Buy an Apartment or House in Málaga

The old town around the cathedral and Alcazaba is the draw for visitors. East of it, areas such as Pedregalejo and El Palo are former fishing districts by the sea, while the Soho arts quarter and the Teatinos university district appeal to younger and longer-term residents. The city has an international airport, an AVE high-speed rail link to Madrid and a growing tech and cultural scene.

Short-term tourist rentals are tightly regulated in Spain and Andalusia, so check licensing and community rules before buying for holiday letting. Do not assume a rental business model that depends on a licence you cannot obtain.

Foreigners can buy freely in Spain, but you need an NIE (foreigner identification number). The usual steps are a reservation, a private contract with a deposit, and a deed signed before a notary. Resale purchases pay transfer tax (ITP), set by the region, while new builds pay VAT and stamp duty. Add notary, registry and lawyer fees. Spain's golden visa ended on 3 April 2025, so property no longer gives a residence route.

Our Spain consultation guide and financing guide explain the steps, and the Spain market overview puts Málaga in context.

Along the coast, Torremolinos and Benalmádena are the closest to the airport. Fuengirola and Mijas come next, while Marbella and Benahavís are the high-end destinations further west.