Living in Mojácar offers a relaxed lifestyle with an Andalusian culture and modern conveniences. Residents enjoy a warm, welcoming community, along with a peaceful environment and plenty of things to do.
The diversity in culture is celebrated and the stunning natural surroundings have been the object of many awards. The marine seabed of Mojacar is a Protected Area with extensive seagrass and home to sea turtles.
It has everything you need, good schools, good transport system, shops, beautiful beaches, mountains to walk through or simply to look at. The atmosphere is tranquil and safe and people from all walks in life live here in harmony.
Moving to Mojacar can be stress-free with a detailed plan and a checklist. To avoid the biggest mistakes when moving to Spain, we recommend reading our article about common mistakes when retiring to Spain.
Mojacar preserves its Al- Andalus roots. It was the agreement made to peacefully surrender to the Catholic Monarchs in 1488, preserving the narrow streets and white townhouse architecture. Even before formal urban planning regulations (introduced in 1987), the town’s inhabitants and new settlers prioritized maintaining aesthetic harmony and unobstructed views. The planning guidelines limited construction to two stories, focusing on horizontal growth.
Mojacar is one of the most beautiful towns in Spain, according to Michelin Editions and officially recognized as a member of the prestigious European Network of Family-Friendly Cities. Also, the Telegraph newspaper stated that Mojacar is one of the top 20 seaside towns.
Key symbols include the Mojaquera, a figure representing local women carrying water jars, and the Indalo, a prehistoric symbol of a figure holding a rainbow believed to bring good luck. Mojácar is also home to unique stories, including a local legend that Walt Disney was born there, although unproven.
When visiting Mojacar one realises that there is something here that sets it apart, that really takes your breath away. The beauty of the surroundings is extraordinary and the town takes you back to Muslim and Roman times. It has a unique legacy that you won’t see anywhere else in Spain. Residents are social, open and respectful to everyone, they celebrate their multicultural roots with festivals all year around.
Mojácar also shares the Mediterranean climate with over 3000 hours of sun a year so outdoor activities are also arranged by the town hall, like Ruta Pirata or Ruta “De un pasado al presente” from the Sierra de Cabrera mountains to the Cabo de Gata Natural Park. There are numerous protected areas to explore including the only desert of Europe, Tabernas Desert.
To obtain a Spanish Residency visa , apply only if staying longer than 90 days. EU citizens don’t need a visa for short stays, while non-EU nationals require a Schengen visa for up to 90 days within 180 days. For longer stays, you must apply for residency, which lasts about a year and can be renewed. The application process varies for EU and non-EU citizens.
Mojácar Town Council has several initiatives that promote work-life balance and quality of life. They offer therapeutic exercise workshops for older residents, playroom areas for children led by professionals and activities like yoga classes or joint climbing workshops. They also organise mountain hikes and visitors can explore over 200 m² of exhibits of Mojácar’s heritage. The council also hosts the biggest British Community Library with over 15,000 English books. Membership is €12 annually, but Spanish citizens can join for free.
There are currently 300 members.
Living in Mojacar also offers the benefits of living near the sea, rich in negative ions and access to numerous recreational and therapeutic activities that improve physical health.
Kelisto has published its latest report on the most expensive and economical Spanish provincial capitals, analyzing 17 products and services across six categories: housing, taxes, utility bills, public and private transport, food and leisure. Almería ranks 32nd overall, with a household income 3.45% below the national average. The city’s housing market is notably affordable with home prices 30.6% below the national average and rental costs are 28.9% lower. In terms of taxes, Almería has moderate costs, with property tax (IBI) 21% higher than average and vehicle tax slightly above average. Although Mojacar is in Almeria it is also the most expensive part of Almeria to rent and buy property, with the highest annual variations, according to Idealista – still a lot cheaper than Malaga and among the most affordable tourist towns in Andalucia.
