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Cost of Living on the Costa del Sol: A 2025 Guide

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Housing Costs in the Costa del Sol

Housing is the largest factor in your budget and varies depending on location:

  • Renting:
    • One-bedroom apartment in Málaga city: €800–€1,200 per month.
    • Two-bedroom apartment near Marbella or Estepona: €1,200–€2,000 per month.
    • Inland towns like Mijas Pueblo or Alhaurín el Grande are cheaper: €600–€900 per month.
  • Buying Property:
    • Apartments for sale in Málaga start from around €200,000.
    • Villas in Marbella, Benahavís, or Sotogrande range from €1M upwards.
    • Townhouses and smaller villas inland can be found from €300,000.

➡️ Tip: Property prices and rents are higher in tourist hotspots like Marbella and Puerto Banús, and lower in inland villages.

Utilities and Household Bills

  • Electricity & Water: Around €100–€150 per month for an average apartment. Villas with pools and gardens may pay €200–€300.
  • Internet & Mobile: €30–€60 monthly, depending on provider and package.
  • Community Fees: If you buy in a complex with shared facilities, expect €80–€250 per month.

Food and Groceries

The Costa del Sol offers excellent value on groceries, especially local produce:

  • Milk: €1.00 per litre
  • Fresh bread: €1.20
  • Chicken breast: €7–€8 per kilo
  • Bottle of mid-range wine: €4–€6
  • Weekly grocery shop for two people: €60–€90

Supermarkets like Mercadona, Lidl, and Carrefour are affordable, while local markets offer fresh fruit, vegetables, and fish at even better prices.

Eating Out and Entertainment

Dining out is a highlight of living in Spain, and the Costa del Sol is no exception:

  • Coffee: €1.50–€2.00
  • Menu del día (three-course set lunch): €12–€15
  • Dinner for two in a mid-range restaurant: €40–€60
  • Fine dining in Marbella or Puerto Banús: €80–€150+

Entertainment like cinema tickets (€8), golf (€50–€100 per round), and beach clubs vary widely depending on lifestyle.

Transport Costs

  • Public Transport: Bus tickets cost around €1.50; monthly passes around €40–€60.
  • Driving: Petrol is approx. €1.60–€1.80 per litre. Car insurance averages €300–€600 annually.
  • Taxis & Ride Apps: Short city rides start from €6–€8.

Owning a car is highly recommended if you plan to live outside city centres.

Healthcare and Insurance

Spain’s public healthcare system is excellent, but many expats opt for private insurance for speed and flexibility:

  • Private health insurance: €50–€150 per month, depending on age and coverage.
  • GP consultation (without insurance): €40–€60.

Education

If you have children, education costs vary:

  • Public schools: free, with minimal expenses for books and materials.
  • International schools: €5,000–€15,000 per year per child, depending on location and reputation.

Lifestyle Comparison

Overall, the cost of living on the Costa del Sol is 20–30% lower than in Northern Europe, especially for groceries, eating out, and transport. However, premium areas like Marbella and Sotogrande can rival major European cities in terms of housing and luxury expenses.

Final Thoughts: Is Living on the Costa del Sol Affordable?

Yes — the Costa del Sol offers an excellent balance of affordability and lifestyle. Whether you’re a retiree seeking sunshine, a digital nomad working remotely, or a family relocating, you’ll find that the cost of living in the Costa del Sol provides great value for money compared to the UK, Germany, or Scandinavia.

By choosing the right location and lifestyle, you can enjoy Mediterranean living without overspending.