Marbella Experiences Population Boom as Expats Flock to the Costa del Sol
Marbella, a popular destination on the Costa del Sol, has seen a significant increase in its population, with thousands of new expats choosing to call it home. The city’s year-round sun, sea, and sand have always attracted Brits and other Europeans, but this year, the expat population has surged with nearly 5,000 new foreign residents.
Expat Population in Marbella Grows by 11,000 in Four Years
Over the past four years, the number of expats in Marbella has increased by 11,000. Almost half of these new residents arrived in the last year alone. According to the National Institute of Statistics (INE), this influx of expats has contributed to a 6.7% growth in the local population over the last five years.
Marbella’s Current Population and Foreign Residents
Currently, Marbella is home to approximately 150,725 residents, with foreigners making up almost a third of this number at 51,024. The most popular area among expats is Nueva Andalucia, where 86% of residents are foreign. This is followed by Las Chapas with 56% foreign residents, San Pedro de Alcantara with 27%, and Marbella city with 16%.
Marbella’s Real Population Could Be Higher
While the registered population of Marbella city stands at around 150,725, the actual number of inhabitants could be closer to 200,000, according to water usage levels. The city also sees a significant population surge in the summer when tourists arrive, potentially doubling the population to 400,000.
Marbella Ranks as the Seventh Largest City in Andalucia
With the increase in expat population and summer tourism, Marbella now ranks as the seventh largest city in Andalucia. It follows Sevilla, Malaga, Cordoba, Granada, Jerez, and Almeria in size.
Upcoming Events and Developments in Marbella
In other news, British rock band Simple Minds is set to perform on the Costa del Sol in 2024. Additionally, a sleek new health centre has been approved by the city council and is coming to Marbella. In a humorous incident, a Spanish waiter was mistaken for former British Prime Minister David Cameron by patrons on Spain’s Costa del Sol.
