This Living in the Canary Islands guide is part of our City Living Guide series covers the practical and emotional journey of moving to a Spanish town or city. With the observations of an Expat this combination helps you feel what itโs like to live there and โ crucially โ gives you confidence in making your โmoving to Spainโ decision.
Living in the Canary Islands – A Collection of Unique and Diverse Features
Living in the Canary Islands is a collective experience of unique events, feelings, and ways of being. The word โuniqueโ will feature prominently throughout this article.
The strong cultural identity, connection to nature, and emphasis on local traditions provide a unique sense of belonging while the islands remain open to newcomers and diverse influences.
Geography
The Canary Islands are a group of volcanic islands off the coast of Morocco and Western Sahara. While part of Spain, they lie some 1,000 miles off the Spanish mainland.
Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, La Gomera, La Palma, El Hierro, and La Graciosa are the main islands. There are other smaller islands, but they’re more like impressive floating rock formations than inhabited islands.
The Canary Islands
Living in the Canary Islands is to live in a unique part of Spain. An almost perfect climate, wonderful people, and a more relaxed pace of life. Many call it โParadise.โ
Population: 2.2M
Autonomous Community: Las Canarias
Useful links
Expats in Canary Islands
Canary Islands Digital Nomads
Real Estate: Idealista
Ayuntamientos de Canarias

Expat Insider:
Verity Harrison
Originally from the Northeast of England, Verity moved to Spain in 1999. She lived in Madrid for 21 years until making the โlifestyle choiceโ to move to Las Palmas in the Canary Islands in early 2020.
Verity is a live illustrator and visual storyteller, running her business, Verity.Ink, from the Canary Islands.
Personal Links
verity.ink
The Canary Islands are one of Spainโs 17 autonomous communities (comunidades autรณnomas) and one of the outermost regions of the European Union
A Unique Climate โ The Eternal Spring (La Eterna Primavera)
The Canary Islands enjoy a climate often called the โEternal Springโ (La Eterna Primera). This reflects the islands’ mild and stable weather conditions throughout the year. Temperatures are generally warm between (18-25C (65-77F) with minimal seasonal variation.
People living in the Canary Islands enjoy sunny days and blue skies year-round. This makes the islands a wonderful place to live and a popular holiday destination.
Verity loves the โEternal Springโ: โItโs excellent for outdoor sports, and as a keen triathlete, itโs perfect for me. You hardly ever have to wonder what the weather will bring tomorrow.โ

La Calima
The Calima is a weather phenomenon that occurs periodically on the islands. It is a hot wind, laden with dust and sand, originating from the Sahara Desert. It creates a hazy atmosphere, reducing visibility and air quality.
Calima can occur at any time of the year but is more prevalent in winter. Episodes typically last between three to five days. It affects air quality and reduces visibility. It often leads to a significant increase in temperature and leaves a fine dust covering.
The Islands of Diversity
Population Diversity
The Canary Islands population is diverse. Over 80% of the population lives in 25% (Tenerife and Gran Canaria) of the inhabited islands. Adding in Lanzarote and Fuerteventura accounts for 95% of the people in half the islands.
The population is around 2.2 million, concentrated in Tenerife (43%) and Gran Canaria (40%). Around 22% are non-Spanish, higher than Spainโs national average of 17%.
The two main cities, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria on Gran Canaria and Santa Cruz de Tenerife on Tenerife, share the Canary Islands’ capital status.
Population density is relatively high at nearly 300 inhabitants per km2, one of the highest among Spanโs autonomous communities. Having said that, population growth is expected to be less than 100,000 (5%) by 2031.
The largest age groups in the Canary Islands are those between 45 and 54 years old, with the 50-54 age group being the largest at over 201,000 people. This is an aging population trend similar to national Spanish demographic trends.
Compared to most parts of Spain, the Canary Islands have a higher proportion of foreign residents and a more diverse population due to their popularity as a tourist, remote work, and retirement destination.
