Working In Málaga

Start living in Málaga! 

Málaga is a city that feels alive with stories—each street, plaza, and landmark is a reminder of its rich history and vibrant culture. It’s a haven for art lovers, with galleries and murals everywhere. Walk through the historic center and you’ll see centuries-old architecture, bustling markets, and cozy tapas bars where locals chat late into the night. 

For expats, Málaga has the perfect balance: it’s big enough to offer job opportunities but small enough to feel welcoming. 🌞 With its sunny climate, Mediterranean pace of life, and affordable cost of living, it’s easy to see why so many people choose to stay here! Working in Málaga means enjoying not just a career, but a lifestyle—whether you’re spending your lunch break by the sea, hiking the nearby mountains, or enjoying fresh seafood by the port.

It’s a place where your career grows while you truly enjoy life. Isn’t that what we’re all searching for? 🌴

Welcome to Spain's art city: Málaga!

What makes Málaga so special?

Málaga is a city with over 3,000 years of history, making it one of the oldest cities in Europe. Founded by the Phoenicians as a trading port, it has been shaped by the Romans, Moors, and Christians. Each chapter of its history has left behind remarkable landmarks: the Roman Theatre (still standing after two millennia), the Alcazaba (a Moorish fortress with sweeping views of the city), and the majestic Málaga Cathedral, affectionately called La Manquita (the one-armed lady) because one of its towers remains unfinished.

As the birthplace of Pablo Picasso, Málaga is also a cultural powerhouse. 🖼️ Art enthusiasts visit the Picasso Museum and the Centre Pompidou, while the annual Málaga Film Festival highlights the city’s modern creative flair.

But history and art aren’t the city’s only highlights. Málaga is the fifth-largest city in Spain, combining its rich heritage with the energy of a thriving urban hub. It hosts events like the Feria de Málaga, an iconic week-long celebration of music, dance, and Andalusian culture, and Semana Santa, where the city’s religious processions draw visitors from across the globe.

Whether exploring its cobblestone streets, diving into its museums, or joining the locals in their vibrant festivals, Málaga offers a cultural experience unlike any other! 🪭

The must-see hotspots of Málaga

To become a local quickly when you work in Málaga, make sure you visit these places: 

• Málaga Cathedral: this magnificent Renaissance cathedral is a must-see for its stunning architecture and history.
• Muelle Uno: a trendy waterfront promenade filled with restaurants and shops, perfect for a relaxing evening by the sea. At night, you’ll find singers, dancers, and performers here! 🎺
• Caminito del Rey: located a short drive from Málaga, this cliffside path offers unforgettable views of rugged landscapes and is ideal for adventurers.
• Gibralfaro Castle: a hilltop fortress with spectacular views of the city, especially at sunset.
• La Malagueta Beach: the city’s central beach, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying Espeto de Sardinas (fresh sardines grilled right on the sand).

The flavours of Málaga

Málaga’s cuisine is a good balance of its coastal location and Andalusian heritage. It mostly consists of a mix of fresh seafood, vibrant flavors, and traditional recipes! A local favourite is Ajoblanco, a refreshing cold almond and garlic soup often served with grapes. There’s also Porra Antequerana, a thicker cousin to gazpacho, topped with boiled eggs and ham. And don’t miss Fritura Malagueña, a crispy mix of lightly fried fish, from anchovies to squid, served hot and fresh.

For the ultimate foodie experience, head to the Atarazanas Market. This marketplace, housed in a stunning 19th-century building, is the heart of Málaga’s food scene. Here, you can find everything from fresh seafood to local produce while enjoying the atmosphere.

