…an option for a “quieter beach getaway” but at the same time “luxurious with excellent food, shopping, golf and nightlife’.” — HuffPost España.
That’s Marbella in a nutshell. Calm yet vibrant. Elegant without trying too hard. And for thousands of international buyers, it’s the ultimate place to own a second home.
But what does it really cost to buy and maintain a holiday home in Marbella in 2025? Here’s the complete breakdown, purchase prices, taxes, and the often-overlooked extras.
What Does a Holiday Home in Marbella Cost in 2025?
Prices depend on location, size, and style, but the market is strong.
*Apartments: A cosy two-bedroom in a good complex starts around €250,000, while modern beachfront apartments or penthouses can reach €2 million.
*Villas: For a family villa with a pool in areas like El Rosario or Nueva Andalucia, budget €1 million to €2.5 million. In ultra-prime zones like the Golden Mile or Sierra Blanca? Expect €4 million and up.
Sea views, walking distance to the beach, and high-end finishes drive up prices. International buyers drive demand, many from Northern Europe, the Middle East, and the US, looking for a lifestyle upgrade and a substantial investment.
Additional Buying Costs to Budget For
When buying in Spain, there are taxes and fees to add on top of the purchase price:
*Property Transfer Tax (ITP) on resales: approx. 7% of the price.
*VAT (IVA) on new builds: 10%, plus 1.2% stamp duty.
*Notary and Land Registry fees: usually €1,000–€3,000, based on property value.
*Legal fees: typically around 1% of the price.
*Mortgage setup costs: approx. 1% of the loan amount.
Plan for 10–12% of the purchase price to cover all extras. That way, there are no surprises on completion day.
Ongoing Ownership Costs
Once the keys are in your hand, the expenses don’t stop, but they’re predictable:
*Annual property tax (IBI): €500–€3,000, depending on size and location.
*Community fees: apartments or gated villas can range from €100 to €500 monthly.
*Utilities: electricity, water, and internet average €150–€300 per month.
*Insurance: around €300–€800 annually.
*Garden and pool maintenance: for villas, €150–€250 per month.
If you’re not living here full-time, you might also need property management services, which usually take 10–15% of rental income or a fixed monthly fee.
Can Renting Cover the Costs?
In many cases, yes. Marbella is a magnet for holidaymakers, and short-term rentals are in high demand from May to September.
*Luxury villas rent for €3,000 to €15,000 per week in high season.
*Apartments near the beach: €1,000 to €3,000 per week.
To rent legally, you’ll need a tourist licence from the Andalusian government, which requires basic safety measures and proper registration. With the right setup, you can offset a big part of your annual costs, or even generate profit.
Is Buying a Holiday Home in Marbella Worth It in 2025?
Absolutely. Marbella remains one of Europe’s most desirable second-home markets. Supply in prime areas is tight, and international demand isn’t slowing. Add in the lifestyle perks, over 320 days of sunshine, world-class dining, golf, and nightlife, and it’s easy to see why buyers call this their dream location.
Still, go in with a clear plan. Factor in all costs, consider rental potential, and work with a trusted local agent who knows the market inside out.
Final Thoughts
Owning a holiday home in Marbella isn’t just about the sea views—it’s an investment in a way of life. And with the right advice, it can be a smart financial move too.