Murcia Province

This region boast over 3,000 hours of sunshine a year, and its coastline is bathed by the warm waters of two seas. In fact, its coast is known as the Costa Cálida (the balmy coast), and is home to endless beaches and small coves which offer multiple options for leisure, sports and well-being.

One of the most attractive areas is La Manga del Mar Menor, the ideal destination for relaxing and enjoying the sea and the activities in its marine resort. You’ll also find long white sandy beaches such as those of San Pedro del Pinatar; unspoilt coves such as the ones in Cartagena, curious landscapes such as the rock erosions of Mazarrón, or fishing towns such as Águilas.

The region is also known for its wide range of wellness and beauty centres. Many of its beaches are considered open-air spas, due to the hyper-saline waters of the Mar Menor, and its therapeutic mud. The region is also home to several major spa resorts.

The Cities of Murcia

  • Demographic: Population of about 35,000. It has a mix of local Spanish residents and foreign retirees, particularly from northern Europe.

 

  • About the City: Águilas is a picturesque coastal town known for its stunning beaches, marina, and rich Roman history. It’s a quieter, more traditional Spanish town with a laid-back vibe.

 

  • Tourism: Tourists visit for its beautiful beaches, historic fortresses, and its annual carnival, one of the most famous in Spain. The coastal scenery and clean beaches are major draws.

 

  • Housing Market: Moderate property prices, with a mix of beachfront apartments and inland villas. There’s growing interest from both local and international buyers.

 

  • Market Key Points: Rising interest in beachfront properties, with strong rental demand during the summer months. The town’s appeal lies in its traditional charm and natural beauty.
  • Demographic: Population of about 19,000. Primarily local residents, with a smaller expat community.

 

  • About the City: Archena is an inland town known for its thermal spa and natural beauty, located near the Ricote Valley. It has a strong agricultural tradition.

 

  • Tourism: Tourists are drawn to its famous thermal baths and the surrounding nature, offering a wellness and relaxation experience. The nearby valley also attracts hikers and nature lovers.

 

  • Housing Market: Affordable, with a focus on rural properties and traditional Spanish homes. The town offers good value for those looking for peace and wellness-related tourism.

 

  • Market Key Points: Increasing interest in wellness properties and rural homes. The spa tourism attracts a niche market of buyers and vacationers.
  • Demographic: Population of around 1,000. Primarily a small, close-knit community, with many seasonal residents.

 

  • About the City: A charming fishing village located on a rocky cape, known for its lighthouse and marine life. It’s part of the larger La Manga area.

 

  • Tourism: Cabo de Palos is popular with divers due to its marine reserves and underwater shipwrecks. It’s also known for its seafood restaurants and scenic coastal views.

 

  • Housing Market: High demand for coastal properties, with a focus on apartments and villas with sea views. Prices are higher due to its prime location and proximity to La Manga.

 

  • Market Key Points: Strong demand from second-home buyers and divers. The exclusive coastal setting drives interest from affluent buyers and vacationers.
  • Demographic: Population of about 25,000. Primarily local residents, though it has a significant tourist influx during religious festivals.

 

  • About the City: A historical city and one of the five Holy Cities of Catholicism, known for its religious significance and pilgrimage routes.

 

  • Tourism: Tourists visit for its Holy Week celebrations, historical churches, and the Vera Cruz Basilica. Religious tourism is a major draw, particularly during the Holy Year.

 

  • Housing Market: The market is affordable, with a focus on traditional Spanish homes. The area offers good value for those seeking rural and historic properties.

 

  • Market Key Points: Strong interest in rural and historic homes, particularly from buyers interested in cultural and religious tourism. The market remains affordable, but demand is growing during peak pilgrimage periods.
  • Demographic: Population of about 215,000. Cartagena is a historical port city with a diverse population, including a significant number of military personnel.

 

  • About the City: Cartagena is known for its rich Roman history, with ancient ruins and historical sites throughout the city. It’s an important naval base and industrial center in the Murcia region.

 

  • Tourism: Tourists visit for its Roman theatre, naval museum, and the Archaeological Museum. Cartagena is also a popular stop for cruise ships, bringing many international visitors.

 

  • Housing Market: The housing market is varied, with historical homes in the city center and modern apartments along the coast. Prices are moderate, but prime properties with sea views or in historical areas can be more expensive.

 

  • Market Key Points: Strong demand for properties in the city center and coastal areas. The city’s historical appeal drives interest from both national and international buyers.
  • Demographic: Population of about 30,000. A popular area for foreign retirees and vacation homeowners.

 

  • About the City: Mazarrón is a coastal town known for its beautiful beaches and historical mining heritage. It’s quieter than some of the busier coastal towns, offering a more relaxed environment.

