Spain's property market is once again standing out in Europe. According to the latest Eurostat figures, house prices in Spain rose 12.8% year-on-year in the first quarter of 2026, more than double the European Union average. It is a figure that confirms the strength of a market that keeps attracting both domestic and international buyers, especially in destinations such as the Costa del Sol.
Spain, among Europe's leaders in price growth
The Eurostat data is clear: while housing rose 12.8% in Spain, the EU average stood at 5.1% and the eurozone at 4.7%. The momentum is also visible in the short term, with a quarterly increase of 3.5% compared with 1% in the eurozone.
With these figures, Spain ranks fifth in the European Union for price growth, behind Portugal (17.8%), Bulgaria (14.8%), Slovakia (14.4%) and Croatia (14.3%). At the other end, Finland was the only country to record a decline, of 2%.
What lies behind these figures?
Although Eurostat does not detail the causes, the dynamics of the Spanish market point to a familiar combination: solid demand, driven in large part by international buyers, that continues to outpace a supply that is not growing at the same rate. In the most sought-after areas of the Mediterranean coast, where land is limited and international appeal is high, this tension between supply and demand translates into sustained price growth.
The Costa del Sol, in the spotlight
No area reflects this trend better than the Costa del Sol. Towns such as Marbella, Estepona or Benahavís These destinations account for a significant proportion of international demand thanks to their climate, quality of life and a supply of new-build properties increasingly tailored to the discerning buyer. Against this backdrop, the rise in prices is not merely a statistical figure: it reflects a destination that is consolidating its position as one of the most attractive residential markets in southern Europe.
Rentals and the European context
The Eurostat report also covers rental trends, which rose 3% year-on-year across the EU. Although the pace is slower than that of sales, rental prices reached their highest level since the series began in 2015. It is also worth putting the figures in perspective: average European growth eased slightly compared with the end of 2025, when it stood at 5.4%.
What does it mean for buyers and investors?
- Sustained appreciation: buying in a market that grows above the European average better protects the value of your capital over the medium and long term.
- A window of opportunity: international demand shows no signs of slowing, so getting ahead of further increases can make a difference.
- The value of local advice: in a dynamic market, knowing each area and each development is key to buying well.
Conclusion
The Eurostat data confirms what is already being felt on the ground: Spain, and the Costa del Sol in particular, is experiencing a period of strong demand and appreciation. If you are thinking about buying or investing in the area, at EVS Property Group we help you find the right property and make informed decisions. Get in touch and discover our new-build developments on the Costa del Sol.
What next? The most useful thing after reading is to look at the real market: browse properties by city or tell us on WhatsApp what you are looking for — area, budget, timing — and we will prepare a tailored selection, with no obligation.
You may also find useful: sell your property invest on the Costa del Sol free valuation monthly price report
