Choosing Your Spot – Best Places, Housing, Expat Tips, and How I Can Help

Wrapping up your relocation journey means selecting the right location and securing housing. In 2025, Spain’s diverse regions offer something for every American expat, and I’ll underscore how buying real estate provides investment returns and a true sense of home. Plus, insights from fellow expats and my expertise as a Global Marketing Agent.

Best Places to Live in Spain If you’re an American expat seeking an authentic Andalusian experience with a mix of tranquility and convenience, consider Casares on the Costa del Sol. This hidden gem, nestled in the province of Malaga, captivates with its blend of rural charm and coastal allure, making it an ideal spot for those who value privacy and natural beauty. As one of the largest municipalities in the area, Casares spans 160 square kilometers of mostly undeveloped terrain, offering a peaceful escape from busier tourist hubs while still being just 15 minutes from the Mediterranean beaches. The town is perched on a hilltop at 435 meters above sea level, providing panoramic views of the sea and surrounding mountains, and its whitewashed houses cascade down narrow, winding streets that exude traditional Spanish culture. For expats, Casares offers a welcoming community of locals and internationals, with easy access to amenities like supermarkets, medical centers, and outdoor activities—perfect for buying a property that serves as a serene base for exploring Andalusia.

Casares village itself is a postcard of Andalusian heritage, with its imposing Castle of Casares standing as a historical landmark and charming squares filled with vibrant flowers, cafes, and shops. Nature lovers will thrive here, surrounded by the Sierra Bermeja Mountains, where hiking trails wind through lush forests and offer breathtaking vistas of the Mediterranean. The area is home to prestigious developments like Finca Cortesin, a world-renowned golf resort ranked as Europe’s best, hosting events like the Solheim Cup and boasting luxury amenities such as Michelin-starred restaurants, spas, and pools—all accessible to property owners for an annual fee. In 2025, Casares continues to attract expats drawn to its quieter, more authentic lifestyle compared to larger coastal towns, with a focus on tradition, gastronomy, and outdoor pursuits like golf and water sports.

Just a short drive down to the coast, Casares Beach embodies unspoiled beauty with miles of golden sands, natural dunes, and lush vegetation backing the shoreline. This area, part of Casares Costa, provides a relaxed vibe with beachfront restaurants serving fresh seafood and amenities for a comfortable expat life. It’s ideal for those buying seaside properties, offering a blend of modern conveniences and natural serenity, with easy access to water sports and the vibrant Costa del Sol lifestyle when desired. In 2025, Casares Beach remains a draw for Americans seeking affordable coastal living without the crowds, with its proximity to international hubs like Gibraltar Airport making it convenient for US visits.

Neighboring Estepona, just 10-15 minutes away, complements Casares perfectly as a more vibrant coastal town that’s rapidly becoming one of Spain’s top expat destinations in 2025, thanks to over €1 billion in new developments enhancing its infrastructure and appeal. Known for its stunning Blue Flag beaches with white sands and crystal-clear waters, Estepona enjoys a subtropical climate with mild winters and warm summers, making it livable year-round. The town blends historical charm in its old quarter with modern amenities, including excellent healthcare, international schools, sports facilities, and a variety of shops, restaurants, and golf courses. Expats, especially retirees, appreciate the friendly locals, affordable living, and welcoming community that integrates newcomers seamlessly—areas like the New Golden Mile or Estepona Marina are popular for buying properties with sea views and easy access to everything. With future-focused initiatives like renewable energy projects, Estepona offers a blossoming, expat-friendly environment that’s well-connected by transport, making it a smart choice for those pairing it with a quieter home in Casares. Research priorities like airport proximity (Malaga Airport is about 45 minutes away) or family-friendly zones to find your perfect fit in this dynamic duo of locations.

Housing and Real Estate Market Spain’s real estate market is stable and growing, with average home prices ranging from €200,000 in inland areas to €500,000+ in prime coastal spots like Casares and Estepona, and values up 8.5% year-over-year. Buying is advantageous: It offers appreciation potential (especially seaside properties rising steadily in 2025), and shields against market fluctuations. Ownership provides mortgage tax relief and the freedom to customize your space. Work with a local notary and lawyer for smooth transactions, and note that foreign buyers face no major restrictions.

Personal Stories or Tips from Expats Many Americans rave about the enhanced quality of life in areas like Casares and Estepona, with one resident sharing, “The cost savings and safety made it the best decision for our family—we wish we’d bought sooner.” Common tips: Tackle bureaucracy with patience (use Gestor services for paperwork), learn basic Spanish early to avoid isolation, and join expat forums like InterNations for support. Challenges like homesickness fade with time, replaced by the joy of new traditions.

My Expertise as a Global Agent Through my Global Marketing Agent certification and network of over 9100 agents, I provide access to exclusive properties across Spain. Whether you’re selling in the US or buying here, I facilitate co-marketing and seamless deals, emphasizing purchases that build equity and support your visa.

As your guide, I’m here to match you with ideal buying opportunities—drop a comment or contact me to start!

Questions? Comment below!

Featured Listing: Finca Cortesin, Casares (Malaga) Spain

The new development stands on a hillwith stunning views of the sea, SierraBermeja and Estepona Bay and it houses a total of 51 apartments and penthouses with 2 and 3 bedrooms, spread over 6 modern-style blocks with a few units each. Completion in Q4 2025.

For all the details about this stunning community: https://natalie-prescott.myhawaii.realestate/d8rdsor9