Thinking of Marbella rentals long term for your next move to the Costa del Sol? You’re in the right place. This in-depth guide from Avida Estate explains where to live, what it costs, how Spanish rental law works, and exactly how to secure the right apartment or villa for a long term rental in Marbella. Whether you want an apartment with sea views on the Golden Mile, a family home near schools in San Pedro de Alcántara, or a golf-side villa in Nueva Andalucía, we’ll help you make a confident, well-informed decision and rent in Marbella with ease.
“Marbella isn’t just a holiday destination; it’s a lifestyle spanning beach, golf, dining, and international community—available year-round through carefully selected properties for long term rent.” — Avida Estate
Best areas for Marbella rentals long term (neighborhood guide)
Marbella Golden Mile and “golden mile” icons
The Marbella Golden Mile is the epitome of luxury and high-end living. Expect beautiful properties like Don Gonzalo or the Puente Romano area, many with 24 hour security, gardens and direct access to the beach promenade. You’ll see a mix of modern apartments, 3 bedroom apartments with 2 bathrooms, and villas with private terraces and jacuzzis. Proximity to restaurants and shops is excellent and the lifestyle is refined and convenient.
Best for:
- Tenants looking for luxury, brand new refurbishments and a great location.
- Those who want walking distance to beach clubs and fine dining.
- Longer-term residents who prefer a gated community with a communal pool and concierge services.
Typical homes:
- Apartment with sea views and private balcony.
- 3–4 bedrooms, ensuite bathrooms, secure parking and high-spec kitchen.
- Villas with private gardens, pool and sea or mountain views.
Puerto Banús and Nueva Andalucía (Golf Valley)
Nueva Andalucía surrounds world-class courses—Las Brisas, Aloha, and Los Naranjos de Marbella—offering the archetypal “golf lifestyle.” You can live in a serene enclave five minutes from the buzz of Puerto Banús/puerto banús, where you’ll find a marina, designer shops, and nightlife. Properties range from a bedroom apartment in a gated community with a communal swimming pool to modern villas with sea views.
Why consider it:
- Golf at your doorstep plus easy access to restaurants, gyms and schools.
- A balanced choice for couples and families who want proximity to Puerto Banús without living in it.
- Plenty of options available year-round, including partial sea views and mountain views.
San Pedro de Alcántara and Guadalmina Baja
San Pedro de Alcántara has Spanish town charm and a beautiful beach paseo. Guadalmina Baja has large plots, quiet streets and stately villas—perfect for a family home with private garden and pool. Schools and services are solid and proximity to Estepona and Marbella centre is very practical. Expect gated communities, 24 hour security in many enclaves and direct access to the beach in some properties.
Great for:
- Families who prioritise schools, parks and space.
- Tenants who want a calm, authentic and convenient base.
Marbella East (East Marbella): Río Real, Bahía de Marbella, Los Monteros, Altos de Los Monteros
East Marbella is known for golden dunes and a peaceful coastline. Neighbourhoods like Río Real, Bahía de Marbella and Los Monteros are sought after areas for beach-first living while Altos de Los Monteros offers dramatic sea views. Expect brand new developments, modern apartments and townhouses with private terraces. Many homes here have partial sea views or panoramic sea views of the bay and coastline.
Best for:
- Beach lovers and health-focused lifestyles (dunes, paddle, beach clubs).
- Those who want quieter streets while staying close to central Marbella.
Central Marbella town
Live car-free in central Marbella near Paseo Marítimo, Alameda and the Old Town. Buildings like Don Gonzalo and beachfront blocks put you steps from shops, restaurants, schools and clinics. Apartments are often refurbished to a modern style. Prices reflect the convenience and the fact you can do most errands on foot.
Estepona and West Marbella “spillover”
Estepona has boomed with modern complexes at a great price compared to central Marbella. It’s on the same coast, a short drive to San Pedro, with new builds and family-friendly amenities. If your budget is fixed but your wish list is long, Estepona often delivers more space and newer spec for the price.
Commute note:
- A-7 is the free coastal road; AP-7 is the tolled highway with faster travel in peak times.
- Málaga Airport to Marbella: around 40-50 minutes by car.
- School runs between Nueva Andalucía, San Pedro and East Marbella are practical with route planning.
Property types and features for long term rent in Marbella
Apartments
Apartments are the most common type of long term rental, from 1 bedroom to 3 bedroom apartments with 2 bathrooms. Many are in a gated community with 24 hour security, communal pool and gardens. An apartment with sea views will command a higher rent than one with partial sea views, especially on the Golden Mile or beachfront in East Marbella. Private terraces are common, often south/southwest facing for winter sun.
What to look for:
- Orientation (south/southwest is best for winter sun).
- Sound insulation and humidity control.
- Lift access and parking.
- Fiber internet available.
Townhouses
Townhouses offer space and a home feel without the maintenance of a large villa. Most are in communities with pools and gardens—ideal for families who want shared amenities and safety. You’ll find them in Río Real, Bahía de Marbella, Nueva Andalucía and around San Pedro.
