Torrox overtakes Nerja as largest municipality in judicial district

Torrox has overtaken Nerja to become the largest municipality in its judicial district for the first time since 1971. According to provisional INE census figures as of January 1, 2026, Torrox has 22,523 residents, surpassing Nerja’s 21,693 by 830 people.

The town has experienced significant growth, with a 49 per cent population increase since 2015, when the count was 15,117. This expansion is driven largely by international residents, who now represent more than 30 per cent of the official population across 90 different nationalities, including British, German, and Scandinavian citizens.

Mayor Oscar Medina attributed the growth to favorable weather, employment opportunities, and a drop in registered unemployment from 26.61 per cent in 2015 to 10.20 per cent. However, the rapid influx of residents has placed increased pressure on local infrastructure. Medina is calling on the Junta de Andalucia for improved services, including a new courthouse, additional health centers, enhanced emergency medical coverage, and expanded educational facilities.