Thinking about relocating to Marbella from the United States? You’re not the only one. With over 300 days of sunshine, beautiful beaches, and a Mediterranean lifestyle, Marbella is becoming a top destination for American expats.
But before you pack your bags and trade in your SUV for a sangria by the sea, here are 10 essential things to know before making the move.
1. You’ll Need a Long-Stay Visa
Americans can visit Spain visa-free for up to 90 days, but to live in Marbella long-term, you’ll need:
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A Non-Lucrative Visa (great for retirees or those with passive income)
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The new Digital Nomad Visa (perfect for remote workers)
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A Golden Visa (if investing €500,000+ in Spanish property)
Start the process early Spanish consulates can have long appointment waits.
2. Cost of Living Is Lower (But It’s Not “Cheap”)
Compared to cities like New York, San Francisco, or Miami, Marbella is significantly more affordable especially when it comes to:
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Rent
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Healthcare
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Dining out
But Marbella is a luxury destination, so costs are higher than other parts of Spain. Expect to pay more in trendy areas like Sierra Blanca or Puerto Banús.
3. Private Healthcare Is Excellent and Affordable
Spain has both public and private healthcare. Most American expats opt for private insurance due to shorter wait times and English-speaking doctors. Expect to pay around €60–€120/month for great coverage.
4. You’ll Find Homes That Rival Malibu or Miami
Marbella’s real estate is stunning, from modern sea-view apartments to luxury villas in gated communities like:
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Sierra Blanca
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La Zagaleta
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Nueva Andalucía
Make sure to work with a bilingual real estate agent who understands both the local market and American expectations.
5. There Are Excellent International Schools
If you’re moving with children, Marbella has highly rated international schools offering U.S., British, and IB curriculums:
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Aloha College
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Swans International School
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The American College in Spain
Most are bilingual, and many offer flexible enrolment for international families.
6. Wi-Fi Is Fast and Remote Work-Friendly
Whether you’re a tech entrepreneur or freelance designer, Marbella is well-equipped for remote workers:
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Fast fiber-optic internet
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Coworking spaces in town and near the beach
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Plenty of cafés with strong Wi-Fi
Plus, Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa now makes it legal for Americans to work remotely from Marbella.
7. You Can Still Find American Comforts
While Marbella has a very European lifestyle, you’ll still find plenty of American-style comforts:
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Starbucks & healthy brunch spots
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International supermarkets (with peanut butter, cheddar cheese, and even Pop-Tarts!)
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English-language TV, gyms, and even U.S. sports bars
8. The Lifestyle Is Slower And Healthier
Life in Marbella is less about hustle and more about balance:
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Lunches last 2 hours
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Many shops close for siesta (2–5 PM)
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People walk everywhere
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Fresh local produce is the norm
You’ll eat better, sleep more, and stress less.
9. Spanish Basics Will Go a Long Way
While many locals speak English (especially in real estate, tourism, and healthcare), learning basic Spanish will:
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Help with bureaucracy
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Make local friendships easier
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Enrich your day-to-day life
Apps like Duolingo or local Spanish schools can help you get started.
10. You’ll Need to Get an NIE Number
The NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) is your tax ID in Spain. You’ll need it to:
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Open a bank account
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Sign a rental contract
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Buy a car or property
Apply for it at a local police station or get help from a relocation expert.
Ready to Move to Marbella?
Marbella offers an irresistible mix of coastal luxury, international community, and relaxed lifestyle all with better weather than most U.S. cities.
Whether you’re retiring early, escaping the 9-to-5, or just ready for a life reset, Marbella could be your perfect next chapter.
✉️ Want Personalised Help with Your Move?
We offer:
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Visa application assistance
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Real estate introductions
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School research
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Relocation consulting
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Marbella expat welcome kits
📩 Contact us to start your journey from the U.S. to Marbella.