LGBTQ+ Diversity
The Canary Islands are known for their welcoming attitude toward LGBTQ+ communities, with Tenerife and Gran Canaria especially popular. In particular, Tenerife offers numerous LGBTQ+-friendly venues, while Gran Canariaโs Maspalomas hosts one of Europeโs largest LGBTQ+ Pride events.
The islands offer gay-friendly beaches, accommodations, and vibrant nightlife scenes. Legally, same-sex marriage is recognized, discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity is prohibited, and gender-affirming care is legal.
Biodiversity
The Canary Islands boast exceptional biodiversity, hosting over 25,000 species across terrestrial and marine environments. Despite covering only 1.5% of Spain’s area, the archipelago is home to more than half of the country’s endemic species.
Each island exhibits unique ecosystems, from Tenerife’s diverse landscapes to La Gomera’s ancient laurel forests. The islands feature endemic plants like the Canary Dragon Tree and animals such as the giant lizard. Marine life is equally rich.
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The Canary Islands at a Glance
Island | Population | Capital | Overview |
---|---|---|---|
Tenerife | 966,000 | Santa Cruz de Tenerife | Largest, most populated Canary Island. Home to Mount Teide, Spainโs highest peak and the third-largest volcano in the world. Known for its Carnival in Santa Cruz, beautiful beaches, lively resorts, and natural parks. |
Gran Canaria | 860,000 | Las Palmas de Gran Canaria | The second biggest Canary Island. Known as the “miniature continent,โ it has varied climates and landscapes, from sandy beaches to green ravines and mountains. It attracts sun-seekers and adventure enthusiasts, and Las Palmas has a thriving cultural scene. |
Lanzarote | 156,000 | Arrecife | Lanzaroteโs unique volcanic landscape gives it a surreal, otherworldly feel. The island is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Art installations by local artist Cรฉsar Manrique add to the unique feel. |
Fuerteventura | 120,000 | Puerto del Rosario | Fuerteventura boasts the longest beaches. Known for its constant trade wind, itโs a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. The islandโs arid landscape creates stark contrasts with its colorful local culture. |
La Palma | 85,000 | Santa Cruz de La Palma | La Isla Bonita is known for its lush forests and volcanic craters. It hosts the Roque de Los Muchachos Observatory, one of the world’s premier astronomical observatories. |
La Gomera | 22,000 | San Sebastiรกn de La Gomera | La Gomera is covered in laurel forests and scenic trails. Its indigenous whistling language, Silbo Gomero, is still practiced today. |
El Hierro | 11,000 | Valverde | The island is a UNESCO Geopark with rugged coastlines and deep waters ideal for diving. The island is aiming to be self-sufficient in wind and water energy. |
La Graciosa | 700 | Caleta de Sebo | The only inhabited island without paved roads. Known for its pristine beaches and peaceful vibe, itโs ideal for a remote getaway. |
Living in The Canary Islands: Daily Life and Community
The Canary Islands have developed a unique blend of traditional community values and modern influences. A strong sense of belonging, mutual support, connection to nature, and a laid-back pace of life form the heartbeat of island life.
Community Spirit: Integration and Belonging
Residents value close-knit communities, treating neighbors as family. This creates a distinct and vibrant community spirit. The pleasant climate encourages an outdoor lifestyle, with many social interactions happening outside.
Verity has found local people to be very open and friendly right from when she set foot on the islands. โI arrived three weeks before COVID started. Even during lockdown, I got to know many fellow remote workers virtually. It was fun again meeting them in person after the pandemic as well as the locals in my triathletes club and fellow dog owners!โ
Settling Down: Housing and Neighborhoods
Once again, โuniqueโ is the word. Each island has its own character and appeal, influencing peopleโs property choices. Unsurprisingly, one commonality is coastal properties tend to be more expensive.
There is a diverse range of housing for differing budgets and lifestyles. Tourist areas can be more expensive and competitive, but there are opportunities in less developed regions.
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Living in the Canary Islands
The three largest islands โ Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and Lanzarote โoffer distinct experiences.
Tenerife balances tourist areas and traditional villages with popular southern locations like El Mรฉdano, Adeje, and Los Gigantes.
