Castelldefels: from second-home destination to primary housing market

According to the Notarial Statistics Portal, the average house price stands at €3,775/m², slightly below Barcelona's (€4,652/m²). However, depending on the size of the property, which is typically larger, prices can exceed those in the Catalan capital.

In Castelldefels, single-family homes and spacious layouts predominate, which, according to notaries, pushes the average value of property transactions above that of Barcelona's more compact apartments.

Experts have analysed the phenomenon in this coastal town. Damián Hecht, founding partner of luxury real estate agency Walter Haus, explains that Castelldefels has established itself as one of the most expensive locations on the Barcelona coast: "In fact, the average house price now exceeds that of Barcelona, at €426,384 compared with around €388,000 in the Catalan capital. The explanation is clear: limited supply, genuine proximity to Barcelona, its airport and international schools, as well as prime areas such as Bellamar and Montemar, where properties are extremely scarce."

Luxury estate agency Barnes notes that the town is one of the most established and sought-after residential markets in the Barcelona area. Depending on the location, its conventional residential market can reach prices of between €4,000 and €5,000/m². As a market benchmark, "Castelldefels stood at around €4,296/m² in March, representing a year-on-year increase of 5.2%, although luxury properties are clearly well above that average," according to Hecht of Walter Haus.

"One of the most interesting developments in Castelldefels is that it has evolved from a second-home market into a primary residential market with a mix of domestic and international buyers," Barnes commented.

Many families are initially attracted by the beach and Mediterranean lifestyle, but ultimately choose to settle permanently thanks to the combination of connectivity, services and quality of life.

Castelldefels is one of the coastal towns with the highest concentration of prime properties. According to Walter Haus, in this segment the average price typically exceeds €1.5 million, while the most exclusive homes can easily surpass €3 million or €4 million, particularly those offering sea views, large plots, privacy and proximity to the coast.

Barnes experts point out that luxury properties sit well above the conventional market segment and can reach up to €8,500/m², although prices vary considerably depending on location, property type and condition.

However, they note that "some villas may have less impact on pricing than certain unique beachfront properties. Nevertheless, homes with large plots and privileged mountain views can certainly achieve these figures."

In Castelldefels, the main buyers are families with upper-middle and high purchasing power seeking a permanent residence close to Barcelona, with good transport links, international schools, beach access and more living space than is typically available in the city.

Walter Haus reports strong demand from both domestic buyers, particularly from Barcelona and its metropolitan area, and international purchasers, especially from Europe and Latin America, who are attracted by the Mediterranean lifestyle and the area's residential appeal.

This mix of domestic and international buyers is also highlighted by Barnes. "We see executives, entrepreneurs and expatriate professionals working in Barcelona or with international business interests."

The agency also notes strong demand from families who prioritise proximity to international schools and are looking for a primary residence with more outdoor space, privacy and quality of life than they can find within the city. Finally, Barnes points out that the area has gained prominence over the years due to the presence of footballers who have chosen to make it their home.