Marbella has become one of the most attractive destinations for digital nomads looking for a sunny, safe environment with an infrastructure ready for remote work.
Located on the Costa del Sol, this Andalusian city combines connectivity, a cosmopolitan lifestyle, and natural beauty—making it a magnet for remote professionals from around the world. Below is a detailed guide on how to live and work in Marbella as a digital nomad.
Why choose Marbella as a digital nomad
Apart from luxury and tourism, Marbella means quality of life. With over 320 days of sunshine per year, long beaches, a lively urban environment, and proximity to Málaga Airport, the city is becoming a key hub for remote work in Europe.
Moreover, its growing entrepreneurial ecosystem, coworking spaces, and a well-established international community make Marbella a strategic choice for those looking to set up a base in Southern Europe.
Digital nomad visa in Spain
Since 2023, Spain has offered a specific digital nomad visa, allowing remote workers to live and work legally in the country for an initial period of up to 12 months, with the possibility of renewal.
This visa is aimed at remote employees or freelancers with clients outside of Spain. It requires proof of stable income, a work contract or evidence of self-employment, and private health insurance.
As part of Andalusia, Marbella is increasingly welcoming professionals using this visa to settle long-term and legally in the region. You can find more information on the official Spanish government site.
Cost of living in Marbella
The cost of living in Marbella is higher than in other Andalusian cities, but lower than in major European capitals such as London, Amsterdam, or Paris.
Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center ranges from €1,000 to €1,500 per month, while residential areas like Nueva Andalucía tend to be more affordable.
Food, transportation, and leisure offer a good price-to-quality ratio. Dining out is relatively inexpensive compared to cities in Northern Europe, and supermarkets offer a wide variety of quality products.
Public transportation is efficient, although many nomads choose to rent a car or use electric bikes to get around.
Best areas to live in Marbella
Your ideal neighborhood will depend on your lifestyle, budget, and professional needs:
Old Town (Casco Antiguo): Perfect for those who enjoy an urban atmosphere, pedestrian streets, cafés, and nearby workspaces.
Nueva Andalucía: Very popular among expats and digital nomads, with easy access to amenities, supermarkets, and green spaces.
La Milla de Oro (The Golden Mile): Ideal if you’re looking for luxury, beachfront living, and exclusive restaurants.
San Pedro de Alcántara: A quieter, more affordable option, well-connected and fully serviced.
Elviria: A highly valued residential area, close to beaches and with good links to the city center.
Coworking spaces in Marbella
While many professionals work from home thanks to high-speed fiber connections, coworking spaces in Marbella have become key locations for productivity and networking.
Work in Marbella, our coworking space located on the border between Marbella and Estepona, and conveniently close to popular spots, is a top choice for freelancers, small businesses, and startups looking to work remotely or set up locally.
International community and social life
One of Marbella’s greatest strengths is its international community, with residents from across Europe, especially the UK, Germany, the Netherlands, Sweden, and France.
There are weekly events aimed at digital nomads and entrepreneurs, organized by coworking spaces, local associations, and online communities.
Meetups, talks, co-working brunches, and after-work events are part of everyday life in Marbella. Outdoor group activities like hiking, paddleboarding, or beach yoga are also common.
Leisure and free-time activities
Marbella offers a wide range of leisure options, essential for maintaining a good work-life balance:
Beaches: From the lively Fontanilla Beach to quieter ones in Cabopino, there’s something for everyone.
Nature: The Sierra de las Nieves Natural Park and the nearby La Concha mountain are perfect for hiking and disconnecting from the screen.
Golf: Marbella boasts over 15 top-class golf courses.
Gastronomy: The city blends traditional Andalusian cuisine with international, vegan, and gourmet dining.
Cultural events: Concerts, art exhibitions, and festivals take place year-round.
Practical tips for settling in
Transport: While Marbella doesn’t have a train station, road connections to Málaga and other cities are fast. The most common public transport is the bus, although many people opt for monthly car rentals.
Healthcare: There are high-quality private clinics and reputable public hospitals. A private health insurance policy is recommended if you’re not officially registered as a resident.
Phone & internet: Providers like Movistar, Orange, and Vodafone offer fiber + mobile packages. Most coworking spaces also have high-speed connections.
Safety: Marbella is safe both day and night, though caution is advised in crowded tourist areas during peak summer months.
Banking & finance: Banks like CaixaBank, BBVA, or Sabadell offer accounts for non-residents and services in English.