Other culinary hotspots include El Pimpi, a legendary bodega where you can sip local sweet wine while enjoying traditional Andalusian dishes, and La Deriva, known for its modern twist on classic Mediterranean flavors. For seafood lovers, Chiringuito El Tintero offers a fun, auction-style dining experience right by the beach! 🏖️

Find jobs in Málaga with Yobbers

Dreaming of working and living in Málaga? With Yobbers, that dream is closer than you think! Our mission is to inspire people to discover the world through working abroad. Immerse yourself in the Spanish culture, create new friendships, and pick up new skills along the way—it’s an experience you’ll treasure for a lifetime.

Wave goodbye to the ordinary and embrace a life full of exciting possibilities! With Yobbers, you’ll have support every step of the way. 💪

Our application process is tailored to make things simple for you. Once you’ve found a job vacancy, a dedicated recruiter will assist you through every stage—from submitting your application to settling into your new life, ready to work in Málaga. Our Relocation Experts are also here to answer all your questions, so you can focus entirely on the excitement of your next chapter. 🌍

"After finishing my degree, I didn’t want to rush into university. I decided to take a gap year and explore Spain, a country I’d always loved for its language, food, and weather. Málaga was the perfect place to start my adventure."  – Sabine 👉 Read her experience with work in Málaga.

Available jobs in Málaga

Curious about the job opportunities in Málaga? This is what you can expect:

Account Management 📊 For those who are great at building relationships and organization. Málaga has many international companies seeking skilled Account Managers to oversee client portfolios, develop strong business relationships, and drive customer satisfaction.

Sales 💼 For people who are driven, persuasive, and goal-oriented. With its thriving economy, Málaga is a hotspot for sales professionals. Companies across various sectors are looking for passionate Sales Representatives to drive revenue, develop leads, and close deals.

Customer Service 💬 For those who thrive at communication and enjoy problem-solving. Málaga is attracting companies from around the globe, all in search of talented Customer Service Agents to provide exceptional support to their international customers.

Interested or looking for something else? Explore our current jobs in Málaga and apply with us today! 🌟

Paperwork needed for your relocation to Málaga

If you're an EU citizen, starting work in Málaga is a straightforward process—you won’t need a work visa. Many employers will assist you with essential paperwork, like registering for a Spanish tax number (NIE) and setting up your health insurance. This means you can focus on enjoying your new role and settling into your new life in sunny Málaga, without getting drowned in paperwork. 📂 When you apply through Yobbers, you can rest assured that most employers will guide you through every step, from obtaining your tax number to securing your health coverage!

For more details, our team is always here to make your move to Málaga as smooth as possible. 😄

Workplace culture in Málaga

In Málaga, work-life balance is highly valued, and the work culture tends to be friendly, laid-back, and very social. Spaniards appreciate personal connections in the workplace, and teamwork is often at the heart of everyday tasks. Remote or hybrid work options are becoming increasingly common, giving employees the flexibility to enjoy the sunny lifestyle while staying productive. 😎 

Do's at the workplace in Málaga:

• Greet your colleagues with a warm handshake or kiss on both cheeks, a common greeting in Málaga.
• Take time to build relationships: Spanish professionals value personal connections and trust before diving into business discussions.
• Be open to a flexible schedule and embrace the importance of breaks, especially during the long lunch hour, known as siesta time.

Don’ts at the workplace in Málaga:

• Don’t be too direct in your communication: Spaniards often prefer a more indirect, tactful approach.
• Avoid discussing personal or sensitive matters too early in relationships, conversations tend to be light and friendly in the beginning.
• Don’t be overly formal: while titles are used in some professional settings, Málaga’s work culture is generally more relaxed.

Cost of living in Málaga, Spain

Jobs in Málaga have generally lower salaries compared to major cities in Northern and Western Europe, but the cost of living is also more affordable, making it an attractive destination. Housing, food, and transportation are all reasonably priced, allowing you to enjoy the laid-back Mediterranean lifestyle without breaking the bank. 💶 Fresh local food isn’t expensive and dining out in Málaga’s many tapas bars is affordable. With the lower living costs and the abundance of outdoor activities to enjoy, you’ll find it easy to maintain a comfortable lifestyle while living and working in Málaga! 

