According to building statistics published by the Official College of Architects of Málaga, the first quarter of 2026 showed a positive evolution in the construction sector. 3,195 housing units were approved, representing one of the best records since 2017. However, the dean of the institution, Susana Gómez de Lara, emphasized that these figures, while good, are not enough to alleviate price pressure or serve the less favored population sector.
“"The production levels of multi-family housing are neither aimed at the less favored sector of the population nor do they manage to alleviate price pressure. A decisive boost to VPO is essential."
Of the 3,195 projected homes, only 140 correspond to Official Protection Housing (VPO), all multi-family and approved in Málaga capital during March. The vast majority, 3,055 units, are free-market housing, with a total budget exceeding 441 million euros. This figure contrasts with the 8,000 annual homes that, according to Savills estimates, would be necessary in the capital alone to address the housing crisis.
Construction activity showed constant growth throughout the quarter. In January, 854 homes were approved, in February 1,131, and in March, the peak was reached with 1,210 properties. Geographically, Málaga capital, Estepona, and Mijas consolidated as the main drivers of this evolution in multi-family homes. As for single-family homes, Cártama led the province with 72 units, driven by a large project in February.
In parallel, the construction of completed homes in the province of Málaga reached 1,815 units, with an approximate budget of 204.15 million euros. Of these, 608 were single-family and 1,207 multi-family. It is important to note that none of the completed homes belonged to VPO developments. The municipalities with the highest activity in this area were Málaga capital, Marbella, Estepona, Mijas, and Fuengirola.