Living in Gran Canaria presents a more urban feel, especially in Las Palmas, which blends Canarian traditions with modern city living. Other popular areas include Telde, Maspalomas, and Puerto de Mogรกn (mini Venice).
โYou can feel the British influence in Las Palmas. The water system is British-designed, and there is an Anglican church. You can even sense a little Britishness in the local sense of humor,โ adds Verity.
Lanzarote, in contrast, offers a more laid-back atmosphere with an older, rugged charm. Its white-washed villages and sandy beaches attract those seeking a quieter lifestyle, with Costa Teguise, Puerto del Carmen, and Playa Blanca the favored locations.

Real Estate Market
Property prices are higher in Tenerife, particularly in tourist hotspots. Santa Cruz de Tenerife has experienced a 17.5% increase in property prices in 2024. Gran Canaria, while also experiencing growth, tends to have slightly lower prices, with Las Palmas recording a 14.7% increase this year. Lanzarote, smaller and more tranquil, offers affordable properties in traditional areas and premium prices in coastal resorts.
Overall, the Canary Islands’ housing market is robust, with the archipelago leading Spain in price growth at 16.4% year-on-year in 2024.
According to Verity: โAll the islands have their distinct characters. Looking at the twin capitals, I would say Las Palmas in Gran Canaria is more cosmopolitan than Santa Cruz in Tenerife.โ
Renting
Rental prices in the Canary Islands are steadily increasing. The average monthly rental reached โฌ1,110 in June 2023, up 8% from 2022. Tourist areas have higher rental prices than residential or remote areas. Although the influx of digital nomads has forced prices up recently
Typical Rental Costs
Island | Property Type | Area | Bedrooms | Typical Monthly Rent (โฌ) |
---|---|---|---|---|
Tenerife | Apartment | City Center | 1 | 700-1000 |
2 | 900-1600 | |||
3 | 1200-2200 | |||
Outside Center | 1 | 500-700 | ||
2 | 700-1200 | |||
3 | 900-1500 | |||
House | Suburbs | 2 | 800-1300 | |
3 | 1000-1700 | |||
4 | 1300-2200+ | |||
Gran Canaria (Las Palmas) | Apartment | City Center | 1 | 800-1200 |
2 | 1000-1600 | |||
3 | 1300-2200 | |||
Outside Center | 1 | 600-800 | ||
2 | 800-1200 | |||
3 | 1000-1600 | |||
House | Suburbs | 2 | 750-1250 | |
3 | 1000-1600 | |||
4 | 1300-2100 | |||
Lanzarote | Apartment | Tourist | 1 | 700-1000 |
2 | 900-1400 | |||
3 | 1100-1800 | |||
Residential | 1 | 500-700 | ||
2 | 700-1000 | |||
3 | 900-1300 | |||
House | Suburbs | 2 | 700-1200 | |
3 | 900-1500 | |||
4 | 1200-1900+ |
Selected Canary Island Neighborhoods at a Glance
Island | Neighborhoods | Resident Profile | Characteristics |
---|---|---|---|
Tenerife | Costa Adeje | Expats and affluent tourists | Upscale resorts, luxury hotels, and shopping areas |
Santa Cruz de Tenerife | Urban professionals, remote workers | Capital city with a mix of cultural attractions and urban living | |
Puerto de la Cruz | Retirees and long-term tourists | Historic charm, quiet coastal atmosphere | |
Playa de las Amรฉricas | Expats, retirees, tourists | Lively beach scene, urban amenities | |
Gran Canaria | Las Palmas, Maspalomas | Young professionals, remote workers, retirees, tourists | Urban amenities, beach lifestyle, vibrant nightlife |
Meloneras | Wealthy buyers | Exclusive resorts, golf courses | |
Playa del Inglรฉs | Tourists and LGBTQ+ community | LGBTQ+-friendly, lively nightlife, popular beaches | |
Lanzarote | Puerto del Carmen | British and Irish Expats | Bustling tourist area with nightlife, bars, and beaches |
Playa Blanca | Families and retirees | Relaxed vibe, family-friendly beaches, upscale properties | |
Costa Teguise | Nature lovers, surfers | Quiet lifestyle, scenic beaches, volcanic landscape | |
Fuerteventura | Corralejo | Surfers, water sports enthusiasts, nature lovers | Relaxed atmosphere |
Caleta de Fuste | Families, golfers | Family-friendly with golf courses, marina, and shopping areas | |
La Palma | Santa Cruz de La Palma | Nature lovers, tranquility seekers | Traditional charm, lush landscapes |
La Gomera | Valle Gran Rey | Nature lovers, tranquility seekers | Small-town feel, natural beauty, slower pace |
El Hierro | Valverde | Eco-tourists, tranquility seekers | Remote, focus on sustainability, unspoiled natural environment |
Essential Considerations
Employment Opportunities
The job market is primarily driven by tourism, hospitality, and services. This accounts for 35% of GDP.
