Since the outbreak of war in Ukraine in March 2022, there has been a noticeable increase in the purchase of homes in the Balearics by eastern Europeans, especially Poles.
Andalusia, the Canaries, Valencia and the Balearics are all regions favoured by Polish citizens, information from the College of Registrars indicating that buyers aren't all people interested in luxury properties. The focus is mainly on properties of 60 to 80 square metres rather than on lavish homes of up to 300 square metres. The same applies to Ukrainian and Lithuanian buyers.
Poland has provided the most growth in Spain since 2022. In the second quarter of 2025, Poland continued to represent the highest growth in percentage terms among foreign buyers. In the Balearics in 2024, Poland entered the top ten of foreign buyers for the first time.
Daniel Arenas, president of the ABINI association of national and international real estate agencies, says: "It's a nationality we didn't usually work with much, but we have noticed a significant change. When you talk to those looking for homes, they admit they’re afraid. They tell you about the Russian drones that fly freely across their borders. It's not a flood, but it's noticeable." He adds that there is a greater concentration in the Costa del Sol.
Hans Lenz, managing director of Engel & Völkers in southwest Mallorca and the former ABINI president, agrees that Andalusia is more appealing to Poles than the Balearics. "There's a strong pull factor due to Marbella's lower prices." The role the war has played is undeniable. "The geopolitical issue is there, and it's been noticeable. These are people looking for peace and security. And they highly value air connectivity."
Aneta Oleszkiewicz, a Polish estate agent who has lived in Mallorca for nine years, says: "Mallorca is considered a safe and stable place, both politically and socially." The current situation in Poland "is not one of panic, but rather of caution. People simply feel it is wise to have another residence abroad, a place that offers security and stability should circumstances change." The Balearics are an obvious choice. "It's a natural option: a magnificent climate, excellent international schools. It's a conscious and strategic decision to invest in peace of mind and a better quality of life."
Poland's Honorary Consul in the Balearics, Ignasi Fiol, explains that around 85% of Poles on the islands are self-employed or entrepreneurs. "Twenty years ago, they were concentrated in the hospitality sector, but today you find them in small to medium-sized businesses in the construction sector." He adds that Valldemossa used to be a magnet because of the Chopin connection. Nowadays there is no particular preference, except perhaps Palma.
In 2024, there were 3,381 Polish people residing in the Balearics, while there were 373,252 Polish tourists. There were more Ukrainian residents - 3,853.