How Much Does It Cost to Buy a Home in Málaga? A Breakdown by Property Type

By Vivi Real Estate | 9 de April de 2025 |

If you're considering taking the leap to buy a home in Málaga, you're not alone. Málaga has become one of the most attractive cities on Spain’s Costa del Sol for both lifestyle buyers and property investors. With its vibrant culture, modern infrastructure, international airport, and year-round sunshine, Málaga offers an appealing blend of urban living and coastal charm.

But before diving into the property market, it’s essential to understand the costs involved—especially how prices vary by property type. This guide breaks down the average costs to buy a home in Málaga, depending on the kind of property you’re looking for, along with taxes, fees, and local market trends.

Why Málaga?

Málaga stands out on the Costa del Sol for its growing economy, cultural scene, and international appeal. It’s home to top-rated schools, a modern port, a fast-growing tech scene, and world-class healthcare—making it a magnet for expats, retirees, and digital nomads.

Financially, it also makes sense: Málaga offers better value compared to cities like Madrid or Barcelona, and steady demand makes it an ideal location for a long-term property investment Costa del Sol.

What’s the Average Cost to Buy a Home in Málaga?

The price of property in Málaga can vary significantly depending on location, size, age, and property type. Below is a general breakdown of average prices per square meter as of early 2025:

Property Type	Average Price per m²	Typical Total Cost
Studio Apartment	€2,000 – €2,800	€120,000 – €180,000
1-Bedroom Apartment	€2,500 – €3,200	€160,000 – €250,000
2-Bedroom Apartment	€2,700 – €3,500	€200,000 – €350,000
Penthouse	€3,800 – €5,500	€400,000 – €900,000
Townhouse	€2,600 – €3,800	€250,000 – €500,000
Detached Villa	€3,500 – €6,000+	€500,000 – €2M+

Please note that these are average prices, and actual property values can fluctuate depending on neighborhood and condition.

Cost Breakdown by Property Type

1. Apartments in the City Center

Apartments in areas like Centro Histórico and Soho tend to be in high demand due to their walkability and vibrant atmosphere. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center typically starts at €180,000, with luxury units or newly renovated properties reaching upwards of €400,000.

Ideal for:

• Expats looking for low-maintenance homes
  
• Investors interested in short-term rentals
  
• Couples or singles seeking a dynamic urban lifestyle
  

This type of property is often targeted by those looking to buy real estate Costa del Sol for long-term rental income.

2. Beachfront Apartments in La Malagueta

If waking up to ocean views is your goal, La Malagueta offers upscale living right by the sea. Expect to pay €4,500 to €6,000 per square meter, with two-bedroom units starting at around €450,000.

Ideal for:

• Retirees or second-home buyers
  
• Professionals seeking high-end coastal living
  
• Investors eyeing premium rentals
  

Properties in La Malagueta hold their value well due to location scarcity and ongoing demand.

3. Suburban Villas and Detached Homes

In areas like El Limonar, Cerrado de Calderón, and Pedregalejo, you’ll find beautiful detached homes and villas with gardens and pools. Prices vary widely, with most homes falling between €500,000 and €1.5 million.

Ideal for:

• Families relocating permanently
  
• High-end buyers looking for space and privacy
  
• Long-term investors
  

These types of homes are great for property investment Costa del Sol focused on luxury or long-term family tenants.

4. Modern New Builds in Teatinos or West Málaga

New developments are booming in areas like Teatinos, offering modern amenities and more affordable pricing. A new-build two-bedroom apartment might cost between €180,000 and €280,000.

Ideal for:

• First-time buyers
  
• Young professionals
  
• Budget-conscious expats
  

Teatinos is particularly attractive due to its university, hospitals, and growing local infrastructure.

5. Fixer-Uppers and Renovation Projects

Looking for a deal? Málaga still has older properties in need of renovation, especially in less-touristy areas. You might find a two-bedroom apartment for under €150,000—but expect to spend €30,000 to €100,000 on upgrades.

Ideal for:

• Investors looking for capital appreciation
• Buyers with renovation experience
• Creative homeowners with time to DIY
  

These properties require vision but offer strong potential returns when handled well.

Additional Costs to Consider

Beyond the purchase price, there are several other costs when you buy home in Málaga:

1. Property Transfer Tax (ITP)

• Typically 7–10% for resale properties, based on region and property value.
  

2. VAT (IVA) and Stamp Duty

• VAT (10%) and stamp duty (1.5%) apply to new builds.
  

3. Notary and Land Registry Fees

• Generally between €1,000 and €3,000.
  

4. Legal and Administrative Fees

• Hiring a lawyer to oversee the purchase may cost around 1% of the property price.
  

5. Mortgage Costs (If Applicable)

• Spanish banks typically require a 20–30% deposit for non-residents.
  
• Expect extra setup fees of around €1,000 to €2,000.
  

Altogether, you should budget an additional 10–14% on top of the purchase price for fees and taxes.

Tips for Keeping Costs in Check

• Compare neighborhoods carefully. Beachfront and central areas come at a premium.
  
• Get pre-approved for financing. This helps avoid surprises during negotiations.
  
• Use a reputable agent. An experienced agency can help you spot good value and avoid pitfalls.
  
• Don’t forget community fees. Some apartments come with monthly maintenance charges for shared areas like pools or gyms.
  

Is It Cheaper to Buy Now or Wait?

Málaga’s property market remains competitive, and while there may be seasonal dips, prices have shown steady growth. With rising demand and limited supply in prime areas, waiting may actually mean paying more in the future.

For buyers considering a lifestyle upgrade or solid investment, now is still a favorable time to buy a home in Málaga.

Let Vivi Real Estate Help You Find the Right Home

Whether you're looking for a cozy city apartment, a beachside getaway, or a spacious family villa, understanding the market is key to making the right decision. At Vivi Real Estate, we specialize in helping international buyers navigate the Málaga property market with ease and confidence.

From identifying the best neighborhoods to handling paperwork and negotiation, we offer full-service support tailored to your needs. Ready to start your property journey in Málaga?

Visit Vivi Real Estate today to view our latest listings and speak to a local expert who can help you make the most informed decision.