Complete guide to living on the Costa del Sol: best areas and services for international residents

The Costa del Sol is a sought-after destination for those seeking quality of life, enviable climate, and an international atmosphere. With its developed infrastructure, diverse community, and blend of tradition and modernity, the region attracts thousands of residents from all over the world every year. In this detailed guide, we explore the best areas to live in the Costa del Sol and the services that make this region one of the most desirable in Europe.

1. Why live on the Costa del Sol?

The Costa del Sol, with its more than 300 days of sunshine a year, offers its residents a mild and sunny climate that allows outdoor activities in any season. It also has one of the most advanced infrastructures in Spain, including the Málaga International Airport, high-quality hospitals, international schools, and shopping areas. This, together with the beauty of its beaches, mountains, and villages, makes the Costa del Sol an ideal place for both families and people looking to retire in a relaxed environment.

2. Best areas to live on the Costa del Sol according to the buyer's profile

• Marbella: One of the most well-known and desirable destinations, especially among high-net-worth international buyers. Marbella offers exclusive developments, luxury golf courses, and a vibrant social life. The areas of Nueva Andalucía, Puerto Banús, and La Zagaleta are especially popular for those seeking privacy and top-notch services.
• Estepona: Conocida como el “Jardín de la Costa del Sol”, Estepona combina un ambiente tradicional andaluz con el desarrollo de residencias de lujo. La ciudad ha visto un aumento en la construcción de nuevas urbanizaciones, ideales para familias que buscan una vida tranquila pero con acceso a servicios modernos. Es una excelente opción para quienes desean evitar la atmósfera más concurrida de Marbella.
• Cancelada / Manilva: If you are looking for an investment with great growth potential on the Costa del Sol, Cancelada and Manilva offer a unique opportunity. Their competitive prices, along with the quality of life and the growing demand in the area, position them as two of the most promising real estate markets in the region. We have this article about the potential of Cancelada and Manilva where we provide more data and information.
• Sotogrande: Sotogrande is not only an exclusive destination but also a solid investment opportunity due to its continuous growth potential and sustained demand from international buyers. If you are looking for luxury properties with high long-term value in an unparalleled setting, Sotogrande is a safe bet.
• Mijas: Divided between the white village in the mountains (Mijas Pueblo) and the coastal area (Mijas Costa), this locality offers a variety of housing options. Mijas Pueblo is perfect for those seeking a more authentic experience, while Mijas Costa attracts beach and golf lovers.
• Benalmádena: With its three areas (Benalmádena Pueblo, Arroyo de la Miel, and Benalmádena Costa), this locality is an attractive option for families and retirees. It offers competitively priced housing and is just a few minutes from Málaga airport, making travel easy.
• Fuengirola: Popular among buyers from all over Europe, Fuengirola stands out for its active social life, wide range of leisure activities, and excellent international schools. It is ideal for those seeking a dynamic lifestyle and wanting a property by the sea.

3. Essential services for international residents

• Education: The Costa del Sol is home to numerous international schools, such as Aloha College in Marbella and the Colegio Internacional Torrequebrada in Benalmádena. These schools, which offer educational programs in English, are highly valued by foreign families.
• Healthcare: In addition to having public hospitals, the Costa del Sol also has renowned private hospitals such as the Quirón Hospital in Marbella and the Xanit International Clinic in Benalmádena. These centers are known for their high quality and multilingual professionals.
• Leisure and sports: The region is famous for its world-class golf courses and marinas, such as Puerto Banús in Marbella and Puerto de Sotogrande. It also offers hiking trails, options for water sports, and numerous spas and wellness centers.

4. Advantages for foreign buyers

The Costa del Sol facilitates the buying process for international buyers through special mortgages for non-residents and tax benefits for those who establish their tax residence in Spain. Additionally, the buying process is safe and regulated, which builds confidence among foreign investors.

Conclusion

Living on the Costa del Sol is an experience that combines comfort, quality of life, and exceptional services. This region offers a wide variety of options for residents of any profile, along with an international community that makes adaptation very easy. Whether for establishing a second residence or moving permanently, the Costa del Sol has a lot to offer its future inhabitants.