โWhile unemployment rates are higher than the Spanish average, this is somewhat offset by the tourism industry, which, due to the climate, is more a year-round employer than mainland Spain โ especially in the winter months,โ observes Verity.
โIt is common for locals to leave the islands to work elsewhere for a while and then return. The work-life balance here is excellent.โ
Tenerife and Gran Canaria have the largest economies, with demand for hospitality, real estate, healthcare, and education workers. Seasonal work is typical in tourism-heavy areas, with additional prospects in resorts and coastal towns across all the islands.
The Canary Islands are attempting to diversify the economy. The technology sector is expanding, particularly in Tenerife and Gran Canaria, with initiatives like the Canary Islands Special Zone (ZEC) offering tax incentives for tech companies. The renewable energy sector, especially wind and solar, is also growing.
Moving to The Canary Islands has also become popular for digital nomads and freelancers working remotely, mostly in Gran Canaria and Tenerife, but also in the smaller islands. The fabulous lifestyle and low cost of living offset potentially higher UK or US salaries. In Gran Canaria, there is “Live it up, Las Palmas!” an online community platform for digital nomads, remote workers, and Expats on the island. It provides comprehensive resources and serves as a community hub to help people connect and integrate into the area.
โRemote workers generally spend winter here and then leave in the summer,โ says Verity. It is an exciting development attracting a new group of Expats to the islands.

Of particular note is the animation industry, which is rapidly growing with over 700 professionals and numerous studios. Tax incentives, including a 45-50% rebate for foreign productions, attract international investments. Local talent is developing through educational initiatives and government support.
Daily Life Routines and Work-life Balance
Life in the Canary Islands embraces a relaxed, outdoor-oriented lifestyle. The workday typically starts later than in northern Europe, often around 9 AM, with a longer lunch break from 2-4 PM. Many businesses close for siesta, reopening in the late afternoon. Consequently, the typical workday is shorter.
โThe local Canarios are very friendly. And if the pace of life in Madrid is 100mph, Iโd say itโs around 60-70mph here. And theyโre (a bit) more punctual!โ says Verity.
Evenings are often spent in social settings like local cafรฉs or tapas bars. The slower pace and emphasis on community offer a good quality of life, with ample opportunities to recharge outside of work.
Bureaucracy and Paperwork
While Spainโs bureaucracy is known to be slow, local offices in the Canary Islands are generally helpful, although services might not be as streamlined as on the mainland. Each island has its own administrative offices, so procedures may vary. As always, with Spanish bureaucracy, patience and persistence are needed. Hiring a local administrative advisor (gestor) can significantly smooth processes for Expats unfamiliar with the system, especially when making property purchases or setting up businesses.
Transportation and Getting Around
Getting around the islands is relatively easy, though a car is recommended for remote and smaller islands (โOne day, Iโll get a camper van and fully explore the islands,โ Verity says).
A well-developed public transport network exists, especially in Tenerife and Gran Canaria. Buses (guaguas) are reliable, and there is a tram system in Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
Smaller islands like La Gomera rely more on taxis and rental cars (although there are buses and taxis โ which can be expensive โ for longer rides). Traffic is generally light compared to mainland Spain, except in major cities during rush hours.
