Dutch demand for Spanish real estate has surged, ranking among the top foreign groups. Discover why Spain appeals, where they invest, and what comes next.
Primary insight
Dutch demand for Spanish real estate has surged, ranking among the top foreign groups.
Who this is right for
Its lifestyle advantages and value still speak to many.
This town is the most popular destination for the Dutch in both property purchases and rentals.
Who this is NOT right for
However, as part of Spain residency rules for Dutch citizens, those staying more than three months need to obtain a Certificate of Registration as an EU Resident, different from a traditional visa.
However, the Netherlands and Spain have a double taxation treaty, preventing Dutch expats from being taxed twice on the same income.
Key facts
Now, Dutch buyers rank 3rd overall, having jumped to 2nd among international buyers in Q4 last year.
According to the latest OECD report, 21% of emigrating citizens chose Spain in 2023.
The work and life balance is one thing, but the lower housing and living costs in Spain are one of the reasons buyers make the move.
Meanwhile, Dutch entrepreneurs start businesses in Spain, taking advantage of the low upfront costs and the large tourist economy.
Where Dutch Demand in Spain is the StrongestAccording to the latest market data, Dutch demand is most visible in the Alicante province of Costa Blanca, which is one of the most preferred regions in.
Area and market breakdown
Dutch homebuyers play an active role in the housing market, buying property in Spain for personal relocation or investment. These towns form a clear pattern within the province where Dutch presence is strong in areas with easy access to the Alicante and Valencia airports, as well as established expat communities. Within Catalonia, the northern Spanish coast, Dutch demand is the strongest in Girona province, placing the Netherlands as the second biggest foreign group just behind France. Dutch buyers are also notably active in Granada province, Spain's southern coast.
Key areas in Marbella
Golden Mile
Nueva Andalucía
Puerto Banús
Marbella Old Town
Is Marbella a good property investment in 2026?
Discover why Spain appeals, where they invest, and what comes next. The Evolving Presence of Dutch The Netherlands used to be a secondary market in Spain, with Dutch buyers coming after the British, German, French, Moroccan, and Romanian. Last year, they made a sharp jump, leaving behind all but the British and Germans, becoming one of the fastest-growing markets in Spain for property.
Merilista verdict
The trend also suggests that lifestyle motivations and investment goals are increasingly merging, with Dutch retirees and second-home owners increasingly making the permanent move. Remote Work Dutch expats can work remotely while living in Spain with no additional permits.
*Related: property investment Spain · buying real estate in Spain · Spain property market 2026*
[→ See current Marbella property data on Merilista](/en/spain/marbella)
*For informational purposes only. Not investment advice. Source: TEKCE Real Estate, rewritten by Merilista.*
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