The best areas to live in Málaga: quality of life, culture, and mediterranean well-being

16/10/2025

Málaga has become one of the best places to live in Spain. Its mild climate, rich cultural and culinary life, and the warmth of its people have made it both a chosen destination for many and the dream of many others. The truth is, it has it all: beaches, nature, tradition, and modernity. How could you not want to live in Málaga? 

If you’re already looking for the best areas to live in Málaga, both in the city and throughout the province, you’ll find neighborhoods and towns to match any lifestyle, from vibrant urban environments with all amenities to the calm of the coast or the charm of the white villages inland.

Don’t worry, at Acciona Living & Culture, we’ll help you discover this beautiful corner of the Costa del Sol and show you the best areas to live in Málaga with kids, as a couple, or on your own, the choice is yours!

The Best Neighborhoods in Málaga City to Live

The capital of Málaga offers a wide variety of neighborhoods where you can enjoy the Mediterranean lifestyle. Modern, safe, and well-equipped with services, these are some of the best neighborhoods to live in Málaga.

Teatinos: Modernity and Family Life

Teatinos is one of the city’s most dynamic and up-and-coming districts. It stands out for its urban planning, wide avenues, and an environment designed for daily living. It’s perfect for families, young couples, and professionals looking for comfort without being far from the city center.

It offers schools, green areas, restaurants, gyms, and public transport, as well as a lively social atmosphere. Its modern vibe and balance between leisure and tranquility make it one of the best places to live in Málaga.

El Limonar: Elegance Close to the Sea

If you’re looking for an exclusive and peaceful area, El Limonar is a safe bet. This historic neighborhood combines stately villas, gardens, and Mediterranean views. Just minutes from the city center and the seafront promenade, it offers a high-end residential atmosphere.

It’s one of the best areas to live in Málaga for those who value privacy and comfort without giving up proximity to international schools, premium services, and natural surroundings. Its traditional Andalusian architecture and sophisticated character make it one of the most desirable areas in the city.

Cerrado de Calderón: Residential and Well-Connected

Among the best neighborhoods to live in Málaga, Cerrado de Calderón stands out for its quiet, family-friendly atmosphere. It offers spacious homes with gardens, shopping areas, prestigious schools, and excellent connections to the city center and the motorway.

Its lifestyle combines the comfort of a residential neighborhood with proximity to the sea, an ideal choice for those seeking a spacious, safe home.

Pedregalejo: Mediterranean Essence and Life by the Sea

Pedregalejo is another of Málaga’s historic neighborhoods, preserving the charm of its old fishing roots while evolving into a modern area with a relaxed, bohemian atmosphere. Its seaside promenade, lined with restaurants and beach bars, is one of the city’s liveliest spots.

It’s one of the best places to live in Málaga if you’re drawn to seaside living, social life, and Mediterranean spirit, ideal for those seeking inspiration, authenticity, and a neighborhood with character.

The Best Towns in the Province of Málaga to Live

Beyond the city, the province offers unique destinations where you can enjoy sunshine, nature, and tranquility. These are the best areas to live in Málaga province, perfect for those who want a balance between quality of life and natural surroundings.

Marbella: Exclusivity, Well-being, and Life by the Sea

Marbella is synonymous with luxury, well-being, and an unrivaled Mediterranean lifestyle. Beyond its international fame, it’s a place where everyday life can be enjoyed with serenity. Its gastronomic, cultural, and sporting offerings make it one of the best places to live in Málaga.

With an excellent network of services, international schools, hospitals, and top-tier residential developments, Marbella is ideal for those seeking quality of life, safety, and comfort.

Elviria: Nature, Design, and Sustainability with Acciona Living & Culture

Within Marbella, Elviria stands out as one of the best residential areas in Málaga. Surrounded by pine forests and just minutes from the sea, it offers a green, peaceful, and exclusive environment.

Here you’ll find one of Acciona Living & Culture’s developments, redefining the concept of home with sustainable, efficient, and contemporary design housing. With BREEAM certification, our Estrella de Mar villas are designed to provide maximum comfort and well-being, integrating modern architecture, premium materials, and respect for the environment.

Living in Elviria means enjoying a relaxed lifestyle surrounded by nature, with access to golf courses, beach clubs, restaurants, and first-class services. Without a doubt, it’s one of the best areas to live in Málaga if you’re looking for exclusivity and harmony.

Benalmádena: Balance Between Leisure and Tranquility

Benalmádena combines coastal charm with a residential feel. Its marina, cable car, parks, and cultural attractions make it a lively town, ideal for enjoying the coast without the rush of a big city.

Its residential areas in Arroyo de la Miel and Torrequebrada are highly sought-after for their excellent transport links to Málaga and their high quality of life. It also has commuter rail service and good road connections.

Estepona: Andalusian Charm and Sustainable Growth

Known as “the garden of the Costa del Sol,” Estepona has undergone carefully planned, environmentally conscious development. It’s one of the best areas to live in Málaga province thanks to its balance of modernity and authenticity.

Its beachfront developments, promenade, culinary offerings, and commitment to sustainability make it an especially attractive option, with all the services you need in a well-kept setting.

Mijas Costa: Space, Views, and Comfort

Mijas Costa offers large residential areas with sea views, landscaped zones, and quality services. Its location between Fuengirola and Marbella allows residents to enjoy the best of both worlds: vibrant urban life and the calm of the coast.

It’s one of the best areas to live in Málaga if you’re looking for space, safety, and proximity to nature, without giving up comfort.

Acciona Living & Culture: Well-being, Design, and Sustainability

At Acciona Living & Culture, we believe that a home should be much more than just a place to live, it should inspire, nurture, and connect with its surroundings.

Our new-build developments in Málaga are designed according to the principles of energy efficiency, comfort, and sustainability, featuring BREEAM certification and high-quality materials. Each home integrates seamlessly with its natural environment and exclusive communal areas, promoting well-being and community living.

If you’re looking for a home in the best areas to live in Málaga, you’ll find in our developments a new concept of living: innovative, sustainable, and designed for your modern lifestyle.