updated 30 September 2025

Estepona is known for its safe environment, excellent schools, and family-friendly lifestyle. Families moving here often cite the balance between traditional Andalusian charm and modern amenities.

Living in Estepona means children grow up surrounded by nature, top-rated international schools, and easy access to Marbella and Gibraltar. The area has become especially popular with expat families who want safety, education, and recreation all in one place.

“Estepona’s combination of green spaces, education, and safety makes it a top family destination.”

What makes Estepona different from Marbella for families?

Estepona is quieter, more affordable, and offers a stronger sense of community compared to Marbella. Marbella is famous for nightlife and luxury, but Estepona focuses more on family well-being and outdoor living.

According to Quintessentia Property Advisors, property taxes in Marbella average 0.45% while in Estepona they are closer to 0.38%. The lifestyle is also less hectic in Estepona, making it appealing to parents who want a slower pace of life without sacrificing quality amenities.

Location	Average Property Tax (%)	Lifestyle Focus	School Options	Price Range (per m²)
Marbella	0.45	Luxury, nightlife, expat	15+ international schools	€4,000–€6,000
Estepona	0.38	Family, outdoors, local	10+ bilingual schools	€3,000–€4,500

Which neighborhoods in Estepona are best for families?

The top family neighborhoods include El Paraíso, Cancelada, Estepona Old Town, and Selwo. These areas combine safe residential environments with proximity to schools and healthcare.

El Paraíso is especially popular with British and Scandinavian families due to its green villas and golf surroundings. Cancelada is attractive for its affordability, while Selwo is emerging as a modern residential hub.

“Families in Estepona often choose El Paraíso or Selwo for modern villas with space for children.”

Why is El Paraíso popular with families?

El Paraíso offers large villas, gardens, and quiet streets, perfect for children. It is strategically located between Marbella and Estepona, giving parents access to schools in both towns.

The neighborhood is golf-centered but family-friendly, with international supermarkets, clinics, and nurseries nearby. Many families appreciate its balance of privacy and connectivity.

Is Cancelada a good choice for young families?

Cancelada is one of Estepona’s most affordable family neighborhoods, making it ideal for first-time buyers. The community has grown rapidly with modern apartments and townhouses built in the last decade.

Its proximity to bilingual schools and daycare centers makes it especially attractive for parents with young children. Cancelada also benefits from direct access to the A7 highway, reducing commuting times.

What makes Estepona Old Town appealing to families?

Estepona Old Town offers families a traditional Andalusian lifestyle with cobblestone streets and plazas. Parents value the pedestrian-friendly setting, where children can walk safely to local schools and playgrounds.

Although parking can be limited, the cultural richness and proximity to beaches make it an authentic experience for families. Many expats seeking immersion in Spanish culture prefer this area over modern suburbs.

Why is Selwo becoming a family hotspot?

Selwo has transformed into a modern residential zone with gated communities, swimming pools, and gyms. It is close to Selwo Aventura wildlife park, a major attraction for children.

Families are drawn to its spacious apartments and townhouses, along with proximity to the new Estepona Hospital. The neighborhood is popular with younger expat families who want affordability and community.

How do Estepona schools compare to Marbella schools?

Estepona offers a solid selection of bilingual and international schools, though Marbella still has more options. For many families, this is offset by Estepona’s lower housing costs.

Popular schools in Estepona include Atlas American School, Mayfair International Academy, and Colegio San José. These institutions ensure children can follow international curricula while learning Spanish.

Town	Number of International Schools	Popular Options	Average Annual Fees
Marbella	15+	Aloha College, Laude San Pedro	€9,000–€18,000
Estepona	10+	Atlas, Mayfair, San José	€7,000–€15,000

How affordable is family living in Estepona compared to Marbella?

Housing in Estepona is typically 15–25% cheaper than Marbella. Rental prices for family apartments average €1,300–€1,800 per month, compared to Marbella’s €1,800–€2,400.

Daily living costs, including groceries and utilities, are also slightly lower. This affordability is a major draw for expat families who want space and comfort without Marbella’s premium costs.

What family-friendly activities are available in Estepona?

Estepona offers families year-round outdoor activities, from beaches to hiking in Sierra Bermeja. The town has over 20 playgrounds, bike-friendly promenades, and multiple sports clubs.

Cultural events like Feria de Estepona and weekly markets also give children a sense of community. Families enjoy the balance between leisure, nature, and cultural immersion.

“Estepona is a place where family life naturally blends with nature and tradition.”

What transport options are available for families in Estepona?

Estepona is well connected by the AP-7 motorway and coastal A7 road, making daily commutes easy. Marbella is just 20 minutes away, and Gibraltar is 40 minutes by car.

Malaga Airport is accessible in under an hour, providing global connections. Local bus services link Estepona with nearby towns, while many families rely on cars for school runs and activities. Secure parking and underground garages are common in modern developments.

How strong is healthcare access for families in Estepona?

Healthcare is a major plus for families living in Estepona. The new Estepona Hospital, opened in 2021, offers advanced facilities and services. Several private clinics and English-speaking doctors are also available.

Parents can choose between public healthcare under Spain’s SNS system and private insurance for faster access. Pharmacies are widely available, and urgent care facilities provide peace of mind for expat families.

How does Estepona compare to Sotogrande for families?

Sotogrande, located 30 minutes west of Estepona, is another family-friendly hotspot known for its luxury marina and elite schools. However, Estepona offers a more balanced cost of living.

While Sotogrande attracts high-net-worth families with private villas and international polo, Estepona appeals to a wider demographic due to affordability and a stronger sense of community.

Location	Avg. Villa Price	Family Lifestyle Appeal	Education Options	Community Feel
Estepona	€1M–€2.5M	Affordable, green, cultural	10+ international schools	Strong, diverse
Sotogrande	€2M–€6M	Elite, marina, polo clubs	Elite private academies	Exclusive, smaller

Is Estepona a good long-term investment for families?

Yes, Estepona continues to grow as one of Spain’s most resilient property markets. Demand from expat families, retirees, and investors has steadily pushed prices upward, though still below Marbella and Sotogrande.

Family-friendly neighborhoods such as Selwo and Cancelada offer strong rental yields (3.5–5%) and capital appreciation. Properties near schools and healthcare facilities are especially attractive for long-term growth.

FAQ on Family Living in Estepona

Is Estepona safe for families?
Yes, Estepona is considered very safe, with low crime rates compared to larger Spanish cities. Families appreciate the secure neighborhoods and pedestrian-friendly areas.

What is the healthcare like in Estepona?
Estepona has a brand new hospital, multiple clinics, and pharmacies. Both public and private healthcare services are available, with English-speaking doctors common.

Are there international communities in Estepona?
Yes, Estepona has thriving expat communities, particularly British, Scandinavian, and German families. This mix provides strong support networks for newcomers.

How far is Estepona from Marbella and Gibraltar?
Estepona is about 20 minutes from Marbella and 40 minutes from Gibraltar by car. This makes it easy for families to access additional services and international airports.

Do most families rent or buy in Estepona?
A majority of expat families choose to buy due to favorable prices, though renting remains popular among newcomers who want to test the area before purchasing.