The best areas to live in Almería

There's no "best" area in the abstract: there's a best area for you. The key is to match your lifestyle (car-free city living, the beach every day, family calm, nature) with your budget and your daily routines (work, schools, transport).

Within just a few kilometres, Almería brings together very different realities: the buzz of the centre, the urban beach of El Zapillo, the new build beside the golf course in Retamar and El Toyo, and the protected nature of Cabo de Gata. Below we run through the most sought-after areas to call home.

The historic old town is the heart of the city: pedestrian streets, long-established shops, culture, and the Alcazaba fortress presiding over it all. Living in the centre means sorting out almost everything on foot, among squares, markets and pavement cafés.

It suits anyone who values city life without relying on a car: first homes, professionals, and investors drawn by the steady demand. In return, parking is what you'd expect of any historic centre, and it's worth paying attention to the condition of the building.

El Zapillo combines the best of both worlds: the beach right on your doorstep and an established neighbourhood feel, with every amenity and a lively atmosphere all year round. Its long seafront promenade is one of the city's great draws.

It's a much-sought-after area for families and for anyone who wants to wake up near the sea without giving up the convenience of the city. Its proximity to the beach also makes it appealing as a rental investment.

Retamar and El Toyo are the most modern face of the Almería coast: recent developments, generous space, a golf course and the beach, just minutes from the city and very close to the Cabo de Gata Natural Park. El Toyo, in fact, grew up around the area's sporting and residential development.

They suit anyone after new build, space and a quiet setting geared to life outdoors. They appeal to families and international buyers alike looking for a second home beside the Mediterranean.

Cabo de Gata is nature at its purest: a natural park of unspoilt coves, charming villages and one of the best-preserved stretches of the Mediterranean coast. To live here is to put calm, landscape and closeness to the sea ahead of the bustle.

It suits anyone seeking tranquillity, contact with nature, a second home or a gentler pace of life. As it's a protected area, it pays to research the planning rules of each village carefully before you buy.

If you want everything on foot and city life, the centre. If you dream of the beach every day with a real neighbourhood feel, El Zapillo. If you're after new build, space and golf, Retamar or El Toyo. If nature and calm are your thing, Cabo de Gata. And there are more very comfortable residential areas worth getting to know (Vega de Acá, Nueva Almería, La Cañada).

The best thing is to test your shortlist on the ground. We know every neighbourhood street by street and can point you towards the area that fits you best, with no obligation.