Thinking about buying property in Spain in 2025 but struggling to decide which region is right for you? Here, we discuss the benefits of living in Murcia which has gained significant popularity over recent years as a fabulous alternative to it’s well known counterparts of the Costa Blanca and Costa Del Sol. From its laid-back lifestyle, affordable property prices and authentic Spanish feel despite increasing tourism, Murcia offers unique advantages for those looking to relocate, invest, or retire.
Lifestyle
One of the key lifestyle aspects to Murcia is that it boasts a more relaxed and authentic Spanish lifestyle, maintaining it’s traditional charm and authenticity compared to the Costa Blanca and Costa del Sol, which cater heavity to tourists and expats. The streets of its cities and towns are filled with local markets, tapas bars, and cultural festivals, offering an immersive experience for residents, plus the slower pace of life make it ideal for those seeking tranquility. Unlike the Costa del Sol’s cosmopolitan vibe or the Costa Blanca’s touristic feel, Murcia strikes a perfect balance between modern conveniences and traditional living.
Cost of Living
One of the standout benefits of living in Murcia is its affordability, especially when it comes to the cost of living. From dining out to grocery shopping, everyday expenses are more manageable, allowing residents to enjoy a high quality of life without breaking the bank. Utility costs, transportation, and healthcare expenses also tend to be lower in Murcia, making it an attractive option for retirees and families alike.
Several comparison sites such as My Life Elsewhere, and Numbeo can give you a clearer understanding of prices in different regions, and just as an example, according to My Life Elsewhere Murcia is 6.3% cheaper than the overall Spanish average. The same site also puts Marbella as 24.5% more expensive than Murcia, and Alicante as 14.4% more expensive than Murcia. Numbeo will even go one step further, giving you a full breakdown of costs including restaurants, utilities, transportation, and sports and leisure.
Golf
Murcia has established itself as a golfer’s paradise, with numerous high-quality golf resorts at a fraction of the cost found in the Costa Blanca or the Costa del Sol. Resorts like El Valle Golf Resort, Roda Golf Resort, and La Torre Golf Resort offer world-class facilities in picturesque settings, and as an added extra bonus there are numerous property options within the resorts as well, so you can enjoy the best of both worlds.
Unlike the densely packed courses in other areas of Spain, Murcia’s golf resorts provide a more serene experience, where both green fees and membership costs are generally more affordable, making it easier for enthusiasts to enjoy their passion year-round.
Family Activities
Families will find Murcia exceptionally welcoming. The region offers a variety of family-friendly activities, from exploring the Terra Natura Zoo and Waterpark to visiting the sandy beaches of Los Alcázares. For parents – Murcia also features excellent schools, both public and private, many of which cater to international students.
As quoted on the official Tourism Site for the Murcia Region, they call it ‘a theme park which is open all year round’ and you can get some excellent information on what is available to see and do here. Cycling, hiking, golf, tennis, Padel, swimming, cultural experiences, natural wonders, glorious beaches, scenic walks… it’s all here.
Property Prices
Undoubtedly the property market is one of the biggest and most attractive benefits to living in Murcia. Homes here are substantially more affordable than similar properties in the Costa Blanca or Costa del Sol. Whether you’re seeking a modern apartment, a traditional villa, or a property on a golf resort, Murcia offers excellent value for money.
For instance, a two-bedroom apartment on a golf course in Murcia would set you back around €150,000, whereas a similar property on the Costa del Sol will set you back €250,000. This affordability makes Murcia an appealing choice for first-time buyers, retirees, or investors looking for higher rental yields.
Taxes and Fees
Murcia’s property-related taxes and fees are generally lower than those in Costa Blanca and Costa del Sol. For example:
- Property Transfer Tax: In Murcia, this is capped at 8%, whereas it can reach up to 10% in other regions.
- Municipal Taxes: Annual property taxes (IBI) in Murcia tend to be lower than in the more developed Costa del Sol.
- Inheritance Tax: Murcia offers tax relief for close family members, making it more favorable for those planning long-term investments.
These savings can add up significantly over time, especially for property owners. If you want to read more information on Property Taxes in Murcia, see our blog piece on it here.
Conclusion
This region is an outstanding choice for those seeking an affordable, relaxed, and authentic Spanish lifestyle and the amazing benefits to living in Murcia really do speak for themselves. Compared to the Costa Blanca and Costa del Sol, it offers lower costs of living, excellent golf opportunities, family-friendly activities, and more affordable property prices. Its balance of modern amenities and traditional charm makes it an increasingly attractive destination for expatriates, retirees, and investors.
Whether you’re looking to relocate permanently or invest in a holiday home, Murcia’s unique advantages make it a compelling alternative to Spain’s more famous coastal regions.
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