Inter-island travel is primarily by ferry or plane, with companies like Binter Canarias and Canaryfly for flights and Fred Olsen and Naviera Armas for ferries offering regular services. Tenerife and Gran Canaria serve as transport hubs.
The Canary Islands are well-connected internationally, with major airports in Tenerife (Tenerife North and South), Gran Canaria, and Lanzarote offering direct flights to Europe, North Africa, and select destinations in the Americas.
By air, the Canary Islands are about 6.5 hours from New York, 4.5 hours from London, and 2.5 hours from mainland Europe.
โI need to travel to mainland Europe a lot for work, so I need good connections,โ says Verity. โBeing a resident, I get subsidized flights to mainland Spain, which can reduce the flight cost by up to 75%.โ
European travelers benefit from frequent low-cost and charter flights, with strong connections to the UK, Germany, France, and mainland Spain. Additionally, there are seasonal flights to North America.
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Shopping and Amenities
Due to the islands ‘ special tax status, shopping in the Canary Islands blends local markets, major Spanish retailers, and duty-free shops. Large shopping centers like Las Arenas in Las Palmas or Siam Mall in Tenerife provide international brands and entertainment.
Local markets like the Mercado de Nuestra Seรฑora de รfrica in Santa Cruz are popular for fresh produce, seafood, and handmade goods. Each island has unique artisanal products, from Lanzarote’s wines to La Palma’s cigars.
For specialty items, larger islands have better selections, but like anywhere, online shopping is increasingly popular.
Canary Islands Cost of Living
The islands are one of the cheapest places to live in Spain. The Canary Islands cost of living is around 74% cheaper than living in Washington, DC, and about 50% cheaper than living in London.
Living in the Canary Islands, you will benefit from significant tax advantages. The islands have a special economic zone status, resulting in lower VAT ( Impuesto General Indirecto Canario (IGIC)) rates of 7% compared to mainland Spain’s 21%. Consequently, groceries, dining, and transportation are also more budget-friendly. Additionally, residents can take advantage of various tax deductions for ecological donations, educational expenses, and home investments.
Reduced income tax rates range from 18.5% for lower incomes to 50.5% for high earners and lower corporate taxes, making the islands attractive to freelancers, remote workers, and businesses.
These tax incentives, combined with the islands’ lower cost of living, make the Canary Islands an attractive destination for retirees and working professionals seeking a high quality of life at a reasonable cost.
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Typical Living Costs in the Canary Islands
Item | Typical Monthly Cost (โฌ) |
---|---|
Cost of Living: Single person (including rent) | 1100-1500 |
Without Rent | 550-700 |
Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Water and Waste) Standard Apartment | 60-120 |
High-Speed Internet (50 Mbps) | 30-45 |
Meal for One: Inexpensive restaurant | 10-13 |
Dinner (three-course) for Two: Mid-range restaurant | 35-50 |
Groceries: Single Person | 200-350 |
Gym Membership | 25-50 |
Cinema Tickets | 7-9 |
Figures are approximations for the Canary Islands as a whole. Costs can vary significantly between islands and between urban and rural areas.
According to financial and wealth management consultants Chase Buchanan, a family of four relocating to Tenerife would need an average budget of โฌ2,886 per month to live comfortably, excluding accommodation. This rises to โฌ3,008 if living in Gran Canaria. A single person would need a monthly budget between โฌ1,414 and โฌ1,523.
Combining her experience on the climate and energy costs, Verity observes: โWhile it can get up to 32C (90F) in summer, thereโs always a breeze. Compared to mainland Spain, there are far fewer properties here with air conditioning. After 21 years in Madrid without aircon, itโs not a problem for me, and less energy cost!โ
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Education in the Canary Islands
Raising children in the islands offers unique cultural experiences, with exposure to both Spanish and Canarian traditions. Many expat families appreciate the emphasis on outdoor activities and the relaxed lifestyle.
