Expat Guide: Living on the Costa del Sol
The Costa del Sol has been welcoming expats for over 50 years, creating one of Europe's most established international communities. Today, around 39% of property buyers are foreign, with large British, German, Scandinavian, and increasingly American populations. Whether you're retiring, relocating with family, or working remotely, this guide covers the practical realities of expat life.
Why Expats Choose the Costa del Sol
Three hundred days of sunshine, affordable cost of living compared to Northern Europe, excellent healthcare, international schools, and a welcoming community. The Costa del Sol offers the rare combination of modern amenities and Mediterranean lifestyle. You can enjoy tapas in a traditional plaza, then shop at a modern mall - often in English.
Cost of Living Comparison (Monthly)
| Expense | Costa del Sol | London | Munich |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-bed apartment rent | €850-1,100 | €2,200+ | €1,500+ |
| Utilities | €100-150 | €200+ | €250+ |
| Groceries | €300-400 | €400-500 | €350-450 |
| Dining out (meal for 2) | €40-60 | €80-100 | €60-80 |
| Private health insurance | €80-150 | £200+ | €200+ |
| International school (annual) | €8,000-15,000 | £20,000+ | €15,000+ |
Healthcare for Expats
Spain's healthcare system is excellent. EU citizens can use the public system with an EHIC/GHIC card initially, then register for the Spanish system. Non-EU citizens typically need private health insurance. Fortunately, private healthcare in Spain is affordable and high-quality. Major hospitals like Hospital Costa del Sol (Marbella) and Hospital Quirón have English-speaking staff.
Healthcare Options
- Public System (for residents): High quality, free once registered, some waiting times for non-urgent care
- Private Insurance: Sanitas, Adeslas, ASISA, Cigna. €80-300/month depending on age and coverage
- Private Pay-As-You-Go: Consultations €50-100, many doctors speak English
- Pharmacies: Well-stocked, pharmacists can advise on minor ailments, many common medications available without prescription
International Schools
The Costa del Sol has excellent international education options. British curriculum schools are most common, but you'll also find American, German, Swedish, and French schools. Most international schools run from age 3 to 18. Fees are significantly lower than equivalent schools in London or other major cities - typically €8,000-15,000 per year.
Notable International Schools
- Aloha College (Marbella): British curriculum, established reputation, IB offered
- Swans International School (Marbella): British curriculum, good facilities
- The English International College (Marbella): British, strong academics
- Laude San Pedro: Spanish bilingual, British curriculum elements
- Sotogrande International School: IB focused, boarding option
- British School of Málaga: Closer to Málaga city, British curriculum
- Deutsche Schule Málaga: German curriculum
- Colegio Sueco/Swedish School (Fuengirola): Swedish curriculum
School Tip
Visit schools during term time, not just open days. Ask about the student community, after-school activities, and how they support children transitioning from other education systems. Waiting lists exist for popular schools - apply early.
Expat Communities
You'll never be alone on the Costa del Sol. Active expat communities offer social events, support networks, and practical help. Facebook groups, local clubs, and organizations like Age Concern (Fuengirola) provide connections. English is widely spoken in expat areas - you can live comfortably without Spanish, though learning basics is appreciated.
Finding Your Community
- Facebook Groups: "Expats in Marbella", "British Expats Costa del Sol", "Americans in Spain"
- Lions Club, Rotary Club: Active chapters along the coast
- Golf clubs: Social memberships available, great networking
- Beach clubs: Day memberships for socializing
- Age Concern Fuengirola/Mijas: Support and social activities for older expats
- Parent groups: Schools have active parent associations
- Business networking: Chamber of Commerce events, BNI chapters
Residency Requirements
If you're staying more than 90 days in any 180-day period, you need residency. EU citizens register at the police station for a green certificate. Non-EU citizens need a visa - options include the non-lucrative visa (for those not working), digital nomad visa (for remote workers), or work visa (for employed/self-employed). The Golden Visa through property investment is being phased out.
Taxes for Expats
Tax residency matters. If you spend more than 183 days in Spain, you're tax resident and must declare worldwide income. Spain has double taxation treaties with most countries. Non-residents who own property pay imputed income tax (1.1-2% of cadastral value) even if not renting out. Get professional advice - Spanish tax rules are complex.
Getting Settled Checklist
- NIE number: Essential for everything
- Empadronamiento: Register at your local town hall - needed for many services
- Spanish bank account: Essential for utilities, community fees
- Healthcare: Register with public system or arrange private insurance
- Spanish phone number: Local SIM cards are cheap
- Driving: Your home license works 6 months, then exchange needed for EU licenses
- Utilities: Electricity (Endesa), water (local company), internet (Movistar, Orange, Vodafone)
Post-Brexit UK Expats
UK citizens now follow non-EU rules. You need a visa for stays over 90 days, healthcare via the S1 form (pensioners) or private insurance, and your UK driving license must be exchanged. The process is more bureaucratic but thousands of Brits still relocate successfully each year.
Daily Life Practicalities
Supermarkets range from budget (Mercadona, Lidl, Aldi) to British favorites (Iceland in Fuengirola) to upmarket (El Corte Inglés). Major shopping centers include La Cañada (Marbella) and Miramar (Fuengirola). Amazon delivers, IKEA is in Málaga. You'll find English-speaking doctors, dentists, lawyers, and accountants throughout the coast.
Key Takeaways
- Cost of living is 30-50% lower than Northern European capitals
- Excellent healthcare available publicly (for residents) and privately (affordable)
- International schools cost €8,000-15,000/year with British, IB, and other curricula
- Large, established expat communities offer support and social life
- Tax residency after 183 days - get professional advice on obligations
- Non-EU citizens need appropriate visa for stays over 90 days