Murcian villages: coastal authenticity and residential value
The region of Murcia stretches between sea and hinterland, with a multitude of villages located less than 100 km from the beaches. For a long time, these localities were nothing more than stopovers on the way to the coast.
Today, they are becoming sought-after residential destinations, particularly for buyers who want to enjoy the sea… without having to endure the hustle and bustle of seaside resorts.
On the international market, Murcia mainly attracts Europeans from nearby countries. According to searches carried out on Green Acres, the French account for almost one-fifth of foreign enquiries, ahead of the Dutch, Germans, Belgians and British, with median budgets often below €240,000 and median floor areas of around 110 to 120 m².
This buyer profile helps to maintain an “affordable” positioning while gradually pushing the quality of the offer upwards.
Inland coastal villages: a new residential appeal
Less than an hour’s drive from the beaches of the Costa Cálida, many villages combine rural calm with easy access to the sea. This “off the beaten track but not isolated” position appeals to a varied audience:
- young families looking for larger homes at reasonable prices;
- remote workers who prioritise quality of life and internet connection over immediate proximity to the office;
- international retirees seeking a peaceful environment, yet close to amenities and Alicante or Murcia airport;
- investors anticipating an upmarket shift in these still affordable villages.
In practical terms, these villages often offer:
- village houses with patio or roof terrace;
- small terraced villas with gardens, common in recent developments;
- modern, human-scale apartments, sometimes with a communal pool.
Prices generally remain lower than in municipalities directly on the seafront, which makes it possible:
- to buy a larger property for the same budget;
- to consider a main or semi-main residence project;
- to invest in two properties (one for you, one for rental) instead of just one on the coast.
At regional level, foreign buyers interested in these villages often look for houses with 3 bedrooms or more, with a median surface area exceeding 100 m², confirming the importance of family projects or comfortable second homes rather than simple holiday studios.
Traditional architecture, marina and peaceful life
One of the main assets of the villages of Murcia lies in their architectural identity, inherited from Moorish and Mediterranean influences. This atmosphere can be seen in:
- white or ochre façades, often decorated with local ceramics;
- rounded tiled roofs typical of Mediterranean houses;
- narrow streets that stay cool in summer;
- interior patios and terraces, real open-air living spaces.
In villages close to the sea or a lagoon, the presence of a small marina or harbour enhances residential appeal:
- possibility of having a boat or sailing boat just a few minutes from home;
- friendly atmosphere around the quayside bars and restaurants;
- occasional summer events, while maintaining a very peaceful pace for the rest of the year.
Everyday life remains gentle and simple:
- local shops (bakeries, markets, small grocery stores);
- essential services (schools, medical practice, pharmacy) in the larger villages;
- local festivals, processions and events that foster a real sense of community.
For those seeking a typical Mediterranean atmosphere without constant tourist pressure, these villages offer an attractive compromise between authenticity and modern comfort. 🌿
Tourism and second homes: a boom effect expected by 2026
Murcia is experiencing strong tourist development, but more gradual than in other Spanish regions. This rise in popularity, driven by the golf + sea duo, is accelerating with new infrastructure and better international visibility.
Many analysts are anticipating a real “boom effect” around 2026, with increased demand for second homes in the most sought-after villages.
Real estate search data already shows a diversified international interest: after the French, the Dutch, Germans, Belgians and British make up the bulk of foreign enquiries, with budgets often between €190,000 and €240,000.
This price range illustrates a market that is still affordable compared to other, more publicised Spanish coasts, while offering potential for capital appreciation if demand continues to grow.
A rapidly growing seasonal rental market: between golf and sea
The region is known for its many golf courses, often located close to residential complexes or rural villages. Combined with its proximity to the sea, this creates a highly sought-after mix:
- off-season golf breaks from October to April, with mild weather;
- classic beach holidays in summer, particularly for families;
- medium-length stays (1 to 3 months) for European retirees.
As a result, the seasonal rental market is rapidly taking shape, offering interesting opportunities for owners:
- good occupancy rates over a large part of the year;
- sustained demand for well-located properties (between golf and beach, or with a pool);
- attractive rents for modern, well-equipped accommodation.