The best areas to live in Málaga

Finding the right place for living in Málaga is an essential part of settling into this vibrant city. 🏡 While some employers offer job packages that include accommodation, others may not. But don't worry—there are plenty of affordable and charming options available in Málaga's various neighbourhoods!

For those who want to be close to the action, Centro Histórico is perfect. This bustling area is full of history, cafes, shops, and restaurants, making it ideal for people who want to live in the heart of the city. However, as a central area, rent prices can be higher here.

If you're after a quieter, more residential feel, El Limonar is a great choice. This upscale neighbourhood offers peaceful streets, green spaces, and beautiful views of the Mediterranean, with a mix of modern apartments and traditional villas. It’s a favourite among families and expats seeking tranquility.

For a more affordable option while you work in Málaga, Teatinos is a rapidly growing area popular with students and young professionals. With its lower rental prices and proximity to Málaga’s university, it’s ideal for those looking for a vibrant atmosphere without a huge price tag.

Rental prices in Málaga have remained relatively stable and they tend to be lower than in other major Spanish cities like Madrid or Barcelona. In 2024, rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center can range from €600 to €800 per month, while living in more suburban areas like Churriana or Carretera de Cádiz may offer lower rates. If you prefer to share an apartment, you can find rooms for as little as €250 to €400 per month, depending on the neighbourhood.

Looking for accommodation in Málaga? The best way is to explore rental platforms such as Idealista and HousingAnywhere, or check with local real estate agents. Many expats also find housing through word-of-mouth in the local community, so networking can be a useful tool. 🌟

👉 Read our blog for more tips on finding accommodation in Málaga. 

"Life in Spain has been a total game-changer. Sunshine every day lifts my mood, and the social culture of hanging out on terraces with friends just feels right. It’s like I’ve finally found my place in the sun, both literally and figuratively."  – Paddy 👉 Read about his move to Spain.

Travelling to work in Málaga

Málaga has a convenient and affordable public transport system. 🚍 The Málaga Metro has one line connecting the city center with outlying areas, while buses cover the entire city, with tickets starting at €1.30. You can also take the electric trolleybus for a scenic route through the historic streets.

For a more active option, biking is popular, with dedicated bike lanes and rental services like Muving. Electric scooters from companies like Lime and Tier are available for short trips, and the city is very walkable, with many attractions within walking distance.

If you prefer taxis, Uber and Cabify apps are also widely used, making it easy to get around at any time. 🚕 Whether by foot, bike, or public transport, Málaga is easy to navigate and explore! 

What’s it like to live in Málaga

Málaga attracts people from all over the world, offering a vibrant culture and relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle. Sabine moved to Málaga in 2015 for an internship and never expected to stay for so long.

"I decided to take a gap year. Spain had always drawn me in, and Málaga felt perfect—the language, food, and sunny weather. I wanted to work at a language school to improve my Spanish and gain experience."

After securing her internship, she arrived in Málaga excited but a little nervous. "I remember looking for accommodation with my dad. Once he left, I realized how much I was about to learn—not only about Spain but about myself."

Sabine quickly adapted and felt at home. What really changed her life was meeting Juan, a local Spanish man. "We met one night out, exchanged numbers, and quickly spent a lot of time together. My internship ended, but I wasn’t ready to leave Málaga. I loved the city and Juan." 😍

The choice was made: she stayed in Málaga. "It felt like the right step. I found a full-time job with a vacation rental company, which was a new experience. I learned a lot about the Spanish lifestyle and culture."

Sabine and Juan later moved to Alicante, but Málaga will always feel like home to her. "We plan to return one day. My advice? Go for it! Moving abroad shapes you in so many ways. I’ve learned a lot, made great friends, and become more confident. If you can build a life abroad, you can face any challenge."

👉 Read Sabine’s whole story on her life in Málaga.