Mojacar has a long and strong high peak season for tourism and the economy is driven by the sectors of services, retail and construction. Its growth is tied to a regional collaboration with nearby towns like Garrucha, Vera, Cuevas del Almanzora and Pulpí, which collectively form the economic engine of Levante Almeriense. It has the infrastructure and the potential to continue growing.
This is validated by a recent €39.5 million investment to develop 125 homes at the ‘Macenas Mediterranean Resort‘ all with sea view and exclusive amenities. The resort aims for sustainability and low impact construction.
According to SIMA and the city council, Mojácar offers over 12,000 accommodation spots for tourism, including 30 hotels, 11 hostels and 467 buy-to-rent properties. In the year 2023, just under 300.000 visited Mojacar, 75% were Spanish, mainly from Madrid and Andalucia and 25% were international tourists, mainly from the United Kingdom and France.
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There are a number of legal, administrative and tax aspects to follow if you decide to move to Mojacar. Key points are explained here with emphasis on Legal Residency for Non- EU Citizens in Spain.
Non EU citizens who intend to stay in Mojacar for more than 90 days should obtain the visa before travelling to Spain.
Two of the most commonly used visas for Non-EU citizens, including UK citizens, are Spain non-lucrative residence permit and Spanish Digital Nomad Visa
Proof of means.
Private health insurance or S1 form.
Criminal record certificate
Medical certificate confirming good health
You can initiate your process at the Spanish Consulate of your country or at an Immigration Office in Spain. We recommend you to apply in Spain; this is usually cheaper and faster. Nevertheless, before moving, we highly advise you to consult an immigration lawyer to check what documents you may need and avoid problems.
Among the legal matters to consider, we should keep the following in mind:
If you plan to work, make sure your visa allows you to carry out work activities. Workers must register with the Spanish social security system to access healthcare services and benefits or, alternatively, have an A1 form.
Property purchase: There are no restrictions on buying property in Spain by non-EU citizens but we advise hiring an attorney to overlook the buying procedure.
Taxations: A person moving to Spain and residing for more than 183 days is considered as a tax resident, and thus, he will be subject to tax obligations for his or hers worldwide income.
Key taxes you’ll likely encounter:
Personal Income Tax (IRPF): Imposed upon tax residents.
Foreign Assets Declaration: Tax residents have to report assets and rights located outside Spain by utilizing Form 720. These include bank accounts, investments, insurance policies and real estate.
Wealth Tax: Applicable to taxpayers whose assets in Spain exceed a certain limit.
Property Tax (IBI): To be paid annually if you own a property within Mojácar.
Do you need a professional help for moving to Mojacar?
Currently, there are over 500 properties for sale in Mojácar, representing 15% of the total properties built in the area. The market is evenly split, with 50% being apartments and flats, and the other 50% villas and houses. According to Idealista the average price to buy property in Mojacar is 2.174 €/m2 as of December 24, this is 8.4% more than 2023.
Mojacar has experienced a steady increase of property prices since 2015 with the exception of the covid year, where properties dropped slightly.
Mojacar pueblo area has the cheapest prices at 1.442 €/m2 and Mojacar Playa the most expensive zone at 2.567 €/m2
Regarding renting prices, it’s 28% more expensive to rent in Mojacar since December 2021. The average price is now 9,1 €/m2, compared to the broader Andalucía region, which has experienced a 31.8% increase. Mojácar’s rental prices are slightly lower but they follow the same trend Spain is experiencing with the long rental market in tourist areas.
Buying and paying a mortgage is usually cheaper than renting, especially in areas like Costa del Sol, where long-term rental prices have gone up due to the high demand for vacation rentals. Renting offers flexibility and requires less upfront money, but it might not always be the cheapest option in the long run. If you buy a property and things change you can sell it or rent it. Buying a property, you’ll need around 30% of the home’s value for the down payment and additional costs. Experts recommend not spending more than 35-40% of your income on payments, including your mortgage.
