Costa Blanca, but they can be several kilometres apart.

Orihuela Costa: Beaches, Golf and International Residential Communities

Treating Orihuela Costa as though it were a single town would be a mistake.

Along its coastline, you will find very different areas such as Punta Prima, Playa Flamenca, La Zenia, Cabo Roig, Campoamor, and Mil Palmeras, while further inland there are large residential areas centred around golf, including Villamartín and Las Filipinas.

That is why, before buying here, the question should not simply be “Do I want to live in Orihuela Costa?” but rather “Which part of Orihuela Costa is right for me?”

What Is It Like to Live in Orihuela Costa?

Its greatest strength is the combination of beaches, residential communities, restaurants, shopping, and golf.

Zenia Boulevard has become one of the area’s major shopping and leisure destinations, while golf courses such as Villamartín, Campoamor, and Las Ramblas make it possible to live just minutes from the fairways.

Proximity to the sea varies considerably depending on the residential area. In Cabo Roig, Campoamor, or La Zenia, it is possible to live very close to the beach; from inland areas such as Villamartín, however, using a car will generally be part of everyday life.

And this geographical spread is precisely one of the key factors to understand before choosing a property.

What Types of Property Will You Find?

This is currently one of San Miguel de Salinas’ strongest selling points.

There is a selection of apartments, bungalows, townhouses, and villas, but in recent years new-build property has become particularly prominent.

New residential developments are being built with communal swimming pools and shared facilities, alongside bungalows with private gardens or solariums and projects featuring detached villas. In some developments, the budget required can be more affordable than for comparable properties closer to the Mediterranean.

This makes San Miguel de Salinas an attractive alternative for buyers who would rather have a brand-new home and more space than pay a premium to live just a few metres from the beach.

International Community

San Miguel de Salinas retains its Spanish identity while also having a significant international population, particularly in the residential developments surrounding the traditional town centre.

Among its international residents, there is a notable British community, alongside Belgian, Dutch, and other Northern and Central European nationalities.

The result is quite different from Orihuela Costa: there is an international atmosphere, but it exists alongside a more traditional town centre with a strong sense of local Spanish life.

Advantages

• Generally more affordable prices than prime coastal locations.

• Strong supply of new-build properties.

• The beaches of Orihuela Costa approximately 15–20 minutes away.

• Several golf courses nearby.

• Zenia Boulevard within easy reach.

• A peaceful atmosphere throughout the year.

• Greater opportunities to find properties with more outdoor space.

Things to Consider

• It does not have its own beach.

• A car is practically essential in many residential areas.

• The lifestyle differs considerably between living in the town centre and in the surrounding residential developments.

• Some newer developments are still establishing their surrounding services and infrastructure.

• If being able to walk to the Mediterranean every day is your absolute priority, there are more suitable options elsewhere in this guide.

Who Is San Miguel de Salinas Best Suited To?

San Miguel de Salinas is particularly well suited to families, couples, and international buyers who prioritise new-build property, tranquillity, and getting more home for their budget, while still wanting the beaches, golf courses, and main services of Orihuela Costa just a short drive away.

It is an especially interesting option for anyone considering one very specific question: would I rather live right by the sea, or drive 15 minutes and get a newer, larger home in a more peaceful setting?

San Miguel de Salinas: Peaceful Living, New-Build Homes and the Coast Just Minutes Away

After the international atmosphere, beaches, and activity of Orihuela Costa, you only need to travel a few kilometres inland to find a very different way of life.

San Miguel de Salinas retains the character of a small town, but its location is highly strategic: it is surrounded by some of the main golf courses in the Southern Costa Blanca, while the beaches of Orihuela Costa are approximately 15–20 minutes away by car.

That combination is precisely what is driving a growing supply of residential and new-build properties.

What Is It Like to Live in San Miguel de Salinas?

The town centre offers a quieter, more local lifestyle, with supermarkets, shops, restaurants, schools, sports facilities, and the essential services needed for everyday life.

At the same time, Zenia Boulevard, Villamartín, Campoamor, and the beaches of Orihuela Costa are all just a short drive away.

