The Spanish property market has entered 2026 with more momentum than many anticipated. Rather than stabilising, the first quarter has delivered a clear signal that demand remains strong and price growth is continuing.
During Q1 2026, the price of second-hand housing in Spain increased by 4.7% quarter-on-quarter, marking the strongest rise for this period in recent years according to Fotocasa. This increase builds on a broader upward trend, with annual price growth across Spain continuing into 2026. On an annual basis, prices are also trending upward, reinforcing the view that this is not a short-term spike, but part of a sustained cycle driven by demand and constrained supply.
Marbella and Málaga: Ahead of the Curve
At a regional level, Málaga continues to rank as one of the fastest-growing and most expensive provinces in Spain, with average property prices now exceeding €4,400 per square metre. This places the Costa del Sol firmly in the top tier of the national market.
Marbella, as one of the most established and internationally recognised locations within the province, typically sits above these averages, both in terms of pricing and demand intensity. In practical terms, this means that when price growth accelerates across Spain, the effects are often more pronounced in Marbella.
What This Looks Like in Practice
This upward pressure is visible across different segments of the market. In Nueva Andalucía, for example, a two-bedroom apartment in a well-maintained community is currently priced around €395,000. This reflects a broader mid-market range of approximately €350,000 to €500,000 across similar areas, supported by consistent demand from international buyers.
In the new-build sector, developments in Estepona and East Marbella are typically priced between €290,000 and €450,000 for two- and three-bedroom apartments. These properties continue to attract strong interest, particularly from buyers seeking modern specifications and low-maintenance ownership.
New-build homes also tend to command a premium, often achieving 10–15% higher prices per square metre compared to resale properties, reflecting their design, energy efficiency and turnkey appeal.
The Drivers Behind the Growth
What stands out in the current market is not just rising prices, but the resilience of demand behind them. International buyers remain highly active, particularly from Northern Europe and the UK, while supply constraints persist in key areas.
At the same time, the appeal of Marbella as a lifestyle destination continues to underpin long-term demand, reducing sensitivity to short-term market fluctuations. This combination of factors continues to support price growth rather than limit it.
A Market Still in Motion
As shown in the chart, quarterly price growth has accelerated in recent years, reinforcing the strength of current market conditions. While this trend is visible at a national level, its real significance becomes clearer when viewed through the lens of key regional markets such as Málaga.
While affordability may become a more significant factor over time, particularly in mid-market segments, there are currently no clear indicators of a slowdown. Instead, the data from Q1 2026 points towards continued, if potentially more measured, growth.
Demand remains in place, supply remains limited, and the structural drivers of the market are unchanged. As a result, the current trajectory suggests stability rather than volatility.
The first quarter of 2026 does not signal a turning point for the Spanish property market — it confirms a continuation. With prices rising at both national and regional levels, and Marbella maintaining its position as a leading market within Málaga, the overall direction remains clear.
For those observing the market, the key takeaway is not simply that prices are increasing, but that the conditions supporting this growth remain firmly established.
