So you are thinking of buying an apartment in Madrid? Today, the real estate market in Madrid has become one of the most active and competitive in all of Spain and the rest of Europe: the warm, historic and cosmopolitan nature of this city has attracted the attention of investors from all over the world looking for a unique lifestyle in the world and also looking for opportunities to expand their portfolio through real estate assets. Discover below some of the best reasons to invest in the Spanish capital, which are the best areas to do so and what strategy we recommend.
What are the main attractions of this city for investors?
Madrid as a destination to invest and live presents a series of advantages and ideal attractions for all those who have set their sights on this region of Spain. According to data from the Franco-Spanish Chamber of Commerce, the country offers incredible opportunities in the field of new communication technologies, environment, biotechnology, tourism, among others. On the other hand, ICEX data reveal that Spain is the fourth largest economy in the European Union and the fourteenth worldwide with a GDP of 1.2 trillion dollars.
- Economic and legal stability: As is the case in the vast majority of world capitals, Madrid is the political and economic center of its country. Its diversified and resilient economy provides a stable environment for investment, unlike, for example, the real estate market in some LATAM cities, where changes in government can generate uncertainty.
- Education and culture: Spain offers an excellent level of education, supported by recent data highlighting the quality and accessibility of its educational system. In the 2023-2024 academic year, Spanish universities continue to improve their international positioning, attracting a growing number of foreign students thanks to their prestige and the offer of programs in English. Thus, the country invests significantly in research and development, fostering innovation and academic progress. This commitment to quality education ensures a comprehensive and globally competitive education for its students.
- Quality of life: You should know that Madrid stands out as one of the main European capitals for its excellent relationship between cost of living and quality of life. With more than 2,800 hours of sunshine a year, a pleasant climate and an extremely low crime rate, the city is ideal for year-round living. It offers high quality public services, including bilingual education and a universal health care system with more than 80 hospitals. In addition, Madrid is a cultural and sports center with world-renowned museums, numerous sports teams and an enviable nightlife. The OECD recognizes Spain for its balance between work and quality of life, making Madrid an optimal choice for residents and visitors.
Why investing in housing in Madrid is a great option?
- Constant demand: The demand for housing in Madrid continues to increase due to the city’s infrastructure, as well as its quality of life in terms of security, medical care, job offers and privileged climate in Europe. In addition to this, the arrival of more and more international companies specialized in areas related to technology not only in Madrid, but also in Malaga and Barcelona, have made Spain a reference for economic and social development.
- Market Revaluation: The Spanish real estate market has shown a remarkable recovery and growth since the famous crisis of 2008. Cities such as Madrid, Barcelona and Valencia have experienced a steady increase in property prices, reflecting a significant revaluation. According to recent data, the value of real estate in these areas has grown steadily, offering investors an excellent opportunity for attractive returns.
- Diversity of options: It is important to highlight the versatility of the real estate market in Spain. The country’s climate, culture and nightlife make it possible to invest in residential properties ranging from exclusive apartments in Madrid to stunning vacation mansions on the Costa del Sol. In both cases, the investment in these properties can be for living, renting or even both in certain periods of time. Madrid and other major cities in Spain are the scene of multiple opportunities in the commercial sector, where investing in offices, retail and logistics centers can generate stable, long-term income, driven by dynamic economies. In addition, renovation projects of historic properties and old buildings(flipping) not only contribute to the preservation of cultural heritage, but also offer significant returns thanks to their potential revaluation.
Top best areas to invest in housing in Madrid
There are definitely areas where it is more worthwhile to invest in property, either because of the lifestyle, the demand for rentals in the area or the cost per square meter. Here are some examples:
- Salamanca: Known for its elegance and exclusivity, the Salamanca neighborhood is one of the most prestigious to live in Madrid as a local or expat . For this very reason, properties tend to be expensive and tend to revalue steadily, but also offer high yields due to the high demand and historical value of the buildings.
- Chamberí: It is a neighborhood that combines a residential and luxurious lifestyle with cosmopolitan environments and an active social life. In the past, the Spanish nobility decided to settle in its streets and that is why today we find a type of architecture that is not seen anywhere else in Spain . It is popular with families and young professionals, which guarantees a constant demand for housing.
- Centro: As its name suggests, this is a central area in Madrid where you will find many old buildings that have been renovated to the latest standards in terms of style and construction safety . This makes Centro one of the most traditional and ideal destinations to live if you are looking for an authentic and local lifestyle in Spain.
- Chamartín: This area is in constant growth thanks to its combination of a home-like lifestyle and, at the same time, corporate complexes. It has incredible mobility with train and subway stations, as well as shopping centers, small shops, parks, schools and hospitals nearby, making it a great destination for young people looking to rent a property here, without sacrificing lifestyle and living very close to their jobs.
- Tetuán: During the last couple of decades the neighborhood of Tetuán has undergone a luxury residential transformation. Here you will find second hand and new homes, ideal for living or renting. This is one of the favorite neighborhoods for foreigners to settle, and the multiculturalism that can be found in the area is ideal to enjoy unique gastronomy and nightlife.
In which area is it best to invest in housing to rent?
Well, now that you know much more about Madrid, it is important that you also know how the real estate market moves in terms of prices. For example, if you are thinking of investing for rent, you should consider areas with high demand in this type of operation:
- Downtown: Especially the neighborhoods of Sol, Malasaña and Chueca, are ideal for short-term rentals due to the influx of tourists and nightlife.
- Argüelles and Moncloa: These neighborhoods are close to universities, which makes them perfect for renting to students.
- Atocha and Lavapiés: The proximity to the Atocha train station and the popularity of Lavapiés among young professionals and artists guarantee a high rental demand.
What is the average price of an apartment in Madrid?
The average price of an apartment in Madrid can vary significantly depending on the area. Roughly speaking, prices may vary as follows:
- Downtown and Salamanca: Between 6,000 and 8,000 euros per square meter.
- Chamberí and Chamartín: Between 5,000 and 7,000 euros per square meter.
- Tetuan and other emerging areas: Between €3,500 and €5,000 per square meter.
Please note that these prices are approximate and may fluctuate with market conditions.
Investing in housing in Madrid presents an attractive and potentially lucrative opportunity, backed by the economic stability, high demand and quality of life that the city offers. With a variety of areas suitable for different types of investments, and strategies ranging from rental to rehabilitation, investors can find options that fit their objectives and risk profiles. Madrid is not only a cultural and economic jewel of Spain, but also a solid pillar for real estate investment.
Remember that in Nolab we have the most exclusive catalog of properties in Mexico and Spain to live or invest. Contact us and find your ideal project.
