Moving to the Costa Blanca
200 km of Mediterranean coastline, 300 days of sunshine, the most established expat community in Europe — and still one of the best-value parts of coastal Spain.
The Costa Blanca runs along Spain's Mediterranean coast in the province of Alicante. It's split into three areas — Northern (premium and green), Central (urban and well-connected) and Southern (most affordable, huge expat communities). Whatever your budget and lifestyle, there's a town that fits.
The three Costa Blancas
| Area | Vibe | Typical buy price | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| North (Dénia, Jávea, Moraira, Altea) | Greenery, pine forests, premium feel | €350k – €1.5M | Retirees, families, high-end buyers |
| Central (Alicante, Benidorm, El Campello) | City life, infrastructure, beaches | €180k – €600k | Working expats, young families, nomads |
| South (Torrevieja, Orihuela Costa, Pilar) | Sun, beaches, big expat communities | €90k – €350k | Budget buyers, retirees, holidaymakers |
Why expats choose the Costa Blanca
Pros
- Healthiest climate in Spain (WHO study)
- Direct flights to most of Europe from ALC
- Massive English-speaking infrastructure
- International schools and good hospitals
- Great food, marinas, golf and padel
- Property still 30–60% cheaper than Côte d'Azur or Algarve
Cons
- Some coastal areas feel touristy in August
- Long-term rentals tight in Jávea / Moraira
- Inland summer heat
- Spanish helps inland
Moving to a specific town
Each Costa Blanca town has its own price points, best areas, school options and feel. Open a guide to compare.
Moving to Jávea (Xàbia)
Three-bay town, WHO-rated climate, big British and Dutch community.
Read guideMoving to Moraira
Low-rise luxury, premium villas, one of Spain's safest towns.
Read guideMoving to Altea
Whitewashed old town, arts scene, sophisticated lifestyle.
Read guideMoving to Calpe
Beaches under the Peñón, marina life, foodie destination.
Read guideMoving to Dénia
UNESCO gastronomy, 20 km of beach, ferries to the Balearics.
Read guideMoving to Alicante
Full Spanish city, airport, AVE to Madrid, beach included.
Read guideMoving to Benidorm
Year-round microclimate, biggest hotel & nightlife infrastructure.
Read guideMoving to Torrevieja
Best-value property, huge international community, salt-lake microclimate.
Read guideFrequently asked questions
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