Finding a rental property in Malaga

Just arrived in Malaga and looking for somewhere to live? Finding housing in Malaga has become increasingly competitive in recent years, especially if you want to rent an apartment in the city centre.

With Malaga forging a strong international reputation as a place to live, work and study, demand for rentals has surged.

Prices have risen sharply as more landlords convert long-term rentals into holiday lets for Airbnb or target Erasmus students. As a result, renting in Malaga now requires preparation, speed and realistic expectations.

That said, if you follow the advice below, you will significantly improve your chances of finding a home that suits your needs and budget.

Types of residential buildings in Malaga

When renting in Malaga, you will mostly be looking at apartments. Detached houses and villas exist, but they are far less common in the city and usually much more expensive.

Most rental properties are located in apartment blocks, particularly in central areas and established neighbourhoods. Older buildings often lack lifts, insulation and soundproofing, while newer developments (more common in areas like Teatinos or Carretera de Cádiz) tend to offer better construction standards and modern facilities.

Townhouses and houses are more typical on the outskirts or in nearby towns rather than in central Malaga.

Best websites for renting an apartment in Malaga

Although you may still spot adverts taped to lampposts or shop windows, searching online is by far the most effective way to find an apartment to rent in Malaga.

That’s said, one of the most frustrating aspects of renting in Malaga is poor communication. Many landlords do not respond to messages sent through property portals, and it is common for adverts to remain online long after the property has been rented.

If a phone number is listed, always call. If your Spanish is limited, sending a short WhatsApp message is usually acceptable and far more effective than using website contact forms.

Short-term rentals (under three months)

If you are staying in Malaga for a short period, a lot of good deals can be found on Airbnb (outside of peak summer time). Likewise, many owners share property listings (both short and long-term) on Facebook, whether in local groups or on Marketplace.

Long-term rentals in Malaga

However, if you’re planning on staying long-term (at least six months), we recommend using either Idealista (with its ‘draw your own map’ function) or the similar Fotocasa.

If you’re looking for a room in an apartment shared with others, Piso Compartido, as the name suggests, has a strong focus on that.

Legal basics of renting in Spain

For long-term rentals (vivienda habitual), Spanish law provides several tenant protections:

• The deposit (fianza) is usually one month’s rent and must be registered with the Andalusian regional government
• Contracts are typically signed for one year, with the right to renew up to five years
• Annual rent increases are regulated

Temporary or seasonal contracts up to 11 months (contrato de temporada) offer fewer protections and are commonly used for students and short-term residents.

Documents you may need to rent an apartment in Malaga

In a competitive rental market, having your paperwork ready can make a real difference. Landlords in Malaga commonly request:

• Passport or NIE
• Proof of income or work contract
• Recent bank statements
• Spanish bank account details
• In some cases, a Spanish guarantor

The best neighbourhoods to rent in Malaga

Choosing the right area is just as important as finding the right apartment. Here is a brief overview of popular neighbourhoods:

• Centro Histórico (city centre) is ideal for nightlife and culture, but it can be quite expensive and/or noisy. Many buildings are old and poorly insulated.
• Teatinos is incredibly popular with students and young professionals. It has newer buildings, better insulation and good transport links.
• Huelin is close to the beach and more affordable than the centre (unless you want frontline). It has a good balance between local life and amenities.
• Carretera de Cádiz is one of the most affordable areas with excellent metro connections, but lacks cosmopolitan energy.
• El Palo and Pedregalejo are Malaga’s traditional seaside districts, popular with families and remote workers. However, demand is high.

In 2025, long-term rentals in Malaga typically range from €700 to €1,200 per month for a one-bedroom apartment, depending on the area.

Michael Fee

Michael is a Scottish property specialist who has called Malaga home since 2019. With experience managing short-term rentals, he knows what makes a property stand out and what makes it a smart investment. Now, he helps clients find homes or investment opportunities across the Costa del Sol, from Malaga to Nerja and Estepona. For expert guidance, contact him at property@malagaguru.com.