If you’re looking to buy an estate in Mojácar, you will need a valid passport, a Foreign National Identification Number (NIE) and a Spanish bank account. Also, you should get familiar with the the real cost of buying a property in Spain
To ensure a reliable transaction, it is advisable to hire a bilingual and independent lawyer. Our office offers legal, tax and urban planning advice to ensure a smooth and hassle-free buying experience, which will guide you through the entire process up to the change of ownership of the different utilities and taxes associated with the home.
The purchase and sale process includes the acceptance of the offer, the reservation agreement, a legal review, and signing of the private contract. It ends with the signing of the deed, delivery of keys, change of ownership of the property in the corresponding Property Registry, as well as the change of utilities, i.e. contracts for water, electricity, etc.
The main costs when buying a home in Spain include:
New properties: 10% VAT (IVA) plus 1.2% Stamp Duty (AJD).
Resale properties: 7% Transfer Tax (ITP).
Notary, Land Registry and legal fees.
Once you own the property, you’ll also have ongoing tax obligations, such as:
Property Tax (IBI), paid annually.
Non-Resident Income Tax, if you don’t live in Spain full-time.
Rental Income Tax, if you rent out the property.
Mojacar is divided into two areas: Mojácar Pueblo, with its narrow streets and white houses in Arabic style and Mojácar Playa, with Blue Flag beaches and crystal waters.
Mojácar Pueblo sits on the Sierra de Cabrera mountain range and it has panoramic views of the sea. The streets are adorned with flowers and the townhouses preserve an Arabic-style architecture. La Plaza del Parterre was an old muslim graveyard and Plaza Nueva has its origins in the 16th century, just underneath there is a cave linked to a medieval legend involving a young woman, Mariquita and a sorcerer who cured the plague.
On the other hand, Mojácar Playa offers six beautiful beaches, perfect for water sports, relaxing, enjoying local food and taking in breathtaking sunsets. Mojácar’s 3 kms seafront promenade is very lively in the summer, lined with palm trees and many restaurants, beach bars, shops and other tourist infrastructure. The pedestrian area closest to the beach is bike-friendly.
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First, take care of maintenance tasks like cleaning, checking smoke alarms, locks and making sure systems are working properly. Find out where your water valve is and where the electrical fuse panel is. Set up the essential utilities and a security system if needed. If you have pets, make sure you update their registration. Unpack first the furniture and move to smaller items later.
It is important to research local business to gather a listing maintenance plan with phone numbers for when you need them. Also decide which school/college your children will be attending and the local network of public transport.
Update your address and take care of all the paperwork relating to taxes and residence permits. If you are thinking of moving to Mojacar from a non-European country, read our article Guide fo foreigner on buying property in Spain . It is a detailed step by step guide for legally complying with Spanish regulations and therefore securing your investment.
These include electricity, gas, water and internet/phone. If you have an existing account changing names is not difficult but if you are getting first connection it will take longer. Most markets are liberalised so you can choose and change providers. Water is an exemption as it is managed by the town hall. Mojacar has 5G and fibre optic so internet speed is not a problem. As a general rule Spain has a more expensive electricity and internet/phone costs compared to other European counterparts but gas and water are cheaper. Read our article “ Guide to setting up water, electricity, and internet in Spain” for full set up instructions
Mojacar has 3 public health centers with emergency services with multiple medical and nursing consultations, a critical care room and respiratory treatment areas. The center also offers family medicine, pediatrics, dentistry, veterinary health services and a multipurpose room for procedures such as cytology exams and minor surgery. The nearest hospital is in Huércal-Overa and it takes just over an hour by bus from Mojácar Playa or 20 mins by car.
For specialised treatments many residents and visitors opt for private healthcare often with a multilingual staff and modern technology. Either option provides high quality medical services.
The public and private healthcare sectors in Mojácar, as in many other towns in Spain, coexist to complement each other. The basic public health care system offers free services of the highest quality to all citizens of this country through a national health care system.
