Living in Marbella Year-Round: Cost of Living, Lifestyle & Property Options
Marbella is often thought of as a summer destination, but more and more people are choosing to live here year-round. With over 300 days of sunshine, a relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle, and a thriving international community, Marbella offers much more than just a holiday escape. If you’re considering relocating, here’s everything you need to know about life in Marbella all year long.
Cost of Living in Marbella
Living in Marbella can be as affordable or as luxurious as you want it to be. Compared to major European cities, day-to-day expenses are often lower, but lifestyle choices can raise costs.
•Housing: Renting a modern apartment in central Marbella typically ranges from €1,200–€5,000 per month. Villas in prime areas like the Golden Mile or Sierra Blanca start from €5,000+ monthly.
•Groceries: Expect to spend around €300–€500 per month for two people, depending on whether you shop local markets or international supermarkets.
•Dining Out: A casual meal at a local restaurant costs €15–€20 per person, while fine dining can reach €80–€150 per head.
•Utilities: Electricity, water, and internet usually total €150–€250 monthly for an apartment.
Lifestyle in Marbella
Marbella combines the charm of Andalusia with modern conveniences.
•Weather: Winters are mild (15–20°C daytime), while summers are hot and sunny, ideal for beach life.
•Health & Wellness: The city is home to excellent private healthcare, gyms, yoga studios, and world-class spas.
•Education: Families will find a wide range of international schools offering British, American, and other curriculums.
•Community: Marbella has a large international population, making it easy to connect with expats and locals alike.
Property Options in Marbella
Whether you’re looking for a modern apartment, a family villa, or a beachfront penthouse, Marbella offers a wide variety of properties.
•Apartments & Penthouses: Popular in areas like Puerto Banús and Marbella town, with prices starting around €350,000.
•Villas: Found in prestigious neighborhoods like Sierra Blanca and Nueva Andalucía, ranging from €1M to €20M+.
•Townhouses: Great for families seeking more space, often located in gated communities with pools and gardens.
Relocating to Marbella: Practical Tips
•Transport: A car is recommended for convenience, though Marbella has reliable taxi and transfer services.
•Residency: EU citizens can relocate easily, while non-EU buyers often use the Golden Visa scheme when purchasing property.
•Language: Spanish is the main language, but English is widely spoken, especially in real estate, hospitality, and schools.
Living in Marbella year-round means enjoying the best of both worlds: Mediterranean sunshine with modern amenities. From mild winters and outdoor living to excellent international schools and a wide choice of property, it’s easy to see why so many people are making Marbella their permanent home.
If you’re considering a move, exploring the right area and property type is the first step toward making Marbella your new home.
