Torremolinos, a city of nearly 70,000 in the heart of the Costa del Sol, is an excellent place to live, thanks to its ideal climate, vibrant atmosphere, and rich cultural and culinary offerings.
If you’re considering moving to one of the many neighbourhoods near Málaga, it’s important to understand the benefits and other factors, such as the cost of living. Discover what it’s like to live in Torremolinos here.
What it's like to live in Torremolinos
Torremolinos combines the convenience of a modern city with the charm of a seaside resort. Situated on the Costa del Sol, this town is notable for its well-developed infrastructure, efficient services, and vibrant social scene.
Regarding property, Torremolinos offers a range of options, from modern flats in the city centre to tranquil villas on the outskirts. The town also boasts numerous well-maintained sports facilities and parks.
The town is well-connected by road and public transport. Its proximity to Málaga airport, along with the availability of trains and buses to the city, makes getting around convenient.
For healthcare, Torremolinos offers several health centres, private clinics, the Torremolinos Maritime Hospital, and HM Santa Elena Hospital. Additionally, its closeness to Málaga provides access to specialist treatments.
Leisure options in Torremolinos are abundant and diverse. From popular beaches like La Carihuela, Los Álamos, and El Bajondillo to a wide array of bars, restaurants, and clubs, there’s something for everyone. The town is also renowned for its vibrant cultural scene, featuring music, film, and theatre festivals throughout the year.
Best neighborhoods in Torremolinos
Exploring the best neighbourhoods in Torremolinos is crucial if you’re considering moving to or investing in this vibrant Costa del Sol town. Each neighbourhood offers its own unique atmosphere and specific advantages. Here are some of the most popular options.
Centre
The heart of Torremolinos is ideal for those seeking to immerse themselves in the city’s vibrant atmosphere. This neighbourhood boasts a wealth of shops, restaurants, and cafés, along with convenient access to major tourist attractions, essential services, and leisure facilities. Life here is dynamic and well-suited for those who thrive in an urban and cosmopolitan environment.
El Pinillo
El Pinillo is a neighbourhood that blends residential tranquillity with the convenience of essential services nearby. Particularly appealing to families, it features schools, parks, and shopping centres. Additionally, its proximity to the train station facilitates easy commuting to Málaga and other Costa del Sol destinations, such as Benalmádena and Fuengirola.
La Carihuela-Los Nidos
For beach lovers, La Carihuela is one of the most desirable areas in Torremolinos, offering excellent sea views. This historic fishermen’s neighbourhood has successfully preserved its charm and character, featuring a variety of beach bars where you can savour outstanding local cuisine. It is the ideal spot for those seeking a relaxed lifestyle, abundant leisure options, and being close to the sea.
Cost of living in Torremolinos
Living in Torremolinos can range from affordable to luxurious, depending on your preferences. Housing costs vary significantly by neighbourhood.
While the city centre tends to offer more urban and potentially pricier options, areas like El Pinillo may present more budget-friendly alternatives. As of July 2024, the average property price in Torremolinos was €3,143 per square metre, with average rental prices at €15.50 per square metre.
Torremolinos is well-served by public transport, with buses and trains operating at €1.30 per journey. For frequent use, consider a monthly pass, which costs around €40.
When it comes to food, dining out at an average restaurant typically costs between €10 and €15 per person. Weekly grocery expenses for a family vary depending on shopping habits and store choices.
Leisure activities in Torremolinos accommodate all budgets, from free options like enjoying the beautiful beaches to dining at restaurants, visiting bars and nightclubs, and enjoying entertainment such as cinemas and theatres.
Price comparison: Torremolinos, Benalmadena or Malaga?
One of the key factors in choosing a place to live is understanding the cost of living in nearby or similar towns. Below, we compare living in Torremolinos with neighbouring towns such as Málaga and Benalmádena.
Living in Torremolinos or Málaga
Living in Torremolinos can be significantly more affordable than living in Málaga, particularly when it comes to housing. In Málaga, the average property price is €3,037 per square metre, with rental costs averaging €14.50 per square metre. These figures are higher than in most areas of Torremolinos, except for the coastal zones of Playamar, Bajondillo, and Carihuela.
While Málaga offers a broader range of services and cultural activities, Torremolinos competes well with its vibrant leisure options and proximity to the beach, making it an appealing choice for many.
Living in Torremolinos or Benalmadena
Compared to Benalmádena, Torremolinos offers a more urban and cosmopolitan atmosphere, while Benalmádena is generally considered more relaxed and residential, particularly in areas such as Arroyo de la Miel and Benalmádena Pueblo. For families, Benalmádena is often preferred due to its quieter neighbourhoods.
In terms of services and affordability, Torremolinos may have a slight edge. As of July 2024, the average property price in Benalmádena was €3,265 per square metre, with rental costs at €15.40 per square metre, which is comparable to or slightly higher than in Torremolinos.
Pros and cons of living in Torremolinos
Like any town, living in Torremolinos has its pros and cons. Here are some of the benefits this coastal town has to offer.
- Close to the beach: Torremolinos boasts some of the finest beaches on the Costa del Sol, which are accessible throughout the year.
- Culture and food: Torremolinos is a hub of cultural activities and dining options from festivals to a diverse range of restaurants.
- Cost of living: Compared to other cities like Málaga, the cost of living is lower in most areas, especially rent.
- Excellent climate: With over 300 days of sunshine a year, the climate is definitely a big plus for those who prefer the heat and sunshine.
However, as in any other city, some drawbacks must also be weighed when choosing where to live.
- Mass tourism in high season: During the summer months, the city can become crowded with tourists, which can sometimes be overwhelming for locals.
- High prices in certain areas: With the increase in tourism, housing and rental prices in tourist areas and beaches rise significantly too.
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