Education in the Canary Islands follows the Spanish national education system. For Expats, international schools provide British, American, and bilingual curricula, easing the transition for non-Spanish speakers. Integrating children into local schools is common and fosters cultural adaptation, though it can initially be challenging for families to adjust to the language and customs.
While costs will differ between independent Spanish private schools, international schools, and higher education facilities, the average price of a private school placement is around โฌ7,200 per year. The British School of Gran Canaria charges โฌ6,273 a year for primary school students and โฌ7,999 for sixth-form pupils. The British School of Tenerife fees range from โฌ3,500 a year for nursery places to โฌ5,700 for sixth-form tuition.
Higher education is prominent in Tenerife, where the University of La Laguna, founded in 1792, is the oldest in the Canaries and highly regarded. It offers a range of programs, from humanities to sciences, attracting local and international students. The islands also host the University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and several private institutions.
Health Services
Healthcare quality is high, and the public and private healthcare systems are well-developed. Healthcare here ranks among the top 50 regions in the EU. Rural islands and remote areas may have limited services, but emergency care is well-coordinated across all islands.
As part of Spain’s national healthcare system, public health services are accessible to residents through hospitals and health centers on each island, with major facilities in Tenerife and Gran Canaria offering specialized treatments. Several hospitals are recognized among Spain’s best.
Doctors and staff in public health centers frequently only speak Spanish. If you donโt speak Spanish at all, youโll need to bring someone to translate. Private healthcare is also widely available, with numerous clinics providing shorter wait times and English-speaking staff, making it appealing for Expats and tourists.
Living Like a Local
A Taste of Life: Food, Festivals, and Traditions
Living like a local in the Canary Islands means embracing a laid-back lifestyle centered around food, family, community, and festivities. Spanish, African, and Latin American flavors influence the islands’ cuisine. Food is a cornerstone of daily life, with dishes like papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes) with mojo sauce, gofio (toasted grain flour), and fresh seafood featuring prominently.
Dining is a leisurely affair, often enjoyed with family or friends in guachinches (local restaurants). Meals can last for hours, usually accompanied by local wines or ron miel, a unique honey rum.
Festivals play a significant role in the culture. Carnival is celebrated across the islands but most famously in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. It is a vibrant spectacle of music, dance, extravagant costumes, and parades lighting up the streets.
Other famous events include Las Fiestas de San Juan, celebrating the summer solstice, and El Dรญa de Canarias on May 30.

Like the cuisine, traditions blend Spanish, African, and Latin American influences. Silbo Gomero, the whistling language of La Gomera, is a unique cultural practice recognized by UNESCO. Canarians also take pride in traditional sports like Canarian wrestling and rural stick fighting.
Everyday living means adopting the relaxed “maรฑana” attitude, enjoying outdoor activities year-round, and participating in the close-knit community life that characterizes the islands. Verity says: โComing from a seafaring family, and after 21 years living in a frantic Madrid, I decided to live somewhere with a slower pace of life by the sea. And it had to be the Atlantic!โ
Leisure and Recreation
In one word: โOutdoorsโ! There is arguably no better place to live in Spain for outdoor sports and activities. The island’s mild year-round climate encourages outdoor activities such as hiking in Tenerife’s Teide National Park, surfing in Fuerteventura, or mountain biking in Gran Canaria. Water sports are particularly popular, with opportunities for diving, snorkeling, windsurfing, and kitesurfing across all islands. Dramatic underwater volcanic landscapes mean diving is also popular.
International sports events include the Transvulcania Ultramarathon in La Palma and the PWA World Windsurfing Championship in Fuerteventura.
There are excellent championship-quality courses for golfers, such as Tenerife’s Abama Golf, Gran Canaria’s Anfi Tauro, and the Fuerteventura Golf Club. Each island hosts amateur and expat-focused competitions throughout the year.
For the more adventurous, there are unique experiences like paragliding over volcanic landscapes, canyoning in Gran Canaria’s ravines, and rock climbing in El Hierro.
Less intense activities include stargazing at the Roque de Los Muchachos Observatory in La Palma and whale and dolphin watching tours.
