The best neighborhoods in Benidorm for comfortable living and profitable real estate purchase.

Challenges Faced by Buyers and Relocators (Pain)

Many people planning to buy property in Benidorm or move there worry about the following issues:

• How to choose the right neighborhood among so many options?
• How to avoid overpaying and find the optimal property for living or investment?
• Hidden nuances of local infrastructure and the transport system that are not immediately apparent.
• Difficulties in comparing prices between neighborhoods to avoid purchasing an illiquid property.
• Uncertainty about real housing maintenance costs and the overall cost of living.

Solutions and How to Implement Them (Solution)

To minimize risks and make the property purchase as smooth as possible, it is important to:

• Clearly understand the specifics of each neighborhood, rather than relying only on pictures with sea views.
• Compare prices and analyze the real estate market conditions: resale properties vs. new developments.
• Consider daily expenses on transport, groceries, and utility bills.
• Work with trusted professionals who not only sell properties but also help with local laws, taxes, and registration.
• Plan your budget, factoring in maintenance costs for pools, elevators, parking, and other infrastructure, especially if the property is in a complex with shared amenities.

Why Benidorm? Key Features of the City

Benidorm is a well-known resort on Spain’s Costa Blanca, located 58 km from Alicante-Elche Airport (ALC – Alicante-Elche). It is a relatively young but highly dynamic city with an active tourism and investment market.

Benidorm is often called the “Spanish Manhattan” due to its high-rise buildings. Many apartments offer panoramic views of the sea and mountains, and modern complexes feature pools, parking, and green spaces. While it is a popular holiday destination, Benidorm is also great for permanent living. Its well-developed transport network, highways, and roads provide easy access to neighboring cities, while the abundance of shops, schools, and entertainment ensures a comfortable lifestyle.

Overview of the Best Neighborhoods in Benidorm

Benidorm is officially divided into several neighborhoods: Poniente, Centro (Centro Urbano), and Levante. Additionally, there is the large Rincón de Loix district, and slightly farther out, small coastal areas that are technically part of neighboring municipalities but are integrated into the city.

Poniente Neighborhood

Poniente is located south of the city center. It is informally divided into Pueblo Poniente, further from the coast, and Playa de Poniente, which stretches along the beach.

• Key Features: A quiet atmosphere, many new residential complexes, and one of the best city beaches, Playa de Poniente. It is also home to the famous InTempo skyscraper, one of the five tallest buildings in Spain.
• Real Estate Prices:
  • In Playa de Poniente, the average price per square meter on the resale market is around €3,000.
  • Studios – from €75,000.
  • One-bedroom apartments – from €75,000.
  • New developments – from €263,000.
  • In Pueblo Poniente, the average price per square meter is around €2,050.
  • Two-bedroom apartments – from €79,000.
  • New developments – from €330,000.
• Who It’s Best For: Those who appreciate peace, great beaches, and a relaxed atmosphere but still want access to urban amenities.

Benidorm City Center (Centro Urbano)

The city center, also known as the Old Town (Ciutat Vella), is Benidorm’s administrative and commercial hub. It is known for its narrow streets, historic buildings, and the small, cozy Cala del Mal Pas beach.

• Key Features: Many shops, bars, and restaurants. Most local festivals and parades take place here, and municipal offices are also located in this area.
• Real Estate: Older buildings with relatively affordable prices, though some are well-renovated. The average price per square meter on the resale market is around €1,700.
• Best For: Those who enjoy vibrant city life, dining out, shopping, and nightlife.

Levante Neighborhood

Levante is located in the northwest of Benidorm and is divided into Pueblo Levante (further from the sea) and Playa de Levante (closer to the beach). This area has a large number of English-speaking tourists, and its infrastructure, from bars to nightclubs, is often tailored for British visitors.

• Levante Beach: The busiest and most crowded beach in the city. During peak season, it can be difficult to find a free spot. However, it is fully equipped with amenities and regularly awarded the "Blue Flag" for cleanliness.
• Real Estate Prices in Playa de Levante:
  • Resale price per square meter – around €3,170.
  • Studios – from €83,000.
  • Two-bedroom apartments – from €110,000.
  • In private developments (bungalows and villas) – from €190,000.
• Neighborhood Benefits: Close to the sea, vibrant nightlife, high demand for tourist rentals.
• Drawbacks: Noise, especially in peak season; relatively high prices.

Rincón de Loix

Benidorm’s northernmost and newest neighborhood, known for its high-rise buildings and apart-hotels. It is often considered the "English area" but is more upscale than Levante. It is popular among tourists due to its numerous hotels, parks (Aqualandia, Mundomar), and entertainment venues (Benidorm Palace, Casino Mediterraneo).

• Three Subdivisions: Sierra Helada, Rincón Bajo, and Rincón Alto. Part of Sierra Helada is a protected natural park.
• Real Estate Prices:
  • In Sierra Helada, resale price per square meter – around €2,100; studios – from €60,000.
  • In Rincón Bajo – from €80,000 for a studio.
  • In Rincón Alto, average price per square meter – around €2,350; one-bedroom apartments – from €115,000.
• Best For: Those who love panoramic views, modern high-rise living, and easy access to entertainment.

Key Factors for Living and Investing

Cost of Living

Groceries in Benidorm are relatively cheap compared to northern Spain due to the proximity of farms in the Valencia region. Utility costs depend on amenities like pools, concierge services, elevators, and green spaces. Electricity costs in the Costa Blanca region are generally lower than in major cities like Madrid or Barcelona, but rates vary depending on your provider and plan.

Infrastructure

Benidorm has everything you need: banks, post offices, supermarkets, pharmacies, schools, and kindergartens. Due to its tourist-oriented nature, there are numerous cafes, restaurants, nightclubs, and entertainment venues. Public transport is convenient, with buses connecting Benidorm to many cities and highways like the AP-7 and N-332 providing easy access to Alicante and Valencia.

Real Estate Investment Options

• For personal use: Buying further from the beachfront is a cost-effective option if you prefer a quieter environment.
• For rental income: The most in-demand properties are in prime beach areas (Levante, Poniente, Rincón de Loix), though prices are higher due to high demand.
• New developments: Modern layouts, panoramic windows, and built-in amenities. Usually more expensive than resale properties but highly attractive for investment.

Final Thoughts: Why Consider Benidorm for Living and Investment

Benidorm offers great opportunities due to strong tourist demand, well-developed infrastructure, and diverse real estate options, from budget-friendly apartments to luxury high-rise residences. Choosing the right neighborhood based on your budget and lifestyle can turn property ownership in Benidorm into a solid investment and a gateway to a comfortable Mediterranean life.