Cost of Living on the Costa del Sol vs. Major European Cities

Relocating to another country always comes with one big question: how much does it really cost to live there? The Costa del Sol is becoming increasingly popular among foreigners thanks to its climate, lifestyle, and quality services—but also because it offers a competitive cost of living compared to major European cities.

At Paramount Homes, we’ve prepared a practical comparison to give you a clear idea of what it means to live on the Costa del Sol versus London, Paris, or Berlin.

Housing

Costa del Sol (Málaga, Marbella, Estepona):
2-bedroom rental → €1,000 – €1,200/month.
Property purchase per m² → €3,000 – €4,500.

London:
2-bedroom rental → £2,500 – £3,000/month.
Property purchase per m² → €12,000 – €15,000.

Paris:
2-bedroom rental → €2,000 – €2,500/month.
Property purchase per m² → €10,000 – €12,000.

Berlin:
2-bedroom rental → €1,500 – €1,800/month.
Property purchase per m² → €6,000 – €8,000.

Conclusion: living on the Costa del Sol can be up to three times more affordable in housing compared to London or Paris.

Food & Leisure

Costa del Sol:
Local restaurant menu → €12 – €15.
Dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant → €50 – €70.
Coffee → €1.50 – €2.

London/Paris:
Menu → €20 – €25.
Dinner for two → €80 – €120.
Coffee → €3 – €4.

Berlin:
Menu → €15 – €20.
Dinner for two → €60 – €90.
Coffee → €3.

Conclusion: dining out on the Costa del Sol costs roughly 40% less than in major European capitals.

Transport

Costa del Sol:
Monthly transport pass → €40 – €50.
Gasoline → €1.60 – €1.70/litre.

London:
Monthly pass → €200 – €250.

Paris:
Monthly pass → €75 – €85.

Berlin:
Monthly pass → €90 – €100.

Conclusion: public transport on the Costa del Sol is cheaper, though less extensive than in London or Paris.

Healthcare & Education

Costa del Sol:
Private health insurance → €50 – €120/month.
International schools → €500 – €1,000/month.

European capitals:
Costs can be double, especially for private education.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is living on the Costa del Sol cheaper than in my country?
It depends, but in most cases yes—especially compared to the UK, France, or Germany.

How much do you need to live comfortably on the Costa del Sol?
A couple can live well on €2,500 – €3,000/month, enjoying a good quality of life.

What expense surprises foreigners the most?
Community fees in premium developments, which can reach €300 – €500/month.

The Costa del Sol combines a competitive cost of living with a high-quality lifestyle. For many foreigners, moving here means more affordable housing, better weather, and lower daily expenses compared to Europe’s major capitals.