Cost of Living in Marbella 2025: Comparing Two Budgets for Life on the Coast
Moving (or staying) in Marbella is pretty amazing. The sun-kissed beaches, the mix of local and global, and the ease of lifestyle all call you. But the question that always comes up is: What’s this going to cost me? Let’s talk candidly about the numbers. We’ll dive into what a comfortable month might look like, and then discuss what a more extravagant approach can get you so you’re prepared, not surprised.
1. Housing & Rent: The Big Number
Housing tends to dominate your budget here.
Right now, 2025 data show that a two-bedroom apartment in a good area will generally cost €1,600 to €3,500/month for rent. Apartments near the coast or in Puerto Banús or the Golden Mile trend toward the upper end. Buying is pricier. For example, the average property price is about €5,162/m² in May 2025. So, depending on your style, your housing budget might swing widely.
Scenario A (comfortable): Rent a modern 2-bedroom apartment for around €1,800/month.
Scenario B (luxury): Rent near the coast or in a prime area for €3,000+ or buy something if you plan long term.
2. Groceries & Food: Everyday Costs
Groceries don’t hit as hard as housing, but they matter. Some recent figures:
Loaf of fresh white bread: approx €1.19
Rice (1 lb): approx €0.45
Eggs (12): approx €3.06
On the other hand, one source suggests monthly grocery spending for an individual is around €200-€300. So if you’re eating mostly home-cooked meals, Scenario A might budget €250/month. If you dine out often and buy premium items, maybe €400+ is realistic.
3. Utilities, Transport & Extras
These feel smaller next to housing, but they add up. For utilities (electricity, water, gas), one guide suggests roughly €100/month for a 2-bedroom apartment.
Transport is relatively cheap: a public transport ticket is about €1.50, a monthly pass maybe around €30.
So in Scenario A, maybe budget €120/month for utilities + transport. Scenario B, perhaps €200/month (if you include car costs or premium services).
4. Entertainment, Dining Out & Wellness
These categories vary a lot by lifestyle. Want a night out? A mid-range restaurant meal for two might cost around €42.50. For wellness/spa, boutique fitness or premium treatments will cost significantly more, particularly in Marbella, where premium = part of the appeal.
One site estimates a traveller's daily budget in Marbella around €145/day. So for Scenario A budget may be €300/month for dining out 4-5 times + casual entertainment. Scenario B might budget €800/month+, including upscale dining, spa memberships, and premium fitness studios.
5. Putting It Together: Two Monthly Budgets
(Note: These exclude purchase costs and are approximate for 2025.)
If you’re thinking longer term and buying property, add in taxes, maintenance, and other costs.
6. Tips to Make It Work
Choose your area wisely. A few kilometres inland or just away from the coast can reduce rent significantly.
Cook at home more. Groceries are more reasonable compared to dining out.
Use Spain’s public transport system or shared commute for savings.
Take advantage of local free/low-cost leisure (beach, hiking, markets).
Make a realistic budget before you move. Lifestyle choice = big cost driver.
7. Why It’s Worth It
Yes, Marbella can be more expensive than many Spanish towns. One comparison shows it costs about 9% less than Madrid, but it is still a premium coastal location. What you’re paying for is lifestyle: the weather, the sea, quality of life, and the mix of international community and local roots. If you align your choices, you can live very well and intentionally.
Want Help Planning Your Beach Budget?
If you’re thinking of relocating or extending your stay and want clarity on what your cost of living in Marbella might be, we can help. We’ll build a personalised budget, suggest areas that match your priorities, and connect you to trusted local services. Contact the ELyS team and we’ll map it out together.
References
Nomads.com, 2025. Cost of Living in Marbella. Available at: https://nomads.com/cost-of-living/in/marbella
Global Citizen Solutions, 2025. Cost of Living in Spain 2025: The Complete Guide for Expats. Available at: https://globalcitizensolutions.com/spain-cost-of-living/
Numbeo, 2025. Food Prices in Marbella. Available at: https://www.numbeo.com/food-prices/in/Marbella
MH Marbella Estates, 2025. Cost of Living in Marbella – Updated Prices Feb 2025. Available at: https://www.mhmarbellaestates.com/cost-of-living-in-marbella/
Realista, 2025. Moving to Marbella: Guide for Families, Retirees & Nomads. Available at: https://realista.com/blog/moving-to-marbella-guide-for-families-retirees-nomads/
Expatistan, 2025. Cost of Living in Marbella – Feb 2025 update. Available at: https://www.expatistan.com/cost-of-living/marbella
PropertyOso, 2025. Cost of living in Marbella – How Much is It? Available at: https://propertyoso.com/guides/how-much-is-the-cost-of-living-in-marbella-spain/