What’s it like to move to and live in Estepona?
Estepona has become one of the most popular places to live on Spain’s Costa del Sol. Known for its beautiful beaches, flower-filled old town, excellent climate, and relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle, it’s attracting retirees, remote workers, families, and expats from all over the world.
But what’s everyday life in Estepona really like? Is it expensive? Is it easy to make friends? What are the pros and cons of living here, and are there any things you should know before moving?
This interview is part of my Ask an Expat series. In this series I interview people who have moved abroad to get an honest, first-hand perspective on what life is really like in their new home. I try to help paint a realistic picture of the ups and downs of living abroad, share tips for anyone thinking about moving abroad, and provide information about the place the expat now lives in.
Living in Estepona, Spain
Name: Caroline Lips
Hometown: Bedford, UK
Her Story:
“After studying languages and international retailing I worked for many years in London in digital marketing and e-commerce. I eventually decided to leave the rat race for a new job in Gibraltar in 2013, where I took up senior positions at Staysure Insurance.
I went on to continue working for the company’s owner, and now I look after the marketing for Staysure Expat Travel insurance – a product designed for expats like me, who travel, so it really fits my interest and expertise!”
Why Did You Move to Estepona?
“Estepona is a fantastic place to live, with easy access to Marbella and to Málaga Airport.
It has everything you need and offers a wonderful lifestyle.
I originally moved here whilst still commuting to Gibraltar, but now I work some days from home and some in a co-working space in Marbella.
I don’t regret moving to Estepona, as it offers beautiful scenery, wide sandy beaches, a long seafront promenade, and a great choice of restaurants.”
What Do You Like About Living in Estepona?
“Obviously, the weather helps, but there’s also a great mix of cultures and things to do.
Estepona is called the Garden of the Costa del Sol and you’ll find lots of flowers and green spaces all around town, as well as one of the largest collections of orchids in Europe.
There is a packed calendar of events organized by the Town Hall throughout the year, such as the tapas festival, which is a great way to explore the town if you like your food.
There’s also a ham festival in the summer which is a real highlight, and the Easter parades are stunning.
Estepona is a cultural place, with a large theatre and a new library and art gallery space which often hosts cultural events. There’s also a good shopping area, which is pedestrianized, and there are lots of fantastic restaurants.”
What Do You Dislike About Living in Estepona?
The only thing about living in a seaside resort is that we get quite crowded in summer, then in the winter it can feel a bit flat.
In the winter months I like to travel to Madrid or Malaga to see cultural events and museums for variety.”
Is Estepona a Safe Place to Live?
“Yes, very.
I’ve never felt unsafe living here. Like in any town, it’s sensible to keep an eye on your belongings in busy tourist areas, but overall Estepona feels very relaxed, and I feel comfortable walking around, even in the evening.”
Is Estepona an Expensive Place to Live?
“It has become more expensive to buy or rent here, but that’s a problem in most tourist areas of Spain.
However, I’d say that Estepona offers better value for money than nearby Marbella or Sotogrande in terms of property and lifestyle. If you get off the seafront and explore the less touristy areas you can still find excellent value places to eat and drink.
To get an idea of what property prices are like, both to rent and to buy, have a look on Idealista, which is Spain’s go-to property website.”
What is Your Favorite Thing to Do in Estepona?
“Going to the beach!
We’re so lucky to have 21 kilometres of coastline and 17 fantastic beaches to choose from. And because there are so many options, the beaches are less crowded than other places in the summer.
The central beach is a great option, but for a really beautiful sheltered cove, I’d suggest Playa del Cristo.”
Any Favorite Bars and Restaurants in Estepona You’d Love to Share?
“There are so many to choose from!
Stroll down Calle Real and you’ll find a wide range of restaurants and bars to choose from. Running parallel is Calle Caridad, another lively street filled with great places to eat. And there are great places tucked in every corner of the Old Town too.
There’s a wonderful tapas bar called Casa del Rey. You’ll notice it’s always busy. I’d recommend trying the Rabo de Toro en Hojaldre (Oxtail in Pastry), Baby Lamb Roll and the Tuna Tartare Taco. Their wine list is legendary too, with over 300 kinds to try, and the staff will happily suggest a wine pairing for the dishes you’re ordering.”
What is the Expat / International Community Like in Estepona?
“Generally, it’s great, and people are very friendly.
