The Costa del Sol and the Costa Blanca have for years been the two most popular destinations for Dutch and Belgian property investors. Both offer sunshine, sea and a strong rental market, but they differ considerably in price, atmosphere and how the return is built up. In this guide we set them side by side.
At Jansen & Brouwer Property Capital we are active in both regions. We are happy to advise you on which one best suits your objectives.
The Costa del Sol in brief
The Costa del Sol (province of Málaga, Andalusia) is more exclusive and more international, with Marbella and Estepona as its main draws. The top segment shows strong capital growth. Read our guide on new build on the Costa del Sol.
The Costa Blanca in brief
The Costa Blanca (province of Alicante) is more affordable and has a large Dutch and Belgian community. The southern side in particular, with Torrevieja and Pilar de la Horadada, sees strong rental demand. Read our guide on investing on the Costa Blanca.
Prices compared
- Costa Blanca: new build from roughly €180,000 to €250,000 (southern side).
- Costa del Sol: new build from roughly €250,000, rising to millions in Marbella.
Returns compared
Both regions offer, as a guide, a total return of 10 to 15% per year, but the composition differs: on the Costa Blanca more comes from rental income (6 to 7%), on the Costa del Sol more from capital growth (up to 9% in the top segment).
Accessibility and atmosphere
You reach the Costa del Sol via Málaga and the Costa Blanca via Alicante, both with daily direct flights. In terms of atmosphere the Costa del Sol is more cosmopolitan and luxurious, while the Costa Blanca feels more accessible and familiar.
Which region suits you?
- Limited budget or a focus on rental yield? The Costa Blanca.
- Luxury, prestige and capital growth? The Costa del Sol.
- Diversification? Many investors combine both regions.
Frequently asked questions
Costa del Sol or Costa Blanca: which is better for investing?
That depends on your budget and your objective. The Costa Blanca offers a lower entry point and strong letting; the Costa del Sol is more exclusive with higher capital growth in the top segment.
Where is property cheaper?
On the Costa Blanca, with new build from around €180,000. On the Costa del Sol new build starts at around €250,000 as a guide and runs into millions in Marbella.
Which region gives the highest return?
Both offer, as a guide, a total return of 10 to 15% per year. The Costa Blanca gets more from rent, the Costa del Sol more from capital growth.
Which region is easiest to reach?
Both are excellent: the Costa del Sol via Málaga airport, the Costa Blanca via Alicante, with daily direct flights.
Which region suits your investment?
Get in touch with Jansen & Brouwer Property Capital for personal advice, or view the current listings straight away.