Marbella Lifestyle

Marbella is Nº2 in JamesEdition’s Top Lifestyle Cities 2025

Marbella takes second place in JamesEdition’s 2025 lifestyle city ranking.

Written by Carolina Alaniz

· 2 min. read

Iconic Marbella entrance arch illuminated at dusk, with traffic lights creating motion trails on the main coastal road

Marbella takes 2nd place in JamesEdition’s 2025 Top Lifestyle Cities List

When JamesEdition revealed its “Wellness, Wealth & Waterfronts: Top 10 Lifestyle Cities Dominating 2025’s Luxury Real Estate Map”, Marbella proudly claimed second place, just behind Dubai.

The article, part of JamesEdition’s Top Lifestyle Cities ranking, mentions that the leading destinations “combine traditional luxury appeal with practical benefits like tax advantages, wellness amenities, and lifestyle flexibility”. This fundamentally captures the essence of Marbella, where the cost of living is low, the lifestyle is high and opportunities are limitless.

JamesEdition’s recognition reinforces what we have long known: Marbella is a city that offers substance and style in equal measure. Since the 70s, we have watched Marbella grow from a quiet Andalusian gem into a world renowned cosmopolitan hotspot.

JamesEdition's Top Lifestyle Cities. Sunny courtyard in Marbella’s Old Town with vibrant orange and white parasols, lush greenery, and traditional Andalusian architecture in the background
Orange Square, in the centre of Marbella’s historic old town

Even now in 2025, Marbella still maintains its authentic charm and Andalusian soul. From the chiringuitos that have been around since the 60s, still serving los espetos de sardinas, to the quaint charm of the historic Old Town, and the long-standing traditions of the many fiestas and ferias which we enjoy here every year. 

Plate of grilled sardines with lemon wedge and a glass of white wine, served on a colourful tiled table by the seaside in Marbella
Plate of grilled sardines with lemon wedge and a glass of white wine, served on a colourful tiled table by the seaside in Marbella!

Dubai may top the list, but even JamesEdition acknowledges the importance of wellbeing in lifestyle rankings. Marbella’s strength lies in that uplifting Mediterranean way of life. You feel it in the morning walks along the Golden Mile, in the fresh local foods served at the restaurants, and the beautiful backdrop of the La Concha mountain, a view enjoyed by many luxury homes, in this unique setting which can’t be replicated anywhere else in the world.

View of Marbella beach with palm trees and villas, backed by the iconic La Concha mountain under a clear blue sky.
View of Marbella beach with palm trees and villas, backed by the iconic La Concha mountain under a clear blue sky

Like what you read?

Subscribe to our newsletter for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.

Panorama newsletter

At Panorama, we’re not just proud of Marbella because it is our home, but because we know it’s a golden location and has very special geography and atmosphere. We want to continue being part of its ongoing success story, as it climbs global rankings such as this one.

If you’re looking for your own slice of paradise in the Marbella area, we have been helping clients find their dream home in Marbella since 1970 - we’d love to hear from you!

Explore the best of Marbella

Villa with golf and sea views, wellness spa, and smart home in Nueva Andalucía

Nueva Andalucia, Marbella

This newly renovated villa combines modern comfort, elegant design and a privileged location in one of Marbella’s most sought-after residential areas. Enjoying beautiful golf and sea views, the property offers a peaceful setting with total...

€5,350,000
  • 5 Beds
  • 4 Baths
  • 415 m²Total
  • 1,013 m²Plot
  • 390 m²Built
  • 125 m²Terraces

Stylish villa in Atalaya de Río Verde, walking distance to Puerto Banús

Atalaya de Rio Verde, Nueva Andalucia

Situated in the very heart of Nueva Andalucía, Atalaya de Río Verde stands as one of the most prestigious and sought-after residential communities in the area. Known for its tranquility, refined ambience, and exceptional security,...

€2,570,000
  • 4 Beds
  • 3 Baths
  • 277 m²Total
  • 174 m²Built
  • 103 m²Terraces
Written by
Carolina Alaniz - Support Team Director - Panorama
Carolina Alaniz Support Team Director

Ensures smooth operations at Panorama with unmatched organisation and enthusiasm.