The location also provides easy access to several golf courses, including Las Colinas Golf & Country Club, Real Club de Golf Campoamor, and Villamartín Golf.

However, having a car is highly recommended here, especially if you live in one of the newer residential developments located outside the town centre.

What Types of Property Will You Find?

Pilar de la Horadada has a more limited selection of new-build properties.

In the town centre, you will find apartments, bungalows, townhouses, and modern residential developments. In Torre de la Horadada, Las Higuericas, and Mil Palmeras, proximity to the Mediterranean generally commands significantly higher prices.

This gives buyers two distinct options: more property for their budget in inland areas, or greater proximity to the sea in the coastal communities.

International Community

Pilar retains a distinctly Spanish identity, particularly in the town centre, while also attracting a growing international population.

It is common to find British, Belgian, Dutch, French, and other European residents and property owners, with the international presence particularly noticeable in the coastal areas and newer developments.

Advantages

• A coastal municipality with excellent beaches.

• Year-round life and services.

• A good selection of new-build properties.

• The choice between town and coastal living.

• Lo Romero Golf nearby.

• Good connections to Alicante and Murcia.

Things to Consider

• From the town centre, you need to travel a few kilometres to reach the sea.

• Properties close to the beach tend to be considerably more expensive.

• The coastal areas become much busier during the summer months.

• Having a car is recommended if you regularly want to move between the town, beaches, and surrounding areas.

Who Is Pilar de la Horadada Best Suited To?

Pilar de la Horadada is particularly well suited to families, permanent residents, and new-build buyers looking for a practical, year-round place to live without giving up easy access to the Mediterranean.

Its greatest advantage is precisely the choice it offers: traditional town life in Pilar or a Mediterranean lifestyle in Torre de la Horadada, Mil Palmeras, and other locations along its coastline.

Pilar de la Horadada: Between Traditional Town Life and the Mediterranean

Pilar de la Horadada has one important characteristic: it is a coastal municipality, although the main town itself is located a few kilometres inland.

Within the same municipality, you will find Mediterranean coastal areas such as Torre de la Horadada, Mil Palmeras, and El Mojón, as well as beaches such as Las Higuericas. This gives buyers the choice between living in a traditional town with year-round services or living just moments from the sea.

What Is It Like to Live in Pilar de la Horadada?

The town centre maintains a strong sense of local life throughout the year, with supermarkets, schools, a health centre, sports facilities, restaurants, and local shops.

From there, the beaches are approximately 5–10 minutes away by car. Its location also provides easy access north towards Orihuela Costa and Torrevieja, or south towards San Pedro del Pinatar and the Mar Menor.

For golf enthusiasts, Lo Romero Golf is also just a short drive away.

What Types of Property Will You Find?

In Algorfa, you will find apartments, townhouses, and traditional homes, while the area around La Finca Golf is dominated by residential apartments, villas, and new-build properties.

As with Ciudad Quesada, comparing properties solely on price per square metre can be misleading. With villas, factors such as plot size, private swimming pool, orientation, and position in relation to the golf course can have a significant impact on the final price.

International Community

La Finca Golf has a distinctly international profile, with residents and property owners from a wide range of European countries.

There is a particularly strong British presence, alongside Belgian, Dutch, French, and Scandinavian residents, attracted by the golf, climate, and peaceful residential environment.

Algorfa town centre, on the other hand, retains a much stronger Spanish identity. This contrast gives buyers the opportunity to choose between a more traditional local lifestyle and an international residential setting without leaving the municipality.

Advantages

• Golf course within the residential area itself.

• Peaceful, low-density environment.

• Villas and new-build properties with generous outdoor spaces.

• Well-established international community.

• Guardamar and its beaches approximately 20–25 minutes away.

• Choice between a traditional Spanish town and a golf resort lifestyle.

Things to Consider

• It does not have its own beach.

• Having a car is highly recommended.

• Living at La Finca Golf is very different from living in Algorfa town centre.

• Larger shopping centres, hospitals, and certain specialised services require travelling to nearby towns.

Who Are Algorfa and La Finca Golf Best Suited To?

Algorfa and La Finca Golf are particularly well suited to golf enthusiasts, couples, families, and international buyers looking for tranquillity, space, and a well-maintained residential environment, and who are comfortable driving to reach the coast and major services.

