Malaga offers expat families year-round sunshine, beautiful beaches, and a relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle with growing international school options. The Costa del Sol location attracts a large international community, particularly from Northern Europe, creating excellent support networks for families. Living costs are significantly lower than northern European cities while maintaining good quality amenities. The healthcare system is reliable, and many services cater to English-speaking residents. Cultural attractions include museums, historic sites, and excellent dining. The airport provides easy connections throughout Europe. While Spanish language skills are helpful, many locals speak English due to the tourist industry. The combination of climate, affordability, and international community makes it attractive for families seeking a lifestyle change.

☀️ Climate & Weather

Monthly temperatures, rainfall, and sea conditions

32°C

Hottest (Aug)

8°C

Coolest (Dec)

Sunny days/mo avg

447mm

Annual rainfall

Avg highAvg lowSea tempRainfall

15°

🌊 Jan

15°

🌊 Feb

16°

🌊 Mar

17°

🌊 Apr

19°

🌊 May

22°

🌊 Jun

24°

🌊 Jul

25°

🌊 Aug

24°

🌊 Sep

22°

🌊 Oct

19°

🌊 Nov

16°

🌊 Dec

💰 Cost of Living

Monthly family budget estimates (USD)

At a Glance

$800

Avg. rent /mo

$10

Budget meal

$35

Mid-range dinner (2 ppl)

Dining & Drinks

Cappuccino$1.80

Domestic beer$2.50

Imported beer$3.50

Water (1.5L)$0.50

Groceries

Loaf of bread$1.20

Milk (1L)$0.85

Dozen eggs$1.90

Chicken (1 kg)$4.80

Transport

Taxi flag-drop$3.20

Taxi per km$1.10

Monthly transit pass$38

Gasoline (per liter)$1.65

Monthly Bills

Internet$35 /mo

Utilities (avg.)$120 /mo

Gym membership$35 /mo

Domestic help$650 /mo

Preschool / nursery$450 /mo

Comfortable

A family in a 3-bedroom apartment in Benalmadena or Los Pacos, one car, children at a Spanish public or semi-private school, occasional dining out.

$3,200/mo

Rent$1,200

Groceries$550

Lifestyle & leisure$200

Transport$250

Utilities$130

Dining out$300

Healthcare$150

School fees (per child)$300

Domestic help$120

Established

A family renting a 3-4 bedroom villa or townhouse in Estepona or La Cala, one car plus taxis, children at an international school, regular dining out.

$6,500/mo

Rent$2,500

Groceries$800

Lifestyle & leisure$450

Transport$400

Utilities$180

Dining out$600

Healthcare$250

School fees (per child)$900

Domestic help$420

Premium

A family in a 4-5 bedroom villa in Nueva Andalucia or Marbella Golden Mile, two cars, children at top IB international school, club memberships, full-time housekeeper.

$12,000/mo

Rent$4,500

Groceries$1,200

Lifestyle & leisure$1,000

Transport$800

Utilities$280

Dining out$1,500

Healthcare$500

School fees (per child)$1,400

Domestic help$820

Malaga Costa del Sol offers significantly lower living costs than northern Europe while maintaining a high quality of life. The euro is the local currency. Housing is the largest variable — coastal prime areas like Marbella command premiums while inland and eastern neighborhoods remain affordable. School fees at international schools typically run €600–€1,400/month.