As rental prices across Spain’s Costa del Sol continue to rise, many expats, digital nomads and retirees are looking further afield and further inland for more affordable, long-term rentals in 2026. Data from Idealista shows that big savings are still possible, especially once you move away from the glamour of the coast. How often do you go to the beach anyway? Here are the most budget-friendly towns and neighbourhoods in Malaga province heading into 2026.
Why inland Malaga is well worth a look in 2026
While Marbella, Fuengirola and Malaga rarely drop below €15 to €20 per m², the province’s inland towns continue to offer remarkable bang for a buck. Lower tourist pressure and a more traditional pace of life keep rents stable, making inland Malaga one of the last true affordable pockets within driving distance of a beach.
Top 5 Cheapest Towns to Rent in Malaga Province in 2026
1. Ronda – €7.64/m²
Still the undisputed champion of affordability, the dramatic clifftop town of Ronda offers average rents of just €7.64 per square metre. With its breathtaking gorge, historic bullring and peaceful mountain setting, Ronda combines low costs with an exceptionally high quality of life in 2026. If you’re still not fully up to speed with the lingo, don’t worry too much, as Ronda has quite an interesting expat lifestyle and is increasingly popular with Americans wanting history, natural beauty and to be away from the hubbub.
2. Antequera – €8.68/m²
Just 45 minutes north of Malaga city, Antequera is famous for its UNESCO-listed dolmens and stunning El Torcal nature reserve. At €8.68/m², it remains one of the best-value historic towns in Andalusia.
3. Coin – €11.79/m²
This has been a long-time favourite and an escape for those who have been price-squeezed out of once affordable spots like Estepona, who don’t mind forsaking beaches for the fertile Guadalhorce Valley. Coin provides easy access to Malaga city, Fuengirola and Marbella (30-minute drive in each direction) while keeping rents almost 50 per cent lower than the capital. Perfect for commuters who want countryside living on a budget. Although, the clock is ticking and prices are rising fast.
4. Velez-Malaga – €12.52/m²
The largest town in the Axarquia region offers a genuine Spanish atmosphere, weekly markets and quick access to the coast, all at an average of €10 per m². A thriving expat community keeps conversations flowing and local know-how readily on hand.
5. Torre del Mar (Costa del Sol) – €13.46/m²
The cheapest true coastal option for 2026. As part of the Velez-Malaga municipality, Torre del Mar gives you beaches, a long promenade and all services at a fraction of the price of Marbella or Estepona. Although get a move on, as prices are rising all the time.
Honourable coastal mention: Manilva (€12.56/m²) on the western Costa del Sol, close to Gibraltar and Sotogrande, although this is tipped to be the next boom town and swallowed into the new so-called “Golden Triangle” between Marbella, Estepona and Benahavis.
(All current average prices listed on indomino.es)
Most reasonably priced neighbourhoods inside Malaga City for 2026
If you prefer to live in buzz of the capital but want to keep costs down, these outer districts offer the best value:
Campanillas – €13.94/m²
Ciudad Jardín – €14.70/m² – (up more than €2 per square metre in 6 months)
Puerto de la Torre – €13.40/m²
All three areas have good bus and metro links, supermarkets, schools and a relaxed residential feel, yet remain up to 50 per cent cheaper than the historic centre or beachfront districts.
Is 2026 the right time to grab a reasonably priced Malaga rental?
With demand continuing to rise along the coast and new remote workers discovering the province every month, estate agents predict modest price increases for 2026. Towns like Ronda, Antequera and Coin are likely to remain the most affordable, but locking in a long-term contract now could protect you from future hikes.
Whether you dream of mountain views in Ronda, easy city access from Coin, or affordable beach life in Torre del Mar, Malaga province still offers some of the best rental bargains on the entire Costa del Sol area in 2026.