Marbella, a glamorous gem on Spain’s Costa del Sol, is renowned for its luxury lifestyle, stunning beaches, and vibrant expat community. But what does it cost to live in this Mediterranean paradise? Using the latest data from Numbeo, this blog post explores the cost of living in Marbella as of June 2025, covering housing, food, transportation, and more. Whether you’re planning to relocate, retire, or enjoy a digital nomad lifestyle, this guide will help you budget for life in Marbella.
Overview of Living Costs in Marbella
Marbella is one of Spain’s pricier cities, reflecting its status as a high-end destination, but it remains more affordable than major European capitals like London or Amsterdam. A single person’s estimated monthly expenses, including rent, are around €2,208 ($2,881), while a family of four can expect to spend approximately €4,796 ($5,317). These figures assume a comfortable lifestyle in the city center, but costs can be reduced by choosing less exclusive areas or adopting local habits.
Housing: The Largest Expense
Housing is the most significant expense in Marbella, driven by its popularity among tourists and affluent expats. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center averages €1,321 per month, while outside the center, rents drop to around €900–€1,100. Two-bedroom apartments range from €1,600–€3,500, depending on proximity to areas like Puerto Banús or the Golden Mile. For buyers, the average price per square meter is €3,950, higher than Málaga (€2,390) or Alicante (€2,026) but lower than Barcelona’s €3,995.
For retirees budgeting €800–€1,200 for rent, areas like Nueva Andalucía or Elviria offer more affordable apartments under €1,000. Initial rental costs include a deposit (2–3 months’ rent), agency fees (€1,000–€2,000), and the first month’s rent, totaling around €4,000 for a €1,200 apartment.
Tips for Renting:
- Use platforms like Idealista, but verify listings to avoid scams (up to 20% may be fraudulent).
- Non-Spanish speakers may benefit from a local agent to navigate contracts.
- Consider nearby towns like Estepona or Fuengirola for lower rents with easy access via bus or train.
Food and Groceries
Grocery costs in Marbella are reasonable, with a single person’s monthly bill averaging €250–€300. Common items include:
- Milk (1 liter): €0.95
- Bread (500g loaf): €1.00
- Eggs (12): €2.50
- Chicken breast (1kg): €6.50
- Oranges (1kg): €1.10
Dining out varies widely. A meal at a local tapas bar costs €15–€20 per person, while mid-range restaurants offer three-course meals for €40–€60 for two. High-end dining in Puerto Banús or the Golden Mile can cost €100–€300 per person. The “menu del día” (set lunch menu) is a budget-friendly option at €10–€15.
Transportation
Marbella lacks a metro system, but its bus network is reliable, with single tickets costing €1.20–€1.50 and monthly passes at €40–€50. Intercity buses to Málaga or Seville start at €10. Due to limited public transport in suburban areas, many residents own cars, with fuel at €1.70 per liter and annual insurance at €500–€800. Taxis to Málaga’s airport cost €60–€80, while buses are under €10. Bike paths and e-bikes are increasingly popular for short trips.
Utilities and Other Expenses
Utilities (electricity, gas, water, internet) for a small apartment average €108 per month for a single person. Private health insurance ranges from €50–€100 monthly, while public healthcare is free for residents with a valid permit. Leisure costs, such as a gym membership (€40/month), golf green fees (€50–€200), or cinema tickets (€8), add €150–€300 to monthly expenses, depending on lifestyle.
Salaries and Affordability
The median after-tax salary in Marbella is not explicitly provided in the data, but Spain’s average is €1,690, covering a single person’s expenses for about 0.8 months in Marbella due to its higher costs. For a family of four, a net income of €4,000–€5,000 is recommended for a comfortable lifestyle, especially with children in international schools. Marbella is 23.1% more expensive than Málaga, 29.4% more than Alicante, and 5.7% more than Barcelona, but 43% cheaper than New York City.
Quality of Life for Families and Retirees
Marbella boasts a high quality of life, with a climate index of 96.98, over 300 sunny days annually, and a vibrant international community. Families benefit from international schools like Aloha College, though fees are high (€7,000–€10,000/year). Retirees with a monthly income of $3,000 (€2,800 after taxes) can cover rent (€800–€1,200) and living expenses (€887 without rent) comfortably. The city is safe, particularly for solo female travelers, and offers excellent healthcare and cultural events.
Neighborhood Recommendations for Retirees:
- Nueva Andalucía: Affordable, near golf courses, with rents under €1,000.
- Elviria: Quiet, with beach access and lower costs.
- Puerto Banús: Luxurious but pricier, ideal for those seeking upscale living.
Tips for Saving Money
- Shop at Markets: Visit local markets like San Pedro Alcántara for affordable produce.
- Use Public Transport: Opt for buses or intercity trains to avoid car expenses.
- Dine Local: Choose tapas bars or “menu del día” over high-end restaurants.
- Explore Free Attractions: Enjoy Marbella’s beaches, Old Town, and free cultural events.
Final Thoughts
Marbella offers a luxurious yet achievable lifestyle for those who plan carefully. While housing costs are higher than in Málaga, Alicante, or Valencia, its exceptional climate, international community, and quality amenities make it a top choice for expats and retirees. Use tools like Numbeo’s Cost of Living Estimator or Idealista to plan your move and enjoy the Costa del Sol’s charm.
Source: Numbeo, Cost of Living in Marbella, last updated May 2025.