The most sought-after properties for seasonal rental are often:
- 2 or 3-bedroom apartments with terrace and open views;
- terraced houses in secure residences with a pool;
- detached villas with gardens, ideal for groups or families.
For a buyer, this means it is possible:
- to use the property for a few weeks a year;
- to rent it out the rest of the time to cover part (or even all) of the running costs;
- to anticipate an increase in value if the village gains in popularity by 2026.
A new demand for family housing in trendy villages
Alongside short-stay tourism, a long-term trend is emerging: certain villages in Murcia are becoming “trendy” among a younger population, often working remotely or moving between several countries.
We are seeing the emergence of:
- cafés with high-quality wifi, conducive to nomadic work;
- modern restaurants focusing on local and sustainable food;
- cultural events, concerts and craft markets;
- bilingual or international schools accessible by car.
This transformation is driving growing demand for housing suitable for year-round family life:
- houses with 3 or 4 bedrooms and secure outdoor space for children;
- homes with good energy performance and decent insulation;
- properties with fibre-optic connection or good 4G/5G coverage.
The most sought-after villages often combine:
- a preserved historic centre with Moorish charm;
- a growing range of services (healthcare, education, sport);
- reasonable access to a major city (Murcia, Cartagena) for work or study.
By 2026, this family and “lifestyle” demand could weigh as much as demand for purely tourist-oriented second homes, which diversifies buyer profiles and stabilises the local property market. 👍
Rural heritage and alternative investment
Far from the large seaside resorts, the region of Murcia has a discreet rural heritage: traditional farms, old village houses, small properties surrounded by almond, olive or citrus trees. For some buyers, these properties represent a form of alternative investment, both in terms of heritage and life project.
Houses to renovate at moderate prices: potential for appreciation
In many villages in the hinterland or in between (neither truly rural nor fully coastal), there are still houses to renovate at affordable prices. They are particularly attractive to:
- couples or families looking for a long-term renovation project;
- craftspeople, architects or designers who want to shape a place in their own image;
- investors wishing to create a guesthouse, holiday rental or small tourist project.
These properties often feature:
- a sound structure but outdated comfort (electricity, plumbing, insulation);
- beautiful authentic elements to preserve: beams, cement tiles, vaults, patios;
- scope for extension (attic, adjoining barn, land).
The main advantage remains the price/potential ratio:
- lower initial purchase cost compared with a property already renovated;
- possibility of spreading the work over several years;
- prospect of substantial appreciation if the village or area moves upmarket.
However, it is essential to prepare your project carefully:
- study local planning regulations (extensions, authorised materials);
- cost the work with experienced local companies;
- allow for a financial safety margin for unforeseen events.
The profile of buyers interested in this rural heritage is often more diverse than you might think: alongside retirees or new rural dwellers, there are active Europeans who keep one foot in their country of origin while investing in a character property in Murcia, taking advantage of prices that are still lower than in other Spanish regions.
Local renovation grants and rural entrepreneurship
Revitalising rural villages is a major issue in Spain, and Murcia is no exception. Several programmes aim to encourage the renovation of old buildings and the settlement of new residents, in particular entrepreneurs.
Depending on the municipality and the period, it is possible to benefit from:
- aid for energy renovation (insulation, windows, solar panels);
- grants for the rehabilitation of façades or historic buildings;
- local tax relief for certain tourist or commercial projects.
For project holders, there are many opportunities:
- creating a guesthouse in a former village mansion;
- setting up a coworking space or cultural café attracting remote workers;
- developing activities linked to wine tourism, hiking or cycling;
- offering workshops (cooking, ceramics, wellbeing) for a local and international clientele.
More and more municipalities are realising that:
- attracting new residents boosts local shops and schools;
- enhancing built heritage strengthens the village’s identity;
- responsible tourism focused on nature and culture is more sustainable in the long term.
Data on demand collected by specialised platforms such as Green Acres confirm this growing interest in the villages of Murcia: the wide range of nationalities represented in searches shows that the market no longer depends on a single buying country, which is an asset in terms of resilience for the years to come.
For a buyer, finding out about local aid schemes and regional development strategies can make the difference between a simple property purchase and a real life project. 🌞
