Sunshine, golf and a slower pace: why so many people move to the Costa del Sol

It is easy to see why the Costa del Sol appeals. Málaga airport records around 2,900 hours of sunshine a year and an average temperature of 18.5 degrees, with mild winters and outdoor living long after a northern summer ends. For many who have holidayed in Spain for years, the question sooner or later becomes: why not live here more of the time?

It is not only the climate. The coast has a large, well-established international community, with international schools, clubs and meeting places in every town. That makes the move feel safer: you quickly find a social network while still experiencing something new.

The lifestyle is a big part of the draw: long mornings on the terrace, fresh seafood, daily walks along the promenade and a calmer pace of life. Golf matters to many, too. With more than 70 courses, the region is one of Europe's top golf destinations, though you do not need to live on a course to enjoy them.

Many start cautiously, with a winter home used for a few months and let out for the rest of the year. Over time, many spend more and more of the year here, in retirement or with a more flexible working life.

How long you can stay depends on your passport. EU citizens have the right to live in any EU country. Since Brexit, British citizens can spend up to 90 days in any 180-day period in the Schengen area without a visa. Staying longer needs a visa or residence permit, such as the non-lucrative visa for those who will not work in Spain, or the remote work visa created by Law 28/2022. Start with the UK government's guide to living in Spain, and read our article on healthcare in Spain.

Wherever you are in the process, we recommend experiencing the area in different seasons before deciding where to live. Browse homes along the coast and get in touch with us: we are happy to set up a viewing trip around the life you have in mind.