According to data published by the Idealista portal, the average cost to rent a home in these three towns has significantly increased during the first quarter of 2026. This rise reconfirms the difficulty for average families in the region to access rental housing, and puts the continuity of many vulnerable groups in their current homes at risk.
Xàbia continues to lead the price ranking in the region, amidst a severe housing crisis. Meanwhile, Calp has for the first time exceeded the 1,400 euro monthly barrier, being the locality where rent has experienced the largest growth compared to last year. Both towns are among the 40 most expensive in Spain, and the average rental cost exceeds the interprofessional minimum wage, which is 1,221 euros gross per month.
In the case of Dénia, the increase is also notable, as the average price has for the first time exceeded 1,100 euros per month. Although the capital of Marina Alta has less foreign demand than the other two localities, it is also included among the 100 most expensive towns in the country. Just one year ago, in May 2025, the average rental price in these three towns was 1,100 euros, demonstrating the uncontrolled upward trend.
“"The housing situation continues to be out of control, with increases that far exceed the proposed limits for price containment."
These data are released amidst the controversy generated by the rejection in the Congress of Deputies of the two-year extension of rental contracts expiring between March 21, 2026, and December 31, 2027, as well as the 2% limit on annual rent updates. Interestingly, between January and March 2026, rents in Dénia, Calp, and Xàbia have risen by almost 6% in the first two municipalities and 3% in the third, far exceeding the proposed 2% limit.
