Nerja Population (2026): How Many Residents? And Foreigners?

If you're looking for how many people live in Nerja in 2026, it's worth keeping one important detail in mind: the latest official figure available puts the population of Nerja at 22,132 inhabitants, corresponding to the municipal register as of 1 January 2025.

Nerja also stands out for its significant international community, with 7,888 residents holding foreign nationality, representing approximately 35.6% of the total population. This figure confirms the cosmopolitan character of one of the most attractive destinations on the eastern Costa del Sol.

How many people live in Nerja in 2026

The best way to answer this question is to state that Nerja has 22,132 inhabitants according to the latest official figure available in 2026. Although many people search for updated 2026 data, the most recent official statistical reference corresponds to the municipal register of 1 January 2025.

This population size makes Nerja a medium-sized town, with services, commercial activity and a lively atmosphere throughout the year — something particularly appreciated by those who visit outside of peak season.

Nerja is not just a summer tourist destination. Its stable population allows it to maintain an active local life all year round, with shops, restaurants, accommodation and services that continue operating well beyond the busiest tourist months. This makes it a very attractive option for getaways at any time of year.

How many foreign residents live in Nerja

One of the most striking features of Nerja is its strong international presence. The latest available statistics show that 7,888 people of foreign nationality live in Nerja.

This figure reflects the town's appeal not only as a holiday destination, but also as a place of residence for citizens from other countries who choose the Costa del Sol for its climate, quality of life and Mediterranean surroundings.

The presence of foreign residents also shapes the atmosphere of the town. In Nerja, it is common to find a varied range of restaurants, services and accommodation tailored to international visitors and residents alike, which reinforces its image as an open, welcoming and cosmopolitan destination.

What percentage of Nerja's population is foreign

When comparing the total population with the foreign population, the result is quite striking: approximately 35.6% of Nerja's inhabitants are foreign nationals.

In other words, more than one in every three residents of the town holds foreign nationality. This proportion helps explain the international atmosphere that can be felt in its streets, residential areas, beaches and shopping zones.

For many travellers, this blend of Andalusian character and international atmosphere is precisely one of Nerja's greatest appeals. The town retains its traditional charm while at the same time offering a very comfortable experience for visitors from many different countries.

What does this mean for tourism in Nerja

For the traveller, knowing Nerja's population provides useful context about the type of destination they will find. This is not a small, isolated village, but a well-established, vibrant town with sufficient infrastructure to welcome visitors throughout the year.

Furthermore, the significant foreign resident population reinforces its cosmopolitan profile. This translates into a more diverse offering of accommodation, dining, shops and services suited to both domestic and international tourists.

From a tourism perspective, Nerja stands out for offering a very appealing balance: it is large enough to have good infrastructure and a consistent atmosphere, yet it retains a pleasant scale that makes it easy to stroll around, relax and enjoy without the overcrowded feeling found at larger coastal destinations.

Nerja, a destination with both local and international character

Nerja combines two elements that many travellers look for when planning their holidays: the essence of a charming Andalusian village and a clear international tourism vocation.

Its historic centre, the Balcón de Europa, its beaches and coves, and its proximity to other points of interest in the Axarquía region make this town in Málaga province a highly attractive destination for both holidays and longer stays.

The high proportion of foreign residents also shows that Nerja is not just a place people enjoy visiting for a few days — it is a place people choose to call home. This is usually a good sign for the traveller, as it implies quality services, good connections with the surrounding area and a lifestyle that is particularly highly regarded.