Altea has a population of around 20,000 residents, with the numbers swelling during the summer months due to an influx of tourists. The town has a diverse demographic, with a significant portion of its population being expatriates from various European countries, particularly the UK, Germany, and Scandinavia. This international mix contributes to the town’s cosmopolitan atmosphere, while still maintaining a strong connection to its Spanish and Valencian roots.
The local population is predominantly Spanish-speaking, with Valencian (a regional dialect of Catalan) also widely spoken. The town’s growing popularity with international visitors has led to a steady increase in the number of English-speaking residents and services catering to them.