Driven by remote working, lifestyle migration, limited housing supply, and increasing international demand, these villages offer an attractive combination of value, quality of life, and long-term investment potential.

According to the latest population data, the Marina Alta continues to grow steadily, with several municipalities recording significant increases in residents during the past year.

• Why Population Growth Matters
• El Verger – The Region's Fastest Rising Star
• Beniarbeig – Quiet Growth with Excellent Connectivity
• Benimeli – Small Village, Big Potential
• Ondara – Infrastructure Driving Growth
• Ràfol d'Almúnia – Hidden Gem in the Valley
• Benidoleig – Increasing Popularity
• What About Moraira, Jávea and Dénia?
• Why Inland Villages Are Becoming More Popular
  • Remote Working
  • Better Value
  • International Demand
  • Limited Coastal Supply
• Is Now a Good Time to Invest?
• Final Thoughts

Why Population Growth Matters

Population growth is often one of the strongest indicators of an area's future property market.

Growing communities usually benefit from:

• Increased demand for housing
• Better local infrastructure
• New businesses and services
• Stronger long-term property appreciation
• More vibrant year-round communities

For property buyers and investors, these trends often translate into stronger capital growth and sustained demand.

El Verger – The Region's Fastest Rising Star

El Verger has become one of the Marina Alta's biggest success stories.

Recent statistics show nearly 4% annual population growth, making it one of the fastest-growing municipalities in the comarca. At the same time, local property prices have surged dramatically thanks to new residential developments and its proximity to Dénia's beaches.

Why buyers love El Verger

• Minutes from Dénia
• Easy motorway access
• New developments
• Growing international community
• Excellent value compared with neighbouring coastal towns

As Dénia continues to become more expensive, many buyers are discovering that El Verger offers similar lifestyle benefits at a lower entry price.

Beniarbeig – Quiet Growth with Excellent Connectivity

Beniarbeig has quietly become one of the Marina Alta's strongest-performing inland villages.

With population growth exceeding 3.7%, the village is attracting families, retirees, and remote workers seeking peaceful living while remaining close to beaches, shopping centres, and motorway links.

Highlights include:

• Traditional Spanish atmosphere
• Larger homes
• Competitive prices
• Close to Ondara Shopping Centre
• 15 minutes to Dénia

Benimeli – Small Village, Big Potential

Although small in size, Benimeli recorded one of the highest percentage population increases in the Marina Alta.

Its elevated position offers spectacular mountain and valley views, while remaining only minutes from the coast.

Increasing numbers of international buyers are attracted by:

• Authentic village lifestyle
• Scenic surroundings
• Affordable villas
• Peace and privacy
• Easy access to beaches

Ondara – Infrastructure Driving Growth

Ondara continues to benefit from its strategic location and excellent infrastructure.

Population has grown steadily while the town has also experienced notable property price appreciation. The presence of Portal de la Marina shopping centre, healthcare facilities, and motorway access makes it particularly attractive for permanent residents.

Why buyers choose Ondara:

• Excellent transport links
• Year-round amenities
• Strong rental demand
• More affordable than Dénia
• Growing local economy

Ràfol d'Almúnia – Hidden Gem in the Valley

Often overlooked, Ràfol d'Almúnia has experienced healthy population growth while maintaining its peaceful rural character.

The village appeals to buyers looking for:

• Mountain views
• Quiet lifestyle
• Traditional Spanish charm
• Easy access to beaches within 20 minutes

Its limited housing supply may also help support future property values.

Benidoleig – Increasing Popularity

Benidoleig combines authentic village life with excellent access to the coast.

Population growth reflects increasing interest from international buyers seeking larger homes with outdoor space.

Popular features include:

• Famous Cova de les Calaveres
• Beautiful countryside
• Affordable detached villas
• Friendly international community

What About Moraira, Jávea and Dénia?

The Marina Alta's best-known coastal towns continue to experience steady growth, although naturally at a slower percentage rate due to their already large populations.

These destinations remain among Spain's most desirable property markets thanks to:

• International reputation
• Luxury real estate
• Excellent beaches
• Marina facilities
• Strong tourism sector

While percentage population growth may appear smaller, demand for premium homes remains exceptionally strong.

Why Inland Villages Are Becoming More Popular

Several long-term trends are reshaping the Marina Alta property market.

Remote Working

More professionals now work from home and prioritise lifestyle over commuting.

Better Value

Inland villages often offer larger homes and plots for significantly lower prices than the coast.

International Demand

Buyers from Northern Europe continue relocating for the region's climate, healthcare, and quality of life.

Limited Coastal Supply

With limited space for new coastal developments, surrounding villages are increasingly benefiting from spillover demand.

Is Now a Good Time to Invest?

While no property market can guarantee future returns, villages showing consistent population growth often have favourable long-term fundamentals.

Areas experiencing:

• increasing population,
• improving infrastructure,
• growing international demand, and
• limited housing supply

are generally well positioned for sustainable property market growth.

As always, buyers should consider location, property quality, and their own investment goals rather than relying solely on recent growth trends.

Final Thoughts

The Marina Alta is evolving. While coastal favourites like Moraira, Jávea, and Dénia remain highly desirable, a new generation of inland villages is attracting increasing attention from buyers seeking better value, authentic Spanish living, and long-term growth potential.

Whether you're looking for a permanent home, holiday property, or investment opportunity, villages such as El Verger, Beniarbeig, Ondara, Benidoleig, Benimeli, and Ràfol d'Almúnia deserve a place on your shortlist.

As population growth continues across much of the Marina Alta, these communities are likely to play an increasingly important role in the region's future.