This stretch of the Mediterranean coastline is famous for its white sandy beaches and picturesque seaside towns such as Altea and Jávea. It's also home to the glitzy nightlife hub of Benidorm and the historic port city of Alicante. Living in Costa Blanca may suit you if you enjoy outdoor activities year-round and a slower, more relaxed way of life.
Where is Costa Blanca in Spain?
The Costa Blanca is situated along the southeastern coast of Spain, covering approximately 200 kilometres of Mediterranean coastline. It stretches from the town of Dénia in the north to Pilar de la Horadada in the south.
Is Costa Blanca a good place to live?
One of the key attractions of Costa Blanca is its exceptional climate, with over 300 days of sunshine a year. The winters are mild and the summers hot, making it a great place for outdoor activities such as golf, hiking, and water sports.
For foreigners looking to call Costa Blanca their new home, the region provides a welcoming environment with thriving expat communities and popular coastal resorts.
Cost of Living in Costa Blanca
Compared to other European countries, Spain offers a relatively affordable lifestyle, and Costa Blanca is no exception. Everyday expenses such as groceries, dining out, and transportation are reasonably priced in Costa Blanca. A typical meal for two at a mid-range restaurant in Alicante costs around €50-70, while a regular cup of coffee should set you back no more than €3.
According to idealista's price report, property prices in the province of Alicante averaged 2,389 m2 in February 2025. Popular seaside destinations can be slightly more expensive, with property prices in Calpe around €3,213 per m2 and houses in Jávea roughly €3,601 per m2, while rental prices in Jávea average €12.6 per m2. You can find more affordable properties in places like Elche, where property prices are €1,410 per m2, and rental prices are €8.3 per m2.
Where do most expats live in Costa Blanca?
The destinations along this stretch of coastline vary from historic Spanish fishing villages to large, cosmopolitan cities, each with something different to offer.
- Dénia: this seaside resort has an ancient castle and a lively marina. It is brimming with high-quality restaurants serving up local dishes.
- Jávea (Xàbia): said to have some of the most beautiful beaches in Spain, it appeals to foreigners desiring a relaxed seaside lifestyle.
- Moraira: with a picturesque marina, upscale dining, and scenic views, Moraira provides a tranquil and elegant coastal living experience.
- Calpe: home to sandy beaches, rocky coves and the iconic Peñon de Ifach rock. Calpe is ideal for water sports enthusiasts and is known for its lively atmosphere.
- Altea: defined by whitewashed houses and narrow streets, Altea has an artistic vibe and bohemian feel to it.
- Alicante: the city boasts a cosmopolitan atmosphere, plenty of beaches, and historical landmarks, all complemented by buzzing nightlife.
- Benidorm: home to some of the tallest skyscrapers in Spain, Benidorm has a wealth of entertainment options and is great for an active social life.
- Torrevieja: with sandy beaches, the largest salt lake in Europe, and bustling markets, Torrevieja offers laidback seaside living.
- Orihuela Costa: this residential area is popular with those seeking a well-developed place to live. Home to golf courses, Blue Flag beaches, and shopping centres.
- Guardamar del Segura: surrounded by pine forests and dunes, this seaside town sits beside the river Segura and is renowned for its natural beauty and outdoor recreation.
Living in Costa Blanca: Pros and Cons
When deciding to relocate to the coast, it’s important to weigh up the advantages and disadvantages of a place before being swept up by its seaside appeal.
Some of the benefits of choosing Costa Blanca include:
- Exceptional climate: the mild winters and sunny summers allow for an al-fresco way of life all year round, enjoying outdoor activities like golf and sailing.
- Beaches: the crystal-clear waters and golden sands of this Mediterranean coastline make relaxing beach days and coastal walks a regular part of life.
- Culture: fairytale historic towns, unique local festivals, and delicious cuisine complete the Spanish living experience.
It’s good to take into account some of the drawbacks:
- Crowded tourist areas: during peak tourist seasons, some areas of Costa Blanca can become very busy.
- Humidity in summer: while the summers in Costa Blanca are generally hot and sunny, the region can experience high humidity levels during the peak summer months.
Is Costa Blanca warm in winter?
This part of the Spanish coastline has a mild winter climate, making it an attractive destination for those looking to escape colder temperatures. Winter temperatures typically range from 12°C to 20°C.
Costa Blanca: lifestyle and community
Living in Costa Blanca is shaped by its mild climate and variety of outdoor activities. Residents enjoy playing golf at world-class courses like La Sella, La Marquesa and Las Ramblas. Hiking in Montgó Natural Park is another common outdoor activity, as are water sports off the sandy shores of Torrevieja and Moraira. It is also one of Europe’s most popular rock-climbing spots thanks to its many limestone crags.
The region's diverse cultural scene features numerous festivals, especially during the summer in and around Benidorm, and Alicante’s bullring serves as a central venue for music concerts.
The wide selection of international and bilingual schools ensures families can access their preferred education for their children. Meanwhile, the friendly locals and adapted services, including English-speaking lawyers and estate agents, facilitate a smooth transition when relocating.
Retire in Costa Blanca, Spain
The region's mild climate is undoubtedly a major attraction for retirees, as it encourages a healthy, outdoor lifestyle. Additionally, the affordable cost of living and the high-quality healthcare facilities make it an appealing retirement destination.
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