The choice here is particularly straightforward: if golf and tranquillity matter more to you than being able to walk to the beach, La Finca Golf could be an excellent fit.

Algorfa and La Finca Golf: Peaceful Living, Golf and a Distinctive Residential Setting

Algorfa offers a choice between two very different lifestyles: the traditional atmosphere of a small town in the Vega Baja and the residential setting of La Finca Golf, located just a few minutes from the town centre.

It is this second area in particular that has made Algorfa a popular destination among international buyers looking for golf, tranquillity, and low-density residential living without being too far from the coast.

What Is It Like to Live in Algorfa and La Finca Golf?

Algorfa town centre retains a peaceful, local character, with the essential services needed for everyday life.

La Finca Golf offers a different experience: modern properties, spacious open areas, restaurants, a hotel, and services associated with the resort itself, with the golf course at the heart of the lifestyle.

The beaches of Guardamar are approximately 20–25 minutes away by car, while nearby towns such as Ciudad Quesada, Almoradí, and Torrevieja provide a much wider range of shopping, dining, and leisure options.

What Types of Property Will You Find?

Low-rise housing clearly predominates in La Marina: detached homes, townhouses, villas, and properties with terraces and outdoor space.

There is some new-build property available, although the volume is lower than in municipalities such as Torrevieja, San Miguel de Salinas, or Pilar de la Horadada. A significant part of the market consists of resale homes, many of which have been renovated or extended over the years.

International Community

This is one of La Marina’s most distinctive characteristics. San Fulgencio became known as “the most British town in Spain” because of the exceptionally high proportion of British residents.

Today, it remains a highly international municipality, with residents from more than 70 nationalities and particularly strong British, Belgian, and German communities.

This diversity is especially visible in the La Marina Urbanisation, where shops, restaurants, and services are very much geared towards international residents.

Advantages

• Beaches just a few minutes away.

• Very well-established international community.

• Wide range of services within the urbanisation.

• Predominantly low-rise homes with outdoor space.

• Relatively close to the airport.

• Residential atmosphere throughout the year.

Things to Consider

• La Marina Urbanisation is not directly on the beachfront.

• It should not be confused with La Marina, which belongs to the municipality of Elche.

• Having a car is recommended for reaching the beach, hospitals, major shopping centres, and nearby towns.

• A large proportion of the property market consists of resale homes, and property characteristics can vary considerably.

Who Is La Marina Best Suited To?

La Marina is particularly well suited to retirees, couples, families, and international buyers looking for a low-rise home, nearby services, and a very well-established international community, while keeping the Mediterranean just a short drive away.

It is especially appealing to those who value being able to settle quickly into an international environment and prefer a home with outdoor space rather than an apartment directly by the sea.

La Marina and San Fulgencio: A Large International Community Close to the Mediterranean

It is important to make a clear distinction here: the La Marina Urbanisation belongs to San Fulgencio, while the coastal village and La Marina beach are part of the municipality of Elche.

In this guide, we focus primarily on the La Marina Urbanisation in San Fulgencio, a large residential area located just a few minutes from the Mediterranean and particularly well known for its sizeable international community.

What Is It Like to Live in La Marina?

La Marina is a well-established residential community with a wide range of its own amenities. Supermarkets, restaurants, cafés, pharmacies, shops, and other businesses make it possible to take care of most everyday needs without travelling far.

The beaches of La Marina are approximately 5–10 minutes away by car, while Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández Airport is around 25–30 minutes away.

Having a car is still recommended, but the extensive range of services available within the residential area itself sets La Marina apart from other, more isolated residential communities.

What Types of Property Will You Find?

At Alenda Golf, you will find apartments, townhouses, homes with private gardens, and villas, as well as a selection of new-build developments.

Compared with some of the most sought-after coastal areas, buyers here can often find properties with a greater sense of space and a lower-density residential environment, making it especially attractive for those who do not consider living directly by the sea essential.

The new-build market includes both apartments with communal facilities and family homes with terraces and gardens.

