Moving to Marbella: Guide for Families, Retirees & Nomads

Planning a relocation to Marbella in 2025? This guide provides all the information you need to know about moving to this Coastal City in Costa del Sol, covering key aspects such as lifestyle, real estate, healthcare, education, and more.

Why Choose Marbella for Relocation in 2025?

Marbella remains a top European destination for those considering a move in 2025. Its appeal is attracting expats, families, and retirees alike, all drawn to its sunny, Mediterranean lifestyle. The city has evolved from a glamorous holiday destination into a well-rounded place for long-term living. Here are some of the reasons why moving to Marbella is a great choice.

• 300+ days of sunshine a year
• Blue Flag beaches
• World-class golf and leisure facilities
• Excellent international schools
• Growing expat community
• Excellent healthcare services, both public and private
• Easy access to Malaga Airport
• Strong property market with long-term value

In 2025, Marbella is expected to continue benefiting from infrastructure improvements, increased digital nomad mobility, and a strong luxury property market.

Best Areas to Live in Marbella

Marbella Golden Mile

This iconic stretch between Marbella Town and Puerto Banús is known for beachfront villas, 5-star resorts, and proximity to top restaurants and beach clubs.

• Properties for sale in Marbella Golden Mile

Nueva Andalucía

Popular among families and golfers, this residential area offers luxury villas and apartments close to schools and golf courses.

• Properties for sale in Nueva Andalucía

Sierra Blanca

Exclusive, secure, luxury villas with stunning sea views, Sierra Blanca is designed for high-net-worth individuals seeking ultimate privacy in a gated community.

• Properties for sale in Sierra Blanca

Elviria (East Marbella)

This area is family-friendly, quieter, with great beaches and international schools. It has a range of properties that fit the lifestyle and budget of various buyers.

• Properties for sale in Elviria

San Pedro de Alcántara

If you are looking for a more traditional feel with modern development, then this area is ideal for you. A great place for families and retirees to live.

• Properties for sale in San Pedro de Alcántara

Living in Marbella

Marbella has a large number of expats, with British, Scandinavian, Moroccan and Colombian nationals making up a significant portion of the foreign residents population. This multiculturalism increases both business and social opportunities, making Marbella not only a great place to live but also a great place to work or invest.

Education Options

Marbella is home to some top-rated international schools, such as:

• Aloha College
• The British School of Marbella
• Swans International School

These institutions follow British or International Baccalaureate curricula and attract students from different backgrounds.

Healthcare Services

Spain has a world-class healthcare system when compared to other countries in Europe. In Marbella, residents can choose between public healthcare (if registered) and private hospitals. Some of the best public and private hospitals include:

• Hospital Costa del Sol
• Hospital Quirónsalud Marbella
• HC Marbella International Hospital

Things to Do in Marbella

Apart from offering the best basic facilities to the residents, Marbella lifestyle offers a perfect mix of relaxation and activity. Some of the activities include:

• Sunbathing on beaches like Playa de Nagüeles or Cabopino
• Golfing at over 20 top-rated courses
• Shopping in Puerto Banús or La Cañada mall
• Hiking in La Concha mountain or the Sierra de las Nieves
• Dining at Michelin-starred restaurants or beachside chiringuitos
• Visiting historic towns like Ronda, Mijas, or Málaga

Family Life in Marbella

For families, Marbella offers a safe and healthy environment. Children can grow in a multilingual culture with outdoor living, beaches, sports, and high-quality schooling.

Top Benefits for Families

• Safe neighbourhoods and gated communities
• Several parks, sports clubs, and kids’ activities
• Access to international education (British, American)
• Excellent healthcare options for children
• Community of other young families

Popular areas for families include Nueva Andalucía, Elviria, La Quinta, and San Pedro.

Retiring in Marbella

Marbella ranks among the top European destinations to live after retirement. The climate, lifestyle, healthcare, and overall standard of living make it ideal for retirees. Some of the reasons include:

• Mild winters and warm, sunny summers
• Slower pace of life with plenty of leisure options
• Easy access to healthcare and private insurance
• Retirement visa options for non-EU residents
• Excellent dining, golf, and cultural events

Many retirees opt for apartments or villas in gated communities with 24-hour security.

Marbella for Digital Nomads

Marbella has seen a surge in remote workers and digital entrepreneurs, and 2025 has only made it more nomad-friendly. Here’s why:

• Reliable high-speed internet
• Many coworking spaces in the Marbella centre
• Cafés and beachfront restaurants with reliable Wi-Fi
• Perfect balance between work and lifestyle

Legal Residency and Visa Options

As of 2025, there are several ways for non-Spaniards to reside in Marbella legally:

EU Citizens

• No visa required
• Must register with local authorities and obtain NIE (Foreigner’s Identity Number)

Digital Nomad Visa

• Ideal for remote workers earning from non-Spanish companies
• Requires proof of income and private health insurance

Non-Lucrative Visa

• Suitable for retirees or those with passive income
• Cannot work in Spain

Cost of Living in Marbella in 2025

Living in Marbella is more affordable than major cities like London, Paris, or New York, though more expensive than some inland Spanish towns.

Housing

This is the biggest factor. Renting can cost around €1000 to €1,500 a month, approximately, while upscale properties or villas can go much higher. If you’re buying, prices range widely, as beachfront properties and properties in gated communities come with premium price tags.

Groceries and dining

You can shop affordably at local markets and supermarkets, but eating out regularly at beach clubs or high-end restaurants will increase your expenses.

Transport

Marbella doesn’t have a train station, so most people rely on buses, taxis, or private cars. Public transport is affordable, but limited.

Lifestyle costs

Gym memberships, golf club fees and wellness services are widely available, but they cater to a luxury market, so prices are slightly higher than average.

Pros and Cons of Moving to Marbella

Pros

• Mild climate year-round
• Excellent healthcare and international schools
• Multicultural community
• Ideal location for both leisure and work

Cons

• Higher property and rental prices in prime areas
• Crowded in summer due to tourists

Tips for a Smooth Relocation When Moving to Marbella

If you are moving to Marbella, then the following tips might make it easier for you to relocate

• Get expert help: Work with agents or lawyers familiar with local laws
• Rent before buying: Test different neighbourhoods before committing
• Join expat groups: Local Facebook groups and events help you integrate
• Learn basic Spanish: It makes everyday life easier and is appreciated
• Plan your taxes: Get yourself familiar with Spain’s tax system by working with a tax expert or lawyer, especially for pensions or remote income

Final Thoughts

Marbella offers a lifestyle that strikes a balance between comfort, luxury, and community. In 2025, it’s easier than ever to move here, with visa flexibility, improved infrastructure, and strong support for international residents.
Whether you’re looking to work remotely, raise a family, or retire, Marbella has the lifestyle, amenities, and climate to turn your dream of living in Spain into reality.