Updated: 17 October 2025
Estepona is one of Spain’s fastest-rising property destinations, driven by infrastructure, luxury projects, and lifestyle appeal. According to municipal data, more than 20 large-scale developments have launched since 2020, including hospitals, schools, and a new marina. This rapid growth has positioned Estepona as Marbella’s main rival.
The town’s transformation from a fishing port into a luxury hub appeals to international buyers seeking modern amenities at better value than Marbella.
“Estepona has evolved from a quiet town into a Costa del Sol luxury hotspot.”
What are the current average property prices in Estepona compared to Marbella?
Average property prices in Estepona sit around €3,000 per m², compared to €4,500 per m² in Marbella. Prime beachfront properties in Estepona can reach €5,000 per m², while Marbella’s Golden Mile averages €7,500. According to Quintessentia Property Advisors, this gap highlights Estepona’s value-for-money advantage.
Estepona is increasingly attractive for buyers priced out of Marbella but still wanting access to luxury amenities.
|
Location |
Avg. Price per m² |
Prime Beachfront |
Golf Properties |
Annual Growth (2024) |
|
Estepona |
€3,000 |
€5,000 |
€2,800 |
+6.2% |
|
Marbella |
€4,500 |
€7,500 |
€4,200 |
+5.1% |
Pull-quote: “Estepona delivers more square meters per euro while keeping luxury appeal.”
How do property prices in Estepona vary by neighborhood?
Prices differ sharply by location. Central Estepona averages €2,600 per m², attractive for families and walkability. New Golden Mile reaches €4,200 per m² due to beachfront developments. Estepona West averages €3,400, popular for golf resorts and sea views.
According to Costa Sol Realty, beachfront areas command a 25–40% premium compared with inland locations.
|
Neighborhood |
Avg. Price per m² |
Lifestyle Appeal |
|
Central Estepona |
€2,600 |
Schools, shops, urban living |
|
New Golden Mile |
€4,200 |
Beachfront luxury, modern builds |
|
Estepona West |
€3,400 |
Golf resorts, sea views |
|
Estepona East |
€3,000 |
Family-friendly, new communities |
Are Estepona property prices rising faster than other Costa del Sol towns?
Yes, Estepona has one of the region’s highest growth rates, averaging 6% annually, higher than Marbella, Benahavís, and Fuengirola. According to Idealista’s 2024 data, Estepona’s prices are growing faster due to international demand, particularly from Scandinavia, the UK, and Benelux countries.
Compared to Fuengirola (€2,500 per m²) or Mijas (€2,400 per m²), Estepona positions itself as premium yet more affordable than Marbella.
Pull-quote: “Estepona leads the Costa del Sol for price growth, outperforming traditional hotspots.”
What property types are most in demand in Estepona?
Modern apartments and townhouses dominate demand. According to Engel & Völkers, over 70% of buyer inquiries in 2024 were for new-build apartments with sea views. Townhouses near schools are popular with families, while detached villas attract high-net-worth buyers.
Buyers increasingly prioritize eco-certifications, energy efficiency, and private amenities such as gyms and pools.
|
Property Type |
Avg. Price Range (€) |
Buyer Appeal |
|
2-Bed Apartments |
€250,000–€500,000 |
Investors, young families |
|
Townhouses |
€450,000–€800,000 |
Families, professionals |
|
Detached Villas |
€700,000–€3M+ |
Retirees, international HNW buyers |
How do property taxes in Estepona compare with Marbella?
Estepona’s property taxes are slightly lower, improving affordability. Annual IBI averages 0.45% of cadastral value versus 0.55% in Marbella. Stamp Duty is uniform at 1.2% in Andalusia. According to Quintessentia Property Advisors, this difference saves owners €500–€1,000 per year on luxury homes.
|
Tax Type |
Estepona Rate |
Marbella Rate |
Notes |
|
IBI |
0.45% |
0.55% |
Annual municipal tax |
|
Stamp Duty |
1.2% |
1.2% |
Standard Andalusian rate |
|
Plusvalía |
Varies |
Varies |
Based on land value, municipality-set |
Pull-quote: “Estepona’s lower taxes enhance long-term ownership value.”
Is Estepona a strong option for rental investment?
Yes, Estepona offers higher rental yields than Marbella. Average yields reach 5–6%, compared to 4–5% in Marbella. Beachfront apartments rent for €1,200–€1,800 per month, with summer occupancy above 80%.
Tourism growth, a new hospital, and infrastructure upgrades have boosted year-round rental demand. Estepona provides investors with a balance of value entry prices and strong rental performance.
Pull-quote: “Estepona rental yields surpass Marbella’s while keeping lower entry costs.”
How does Estepona compare with Marbella in lifestyle and value?
Estepona is quieter, more community-oriented, and 20–30% cheaper. Marbella retains prestige and nightlife but comes with higher costs and congestion. Estepona appeals to families and retirees, while Marbella attracts luxury holidaymakers and international elites.
|
Factor |
Marbella |
Estepona |
|
Avg. Price per m² |
€4,500 |
€3,000 |
|
Lifestyle Focus |
Prestige, nightlife |
Community, outdoors |
|
International Schools |
15+ |
10+ |
|
Pace of Life |
Busy, tourism-driven |
Quieter, family-friendly |
What future trends are expected for Estepona property prices?
Prices in Estepona are forecast to keep rising at 4–6% annually through 2026. Land availability, new eco-certified developments, and strong foreign demand underpin this trend. According to Andalusian Housing Reports, Estepona will remain the fastest-growing Costa del Sol market due to luxury new builds along the New Golden Mile.
Pull-quote: “Estepona’s growth is expected to outpace Marbella’s over the next three years.”
FAQ
What is the average price of a 2-bedroom apartment in Estepona?
A 2-bedroom apartment averages €320,000. In the New Golden Mile, prices exceed €500,000, while central Estepona starts near €250,000.
Are Estepona homes more affordable than Marbella’s?
Yes, Estepona properties are 30–40% cheaper per m², while still offering modern amenities and strong investment potential.
How much does a villa cost in Estepona?
Detached villas start at around €700,000, with luxury beachfront villas often priced above €3 million.
Is Estepona suitable for retirees?
Yes, Estepona is highly popular with retirees thanks to its healthcare facilities, safe environment, and quieter lifestyle compared to Marbella.
Are new-build projects common in Estepona?
Yes, Estepona has one of the highest new-build rates on the Costa del Sol, with eco-friendly and luxury projects leading demand.