While those who want to go through the private healthcare route either because of a preference for speed of appointment or a wish to choose a wider choice of specialists or facilities. Private clinics in Mojácar and neighbouring areas carry out specialized medical services but access is usually on condition that either private health insurance or direct payment is available.
Deciding on public or private healthcare depends on personal needs, money and the degree of urgency for medical treatments
To obtain a private health insurance scheme in Spain, you will need to provide personal and medical information. Conditions differ by company, but generally, serious pre-existing conditions are excluded from insurance coverage. Coverage of some plans may be subject to waiting periods for certain services.
International tax consultation may ensure appropriate application of double taxation agreements, thereby reducing tax burdens with optimizing financial solutions protecting their overall financial standing.
To obtain a private health insurance scheme in Spain, you will need to provide personal and medical information. Conditions differ by company, but generally, serious pre-existing conditions are excluded from insurance coverage. Coverage of some plans may be subject to waiting periods for certain services.
International tax consultation may ensure appropriate application of double taxation agreements, thereby reducing tax burdens with optimizing financial solutions protecting their overall financial standing.
Opening a local bank account is one of the very first things to deal with when relocating to Mojácar. Spain offers various banking options for expatriates, these banks have services aligned to fit international clientele.
For opening a bank account, you would generally need a valid ID, NIE (Foreigner Identification Number) and proof of address.
Mojacar is a mix of nationalities living together in an intercultural dialogue. They celebrate this diversity with a plethora of festivals related to culture, food and art. Out of the 7500 residents, 19% are born in Mojacar, 28% moved from other parts of Spain and a staggering 54% have emigrated from abroad according to the city council.
The community of Mojacar is open and welcoming and very used to seeing new faces, always ready to share a conversation with visitors—many of whom eventually become residents themselves. They are also deeply connected to their environment, adorning their homes and streets with pots and flowers.
Mojacar has a large english speaking community and the Town Hall organises free Spanish classes for beginner and intermediate/advanced levels. The classes are very popular and sometimes current demand exceeds availability but there are other language schools in the area that teach Spanish.
Mojacar is laid back and so are their social interactions, relaxed and respectful. For years famous people like actors and painters would travel to Mojacar and find discretion and an inclusive community where locals and foreigners coexist harmoniously. The “mojaqueros” are proud of their history and their surroundings.
In Spain, education is obligatory from 6 to 16 years old and it is divided into four stages that go from early childhood to high school. Public education is free, offering a standardized curriculum. Private schools charge tuition and provide personalized programs, smaller class sizes and additional extracurricular activities. Approximately 69% of Spanish students attend public schools, while around 30% enroll in semi-private (concertados) and 3% in fully private schools, according to Europe
In Mojácar, the public school options include Bartolomé Flores School and Rey Alavez College with over 400 students of 28 nationalities. Pupils with limited Spanish are supported through the ATAL language adaptation program and the PROA project, which provides guidance for all students. The facility has been fully upgraded in painting, plumbing and electrical systems, as well as improved rainwater drainage and a reinforced recreation area.
Mojácar Council invested €36,000 to ensure the school and its Infant School counterpart are ready and safe for the academic year. For private schooling, The SEK Alborán School in El Ejido and The British School of Almería in Roquetas de Mar are ranked among the top 100 private or semi-private schools in Spain, according to Forbes.
ValdeSerra International School offers a private, bilingual, and non-denominational education for students aged 1 to 18. Following the Spanish curriculum, it prioritizes English and German as foreign languages. The school focuses on personalized learning through the Wonder educational model, tailored to each student’s style and interests, while fostering lifelong learning. Technology is integrated as a tool for education and the school emphasizes responsibility, respect and effort in a supportive environment led by professional educators.
Do you need a professional help for moving to Mojacar?
Urban buses in Mojacar are frequent and on time. The aim is to promote public transport as a sustainable, eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative to private cars, reducing parking issues. Also the council offers public transport during the night. Residents of Mojácar aged 65 and older can use local buses for free by applying for a special bus pass at the Town Hall. For other users, the ticket price is €1.20, payable in cash.
