FUENGIROLA has become the fastest-growing town on the Costa del Sol and is now the fourth-largest in the province of Málaga, according to latest census figures.
Mayoress Ana Mula says the published headcount broke the 80,000 barrier at the beginning of 2020 for the first time ever, and the most recently-released population statistics show that year brought another 2,000-plus in resident numbers.
Now with 82,837 people, Fuengirola is fourth in terms of inhabitants in the province, beaten only by Málaga – the largest – Marbella and Mijas, in that order.
“Last year, our town saw the greatest population growth in the whole of Andalucía,” says Sra Mula.
The 3.15% increase means it is now 'one of the most significant' municipalities on the Costa del Sol, according to its leader, with 'one of the most promising futures'.
“This isn't my opinion or perception,” insists Ana Mula.
“It's a fact, and the figures are evidence of that.
“More and more people are choosing our town for their main residence, attracted by the quality of life it offers and the multiple possibilities for making a life for themselves.”
She says Fuengirola is turning into a top choice for moving to for enjoying their retirement, or for buying a holiday home.
“For them, quality of life is a decisive factor in choosing where to buy – the wellbeing that we're always talking about enjoying here is possible thanks to, among other factors, Fuengirola's privileged climate, geographical locations and excellent transport links, including to the airport, by road and train, as well as having our own aerodrome and high-speed AVE rail station.”
Sra Mula says her local council works hard to add to this sense of wellbeing and quality of life.
“The town hall stays as close as possible to the people, and we're concerned about them. We had, and we will once again have once the pandemic is over and everything returns to normal, a wide and varied arts, entertainment, sports and social schedule, all of which makes Fuengirola an attractive town for all tastes and all ages.
“Fuengirola is synonymous with quality of life because it's dynamic, it supports business and trade initiatives, and offers ongoing training courses and other schemes run by the town hall – along with discounts on local taxes for those registered as residents in the municipality.
“It's an ideal place for families to grow, for businesses to invest because they know it's profitable – the recent report from the Spanish Sustainable Development Network shows that, as does the general health and wellbeing that pervades our town.
Fuengirola is 'perfect' for residents of all ages, Sra Mula stresses.
“Retirees and the elderly are the stars of the show; young people have a strong voice; every single neighbourhood is essential to us; all of us, united, make ours a landmark municipality which we're very proud of,” she concludes.
