Relocating to Spain’s Sunny Coast: The Costa del Sol
If you’ve decided to relocate to Spain, the Costa del Sol is an excellent choice. Known for its year-round sunshine, it’s a popular destination for expats, whether you’re a couple, a family, or retiring. However, you might be unsure about where exactly to settle. This guide will help you explore the best places for expats to live on the Costa del Sol.
Where to Live on the Costa del Sol?
The Costa del Sol offers a variety of locations that cater to different lifestyles and preferences. Here are some of the top choices:
Málaga: The Heart of the Costa del Sol
Málaga, the capital of the Costa del Sol, is an excellent choice for expats. It’s home to the region’s main airport and boasts excellent high-speed train links to the rest of Spain. Property prices in Málaga are more reasonable compared to other big cities like Madrid and Barcelona. It’s perfect for expats seeking a fast-paced lifestyle with a rich cultural offering and a vibrant expat community.
Marbella: The Upmarket Destination
Marbella is known for its luxury and glamour, attracting the rich and famous. Areas like Puerto Banús, with its designer boutiques and world-class restaurants, offer a luxurious lifestyle. However, living in Marbella is more expensive than other areas of the Costa del Sol, both in terms of property prices and cost of living.
Nerja: The Authentic Spanish Town
Nerja is a great option for expats seeking authenticity. With 30% of its population being foreigners, it has a strong expat community. Property prices in Nerja vary, with coastal properties being more expensive than those inland.
Fuengirola: The Expat-Friendly Town
Fuengirola is popular with British and Irish expats, and it’s seeing a rise in Nordic and German inhabitants. It offers a beautiful beach, British restaurants, and well-priced properties, making it one of the best and most affordable places to live near Málaga.
Mijas: The Charming Whitewashed Village
Mijas offers two distinct living experiences. Mijas Pueblo, nestled in a hillside, offers stunning views and embodies Spanish Mediterranean living. Mijas Costa, on the other hand, offers more property options and is home to a considerable expat community.
Estepona: The Quiet Coastal Town
Estepona is perfect for those seeking a quieter lifestyle. It’s popular with retirees and families, and while it’s still developing, it retains its Andalusian charm. Estepona offers reasonable property prices and is less than an hour from Málaga airport.
Cost of Living on the Costa del Sol
The Costa del Sol offers a range of living costs, from affordable to high-end. The cost of living in Spain, including the Costa del Sol, is on the rise. For example, the estimated monthly costs for a single person in Málaga are 608.34 euros without rent, and 2,162.27 euros for a family of four.
Buying Property on the Costa del Sol
If you’re ready to find your dream home in Spain, start your search with our selection of property for sale in the Costa del Sol. If you’re not ready to commit to buying, you can also explore our range of long-term rentals on the Costa del Sol.
