Seeing Marbella is to experience love at first sight. 

Marbella, Spain is a beautiful and vibrant seaside city with an elegant vibe, picturesque beaches, and an enviable cultural scene. People are taking notice. Its population is growing at a steady pace—with people flocking here because of its charm and surprisingly low cost of living. 

For people looking for a place with a mild, sunny climate, an alluring, yet relaxed atmosphere, and a sensible cost of living—Marbella is where you want to be!

Keep reading for everything you need to know about the average cost of living in Marbella, Spain. 

Average Cost of Living in Marbella

Many people are looking to move to the beautiful city of Marbella. Before making the move, it’s important to know about the costs of living in the area. 

There is no doubt that Marbella is an attractive city that appeals to people from all over the world. But, does the cost of living here fit with your budget?

According to the website livingcost.org, the average cost of living in Marbella Spain is €1337 for one person and €3395 for a family of four. This calculation factors in a residence, as well as utilities, food, and transport. These numbers are an average and will vary according to different lifestyles. 

Benefits of Living in Marbella

The cost of living is one factor to consider when thinking about a move to Marbella, but there are other reasons to factor into your decision. These factors increase the cost-benefit of living here. 

Accessibility

Marbella is situated less than an hour away from the international airport in Málaga. With direct and connecting flights arriving in Málaga year-round, Marbella is easily accessible. 

Formidable Weather

The weather is one of the main reasons for making a move to Marbella. The city is one of the sunniest cities in Europe, with more than 300 sunny days per year. The summers are warm but fresh due to the city’s proximity to the sea, and the winters are mild and comfortable. 

Outdoor Activities

With the beautiful weather and access to mountains and beaches near Marbella, the city is a mecca for outdoor activities. The nearby national parks are great for walking and hiking, and the beaches are stunning and attractive to lovers of beachside vibes.

There are many excellent facilities for boaters, and Marbella is also a premier golf destination with dozens of world-class golf courses available in the area. 

A Cultural Oasis

When it comes to culture, Marbella tops the list. With quality shopping, dining and nightlife, there is never a shortage of things to do! 

A Slower Pace of Life

Marbella is known for its slower, relaxed pace of life. It’s a cosmopolitan place with an easygoing vibe. The city also offers an ideal work/life balance. 

Average Property Prices in Marbella

The average price of Marbella houses and flats varies depending on the type of lifestyle you desire and if you prefer a luxury or high-end option. The average price per square meter in Marbella is €2,503 but there is a wide range of price options available in Marbella and the areas surrounding it. 

There are less expensive properties in the areas of Marbella Pueblo (average price €1,072,975) and Rio Real-Los Monteros (average price €1,213,052). More luxurious properties are available in Las Chapas-El Rosario (average price €1,820,518) and Nagüeles-Milla de Oro (average price €3,311,609).

Expats make up 25% of investors and residents in Marbella. The province of Andalucia, where Marbella is located, recently eliminated its “wealth tax” on second homeowners in Spain. This will lower the total costs associated with ownership in Marbella. 

Investment Value Growth

When speaking of the cost of living, typically rent prices are factored in. But, we must also consider the investment benefits of choosing to purchase a property in Marbella. Investing in Marbella means investing in a property but also in a lifestyle. 

Marbella is a hot investment market, with prices set to grow over the coming years. Real-estate investment in Marbella is sure to increase in value over the short and long term. 

There are many opportunities to make money on home resale if you ever decide to move on from Marbella (although not likely!). There is also money to be made with the hot rental market for the months you may not spend in Marbella. 

Cost of Food in Marbella

Marbella offers a wide variety of dining options for every budget. The average cost of eating out ranges between £45 and £140 for two people, depending on the chosen dining experience. Lunch, snacks, or fast food options will bring the price down. 

The restaurant scene in Marbella greatly appeals to the residents and tourists who frequent the area. It is home to many world-class dining establishments, authentic Spanish tapas bars and restaurants, and excellent cafés and bakeries.

However, Marbella offers options to keep your food costs down, if that is what suits your budget. The city offers many smaller, less expensive restaurants and fantastic supermarkets with reasonable prices for those who prefer to dine in.

The city also features a traditional market, the Mercado de Marbella, where vendors sell fresh and seasonal fruits, vegetables, fish, and meat. 

Cost of Transportation in Marbella

There is a wide range of transportation in Marbella, but most residents here still choose to bring a car or rent one. The price of gas is near the European average. 

If a car is not an option for you, there is an efficient public bus system in Marbella. One local transport ticket is €1.28 or a monthly pass for €37.40. Taxis are readily available at cheap prices. 

Walking is always a possibility! Marbella is a beautiful city and the weather is almost always pleasant, so walking is an enjoyable and eco-friendly way of getting around!

The Marbella Lifestyle

Marbella offers residents an exceptional lifestyle. With a reasonable cost of living, beautiful weather, and a plethora of activities to take part in, there is no wonder people are flocking here. 

Ready to make your dreams of moving to Spain a reality? For the best real estate advice in Marbella and the neighbouring regions, contact our experienced team at Choose Marbella. We can help you buy, sell and settle down in Marbella.