Playing golf on world-class courses, sipping drinks at the clubhouse, being close to the beach and sitting in the searing Andalusian sun - these are just some of the reasons why retiring to Spain has become so popular.
More than 5.5 million foreign nationals live in Spain, more than 12% of its population, with Britain leading the pack. It is currently estimated that over 300,000 British retirees are living in Spain, the majority of which have chosen to live on the Costa del Sol. With it's perfect weather, low-cost of living and no-stress lifestyle, we can see why this Mediterranean resort is a favourite.
So why do so many British pensioners and expats choose the Costa del Sol?
Costa del Sol's Sunny Weather and Mild Winters
The Costa del Sol has been regarded as the best year-round climate in all of Europe. Why? Because we have over 300 days of sunshine every year, and only around 50 days of rainfall. Our dry micro-climate means we benefit from warm winters, and the southern mountains protect the Costa from cold winds. With Brits leading the expat community, Scandinavian countries come second in terms of immigration.
Health Benefits and Revolutionary Medicine
The World Health Organisation has described Spain as a 'near perfect environment'.
Revolutionary medical practices and near miracles have been recorded in Spain, including illnesses such as Asthma, Arthritis or heart-related problems. In fact, the warmer weather has been known to benefit those suffering from Arthritis.
Our healthcare system is second to none. Getting an appointment to see a doctor can be done quickly and easily via phone call, online or visiting the secretary of your local doctor’s surgery. You can see a doctor the same or next day, and a specialist appointment is only a couple of weeks' wait.
For cancer sufferers, the Oncology Unit at the Carlos Haya Hospital is regarded as one of the best in the world, and is widely recognised as the best in Europe.
High Standard of Living
The difference between living in the UK and Spain is vast. The cost of living in Spain is much lower than in the UK. There is also lower crime, more things to do and enjoy, greater social life and, of course, better whether. Generally speaking, you just feel better with the warmer winters and brighter summers that Andalusia offers.
Cost of Living & Property Investment
It's long been known that you can live and own a property on the Costa del Sol for a lot less than what it would cost in the UK. It is estimated that the cost of living and property prices are around 30 to 40% less in Spain than in the UK.
Property investment in Spain has proven to show significant returns. Spain tops the list of EU countries for increasing property values, and this is only getting better.
Property values in Spain are still undervalued, offering an incredible investment opportunity for buyers. Property in prime areas of the Costa del Sol always sell - regardless of current market fluctuations.
Home to One of the Best Airports in Europe & Great Transport Links
Málaga airport is one of the best airports in Europe, and the largest in Spain, behind Madrid and Barcelona. There are many connecting flights between major European cities, with airlines continuing to add more locations.
The cost of flying into Málaga is now easier and cheaper than ever, making visiting home, or going on holiday, a breezy experience. Málaga airport staff are also regarded as being very efficient - with long queues at security being quickly cleared.
The Costa del Sol also has an exceptional public transport system. You can get to almost anywhere on the Costa del Sol, or even all around Spain, by bus or train, both of which are very well priced. For those with a fear of flying, you can get buses to other EU countries from Málaga Bus Station, or a ferry across to the UK or Morocco.
Malagueños: The Most Welcoming, Fun and Cheery Spaniards
Spanish nationals are warm and generous people, offering exceptional hospitality. They’re well known for their relaxed and fun lifestyle, often enjoying a cold cerveza or tinto de verano (red wine mixed with lemonade or sparkling water) with traditional Paella on the beach during the hot summers.
Malagueños (Málaga natives) are incredibly helpful, welcoming and accommodating to our visitors and expats. The language barrier isn’t an issue on the Costa del Sol, as many people, especially those working in the tourist industry, speak enough English to hold a conversation.
We enjoy delicious food, cold beer, festive ferias and good company!
Quality of Life: The Lifestyle Everyone Seeks
The quality of life is probably one of the main reasons why so many expats choose the South of Spain as their new home. The reality is that the way of life and atmosphere here is more relaxed than most places you'll visit.
Spain has the fourth highest life expectancy of all the OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) nations, with an average of 82 years. This is only topped by Switzerland, Italy and Japan. It's the 15th highest life expectancy in the world. We put it down to the improved quality of life and less formal attitude towards everyday life.
The Costa del Sol offers the kind of lifestyle everyone seeks when retiring: fun, social, relaxed, warm and with all necessary amenities at their fingertips.
Buying or Selling Property in Spain? Contact Costa Space!
Costa Space is an independent online estate agency based in Calahonda providing comprehensive property services for Marbella, Mijas Costa and Fuengirola areas in the Province of Malaga.
We are a progressive and innovative agency continuing to strive for excellence through providing sound property advice to our clients and using the latest in the next generation marketing. If you're interested in buying or selling your property on the Costa del Sol, please do not hesitate to contact us.