Moving to Costa del Sol

Situated on the glistening edge of the Mediterranean in the south of Spain, the Costa del Sol stretches from the pristine resort town of Nerja in the east to Málaga and onto the British outpost of Gibraltar in the west.

Perhaps best known as a top destination for package holidays, tourists flock here annually to enjoy the sun-soaked beaches, bars, restaurants, and nightlife at resorts in Torremolinos, Fuengirola and Benalmadena.

Living in the Costa del Sol as an expat

If you’re considering living in the Costa del Sol as an expat, you’re in good company. Alongside short-term visitors, many people from the UK, Scandinavia, the Netherlands, and Germany choose to relocate here to study, work or retire. While British nationals now face new residency requirements due to Brexit, the region remains a popular destination. There’s also been an influx of residents from other parts of Europe, leading to a rich international community.

There's more to the countryside than just the beach spots. If you’re a nature lover, you’ll find opportunities to explore cliffs, dunes, caves and mountain ranges with extensive protected natural parks boasting wildlife and breathtaking scenery. You can even glimpse the Atlas Mountains of Africa from some vantage points.

If you prefer a cosmopolitan city, look no further than Málaga. The city is not just home to a busy port, but is also a thriving hub for various industries. The job market is broadening, especially in the tourism, financial services, IT, hospitality, health, and beauty sectors. The rise of remote work has turned Málaga and Marbella into hotspots for digital nomads, offering high-speed internet, co-working spaces and an energetic community.

Across the Costa del Sol, you’ll find modern and comprehensive infrastructure. From extensive public transport networks, including high-speed trains, to world-class private and state-run medical facilities, the region has all the amenities to make life comfortable. 

Expats have access to top-notch healthcare, with both public and private options available. If you’re a legal resident contributing to social security, you can tap into Spain’s universal healthcare system.

As with any relocation, there will be some culture shock. Learning Spanish is essential for daily life and will greatly enhance your integration into the local culture. While you might get by with English in tourist hotspots, Spanish fluency opens social and professional doors.

Cost of living in the Costa del Sol

The cost of living in the Costa del Sol varies significantly, especially when compared to other major Spanish cities. While the region offers a luxurious lifestyle, it can be pricier than cities like Madrid, particularly in upscale areas like Marbella and Puerto Banús. Housing prices have been on the rise, and high demand means property and rental costs can be steep.

That said, there are more affordable options if you look beyond the glitz of the coastal hotspots. Towns slightly inland or in less touristy areas offer a lower cost of living without sacrificing the region's charm. Daily expenses like groceries and utilities are generally reasonable, but it’s wise to budget carefully.

Local taxation can also impact your finances, so it’s advisable to consult with a financial adviser familiar with Spanish tax laws to fully understand your obligations.

Families and children in the Costa del Sol

Expat families and children in the Costa del Sol are well catered for. If you’re looking for schools, you’ll find a range of options – from bilingual academies and state-sponsored schools to private English-speaking international schools. Local schools often have programmes to support non-Spanish-speaking children, helping them integrate through language immersion and additional classes.

When it comes to leisure, the Costa del Sol is a playground for families. Thanks to the abundance of green spaces, zoos, aquariums and speciality museums, there’s always something to do. Explore the Alcazaba fortress in Málaga, marvel at the Caves of Nerja or enjoy beach activities and parks. BioParc Zoo, Sealife Aquarium and Museo Automovilístico de Málaga are just a few attractions the whole family can enjoy.

Climate in the Costa del Sol

The climate in the Costa del Sol lives up to its name – the ‘Sun Coast’ offers warm weather year-round and an equally warm and welcoming population. With over 300 days of sunshine annually, it’s a paradise for sun-seekers. Recently, the region has experienced rising temperatures and more frequent heatwaves. 

On the other hand, warmer winters have extended the tourist season into traditionally quieter months, offering more opportunities to enjoy the area without the summer crowds.

The lifestyle here is laid back and perfectly suited to retirees and those seeking a slower pace of life, but fun and entertainment are never far off. The region is famous for its flamboyant processions, parades, fiestas, and parties. By moving to the Costa del Sol, you truly get the best of both worlds: modern facilities and luxuries, along with the unspoilt Spanish coast and rich traditions to boot.