Cost of Living on Costa Del Sol

Is Costa del Sol Expensive?

The Costa del Sol can be considered relatively expensive compared to other regions in Spain, primarily due to its popularity as a tourist destination and its attractive lifestyle amenities. Here are some factors that contribute to the perceived expense:

Property Prices: Property prices in popular areas like Marbella, Estepona, and Sotogrande can be higher than the national average. For instance, in April 2023, property prices in Marbella were around €4,138 per square meter on average, with luxury areas like the Marbella Golden Mile even higher.

Cost of Living: The cost of living in Costa del Sol, especially in well-known coastal towns, tends to be higher. This includes expenses such as accommodation, dining out, entertainment, and leisure activities.

Tourism and Lifestyle: The Costa del Sol attracts a significant number of tourists and residents seeking a high-quality lifestyle, which drives up prices for goods and services catered to this demographic.

Despite these factors, the cost of living can vary significantly depending on the specific location within the Costa del Sol and individual lifestyle choices. While some areas may be more expensive due to their popularity and amenities, there are also more affordable options available inland and in less touristy towns

Average Property Prices on Costa del Sol

As of April 2023, several locales in the Costa del Sol have seen notable increases in property prices, surpassing earlier trends in the region. According to the last market updates:

Benahavís: Prices rose by 7.5% to €3,981 per square meter, slightly below the uptick observed in late 2022.

Estepona: Property values continued their ascent, climbing by 19.3% to €2,993 per square meter.

Manilva: Prices surged by 18.8%, reaching €2,149 per square meter.

Marbella: Property prices in Marbella saw a significant 18.6% increase, reaching €4,138 per square meter, with a 4% rise recorded between December and March alone.

Sotogrande: Housing prices also trended upwards, rising by 7.8% to €2,723 per square meter.

These figures illustrate robust growth in the real estate market across these Costa del Sol areas, driven by increasing demand and market dynamics.

Dining expenses on Costa del Sol

Dining out on Costa del Sol at its excellent restaurants can be very tempting, especially for those on holiday. However, frequent dining out, especially with children, can quickly become expensive.

A practical approach for visitors is to consider accommodation with kitchen facilities and enjoy dining out on selected days while preparing meals at home on others. Marbella and its neighborhood offer a variety of supermarkets catering to different tastes and budgets, such as El Corte Inglés, Mercadona, Al Campo Carrefour, Aldi, and Lidl. These supermarkets provide ample options for grocery shopping.

Additionally, Marbella hosts its traditional market, known as “Mercado de Marbella,” where residents and visitors alike can purchase fresh produce and other food items, adding to the diverse culinary options available in the city.

Price of Renting apartments on the Costa del Sol

Renting apartments on the Costa del Sol can vary widely depending on the location, size, and amenities of the property. Here's a general overview of rental costs across different areas:

Marbella:

One-bedroom apartment (City Center): Approximately €900-€1,500 per month

One-bedroom apartment (Outside City Center): Around €700-€1,000 per month

Three-bedroom apartment (City Center): Expect to pay between €1,500-€3,000 per month

Three-bedroom apartment (Outside City Center): Roughly €1,200-€2,000 per month

Estepona:

One-bedroom apartment: About €600-€1,000 per month

Three-bedroom apartment: Around €900-€2,000 per month

Benalmádena:

One-bedroom apartment: Approximately €600-€1,000 per month

Three-bedroom apartment: Roughly €900-€2,000 per month

Fuengirola:

One-bedroom apartment: About €500-€900 per month

Three-bedroom apartment: Around €800-€1,500 per month

Torremolinos:

One-bedroom apartment: Approximately €500-€900 per month

Three-bedroom apartment: Roughly €800-€1,400 per month

Note:

Rental prices can vary based on factors such as proximity to the beach, conditions of the property, and whether utilities are included.

Seasonal fluctuations may also affect rental costs, with prices typically higher during peak tourist seasons.

It's advisable to check local rental listings and consult with real estate agents to get the most accurate and current rental rates for specific areas on the Costa del Sol.

Transportation expenses on Costa del Sol

The cost of transportation on the Costa del Sol varies depending on the mode of transport and distance traveled. Here’s an overview:

Public Transport:

Bus: Local bus fares typically range from €1.50 to €2.00 per journey within cities like Malaga, Marbella, and Fuengirola. Longer journeys or intercity routes may cost slightly more.

Taxi: Taxi fares start at approximately €3.50 for a short trip, with additional charges based on distance traveled and time spent in the vehicle.

Car Rental:

Daily Rental: Car rentals can vary widely depending on the type of vehicle and rental company. Prices typically start around €20 to €30 per day for a basic economy car during low season, with higher rates during peak tourist periods.

Fuel: As of recent estimates, gasoline (petrol) prices on the Costa del Sol average around €1.60 to €1.80 per liter.

Other Costs:

Toll Roads: Some highways on the Costa del Sol have tolls, with costs varying depending on the route and distance traveled.

Parking: Parking fees in urban areas and at tourist attractions may range from €1 to €3 per hour, with daily rates available for longer stays.

The cost of transportation on the Costa del Sol is manageable, with affordable options like buses and trains available for local travel. Car rentals provide flexibility for exploring the region, though costs can increase during peak tourist seasons. Planning ahead can help optimize transportation expenses while enjoying the scenic coastal landscapes and cultural attractions of the Costa del Sol.

Marbella compared to other European cities

Comparing Marbella's cost of living to other European cities reveals it to be more budget-friendly in many aspects. The Expatistan cost of living calculator estimates the average living costs on Costa del Sol is around €1538 for a single person and €3,089 for a family of four.

For instance, it is 41% cheaper than London, 12% more affordable than Rome, and 31% less costly than Paris. However, when stacked against other popular Spanish cities like Valencia or Seville, the Costa del Sol areas tend to be pricier. Specifically, Marbella is 6% less expensive than Madrid and offers a 7% cost savings compared to Barcelona.

Living on the Costa del Sol provides another advantage with relatively lower grocery prices compared to major urban areas. Utility costs for an average 85m² apartment in Marbella come to around €108.24 per month, while broadband internet typically costs less than €30 monthly. These factors collectively contribute to Marbella appeal as a more affordable Mediterranean lifestyle option compared to larger European cities.

If you're considering a move to Marbella or the Costa del Sol in Spain and want to explore available properties in Marbella before your arrival, please feel free to reach out to us. We can provide you with information on current listings, housing options, and help you navigate the real estate market in this beautiful region. Whether you're looking for a second home, a retirement property, or a place to settle down, we're here to assist you every step of the way. Contact us today to start your journey to finding your dream property in Marbella.