Property prices in Málaga: +66% in five years. What it means for buyers (November 2026)

Author: Marcin Liszkowski, World Residence. Updated: 10 November 2026.

Short answer. Property prices in Málaga are clearly outpacing the rest of the country. According to data from Spain’s property registrars (Colegio de Registradores), the average price per square metre in Málaga province rose from €2,010 in the first quarter of 2021 to €3,339 in the first quarter of 2026. That is an increase of 66%, almost twice the national average of 36%. The market is expensive and tight, but that does not mean buying has stopped making sense. You simply need to calculate the price and transaction costs more carefully and choose the right location.

Property prices in Málaga – what the registry data shows

The registrars’ figures are based on transactions that were actually registered, not on asking prices from portals, which is why they are considered a more reliable gauge of the market. As reported by The Olive Press, the average price per m² in Málaga province rose by 66% in five years, while the national increase was 36%. Málaga and its surroundings are therefore growing clearly faster than the rest of Spain.

Keep in mind that this is an average for the whole province. The historic centre of Málaga and the seaside districts look very different from inland towns, and the price of an individual property can differ greatly from this average.

Why prices have risen so fast

According to the experts quoted in the article, the main problem is a shortage of supply. New housing is not keeping pace with demand, partly because of delays in planning and permits. When there are few properties and many buyers, prices rise faster than incomes.

Foreign demand adds to this. According to the same data, foreign buyers accounted for 37% of registered purchases in the second quarter of 2026, and for more than 46% in Alicante province. Spain’s coast continues to attract buyers from abroad, which further limits availability for local residents.

What this means if you want to buy in Málaga

• Look at transaction prices, not asking prices. The advertised price is a starting point for a conversation. Ask what similar properties in the same building or area actually sold for.
• Count the additional costs. On resale properties in Andalusia, transfer tax (ITP) is 7%. When buying a new build, you pay 10% VAT plus stamp duty (AJD), usually around 1–1.5%. Add the notary, the land registry and possibly a representative. You will find details in our resale purchase checklist and the guide to buying a new build.
• Check your financing. If you need a loan, see the conditions for non-residents.
• Consider the surrounding area. With prices rising this fast, it is worth comparing Málaga itself with other places on the Costa del Sol. You will find an overview in our Málaga guide and on the Costa del Sol page.
• Do not buy under pressure. Past price growth does not guarantee future growth. If supply improves or demand weakens, the pace may change.

Current listings are in the sections apartments in Málaga and houses in Málaga. With us, the buyer pays no agency commission.

Frequently asked questions

Sources

• The Olive Press, “Malaga house prices surge 66% in unsustainable market squeeze” (9 November 2026): article
• Colegio de Registradores – transaction data cited by The Olive Press.