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Ciudad Quesada / Rojales

Housing in Ciudad Quesada

Neighbourhoods, renting, buying and typical prices

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In short

Buying in Ciudad Quesada is affordable, with asking prices from €55,000 and a typical two-bedroom apartment around €120,000. Renting long-term costs from €950 per month. The most popular areas are the original urbanisation and the newer developments near the golf course. For a traditional Spanish feel, consider Rojales town, 3 km away.

Quick facts

  • As of October 2026, idealista lists 1,146 properties for sale in Ciudad Quesada, with asking prices from €55,000.
  • Long-term rentals on idealista start from €950 per month.
  • The regional transfer tax (ITP) in the Valencian Community is 10% for resale properties.
  • Tourist rentals in the Valencian Community require a licence from the regional government.
  • Ongoing costs include IBI and community fees, which vary by property; check the seller's last year's bills.

Ciudad Quesada, part of Rojales municipality, is one of the Costa Blanca's most established expat communities. With over 11,000 residents in the urbanisation alone, it offers a mix of purpose-built villas, townhouses and apartments. The key thing to know is that this is a resort-style living area, not a traditional Spanish town, and property prices are generally lower than the coast's more famous resorts.

Market Overview

The market in Ciudad Quesada is active, with 1,146 properties listed for sale on idealista as of October 2026. Asking prices start from €55,000 for a small apartment and rise to over €300,000 for detached villas. The area attracts a high proportion of foreign buyers, particularly British and Scandinavian, drawn by the climate and value for money. New developments continue to appear, especially around the golf course and the commercial centre. The market is seasonal, with more activity in the spring and autumn.

Neighbourhoods

Ciudad Quesada is a sprawling urbanisation that includes several distinct areas. The original development around the commercial centre is the most established, with a mix of villas and apartments. To the east, towards the salt lakes, are newer developments with larger plots. The historic town of Rojales, about 3 km away, offers a more traditional Spanish feel with its cave houses and weekly market. Lo Marabú, to the south, is another residential area with its own health centre. Each area has its own character, so it's worth exploring before committing. The urbanisation is well-served by shops, bars and restaurants, but you'll need a car for most errands.

Property Types

The most common property types are detached and semi-detached villas, townhouses, and ground-floor or first-floor apartments. Many are built in the typical Spanish resort style with white walls, terracotta roofs, and private or communal pools. New builds often come with modern fittings and energy ratings, while resale properties may need updating. For example, Zoopla lists new villas on 530 m² plots, and apartments with private solariums and parking. There are also older properties that offer more space for the money. A typical two-bedroom apartment might be around 80-100 m², while a villa can range from 150 to 300 m².

Buying: Costs and Taxes

When buying a resale property, budget for the regional transfer tax (ITP) at 10% of the purchase price, plus notary, registry and legal fees, which typically add another 2-3%. For new builds, you pay 10% VAT plus stamp duty. It's essential to use a local lawyer who can check the property's legal status, including any outstanding debts or planning issues. The process is straightforward but requires patience, especially with the NIE number and bank account setup. You'll also need to budget for ongoing costs such as IBI (local property tax) and community fees, which vary by property.

Renting Long-Term

Long-term rentals are available but less common than holiday lets. idealista lists properties from €950 per month, with a typical two-bedroom apartment around €1,000-€1,200. Many landlords prefer seasonal lets, so you may need to negotiate for a yearly contract. The demand for long-term rentals is high, so act quickly when you find a suitable property. Local estate agents and online portals are the best places to search. Be prepared to provide references and a deposit, usually one month's rent.

Tourist Rental Licences

If you plan to rent out your property to tourists, you need a licence from the Valencian regional government. The process involves registering the property and meeting certain standards, such as having a tourist licence number displayed. Many properties in Ciudad Quesada are already licensed, but you should verify this before purchase. The rules are strict, and fines for unlicensed rentals are significant. The licence must be renewed periodically, and you'll need to pay a fee.

Viewings and Due Diligence

When viewing properties, check the community fees and IBI amounts, as these vary widely. Ask for the last year's bills and the community accounts. Verify that the property has the correct licences, especially if it's been used for tourist rentals. It's also wise to check the urbanisation's maintenance standards and any planned developments nearby. A local lawyer can handle the legal checks, but you should also visit at different times of day to assess noise and occupancy. Check the orientation of the property for sun and shade, and inspect for damp or structural issues.

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Ciudad Quesada offers excellent value for money compared to the coast, with a large expat community and all amenities within easy reach. It's ideal for those who want a sunny, low-maintenance lifestyle without the high prices of Alicante or Torrevieja. However, it lacks the charm of a traditional Spanish town, and the summer months can be busy with tourists. If you're looking for a permanent home or a rental investment, it's a solid choice, but do your homework on the specific urbanisation and its fees.

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