The Best Places to Live on the Costa Blanca
The Costa Blanca is one of the most desirable regions to live in Spain. With a mild Mediterranean climate, idyllic beaches, and enviable quality of life, it’s no wonder both locals and international residents dream of settling on this coast. Here, we’ll explore the top towns to live in along the Costa Blanca, examining their pros and cons and the lifestyle each has to offer.
What to Consider When Choosing Your New Home
Before diving into the different areas, it’s essential to consider some key factors:
- Budget: What price range can you afford?
- Lifestyle: Are you looking for tranquillity, nightlife, or a balance between the two?
- Amenities: Do you need international schools, top-tier hospitals, or simply nearby shops?
- Leisure: Do you enjoy water sports, golf, or exploring the historic heart of a town?
1. Alicante: Urban Living by the Sea
Pros:
Alicante is a vibrant, modern city with all the amenities of a large urban centre, yet with the charm of a coastal town. It boasts excellent transport links, including an international airport, high-speed train stations, and bus connections. The marina and Postiguet Beach are perfect for those who want to combine urban living with seaside leisure.
Cons:
Alicante’s popularity means some areas can get crowded in summer. Additionally, as a tourist hub, some areas may be noisy, especially near the beach and the old town.
Ideal for:
People seeking a dynamic city with all conveniences, along with job opportunities and a multicultural community.
2. Benidorm: Entertainment and Lively Social Life
Pros:
Benidorm is famous for its skyscrapers, cosmopolitan vibe, and nightlife. With some of the best beaches on the Costa Blanca and a wide range of dining and leisure options, it appeals to young people and retirees alike, especially those from northern Europe. It’s perfect for anyone who enjoys a lively and social lifestyle.
Cons:
Benidorm can be quite lively, especially during the peak tourist season. This level of activity may not be ideal for those looking for a quieter life.
Ideal for:
People who love entertainment, socialising, and a city that’s always buzzing, as well as expats seeking multicultural communities.
3. Villajoyosa: Mediterranean Charm and Tranquillity
Pros:
Villajoyosa is known for its peaceful atmosphere, golden sandy beaches, and traditional charm, with colourful houses by the sea. It’s a mid-sized town that offers a calm environment while providing essential services. Its culinary scene, particularly seafood, makes it a wonderful place to live.
Cons:
Being smaller, Villajoyosa doesn’t have the same range of services and activities as cities like Alicante or Benidorm. Transport links, although good, are somewhat limited.
Ideal for:
Families and retirees who want to live in a peaceful, picturesque area with a relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle.
4. Jávea: Nature and Exclusivity
Pros:
Jávea is a coastal town surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, like the Montgó Natural Park and crystal-clear coves. It has a large international community, and its outdoor activities are ideal for nature lovers. With exclusive residential areas, it’s very popular among those seeking luxury homes.
Cons:
The cost of living in Jávea can be high, especially in the most exclusive and in-demand areas. Additionally, it can feel somewhat removed from main urban centres.
Ideal for:
Those who want a tranquil life surrounded by nature and are willing to invest in exclusive properties.
5. Calpe: Tradition and Tourism
Pros:
Calpe offers a blend of traditional charm and modern tourism. Its emblematic Rock of Ifach is a unique natural attraction, and the fine sandy beaches are a great draw. The town boasts excellent leisure and dining options, as well as many residential areas for families and retirees.
Cons:
Calpe is also popular with tourists, so there can be a large influx of visitors in summer, requiring residents to adapt to the seasonal flow.
Ideal for:
People looking for a traditional coastal town with good infrastructure and leisure options.
6. Altea: Beauty and Artistic Ambience
Pros:
Altea is known for its old town, with cobblestone streets and whitewashed houses, as well as its artistic and bohemian spirit. The town hosts numerous galleries, workshops, and cultural events. The beach and marina offer a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for a tranquil, refined lifestyle.
Cons:
The property market in Altea can be costly due to demand and exclusivity in some areas. Service options are good, though more limited than in large cities.
Ideal for:
Culture and art lovers seeking to live in an inspiring, peaceful environment steeped in history and beauty.
7. Torrevieja: Affordable and Family-Friendly Living
Pros:
Torrevieja is one of the most affordable areas on the Costa Blanca, with a wide variety of housing options, from apartments to villas. It offers excellent services, schools, medical centres, and a large expat community. It’s ideal for families looking for quality of life at an affordable price.
Cons:
While it has many services, the high population density and popularity in summer can make some areas busy and lively.
Ideal for:
Families and retirees seeking an affordable place with good services and an international ambience.
8. Denia: History, Nature, and Quality of Life
Pros:
Denia is a city rich in history and culture, with castles, museums, and a beautiful marina connecting to the Balearic Islands. Additionally, the Montgó Natural Park offers a wide variety of hiking trails. The quality of life here is excellent, with a good mix of national and international residents.
Cons:
The pace of life in Denia may be slower, which might not appeal to those seeking a more active and modern lifestyle.
Ideal for:
People looking for a cultural, historical, and natural environment in a city with a relaxed pace.
Conclusion
The Costa Blanca offers a wide variety of towns, each with its own unique features. From the bustling city of Alicante to the exclusivity of Jávea or the artistic charm of Altea, the region has something for every lifestyle. Before deciding where to live, it’s essential to visit these areas, assessing both the surroundings and available services, to ensure you find the perfect place to match your needs and aspirations.
With this guide, Vilahome M&N hopes to help you find the ideal place to live on the Costa Blanca. Would you like personalised advice? Contact us, and we’ll help you take the first step towards your new life in this Mediterranean paradise!