An Interesting Location for Families

One of the area’s key advantages is the proximity of Magno International School, located within the Alenda area itself.

For an international family working in, or regularly travelling to, Alicante or Elche, being able to combine an international school, residential living, and excellent transport connections within such a compact area can be a major factor when choosing where to live.

International Community

Alenda Golf has a more mixed profile than Ciudad Quesada or Orihuela Costa.

Spanish residents live alongside international families and property owners attracted by the golf, climate, school, and proximity to Alicante and Elche.

This creates an international atmosphere, but one that is less exclusively geared towards foreign residents than some of the other areas in this comparison.

Advantages

• Alenda Golf within the residential area itself.

• Magno International School nearby.

• Nature and tranquillity.

• Good connections to Alicante and Elche.

• Relatively close to the airport.

• A choice of apartments, townhouses, garden homes, and villas.

• An alternative to the higher prices and density of certain coastal areas.

Things to Consider

• It is not located directly on the Mediterranean.

• Having a car is highly recommended for everyday life.

• Shopping and dining options are more limited than in Alicante or Elche.

• The lifestyle is much more focused on tranquillity, sport, and residential living than on beaches and coastal leisure.

Who Are Monforte del Cid and Alenda Golf Best Suited To?

Monforte del Cid and Alenda Golf are particularly well suited to families, professionals commuting to Alicante or Elche, golf enthusiasts, and buyers who prioritise space, nature, and tranquillity over immediate proximity to the sea.

For families with children, the proximity of Magno International School can make Alenda a particularly attractive alternative to other inland residential areas.

Monforte del Cid and Alenda Golf: Nature, Golf and Excellent Connections to Alicante and Elche

Monforte del Cid introduces a very different alternative within this guide. Here, we move away from the Mediterranean and into the Alicante countryside, where you can enjoy greater tranquillity, nature, and golf-oriented residential settings without being far from the main cities.

One of the municipality’s standout areas is Alenda Golf, located at the foot of the Sierra de las Águilas and particularly well connected to Alicante, Elche, and the airport.

What Is It Like to Live at Alenda Golf?

It is a peaceful residential setting where the golf course and open spaces form part of the everyday landscape.

Its location is one of its greatest advantages: it allows you to live outside the city while keeping Alicante and Elche within easy reach, as well as offering convenient access to Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández Airport.

The development itself offers sports facilities and restaurants, although having a car will generally be necessary for major shopping trips and access to a wider range of services.

What Types of Property Will You Find?

La Romana stands out particularly for detached houses and villas with private plots, as well as traditional homes within the town itself.

There is also a selection of new-build properties, mainly low-density villas. Compared with coastal areas, buyers can often find larger plots and detached homes at a generally more affordable price point, although values vary significantly depending on factors such as the swimming pool, plot size, specifications, and location.

International Community

Although La Romana retains a strongly Spanish identity, it has attracted international residents for many years, particularly those drawn to the tranquillity of inland living and the opportunity to own a detached property.

There is a presence of British, Dutch, Belgian, and other European residents, although the international atmosphere is far less pronounced than in Ciudad Quesada, Orihuela Costa, or La Marina.

For some buyers, that is precisely part of the appeal: living in a more local environment without being completely disconnected from other international communities.

Advantages

• Larger villas and plots.

• Peaceful, low-density environment.

• Nature and inland scenery.

• Generally more affordable prices than prime coastal locations.

• A good option for those seeking privacy.

• Alicante and Elche remain accessible by car.

Things to Consider

• The beach is around 35–45 minutes away.

• A car is essential.

• Shopping and leisure options are more limited than in coastal municipalities.

• A detached property usually requires more maintenance than an apartment or residential complex.

• It is important to check utilities, access, and the legal planning status of rural properties carefully.

Who Is La Romana Best Suited To?

La Romana is particularly well suited to families, couples, and buyers looking for a detached villa, private plot, tranquillity, and more space for their budget.

It is not the right choice for someone who wants to walk to the beach. But it can be an excellent option for anyone willing to trade immediate proximity to the Mediterranean for privacy, nature, and a much more peaceful way of life.

La Romana: Space, Tranquillity and a Different Side of the Costa Blanca

La Romana represents one of the most distinctive options in this guide.

