The Ultimate Guide to Moving to Marbella: What New Residents Need to Know (2025)
Moving to Marbella is a dream for many and for good reason. With its sundrenched beaches, quant old towns and luxury Mediterranean lifestyle. Marbella, Estepona and Benahavís, continue to attract thousands of expats, digital nomads, and retirees every year.
Whether you’re drawn by the vibrant international community or planning a permanent escape from Northern Europe’s grey winters, this is the ultimate guide to relocating to the Costa del Sol. We will walk you through everything you need to know – plus how the upcoming The Marbella Directory will help simplify your transition.
🌴 Why Move to Marbella, Estepona, or Benahavís?
Few places in Europe or even the world offer the unique blend of sunshine, safety, sophistication, and services that Marbella does. Here’s what’s pulling people in:
- Over 320 days of sunshine per year
- A strong English-speaking expat community
- Renowned healthcare and international schools
- Luxury lifestyle without the London or Paris price tags
- Access to world-class golf, beaches, and fine dining
Looking for a quieter or more affordable option?
- Estepona offers a more laid-back, traditional feel with excellent real estate value.
- Benahavís, tucked in the hills, is perfect for those seeking privacy, nature, and elegance.
🛂 Residency Requirements: How to Legally Relocate to Spain
Relocating to Spain in 2025 depends on your nationality, purpose, and income. Here are the most common routes for expats:
🔸 Golden Visa (Spain’s Residency by Investment)
Ideal for property buyers or investors. Requirements:
- Invest €500,000+ in Spanish real estate
- Clean criminal record
- Health insurance in Spain
Benefits: Family inclusion, residency without physical stay, path to long-term residency
🔸 Non-Lucrative Visa
Perfect for retirees or remote workers with passive income. Requirements:
- Proof of sufficient income (€2,400+/month)
- Private Spanish health insurance
- No work in Spain (remote work is a grey area, but often accepted)
🔸 Digital Nomad Visa (2023 Law)
Targeted at remote workers with foreign employers or freelance clients:
- Show income above 200% of Spain’s minimum wage
- Must have been working remotely for 3+ months
- Employer/client contracts required
🔸 EU/EEA Citizens
You can move freely, but must register and obtain a Certificado de Registro de Ciudadano de la Unión within 3 months.
🏡 Housing Costs in Marbella (2025 Snapshot)
Prices vary greatly depending on location and lifestyle, but here’s a rough idea:
| Location | 1-2 Bed Apartment (Monthly Rent) | 3-Bed Villa (Purchase) |
|---|---|---|
| Marbella | €1,100 – €2000+ | €700,000 – €3M+ |
| Estepona | €950 – €2,000 | €400,000 – €1.5M |
| Benahavís | €1,300 – €2,000+ | €800,000 – €4M+ |
Tips:
- Long-term rentals often require a 12-month contract with several months’ deposit.
- Work with bilingual agents to avoid miscommunication or shady deals.
- Short-term options like Airbnb are useful while house-hunting.
❤️ Healthcare Access on the Costa del Sol
Spain’s healthcare is ranked among the best globally, and expats are well covered – if you set things up properly.
Public Healthcare:
- Available to residents who contribute to the Spanish social security system.
- EU citizens can use their EHIC card temporarily before registering.
Private Healthcare:
- Essential for non-EU newcomers, especially Golden Visa or non-lucrative holders.
- Costs: ~€50–€200/month depending on coverage and age.
Tip: Choose insurers with English-speaking staff and expat-friendly policies.
📚 Schools & Services for Families
Moving with kids? Marbella offers top-rated international schools following British, American, or IB curriculums. These are located across Marbella, Estepona, and Benahavís.
Expect to pay:
- €4,000 – €10,000 per year depending on school and grade level
You’ll also need:
- Legal support for documents and NIE numbers
- Local language classes or tutors
- Help with utilities setup, banking, and mobile contracts
This is where things can get overwhelming and where The Marbella Directory is about to become your best friend.
🤝 How The Marbella Directory Will Help Newcomers Settle In
Relocating isn’t just about paperwork, it’s about building a life. The Marbella Directory is a new platform designed to help expats, retirees, and digital nomads settle in with confidence.
Here’s what’s coming soon:
- A trusted list of vetted service providers (lawyers, real estate agents, relocation experts)
- An interactive map of Marbella, Estepona & Benahavís
- A curated job board for those planning to work
- Community guides and local insights.
Whether you need a bilingual notary, a real estate lawyer, a car rental agency, or a relocation consultant, the Directory will connect you instantly—with no guesswork.
🟡 No more sifting through forums or gambling with random Google results.
📢 Are You a Business Helping Expats Relocate?
If your business offers relocation services in Marbella, Estepona, or Benahavís—now is the time to join the Directory.
✅ Get targeted exposure to people actively planning their move
✅ Build instant trust with verified reviews and quality control
✅ Be part of a curated, exclusive platform designed for high-value listings
👉 Apply here to join The Marbella Directory.
✈️ Ready to Relocate to the Costa del Sol?
Moving to Marbella, Estepona, or Benahavís in 2025 is easier than ever—with the right tools, support, and community. From sunny beachfronts to charming hillside villas, this part of Spain has something for everyone.
Whether you’re just exploring the idea or already packing your bags, The Marbella Directory is your soon-to-be relocation companion—connecting you with the most trusted names in the region.