Villas
Villas are the perfect home for privacy: private garden, swimming pool, often a jacuzzi and space for home offices. In Guadalmina Baja and the Golden Mile expect luxury builds and classic Andalusian style. In Altos de Los Monteros and the hills you’ll find brand new, luxury properties with panoramic views of the sea and La Concha.
Feature checklist:
- Heating and cooling (ducted AC, underfloor in newer homes).
- Security (alarm, cameras, 24 hour security in the community).
- Garage/driveway and storage.
- Garden and pool maintenance terms.
Buildings and enclaves to know
- Don Gonzalo (central Marbella, luxury, beachside).
- Los Naranjos de Marbella (Nueva Andalucía, golf-side living).
- Río Real (golf + beach proximity), Bahía de Marbella, Los Monteros, Altos de Los Monteros.
- Guadalmina Baja (spacious, serene, close to San Pedro).
How much does a long term rental in Marbella cost?
Below are 2025 estimates. Prices vary with sea views, proximity to beach, property condition, seasonality and contract terms. Use these as a guide, then ask Avida Estate for current availability and prices.
Typical monthly rent ranges by area and bedroom count (EUR)
| Area / Type | 1 Bedroom | 2 Bedroom | 3 Bedroom | 4 Bedrooms+ / Villas |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Golden Mile | 2,500–4,000 | 3,500–6,000 | 5,000–10,000 | 12,000–35,000+ |
| Puerto Banús / Nueva Andalucía | 1,800–3,000 | 2,500–4,200 | 3,500–6,500 | 6,000–18,000 |
| San Pedro / Guadalmina Baja | 1,500–2,500 | 2,000–3,500 | 2,800–5,000 | 5,000–18,000 |
| Marbella East (Río Real, Bahía de) | 1,600–2,800 | 2,200–3,800 | 3,000–5,500 | 5,000–15,000 |
| Central Marbella Town | 1,700–3,000 | 2,400–4,000 | 3,200–5,800 | Villas rare |
| Estepona (nearby) | 1,300–2,100 | 1,800–3,000 | 2,400–4,200 | 3,500–10,000 |
Step-by-step: The Marbella long term rent process
- Search and shortlist
- Ask Avida Estate for must-haves (gated community, sea views, walking distance to schools/shops, golf proximity) and nice-to-haves (jacuzzi, brand new, private terrace).
- Request video tours if you’re abroad.
- Prepare documents: passport, NIE (if available), proof of income, references.
- Viewings
- Visit at different times to check noise, traffic and sun path on the private terrace.
- Test internet speeds, mobile signal and inspect for humidity.
- Confirm parking, storage and community rules (pets, renovations, use of communal swimming pool).
- Application and documents
- Employed: contract + last 3 payslips + bank statements.
- Self-employed/company directors: last 6-12 months statements, tax returns.
- Non-residents: higher guarantees may be requested (e.g., aval bancario bank guarantee).
- Offer and reservation
- Negotiate rent, start date, furniture, repainting, minor works.
- Pay a holding deposit to reserve (subject to contract).
- Contract signing
- Long term residential contracts are governed by LAU (Uso de vivienda).
- Contract in Spanish; bilingual versions are common. Ensure you understand clauses on notice, updates and maintenance.
- Move-in
- Inventory with photos/videos.
- Meter readings (electricity/water/gas).
- Receive keys, fobs, garage remotes and community rulebook.
Avida Estate manages each step, coordinating with landlords and communities to make your check-in smooth.
Spanish rental law (LAU) essentials for long term rentals in Marbella
- Long term vs “11 months” myth: The contract type depends on the use. If the property is your habitual residence (uso de vivienda), LAU applies regardless of 11-month wording. “11 months” only fits a truly temporary use (e.g., work assignment).
- Duration and renewals: Standard is 1-year terms with tenant’s right to extend annually up to 5 years if the landlord is an individual, or up to 7 years if the landlord is a company. Laws can change; verify current rules at signing.
- Deposit and guarantees: The legal deposit (fianza) is typically one month’s rent for vivienda. In Andalucía it must be lodged with the regional authority (Junta de Andalucía via AVRA). Additional guarantees are common (extra months or aval bancario).
- Rent updates: Spain has applied temporary caps in recent years (e.g., 2–3%). A new Housing Index is planned to guide updates. Confirm the applicable cap/index at the time of signing.
- Early termination and notice: Tenants can usually leave after 6 months with 30 days’ written notice; compensation of up to one month per remaining year may apply if stated in contract.
- Who pays what: Landlords usually pay community fees and IBI (property tax). Tenants pay utilities and often the garbage tax (basura). Clarify in writing.
- Pets, subletting and works: Not all communities allow pets or alterations. Get permissions and scope of works approved in advance.
Helpful links:
- Junta de Andalucía (AVRA) deposit info: https://www.juntadeandalucia.es/organismos/avra.html
- Spanish LAU on BOE (in Spanish): https://www.boe.es
Avida Estate will guide you through these points and align the contract with current regulations.
