Where to live?
It is totally individual which areas you fall in love with and decide to relocate to.
There are so many fantastic places along the coast. Here is a short summary of the different coastal towns and cities.
The Costa del Sol stretches along the southern coast of Spain in the province of Málaga, offering a wide range of places to live depending on your lifestyle, budget, and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a buzzing city atmosphere, a quiet seaside village, a family-friendly suburb, or a luxurious resort feel, there’s something for everyone.
Málaga City is the heart of the Costa del Sol and ideal if you want a mix of urban life and beach living. The city has great cultural offerings, a vibrant old town, international connections, and plenty of neighborhoods to choose from. You can live centrally in the historic centre or by the sea in areas like La Malagueta or Pedregalejo.
Heading west along the coast, Torremolinos is one of the most established resort towns. It’s known for its long beaches, nightlife, and a large expat population. It’s well-connected by train to Málaga, making it a practical choice for commuters or part-time residents.
Just next door is Benalmádena, which has a charming old town (Benalmádena Pueblo), a lively marina, and family-friendly attractions. It offers a mix of traditional and modern living and is popular with both expats and locals.
Fuengirola is another popular choice, especially for British residents. It has excellent infrastructure, plenty of international shops and restaurants, and a welcoming community. It’s also on the train line, which makes commuting to Málaga easy.
Further along the coast is Mijas, which is split between Mijas Pueblo, a picturesque whitewashed mountain village, and Mijas Costa, the beachside area. This is a great choice if you want a balance of scenic charm and coastal access.
Marbella is one of the most famous and upscale areas on the Costa del Sol. Known for luxury, beach clubs, and golf courses, Marbella attracts wealthy expats, retirees, and holidaymakers. While central Marbella is expensive, nearby areas like San Pedro de Alcántara or Nueva Andalucía offer more affordable options with the same glamorous lifestyle nearby.
If you prefer a more peaceful and authentic experience, Estepona is an excellent option. It’s grown rapidly in popularity for those who want a relaxed coastal life with fewer tourists, beautiful beaches, and a still-Spanish vibe. It’s further from Málaga city and airport but has a lot of charm and space.
On the far western end of the coast is Manilva and Casares, both quieter and more residential, with a slower pace of life. These areas are popular with retirees or those seeking lower property prices while still enjoying the sun and sea.
For those looking for something more budget-friendly and slightly off the tourist trail, the eastern Costa del Sol offers towns like Rincón de la Victoria, Torre del Mar, and Nerja. These places tend to have a more local feel, are generally quieter, and offer better value for money in terms of rent or property. Nerja in particular is a favorite with those who want a mix of natural beauty (like the nearby caves and cliffs), small-town charm, and expat friendliness.
