Updated: 7 January 2026
Estepona has become one of the most dynamic real estate markets on the Costa del Sol, driven largely by new developments in Estepona launching between 2024 and 2025. According to data from Spain’s property registries, more than 20 new residential projects have entered the market in the past two years, positioning the area strongly within real estate investment opportunities in southern Spain.
These projects include beachfront apartments, luxury golf-side villas, and sustainable urbanisations designed for long-term residency. Developers behind new developments in Estepona are targeting both international investors and Spanish buyers seeking modern amenities in a Mediterranean setting, especially those researching what are the best areas to live in Estepona?
Why is Estepona attracting so many new developments compared to Marbella?
Estepona’s property market benefits from lower land costs and strong municipal support, making it particularly attractive for new developments in Estepona when compared with what are the best areas to buy property in Marbella?. While Marbella remains the region’s luxury flagship, Estepona offers newer builds at 20–30% lower entry prices.
The town also invests heavily in infrastructure, such as the coastal boardwalk and modernised port facilities. These upgrades make Estepona an appealing alternative for buyers priced out of Marbella yet still seeking Costa del Sol prestige.
“Estepona is positioning itself as the ‘new Marbella,’ but with fresher developments and more competitive pricing.”
How do property prices in Estepona compare with Marbella?
On average, property prices in Estepona are around €3,200 per m², while Marbella averages €4,500 per m². This difference is especially notable in new developments in Estepona, aligning with trends discussed in what are the average property prices in Estepona?
| Location | Avg Price per m² | New Luxury Apartments (from) | New Villas (from) |
| Marbella | €4,500 | €650,000 | €1.6 million |
| Estepona | €3,200 | €450,000 | €1.1 million |
The comparative affordability makes Estepona attractive for both investors and lifestyle buyers, particularly those assessing are there any new property developments in Estepona?
What types of new developments are trending in Estepona?
The strongest trends among new developments in Estepona include beachfront residences, eco-certified communities, and golf-side projects similar to are there any beachfront properties available for sale in Estepona?. Many new complexes feature wellness centres, coworking spaces, and concierge services.
Developers increasingly integrate green technologies such as solar energy, smart water systems, and A-rated insulation, appealing to eco-conscious buyers and digital nomads seeking year-round comfort.
Are new developments in Estepona focused more on investors or residents?
Developments in Estepona are balancing investor appeal with liveability. According to Quintessentia Property Advisors, over 60% of buyers in new Estepona projects plan to use the property as a second home or permanent residence, reinforcing demand explored in are there good opportunities for rental property investment in Spain?
Features like proximity to international schools, hospitals, and year-round services support Estepona’s role as a livable town, not just a holiday hotspot.
What role does sustainability play in Estepona’s new developments?
Sustainability is a core pillar of new developments in Estepona. Many projects meet EU energy-efficiency standards and include solar panels, rainwater harvesting systems, and electric vehicle charging points.
These features align with buyer expectations seen across trends in southern Spain real estate market.
How do property taxes in Estepona compare to Marbella?
Property taxes in Estepona are generally lower than in Marbella, which further strengthens the appeal of new developments in Estepona, especially for long-term ownership evaluated under what are the local taxes for property owners in Estepona? [LINK: What are the local taxes for property owners in Estepona?]
| Tax Type | Marbella Avg % | Estepona Avg % |
| Property Tax (IBI) | 0.88% | 0.75% |
| Garbage Collection Fee | €200–€250 | €150–€200 |
| Transaction Tax (ITP) | 7–10% | 7–10% |
For buyers, these differences can translate into thousands of euros saved annually, reinforcing Estepona’s value proposition.
Which areas of Estepona are seeing the highest growth in new builds?
The New Golden Mile, located between Marbella and Estepona town, is the epicentre of luxury new developments in Estepona, alongside districts highlighted in what are the most exclusive neighborhoods in Estepona?
Estepona West is also expanding rapidly with marina-focused communities, while inland areas near Estepona Golf and Valle Romano provide more affordable modern options.
How do Estepona’s rental yields compare with Marbella’s?
Rental yields for new developments in Estepona average 4–5% annually, outperforming Marbella’s 3.5–4.5%, a trend consistent with what are the average rental yields for properties in Estepona?
| Location | Avg Yield (long-term) | Avg Yield (holiday rental) |
| Marbella | 3.5–4.5% | 5–6% |
| Estepona | 4–5% | 6–7% |
Short-term holiday rentals near the beach or golf courses perform particularly well, attracting digital nomads and seasonal tourists.
What are the risks of buying off-plan in Estepona?
Buying off-plan within new developments in Estepona offers attractive pricing but carries risks such as construction delays or specification changes. Buyers are advised to understand what are the steps involved in purchasing real estate in Spain?
Working with established developers and legal advisors remains essential to reduce risk while benefiting from early-stage pricing and flexible payment structures.
Do new developments in Estepona include financing and payment options?
Yes, most new developments in Estepona offer staged payment plans during construction and collaborate with Spanish banks to provide mortgage options, similar to guidance in can I get a mortgage in Spain as a non-resident?
Construction timelines typically range from 18 to 36 months, allowing buyers to spread payments accordingly.
How do delivery times for new developments compare across Estepona?
Delivery times for new Estepona projects vary between 18 and 36 months, depending on size and complexity. Small apartment blocks may complete within 20 months, while large villa resorts can take closer to three years.
| Development Type | Avg Delivery Time |
| Apartment Blocks | 18–24 months |
| Townhouse Projects | 20–28 months |
| Villa Communities | 30–36 months |
Investors planning to rent should account for these timelines before expecting returns.
Are foreign buyers driving demand in Estepona?
Foreign buyers account for more than 65% of purchases in new developments in Estepona, led by British, Scandinavian, Belgian, and Middle Eastern clients.
Easy airport access, international schools, and modern healthcare facilities make Estepona particularly attractive to relocating families and second-home buyers.
Is Estepona expected to continue its growth in 2025 and beyond?
Market analysts expect continued growth in new developments in Estepona through at least 2027, supported by factors also explored in is it a good time to invest in property in Marbella?
Unlike speculative cycles of the past, Estepona’s expansion is supported by genuine improvements in quality of life and urban planning.
FAQ
Are new developments in Estepona mostly apartments or villas?
Most new projects are luxury apartments and townhouses, but several villa communities are emerging near golf resorts and coastal zones. Apartments dominate due to higher demand and limited beachfront land.
Do new developments in Estepona include financing options?
Yes, many developers partner with banks to offer mortgage financing up to 70% for international buyers. This makes purchasing accessible even for non-resident investors.
Are Estepona’s new properties suitable for year-round living?
Absolutely. Most developments include amenities like gyms, coworking spaces, and wellness areas designed for permanent residency, not just holidays.
Is rental demand strong for new Estepona properties?
Rental demand is high, particularly for short-term holiday lets and long-term rentals for digital nomads. Beachfront and golf-side properties are especially sought after.
What is the average delivery time for new projects in Estepona?
Most developments have a delivery time of 18–36 months, depending on project size. Off-plan buyers typically pay in stages during construction.
Do property values in Estepona show steady appreciation?
Yes, Estepona property values have risen around 6–8% annually since 2020, with expectations of continued growth supported by infrastructure and international demand.
