Best Places to Live in Costa del Sol (2025 Guide)
Thinking about living in Costa del Sol? Whether you’re a digital nomad, retiree, or property investor, this 2025 guide helps you explore the best neighborhoods—while testing life here through long-term rentals in Marbella, Mijas, Calahonda, and more.
What are the best places to live in Costa del Sol?
Costa del Sol is one of the most desirable places in Europe to relocate. It offers over 300 days of sunshine, modern infrastructure, a welcoming expat community, and easy access to beaches, golf, restaurants, and nature. But where exactly should you live?
1. Marbella — Luxury Living by the Sea
Best for: Families, professionals, lifestyle investors
Marbella remains the top choice in 2025. Known for its luxury villas and vibrant social scene, the area attracts high-net-worth individuals and families alike. With top-rated international schools (like Swans and Aloha College), Marbella is now a hot spot for digital nomad families.
Rental Tip: With average property prices over €4M in prime areas, long-term rentals are the smart way to test the lifestyle before committing to a purchase.
2. Mijas (Costa & Pueblo) — Authentic Charm Meets Coastal Ease
Best for: Retirees, expats seeking value
Mijas combines whitewashed mountain village charm with modern beachside convenience. As Marbella prices surge (up 10–15% in 2025), renters are increasingly choosing Mijas for better space, value, and calm surroundings.
Expat Insight: A strong British and Scandinavian community helps newcomers integrate quickly—yet Mijas retains a genuine Andalusian spirit.
3. Calahonda — The Self-Sufficient Expat Hub
Best for: Walkability, easy living
Perfectly located between Marbella and Fuengirola, Calahonda offers shops, cafes, clinics, and beaches—all within walking distance. In 2025, it’s gaining popularity with remote workers and young families who want a safe, central base without needing a car.
Why Rent Here: Calahonda’s location and community feel make it ideal for testing life in Spain before making long-term plans.
Where to Live in Marbella? (Local Breakdown)
| Neighborhood | Best For… | Local Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Nueva Andalucía | Golfers & Families | Lush, green, quieter than Puerto Banús but minutes away. |
| Elviria | Beach Lovers | Home to Marbella’s best sandy beaches & Nikki Beach vibes. |
| San Pedro | Authentic Spanish Living | Walkable, with fewer tourists and strong community roots. |
| Golden Mile | Status Seekers | Marbella’s most elite address. High cost, low availability. |
Is Costa del Sol Safe in 2025?
Yes. Costa del Sol remains one of the safest places to live in Europe.
- Visible Policing: Tourist towns have strong Policía Local and Guardia Civil presence.
- Squatter Myths: The “okupa” fear is often overblown. GG Rentals only lists legally secure homes in gated or managed buildings.
- Secure Process: Renting long-term with a licensed local agency like GG Rentals removes risk and ensures clear contracts.
2025 Rental Market Insights
- Rising Demand: Rental prices in Málaga province have jumped 13–15% over the past year.
- Limited Stock: Many landlords shifted to short-term platforms like Airbnb, making quality long-term homes harder to find.
- The GG Rentals Advantage: Our listings in Mijas, Marbella, and Calahonda are pre-screened, legally sound, and updated weekly.
Try Before You Buy (GG Rentals Tip)
If you’re considering moving to Costa del Sol or buying property here, start with a long-term rental.
This gives you time to:
- Discover the best area for your lifestyle
- Test schools, commute, and community vibe
- Wait for interest rates to adjust before buying
Explore Short & Long-Term Rentals in Costa del Sol
GG Rentals specializes in helping expats, families, and investors test drive life in the sun. Our hand-picked properties are located in the most sought-after areas—Mijas, Marbella, and Calahonda.
👇Visit page to browse current listings and discover your perfect home in Costa del Sol.