Family and lifestyle: Choosing your ideal home
Schools and education:
- Aloha College (Nueva Andalucía), Laude San Pedro (San Pedro de Alcántara), English International College (Marbella East), Swans, Laude Estepona, and others. These schools serve a thriving international community along the Costa del Sol.
Commute and daily convenience:
- Choose a home located close to your routine: schools, co-working, gyms, healthcare and your favorite restaurants and shops. Central Marbella and San Pedro help you live car-light; Nueva Andalucía is great if you play golf; East Marbella suits beach-first lifestyles.
Beach vs golf vs town:
- Beachfront gives unmatched convenience but at a premium.
- Golf-side homes are serene and green, with quick access to practice facilities.
- Town-center positions deliver walking distance ease and lively atmosphere.Quiet area vs nightlife:
- Peaceful? East Marbella, Guadalmina Baja and family areas in San Pedro.
- Lively? Puerto Banús and central Marbella have nightlife and dining, but noise checks during viewings.
Where to find long term rentals in Marbella
- Avida Estate listings: We have carefully curated properties for long term rent across the Golden Mile, Nueva Andalucía, Río Real, Bahía de Marbella, Los Monteros, San Pedro de Alcántara, Guadalmina Baja and Puerto Banús. Expect vetted homes to the highest standards.
- Off-market and community networks: Many high demand homes circulate within building communities (e.g. Don Gonzalo, Los Naranjos de Marbella) before hitting portals. Avida Estate has access to these early.
Tips to get the best long term rent
- Be flexible: Choose partial sea views over panoramic sea, or second-line over frontline beach to save 10-30% without sacrificing lifestyle.
- Time your move: September-May for more options and better terms.
- Strengthen your offer: Present complete documents, offer a longer term (e.g. 24-36 months) and propose minor improvements (fresh paint, small appliances).
- Check red flags: Verify ownership, ensure the property isn’t in community or tax arrears, confirm short-term letting is not allowed during your term and insist on a clear inventory.
Moving-in checklist for long term rentals in Marbella
Before you sign:
- Passport/NIE, proof of income, contract in Spanish (with English translation if needed).
- Deposit receipt and proof of AVRA lodging.
- Community rules, pool schedules, pet policy.
Utilities and services:
- Electricity (Endesa or Iberdrola), water (Acosol), gas, fibre (Movistar, Orange, Digi).
- Air-con servicing and dehumidifiers in humid months.
Town hall and admin:
- Empadronamiento (municipal registration) at Marbella Town Hall: https://www.marbella.es
- Health card, school enrollment and parking permits as applicable.Comfort and maintenance:
- Set recurring AC filter changes.
- Arrange gardener/pool service for villas.
- Log issues within the first 7 days with timestamped photos.
Featured Snippet Q&A: Marbella long term rentals
How much is a 3 bedroom apartment long term in Marbella?
- A: 3,000–6,500 €/mo depending on area, property condition and sea views. Golden Mile can be +6,000 €/mo.
Is an 11 month contract legal for long term living?
- A: Not for habitual residence. If it’s your main home, LAU applies with standard renewals (5–7 years depending on landlord type).
What documents do I need to rent long term in Spain?
- Passport/NIE, proof of income (payslips or accounts), bank statements, references. Non-residents may need extra guarantees.
Who pays community fees and IBI on the Costa del Sol?
- Usually the landlord. Tenants pay utilities and often garbage tax—always confirm in the contract.
Can I register (empadronar) with a rental contract?
- Yes. Your contrato de arrendamiento plus utility/ID is usually enough at the town hall.
Why Avida Estate for Marbella long term rentals
Avida Estate has long term properties across Marbella, from the Golden Mile and Don Gonzalo to Nueva Andalucía, San Pedro de Alcántara, Río Real, Bahía de Marbella, Los Monteros, and Puerto Banús. We have vetted homes to the highest standards, verify ownership and documentation and negotiate tenant friendly terms. Our multilingual team will guide you through the process from the first call to handing you the keys.
What we do:
- Carefully selected homes in sought after areas across the Costa del Sol.
- Detailed video tours, honest condition reports, and transparent pricing.
- LAU-compliant contracts, deposit lodging guidance (AVRA), and move-in checklists.
- Ongoing support with utilities, community rules, and local services.
Ready to view? Contact Avida Estate to see available for long term options today.
Conclusion: Secure your ideal home with Avida Estate
Marbella rentals long term unlock the full Costa del Sol lifestyle—beach mornings, golf afternoons, and sunset dinners on your private terrace. Choose the right area for your routine, set a realistic budget, understand LAU basics, and view with a clear checklist. Whether it’s a 3 bedroom apartment with sea views on the Golden Mile, a family villa in Guadalmina Baja, or a stylish apartment near Puerto Banús, Avida Estate will guide you to the ideal home and handle the details. Talk to us today to rent in Marbella with confidence—and start your long term journey by the sea.