Here, the seafront promenades and large coastal developments give way to vineyards, open countryside, mountains, and detached homes with private plots. It is an alternative for those looking for more space, peace and quiet, and a much slower pace of life.

What Is It Like to Live in La Romana?

The municipality retains a strongly local character, with the essential services needed for everyday life and a much closer connection to the rural environment.

The coast is approximately 35–45 minutes away by car, while Elche, Novelda, Aspe, and Alicante provide a wider range of shops, hospitals, and services.

Here, having a car is not optional—it is simply part of everyday life.

Not Ready to Buy Yet, or Would You Prefer to Make Your Decision with Greater Confidence?

Explore our free resources to learn more about the different areas, understand the buying process, and avoid common mistakes before choosing your property on the Costa Blanca.

So, Where Can You Imagine Yourself Living?

After exploring all these locations, you may still not have one clear place in mind.

And that is perfectly normal.

Because choosing where to live is not simply about comparing prices, distances or square metres. At some point, you need to imagine what you want your life to look like when you step outside your front door each morning.

Perhaps you picture yourself walking to a café, with shops, a hospital, schools and restaurants nearby, in a place that still feels alive in January. If so, Alicante, Elche or Torrevieja could make a lot of sense.

Or perhaps your ideal lifestyle looks completely different.

You want to open the windows and feel the Mediterranean nearby. Walk along the beach after work, spend time by the sea with your children, enjoy an evening stroll along the coast, or simply know that the Mediterranean is there every day. Santa Pola, La Mata, Guardamar, Orihuela Costa and Pilar de la Horadada all offer different ways to enjoy that coastal lifestyle.

Or perhaps you have spent years imagining something else: a home with a terrace, garden or swimming pool, more space and greater tranquillity, without feeling completely isolated. In that case, places such as Ciudad Quesada, San Miguel de Salinas, La Marina, and many of the residential areas across southern Alicante start to become particularly interesting.

What If Golf Is Part of Your Lifestyle?

There are far more possibilities than you might expect.

The Southern Costa Blanca is home to numerous golf courses and residential areas built around them. La Finca, Las Colinas, Villamartín, Campoamor, Las Ramblas, Vistabella, La Marquesa and Alenda, among others, offer everything from apartments and townhouses to detached villas.

But you do not need to play golf to want to live there.

Many people simply value green spaces, low-density development, open views, tranquillity and well-maintained residential communities, while still keeping services and the coast within relatively easy reach.

What If You Would Rather Move a Little Further Away from the Sea?

When we think of the Costa Blanca, beaches and the Mediterranean almost always come to mind first. But there is another side of Alicante that many people are less familiar with: it is one of Spain’s most mountainous provinces.

And that is where another Costa Blanca begins.

A Costa Blanca of mountains, valleys, vineyards, small towns and larger plots of land.

Inland locations such as Monforte del Cid and La Romana offer a completely different experience from living on the beachfront. The attraction here is not being able to walk down to the Mediterranean, but waking up to mountain views, having more space around your home, enjoying nature and living at a slower pace.

And moving away from the coast can also allow your budget to go considerably further.

You may discover that you would rather have a villa with a private plot surrounded by nature than an apartment close to the sea.

And that is precisely why exploring different areas before buying is so important.

Don’t Look for a Property First. Look for the Lifestyle You Want.

It is easy to begin your search by looking at photographs of kitchens, swimming pools, terraces and new-build developments.

But the perfect property in the wrong location can stop feeling perfect surprisingly quickly.

Think about your everyday life first.

Do you want to walk everywhere, or are you happy to drive?
Do you need schools nearby?
Will you travel frequently and want to be close to the airport?
Would you rather have neighbours and restaurants around you, or hear almost complete silence when you arrive home?
Sea or mountains?
City or residential community?
Apartment or villa?
Year-round activity or tranquillity?

Once you start answering those questions, the map of the Southern Costa Blanca changes completely.

And very often, the area that ultimately suits you best is not the one you imagined before you started searching.

After exploring this guide, the question is no longer which location is the best.

Which lifestyle sounds most like you—and where can you imagine yourself living?

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