If you’re considering moving to Spain from the UK, Orihuela Costa is one location that should not be overlooked. Situated in south Costa Blanca in the province of Alicante, the coastal region of Orihuela Costa is popular with tourists as well as those seeking to relocate. With more than 300 days of sunshine and a choice of easily accessible blue-flag beaches, individuals and families looking for properties for sale in Orihuela Costa will find this coastal region has plenty to offer.
Is Orihuela Costa a Nice Place to Live?
Living in Orihuela Costa has something for everyone which is evident by the amount of British expats who have found homes in the region. Much like the rest of the Costa Blanca, Orihuela Costa enjoys a Mediterranean climate with cool summer breezes and is surrounded by Sierra de Orihuela mountains which protect it from cold northern winds in the winter. Orihuela Costa shouldn’t be confused with Orihuela City which is located around 20 km from the coastline.
Orihuela Costa is made up of numerous residential areas, each with its own unique qualities and characteristics. This stunning region is known for having a wealth of amenities, leisure attractions and facilities that make it ideal for year-round living. Seaside resorts like Cabo Roig and prestigious golf resorts like Villamartin make Orihuela Costa a desirable destination for those interested in buying a holiday home as a rental investment.
How Many People Live in Orihuela Costa?
The urban area of Orihuela Costa has a population of over 78,000 (2021 census) with over a third of its residents being non-Spanish. The region is especially popular with British and Irish expats and this can be seen in the abundance of English and Irish-themed bars and restaurants in popular places like La Zenia.
Are There Jobs in Orihuela Costa for Expats?
If you speak Spanish, your options for finding a job in Orihuela Costa are broad with options for full-time and part-time positions as well as freelance jobs. However, if you don’t speak the language, an English-speaking job may be another option for you. Finding English-speaking jobs in Orihuela Costa can seem challenging but it is possible in some sectors. The tourism and hospitality industry often seeks English-speaking staff due to the area’s popularity with tourists and expats. Education, customer service and remote work opportunities may also be available to those looking to permanently live in Orihuela Costa. You can find out more about your requirements when looking for jobs in Orihuela Costa as a British Expat in this guide to working in Spain.
What are Orihuela Costa Schools Like?
Orihuela Costa offers a range of educational options for families. The area boasts several international schools that cater to the diverse expatriate community. These schools typically follow British and International curriculums and offer education in English making them ideal for families looking to provide an English-language education for their children. The Phoenix International School is a great option for children in and around the Orihuela Costa region and caters to students aged 4-18. In addition to international schools, the area has public Spanish schools where children can receive a Spanish-language education. These schools are a good option for families looking to integrate into the local community and are often the choice for Spanish-speaking expat families
Where is the Best Place to Live in Orihuela Costa?
With a choice of residential suburbs to relocate to, and good connections to Torrevieja, Elche and Murcia, living in the Orihuela Costa region will allow you to choose between an authentic Spanish lifestyle and cosmopolitan living. If you’re planning to buy property in Orihuela Costa, you’ll want to know which areas are the most fitting for you and your lifestyle. Here are some of our favourite places to live in Orihuela Costa.
La Zenia
Situated a short 10-minute drive south of Torrevieja, La Zenia is a small coastal urbanisation with a well-developed infrastructure. Attractive to both holidaymakers and residents, the area boasts one of the best Blue Flag beaches in Orihuela Costa and is surrounded by high-quality amenities, all within walking distance. When it comes to the types of properties for sale in La Zenia, you’ll find a mixture of homes including large penthouse duplexes, townhouses, apartments and villas.
If you’re coming from the UK and you’re looking for a cosmopolitan area with some familiar sights from home, La Zenia has a thriving expat community with many English and Irish establishments where you can eat, drink and get to know the locals. For those moving to La Zenia with a family, the town is child-friendly with amenities geared towards children like a kid’s waterpark and lots of playgrounds. If you have children of school age, the nearest international school, The El Limonar International School situated in nearby Villamartin is particularly well respected.
Mil Palmeras
If you’re after peace and tranquillity, consider moving to Mil Palmeras. Situated in the south of Orihuela Costa in the municipality of Pilar de la Horadada, Mil Palmeras is one of the quieter urbanisations with a small population and very few hotels. If you’re looking for properties for sale in Mil Palmeras, you’ll find a mixture of contemporary new-build properties and high-quality apartments suitable for both families and individuals. As a beach resort, Mil Palmeras has three beaches, all of which have blue flag status, and lots of activities for all the family. Amidst the beach bars and watersports facilities, you’ll also find an accessible area for sunbathers with reduced mobility. Mil Palmeras is a quiet area with more of a typically Spanish atmosphere, so if you’re looking to buy property in a location that feels authentically Mediterranean, this town might be right for you.
San Miguel De Salinas
Nestled amidst the scenic countryside, San Miguel de Salinas is surrounded by flourishing citrus groves, picturesque mountains and the stunning salt lakes of Torrevieja. Approximately 43 minutes by car from Murcia, this area has been steadily gaining popularity among foreign residents making it a desirable place for British expats looking to move to Orihuela Costa. When it comes to looking for property for sale in San Miguel De Salinas, you’ll find a good selection of new-build properties as well as spacious apartments and townhouses. This town offers a taste of authentic Spanish culture with ample amenities and services, however, having a car would be advisable for access to more options in nearby Torrevieja which is a 10-minute drive away. This urbanisation is perfect for anyone looking for a peaceful place to live with a traditional Mediterranean atmosphere that entices non-Spanish residents to move there year after year.
How To Find Properties For Sale In Orihuela Costa
When it comes to looking for property in Orihuela Costa, you may be unsure of where to start, especially if you are unfamiliar with the area. This is where Welcome Estates can make house hunting in Spain a stress-free task. Our talented agents can help you to find the perfect property to suit your lifestyle.
If you are planning to visit Spain, why not arrange a property inspection trip where you can be guided around the local area by an experienced consultant? Welcome Estates offers inspection trips that include a two or three-night stay at La Finca Golf Resort, airport transfers and two or three days with your personal property consultant to help you find a home in the area.
If travelling to Spain isn’t an option right now, we can still help you find houses for sale in Orihuela Costa that meet your budget. Simply browse our list of properties or contact one of our agents who will be happy to provide more information.
