Estepona, a charming coastal town on Spain’s Costa del Sol, is known for its picturesque beaches, flower-lined streets, and relaxed Mediterranean vibe. A popular destination for expats and retirees, it offers a more affordable alternative to nearby Marbella. Using the latest data from Numbeo and other sources, this blog post explores the cost of living in Estepona as of June 2025, covering housing, food, transportation, and more. Whether you’re planning to relocate, retire, or live as a digital nomad, this guide will help you budget for life in Estepona.
Overview of Living Costs in Estepona
Estepona is one of Spain’s more affordable coastal towns, significantly cheaper than Marbella but slightly pricier than Alicante. A single person’s estimated monthly expenses, including rent, are around $1,075 (€1,000), while a family of four can expect to spend approximately $3,735 (€3,480). These figures reflect a comfortable lifestyle, with opportunities to save by choosing less central areas or adopting local habits.
Housing: The Primary Expense
Housing is the largest expense in Estepona, though it’s more affordable than in Marbella, where rent prices are 85.9% higher. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center averages $664 (€620) per month, while outside the center, rents drop to around $500–€550. A three-bedroom apartment near the city center costs about $1,701 (€1,585). For buyers, the average price per square meter is €2,700, lower than Marbella’s €3,950 or Barcelona’s €3,995. Neighborhoods like Selwo or Cancelada offer budget-friendly options.
For retirees budgeting €500–€800 for rent, areas like Costa Natura or Bahía Dorada provide apartments under €600. Initial rental costs include a deposit (2–3 months’ rent), agency fees (€600–€1,200), and the first month’s rent, totaling around €2,200 for a €650 apartment. Long-term rentals can be scarce due to demand, so early planning is key.
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.
- Explore nearby towns like Manilva for lower rents with easy bus access to Estepona.
Food and Groceries
Grocery costs in Estepona are affordable, with a single person’s monthly bill averaging $155 (€145) and a family of four spending around $418 (€390). Common items include:
- Milk (1 liter): €0.90
- Bread (500g loaf): €0.95
- Eggs (12): €2.30
- Chicken breast (1kg): €6.30
- Oranges (1kg): €1.00
These prices are slightly lower than Marbella’s, where groceries are 5.6% higher. Dining out is budget-friendly at local spots, with a meal at an inexpensive restaurant costing €10–€12 and a “menu del día” (set lunch menu) at €9–€13. A three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant averages €40–€50. Tapas range from €6–€10.
Transportation
Estepona’s public transport is limited compared to larger cities, relying primarily on buses. A single bus ticket costs €1.20–€1.50, with monthly passes around €40. Intercity buses to Málaga or Marbella cost €5–€10. Many residents own cars due to the town’s spread-out layout, with fuel at €1.65 per liter and annual insurance at €500–€700. Bike rentals and walking are popular in the flat town center, and a taxi to Málaga’s airport costs €50–€70.
Utilities and Other Expenses
Utilities (electricity, gas, water, internet) for a small apartment average $87 (€81) per month for a single person, slightly lower than Marbella’s €108. Private health insurance ranges from €35–€70 monthly, while public healthcare is free for residents with a valid permit. Leisure costs, such as a gym membership (€30/month) or cinema ticket (€7), add €100–€200 to monthly expenses, depending on lifestyle. A family of four’s additional expenses, including utilities and memberships, average $167 (€155).
Salaries and Affordability
The median after-tax salary in Estepona is not explicitly provided, but Spain’s average is €1,690, covering a single person’s expenses for about 1.7 months in Estepona. For a family of four, a net income of €3,000–€3,800 is recommended for a comfortable lifestyle, particularly if children attend private schools (around €970/month for two children). Estepona is 23.1% cheaper than Marbella, 11.1% cheaper than Málaga, and 36.2% cheaper than Barcelona, making it a cost-effective choice on the Costa del Sol.
Quality of Life for Families and Retirees
Estepona offers a high quality of life, with a mild climate (300+ sunny days), safe neighborhoods, and a vibrant expat community (25% of residents are foreigners). Families benefit from public schools, though international schools like Mayfair International Academy cost €7,000–€10,000/year. Retirees with a monthly income of $2,500 (€2,300 after taxes) can cover rent (€500–€800) and living expenses (€380 without rent) comfortably. The town’s low crime rates and amenities like golf courses and beaches make it ideal for retirees.
Neighborhood Recommendations for Retirees:
- Costa Natura: Affordable, near the beach, with rents under €600.
- Cancelada: Quiet, with lower costs and good amenities.
- Estepona Centro: Vibrant but pricier, ideal for urban enthusiasts.
Tips for Saving Money
- Shop at Markets: Visit Estepona’s weekly market for fresh, affordable produce.
- Use Public Transport: Opt for buses to nearby towns to avoid car expenses.
- Dine Local: Choose tapas bars or “menu del día” over touristy restaurants.
- Explore Free Attractions: Enjoy Estepona’s beaches, Old Town, and flower-lined streets.
Final Thoughts
Estepona offers an affordable, high-quality lifestyle with its sunny climate, welcoming expat community, and lower costs compared to Marbella or Barcelona. While housing can be competitive, careful planning and choosing the right neighborhood keep expenses manageable. Use tools like Numbeo’s Cost of Living Estimator or Idealista to plan your move and embrace life in this Costa del Sol gem.
Sources: Numbeo, Cost of Living in Estepona, last updated October 2024; Costabroad.com, Cost of Living in Estepona, 2024.
