Almería is the sunny, affordable corner of Andalusia that savvy buyers are quietly falling in love with. If you’re dreaming of a peaceful life by the sea – or a foothold in Spain without Costa del Sol prices – this guide will help you find your ideal spot.
The region of Almería is often overlooked in favour of the more famous Costa del Sol or Costa Blanca – and that’s part of its appeal. Less developed, more affordable and just as sunny, this Andalusian province is a magnet for overseas buyers who it all without the premium prices. Whether you’re looking for a holiday retreat, rental investment or full-time move, here’s what you need to know.
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Contents
Why buy property in Almería?
Almería blends Mediterranean sunshine with rugged beauty. It has over 300 sunny days a year, Europe’s only desert (Tabernas) and quiet beaches with fewer crowds than the Costa del Sol. For buyers, the real attraction is value: coastal apartments for under €100,000 and inland villas with land for much less than other costas.
You’ll also benefit from:
- 7% property transfer tax (one of the lowest in Spain)
- Cheap flights to Almería Airport from major UK cities
- Year-round rental potential, especially near the beach
- Unique landscapes for hiking and cycling (some of which have been used as filming locations)
Top locations to consider
Whether you want a beach, a white-washed village or a city apartment, Almería has it. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular areas:
| Location | Property highlights | Ideal for |
|---|---|---|
| Mojácar | New-build apartments near the sea, traditional homes in Mojácar Pueblo | British buyers, digital nomads, beach lovers |
| Vera | Townhouses and apartments | Rental investors |
| Almería city | Apartments, period buildings | Full-time residents, culture seekers |
| Níjar | Pueblo blanco homes near Cabo de Gata national park | Eco-conscious buyers, retirees, walkers |
| Roquetas de Mar | Golf resorts, seafront apartments | Families, retirees, golf fans |
| Arboleas, Lubrín, Sorbas | Traditional cortijos, villas with land | Rural lifestyle buyers, DIY renovators |
| Vélez-Blanco | Hilltop homes, renovated townhouses, countryside villas | Retirees, remote workers, nature lovers |
What types of property are available?
There’s a wide choice of property types in Almería depending on your budget:
- Apartments: from €90,000 for a one-bedroom near the coast; €150,000-€200,000 for modern two-bedroom new builds
- Townhouses: starting from €70,000 inland; more if renovated or near the sea
- Villas: expect to pay €200,000-€300,000 for a three-bedroom villa with pool and garden
- Cortijos: country homes, often needing renovation, from €80,000 upwards
- Cave houses: unique, energy-efficient homes in the hills – typically €60,000-€120,000
You can find renovation projects under €50,000, especially inland. New builds in areas like Vera or Mojácar Playa may include shared pools, gardens and high-end finishes from €200,000.
What is life like in Almería?
Almería is known for its calm, laid-back atmosphere – far removed from the bustle of the bigger resort towns. It’s ideal for people who want space, good weather and nature. Here’s what life in the region looks like:
- Climate: dry and sunny almost all year – average 19°C in winter, 30°C in summer
- Cost of living: lower than national average – cheaper property, groceries and dining
- Healthcare: public system access with EHIC/GHIC or private insurance; local clinics and hospitals in Almería city and El Ejido
- Transport: flights from the UK to Almería and Murcia; A-7 motorway links major towns; local buses are reliable
- Community: active international population, particularly British, German and Dutch buyers
Is Almería a good investment?
Almería’s property market is still emerging in many areas, which means you can buy in early compared to more saturated markets. Here’s what adds to its appeal:
- Low entry costs: cheaper purchase prices and taxes (7% ITP for resales, 7% VAT for new builds)
- Rental yields: beachfront apartments can achieve 5-7% gross yields during summer
- Growing appeal: tourism is increasing, especially in areas near Cabo de Gata
- Mixed-use options: many buyers combine holiday use with short-term rentals
If you plan to hold for five to 10 years, especially with a good location near the coast, capital appreciation is likely.
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How to buy property in Almería
Buying in Almería follows the standard Spanish process. Here’s what it looks like:
- Start your search online: use the Your Overseas Home portal to filter listings by price, location and type. Create a shortlist.
- Build your buying team: you’ll need:
- An English-speaking Spanish lawyer (ideally not connected to the estate agent)
- A local estate agent with area expertise
- A currency transfer specialist like Smart Currency Exchange
- A financial adviser or Spanish mortgage broker if you’re financing the purchase
- Arrange a viewing trip: visit properties in person and assess nearby amenities, journey times and area feel.
- Make an offer: once accepted, sign a reservation contract and pay a fee (around €3,000-€6,000).
- Legal checks: your lawyer verifies ownership, debts and building licences. A private contract is then signed and a 10% deposit is paid.
- Completion: final signing at the notary’s office, followed by registration and payment of taxes and fees.
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Costs to expect:
- 7% transfer tax (ITP) or VAT
- 1-2% notary and registry fees
- Legal fees: typically €1,500-€3,000
- Survey (optional): from €400
Most purchases complete within 8-12 weeks from the reservation.
FAQs about buying property in Almeria
Yes – Almería offers excellent value compared to more developed costas. You’ll find coastal apartments under €100,000 and inland villas with land at much lower prices than the Costa del Sol. With over 300 days of sunshine a year, low purchase taxes and growing rental demand, it’s an affordable and appealing choice for overseas buyers.
It depends on what you’re looking for. Mojácar is popular with British buyers and digital nomads, while Roquetas de Mar attracts families and golfers. For eco-conscious living, Níjar near Cabo de Gata is a great pick, while inland villages like Arboleas and Lubrín appeal to those after a rural lifestyle.
Many consider Cabo de Gata Natural Park the jewel of Almería, thanks to its unspoilt beaches and protected landscapes. For a mix of tradition and amenities, Mojácar Pueblo and Almería city are favourites. If you want mountain views and historic charm, Vélez-Blanco offers a picturesque hilltop setting.
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