Are More People Moving to the Costa Tropical This Year?
Are more people moving to the Costa Tropical in 2026? Property demand, rental pressure and lifestyle trends suggest rising interest.
The question is being asked more frequently in cafés, estate agencies and town halls across the Costa Tropical: does this year feel busier than usual?
While official annual population figures for 2026 are not yet available, several local indicators suggest that interest in moving to the Costa Tropical remains steady — and in some areas, may even be rising compared to early 2025.
Property Market Activity Signals Continued Interest
Real estate offices in coastal towns report consistent inquiries from foreign buyers, particularly from the UK, Belgium and Scandinavia. Agents in Almuñécar and Salobreña say viewings have picked up earlier than usual this winter, with February bringing activity more typical of March.
Compared to the same period last year, some agencies estimate that viewing appointments are up by around 10 to 15 percent. While that does not automatically translate into completed sales, it does reflect sustained demand.
One recurring theme is affordability. Property prices along the Costa Tropical remain significantly lower than in parts of Málaga Province, making the Granada coastline an attractive alternative for buyers seeking Mediterranean living without premium Costa del Sol prices.
Rental Pressure and Long-Term Stays
The rental market offers another signal. Long-term rental availability remains limited in several coastal areas, with landlords increasingly opting for short-term holiday lets during peak season. This dynamic has created tighter supply for residents, particularly in central seafront districts.
Local property managers note that inquiries for long-term rentals often come from remote workers and retirees seeking year-round residence rather than short holiday stays. That shift aligns with broader patterns seen across Andalusia, where lifestyle relocation has gained momentum since the pandemic years.
More coverage on property trends can be found in our Real Estate section.
More coverage on property trends can be found in our Real Estate section.
Everyday Observations Along the Coast
Beyond statistics, there are visible signs of demographic movement. Promenades appear livelier in late winter, cafés report steady weekday trade, and more foreign-registered vehicles are seen parked along residential streets.
Municipal offices in Granada Province have also experienced periodic increases in padrón registrations over the past two years, though detailed breakdowns for 2026 are still pending.
The Costa Tropical’s appeal remains rooted in its microclimate, relatively moderate cost of living and slower pace compared to larger urban centres. Improved road links between the coast and Granada city have further strengthened its accessibility within Andalusia.
A Structural Shift or Seasonal Pattern?
It is important to distinguish between permanent relocation and seasonal fluctuation. The Costa Tropical traditionally sees population increases during spring and summer, particularly around Easter and the high season.
However, several local business owners suggest that the line between visitor and resident is becoming less clear. Longer stays, hybrid working arrangements and flexible travel habits are gradually reshaping the rhythm of coastal life.
Whether 2026 ultimately records a measurable population increase will depend on official figures later in the year. What is evident already is that conversations about moving to the Costa Tropical are becoming more common — not only among foreign buyers, but also among Spaniards seeking a quieter alternative within Granada Province.
As terraces fill earlier and property viewings continue through winter, the coastline appears to be entering another period of subtle transformation — one driven less by tourism spikes and more by steady lifestyle migration.
Ahmedabad