 

  • Tourism: Tourists are drawn to the beaches of Puerto de Mazarrón, archaeological sites, and water activities. Its lesser-known charm makes it ideal for those seeking a peaceful coastal experience.

 

  • Housing Market: Affordable housing market, particularly compared to nearby Murcia and Cartagena. Coastal apartments and villas are popular among expats.

 

  • Market Key Points: Steady demand for holiday homes, particularly from foreign buyers. Affordable prices and quiet beaches make it a desirable area for retirees.
  • Demographic: Population of about 460,000. A diverse population with a growing international community, especially among students and professionals.

 

  • About the City: The capital city of the Murcia region, known for its baroque architecture, university, and vibrant cultural scene. It has a strong agricultural and industrial economy.

 

  • Tourism: Murcia attracts tourists with its historical landmarks like the Cathedral of Murcia and its lively festivals. The city’s blend of modern and historical appeal makes it a year-round destination.

 

  • Housing Market: The housing market is varied, with both affordable and high-end options. Prices are lower than in major Spanish cities, but demand is growing, especially in the city center and university areas.

 

  • Market Key Points: Increasing demand for urban apartments, especially in the city center and near the university. Strong rental market due to the large student population.
  • Demographic: Population of about 20,000. Primarily local residents with a small international presence.

 

  • About the City: A town with a strong mining heritage located near Cartagena. It’s known for its Flamenco and mining festivals, as well as its cultural history.

 

  • Tourism: La Unión is famous for its Flamenco Festival and its mining museum. While not a major tourist destination, it attracts cultural tourists and those interested in its industrial history.

 

  • Housing Market: The market is affordable, with a focus on traditional homes. It’s a quieter area, making it appealing for those seeking a more peaceful, local environment.

 

  • Market Key Points: Moderate demand, with potential for growth in cultural tourism. The affordable property prices offer good value for buyers looking for traditional homes.
  • Demographic: Population of about 90,000. Predominantly local Spanish residents, with a growing international presence.

 

  • About the City: Lorca is an inland city known for its impressive medieval castle, baroque architecture, and historical significance. It’s a cultural hub with a strong agricultural economy.

 

  • Tourism: The main attractions include the Lorca Castle, museums, and its Holy Week celebrations. The town’s historical richness makes it a key cultural destination.

 

  • Housing Market: Affordable compared to coastal cities, with a focus on larger family homes and historic properties. It’s an attractive option for those seeking more space and a traditional Spanish lifestyle.

 

  • Market Key Points: Rising demand for historic properties and rural homes. The market appeals to buyers looking for cultural immersion and lower property prices.
  • Demographic: Population of around 15,000. Popular with expats, especially British and northern Europeans.

 

  • About the City: Los Alcázares is a small town located on the shores of the Mar Menor, known for its family-friendly atmosphere and mild climate. It has a strong tourism and expat presence.

 

  • Tourism: Its warm, shallow waters make it ideal for water sports. The town also offers golf resorts and historical military aviation landmarks, attracting both families and sport enthusiasts.

 

  • Housing Market: Moderate housing prices, with a strong focus on holiday apartments and townhouses. Popular with international buyers seeking vacation homes.

 

  • Market Key Points: Strong demand for holiday rentals and expat-owned properties. High appeal due to proximity to golf courses, beaches, and Murcia airport.
  • Demographic: Population of about 25,000. A significant expat community, with many British and northern European residents.

 

  • About the City: A small town located near the Mar Menor lagoon, known for its salt flats and natural parks. It’s a popular area for water sports and nature lovers.

 

  • Tourism: Tourists come for the therapeutic mud baths, beaches along the Mar Menor, and the natural parks. It’s a top destination for health and wellness tourism.

 

  • Housing Market: Affordable housing market, with a mix of coastal apartments and inland villas. It’s a popular location for retirees and those looking for vacation homes.

 

  • Market Key Points: Strong interest in affordable holiday homes, with good rental potential due to the area’s natural and health-related tourism appeal.
  • Demographic: Population of about 8,000. It has a significant number of foreign residents, particularly from northern Europe.

 

  • About the City: A coastal town on the Mar Menor, it is part of the larger San Javier municipality. It’s known for its relaxed beachside lifestyle and is popular with expats.

 

 

  • Tourism: Tourists enjoy its calm, warm waters, ideal for swimming and water sports. The town is also famous for its summer festivals and the nearby airbase, which offers air shows.

 

  • Housing Market: The market is primarily focused on holiday apartments and villas. Prices are affordable, especially compared to larger cities, with strong demand for beachfront properties.

 

  • Market Key Points: Strong demand for holiday homes and rentals, especially among foreign buyers. Proximity to Murcia’s international airport boosts appeal.