Andalucía Explained: Property, Provinces, and Practical Access in Southern Spain

Andalucía is Spain’s largest autonomous community by area and one of its most diverse regions—both geographically and culturally. With coastlines on both the Mediterranean and Atlantic, a mix of urban centres and rural villages, and year-round sunshine, Andalucía appeals to a wide range of international property buyers.

This article breaks down the essentials for anyone considering a move or investment in the region: its provinces, transport access, and where to find accurate local information.

The Eight Provinces of Andalucía

Andalucía is divided into eight provinces, each with its own capital city and administrative services. Property laws are consistent across the region, but each province offers a different type of lifestyle and real estate landscape:

1. Almería
   Known for its arid desert landscapes, uncrowded beaches, and affordability. A favourite among buyers seeking quiet, off-the-beaten-track coastal towns.
2. Cádiz
   Home to Atlantic beaches, whitewashed towns, and the city of Jerez (famous for sherry and horses). Popular among surfers and those who prefer a less commercialised coastline.
3. Córdoba
   An inland province steeped in Moorish history. The city of Córdoba is compact and walkable, while the countryside offers rustic properties and lower prices.
4. Granada
   Offers a rare combination: ski resorts in the Sierra Nevada and Mediterranean beaches within a short drive. The city is lively with a strong student population.
5. Huelva
   Located in the far west, near Portugal. Known for its natural parks, low-key resorts, and lower property prices than its eastern neighbours.
6. Jaén
   An inland province dotted with olive groves and castles. It attracts fewer foreign buyers but offers excellent value and quiet, traditional towns.
7. Málaga
   The most internationally known province, thanks to the Costa del Sol. Málaga city has undergone a major transformation in recent years, while towns like Marbella, Estepona, and Nerja remain firm favourites.
8. Seville (Sevilla)
   The region’s capital and cultural heart. While less coastal, Seville offers a cosmopolitan city lifestyle, a strong economy, and beautiful architecture.

Airports Serving Andalucía

Andalucía is well connected to the rest of Europe via several international airports. These serve both residents and the steady flow of tourists throughout the year:

• Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP) – The busiest in the region, with year-round flights across Europe. Ideal for the Costa del Sol and eastern Andalucía.
• Seville Airport (SVQ) – A fast-growing hub serving western Andalucía, including Córdoba and Cádiz.
• Granada-Jaén Airport (GRX) – Smaller, but convenient for access to the city of Granada and Sierra Nevada.
• Almería Airport (LEI) – Useful for eastern coastal areas and some charter flights.
• Jerez Airport (XRY) – Serves the province of Cádiz and is especially convenient for residents near Jerez or the Costa de la Luz.

Regional Autonomy and Governance

As an autonomous community, Andalucía has its own regional parliament and government, known as the Junta de Andalucía. This means certain laws and policies—especially regarding property, rentals, and taxation—are specific to the region.

Key points to consider:

• Tourist licence requirements for short-term rentals are regulated at the regional level.
• Transfer tax (ITP) rates vary by region and may include exemptions or reductions for certain groups (e.g. young buyers or large families).
• Some public documents and services may use Andalusian formats or procedures slightly different from those in other parts of Spain.

While Spanish is the only official language here (unlike Catalonia or the Basque Country), you’ll find that in popular areas English-speaking services are widely available.

Official Website

For reliable, up-to-date information about regional laws, taxes, property issues, and resident services, visit the official site of the Junta de Andalucía:

▶️ https://www.juntadeandalucia.es

This portal includes sections on housing (vivienda), healthcare, education, and foreign resident support.

Lifestyle and Property Considerations

From beachfront apartments and countryside fincas to city penthouses, Andalucía offers nearly every type of property at a wide range of price points. While the Costa del Sol remains the most developed and expensive stretch, inland provinces like Jaén, Córdoba, and parts of Granada offer excellent opportunities for those seeking more space or traditional homes.

Climate varies from semi-arid in Almería, to humid Atlantic winds in Cádiz, to cold winters in mountain areas—important factors when considering heating, insulation, or air conditioning needs.

Andalucía is not a single lifestyle—it’s many. Whether you’re drawn to historic cities, sleepy fishing towns, or high-end coastal resorts, understanding the layout and access of the region is the first step toward making a confident property decision.