Estepona still maintains its Spanish identity, but the foreign residents are certainly growing and make up around a quarter of the population.
There are plenty of Brits, as well as large and well-established communities of German, French, Belgian, Dutch, and Swedish residents.
Estepona is a very welcoming place, but I’d say it’s harder to integrate with Spanish people than with English speakers, because expats tend to stick together.”
Any Tips for Moving to or Living in Estepona?
“Be prepared to feel a little strange at first when moving to a new place. You won’t have your family and friends around, so my advice is to join clubs and get involved in the local community.
There are lots of expat groups organizing activities which you can join. That really helps to get you settled.”
Any Resources You Found Useful During the Process of Moving to and Building a New Life in Estepona?
“I used local Facebook groups at first, and then word of mouth. Facebook groups are a great place to ask questions, but also to find out about events and to connect with other people living here.
Our website, Staysure.com/expat, also has a number of useful resources on its blog.”
Is There Something You Just Have to See or Do When You are in Estepona?
“Yes. You have to visit the Hotel El Pilar rooftop bar and restaurant. It’s right in the center of Estepona and offers great views over the town. It’s a wonderful place for a sundowner or a delicious meal.”
About Estepona, Spain
Located on Spain’s Costa del Sol in the province of Málaga, Estepona is a popular destination for both tourism and long-term living. It combines beautiful beaches and a picturesque old town with a more relaxed atmosphere than neighboring Marbella, making it especially attractive to retirees, families, and remote workers looking for a slower pace of life.
Although tourism plays an important role in the local economy, Estepona has managed to retain much of its authentic Andalusian character. Its whitewashed streets, colorful flower displays, lively plazas, and year-round outdoor lifestyle are some of the reasons more and more expats choose to call it home.
The Cost of Living in Estepona
The cost of living in Estepona is generally lower than in Marbella but higher than in many inland Spanish towns.
Accommodation is usually the biggest expense, particularly if you want to live close to the beach or in one of the newer developments.
Eating out, public transport, healthcare, and groceries are generally affordable by Western European standards, although prices have increased in recent years due to the growing popularity of the Costa del Sol.
Overall, many expats find they enjoy a comfortable lifestyle here while spending less than they would in countries such as the UK, Ireland, the Netherlands, Canada, or the United States.
The Weather in Estepona
One of the biggest reasons people move to Estepona is the climate.
The city enjoys over 300 days of sunshine a year, with long, hot summers and mild winters. Even during the cooler months, daytime temperatures are often pleasant enough to enjoy outdoor cafés, walking along the promenade, or playing golf.
If you’re looking for a place where you can spend most of the year outdoors, Estepona is a good option.
Healthcare
Spain has one of the highest-rated healthcare systems in Europe, and residents of Estepona have access to both public and private healthcare.
There are health centers within the town itself, while larger hospitals can be found nearby in Marbella and Málaga. Many expats choose private health insurance, particularly during their first years in Spain or if required for their visa.
Tip: if you need help with your visa, taxes, or just some assistance finding the right healthcare insurance, MovingtoSpain.com is a good platform to use.
Getting Around
Estepona is very walkable, especially around the old town and seafront promenade.
The town is connected to Málaga, Marbella, Gibraltar, and other Costa del Sol destinations by regular buses. The nearest international airport is Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport, about an hour’s drive away.
While owning a car isn’t essential if you live in the town center, having a car is definitely useful for exploring the surrounding beaches, villages, and natural parks.
Is Estepona a Good Place to Live?
If you’re looking for a relaxed coastal lifestyle with excellent weather, good healthcare, plenty of restaurants, and an established international community, it’s easy to see why so many people choose to move to Estepona.
Like anywhere, it isn’t perfect. Finding affordable housing has become more challenging in recent years, and learning at least some Spanish will make daily life much easier.
But for many expats, the combination of sunshine, outdoor living, safety, and quality of life makes Estepona an attractive place to live in southern Spain.
Also Read:
- Things to Consider Before Moving to Another Country
- What Nobody Tells You About Life in Spain
- Why Spain is Great For Remote Workers & Digital Nomads
- Living in Malaga – Interview With an Expat
- Living in Granada – Interview With an Expat
- Facts About Spain – Some Funny, Some Useful & Some Strange!
- 5 Crazy Spanish Festivals You Should Visit
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