The Mojácar Town Council has three routes for public transport connecting the municipality.
Line 1 connects Sopalmo to Mojácar Pueblo.
Line 2 links Marina de la Torre to Mojácar Pueblo, adding service along Avenida del Mar to reach hotels in Marina de la Torre.
Line 3 runs along the Paseo Marítimo.
Alsa buses provide longer routes from Mojacar to other major cities like Alicante, Madrid, Albacete, Granada and Murcia, the most popular. Mojácar to Malaga is just over 30 euros.
Taxi is also another option, a short trip within Mojacar can cost 7 euros and a longer one around 14 euros. A visit to the Desert Spring in a taxi can set you back 40 euros.
Cycling is pleasant in Mojacar with good weather and well-maintained roads, a mix of flat coastal cycling and inland climbs for all skill levels. It is cycle-friendly, with many hotels accommodating cyclists and numerous bike rental companies available.
If you have relocated to Mojácar and registered for residency in Spain, you could exchange your driver’s license during the first six months, provided your country has a valid agreement with Spain. A confirmation can be obtained from the General Directorate of Traffic DGT – Canjes de permisos extranjeros
By this process, you get a Spanish license to the same effect as your license, covering all categories (cars, motorcycles, buses). If there is no agreement, you would be expected to pass both the theory and the practical tests in order to acquire a Spanish license.
On the whole, driver’s licenses from the European Union, the European Economic Area and those countries with formal agreements with Spain are exchanged, as well some professional licenses even without prior agreement.
Mojacar has seen the level of unemployment drop since 2020 when it was reaching 20% of the population. Now the figure stands at just over 12% according to SIMA, more women are unemployed than men.
The average salary in Mojacar is 2.240 euros a month and the average spending is 1.840 euros. 37.4% of all working people are self-employed, according to INE
Mojácar is a fantastic place to enjoy a multitude of different activities throughout the year with numerous natural spots that allow the practice of sports in the best conditions. Inland, the hiking routes and the hundreds of kilometres of roads that cross unique landscapes are of great interest to lovers of nature and sports such as cycling.
In addition, the Servigroup Hotels have complete facilities for sports such as paddle tennis and bowling. If you’re into golf, Marina Golf Club provides a fun experience with beautiful coastal views.
Tax and immigration legal matters, as well as real estate transactions in Spain, are daunting tasks to non-nationals unless guided well. Here, at Tejada Solicitors, we have a holistic approach to every single case as our team involves both an immigration lawyer and a lawyer specialized in tax and real estate transactions. This way, we are able to analyze your situation from every angle so that you can get the best possible outcome legally and fiscally.
“The only way to do great work is to love what you do.”
– Steve Jobs –
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The first thing to consider before moving into Mojácar is the different types of visas that a non-EU or EU national has at his disposal to become a resident and the tax consequences for becoming a fiscal resident in Spain.
Mojácar has a public school and a public college. Private education institutions are available just outside Mojacar. Both options offer excellent education standards.
If you’re a foreigner purchasing property in Spain, the procedures are almost similar for residents. In mortgage financing and conditions, there are differences. While fiscal residents enjoy more favorable mortgage terms, non-residents may only finance about 60% to 70% of the property’s value with more conditions attached.
Some of the private health insurance recommended for expats are:
Sanitas Expat: Comprehensive medical coverage in English with international assistance.
Cigna Global Health: A wide network of healthcare professionals and services tailored for expats.
ASISA and Mapfre: Spanish insurers offering private health plans with excellent local coverage.
It is advisable to choose insurance that includes primary care, hospitalization and emergency services.
To integrate into the Mojácar community, embrace the local culture and history. Attend the many festivals and try to learn some Spanish through the free classes offered by the Town Hall. Being respectful, relaxed and open to new friendships will help you connect with locals, as Mojácar is known for its welcoming atmosphere. Also show respect for the beautiful surroundings.
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