Verity, a keen triathlete, says: โApart from the natural outdoor surroundings, sports facilities are excellent. For example, I live within 1km of three Olympic-size swimming pools.โ

Arts and Entertainment
Numerous theaters, museums, and art galleries across the islands offer a rich cultural experience. The islandsโ volcanic landscapes deeply influence local art, reflected in galleries and exhibitions showcasing Canarian painters and sculptors, such as the iconic works of Cรฉsar Manrique in Lanzarote.
The islands host several music and film festivals, including the Tenerife Opera Festival and the Las Palmas de Gran Canaria International Film Festival. The Atlantic Center of Modern Art (CAAM) is in Las Palmas, and there is the TEA Tenerife Arts Space for contemporary art.
HEAL (Heritage, Entertainment, Arts, and Learning) projects enrich community life through cultural programs and workshops, fostering local creativity and participation. These amenities, alongside lively nightlife and street performances, make the Canary Islands a unique cultural hotspot.
Social Life and Community
As you have worked out, social life in the Canary Islands is unique. It happily blends local traditions with international influences. Expats find it easy to connect with others through social groups, international schools, and forums, particularly in areas like Tenerife and Gran Canaria. This creates a ready-made support network for newcomers. These communities often organize events, language exchanges, and social gatherings, easing integration into the community. Many friends are made through participating in cultural events and festivals or joining sports and other clubs.
Integrating into the community means embracing the laid-back island lifestyle and participating in local traditions. Community celebrations or casual gatherings at local cafรฉs or beaches are excellent opportunities to build relationships and feel part of island life.
Verity adds: โThe islands are not big. This facilitates easier and faster networking opportunities when you first arrive.โ
Learning and Speaking Spanish
The official language of the Canary Islands is Spanish. A variant called Canarian Spanish (espaรฑol canario) features unique regionalisms and vocabulary distinct from standard Castilian Spanish. The significant South American influence โ many second-generation Venezuelans live on the islands โ mean โustedโ and โustedesโ are used much more than in mainland Spain.
In addition, English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas, along with German. Informational signs in public places are often available in multiple languages to accommodate the diverse population and tourists.
While Los Canarios are friendly, learning Spanish to some level is always helpful. Aside from the rewards of learning Spanish, the more you know, the more living in the Canary Islands will be an enriching experience. Learning Spanish is crucial for deeper integration and forming meaningful connections with locals.
Verity is fluent in Spanish and frequently mixes local words and phrases into her Spanish. โI say โguaguaโ for โautobusโ (bus), much to the amusement of my mainland Spanish friends!โ But she emphasizes: โLike anywhere in Spain, when you make the effort to speak Spanish, the locals really appreciate you.โ
Is Living in the Canary Islands Right for You?
When asked how she would sum up living in the Canary Islands, Verity replies: โI can do that in one word: โParadise.โโ

Indeed, the Canary Islands offer a paradise for those seeking a relaxed lifestyle with year-round sunshine, affordable living, and outdoor activities. They are ideal for many people, including remote workers, retirees, and outdoor sports and nature enthusiasts.
While bureaucracy and limited job opportunities can be challenging, vibrant communities, tax incentives, and excellent healthcare make living in the Canary Islands a unique, life-fulfilling experience.
Overall, the islands seem best suited for those looking to escape fast-paced city life and embrace a more relaxed, nature-oriented lifestyle with a strong sense of community. And if you are fascinated by how a unique blend of Spanish and international culture works, so much the better.
Verity concludes: โIsland life does have its limitations. But there are many wonderful reasons to live here, no matter your personal goals and preferences. My advice to anything thinking of moving to the Canary Islands is to do so with an open mind and try it.โ
FAQ – Living in the Canary Islands
What is the cost of living like in the Canary Islands?
The cost of living in the Canary Islands can vary depending on location and lifestyle, but it is generally lower than mainland Spain’s prices. Housing, food, and transportation costs are typically quite affordable and cost less than other European destinations.
What is the climate like in the Canary Islands?
The Canary Islands have a subtropical climate, with mild yearly temperatures. The islands enjoy plenty of sunshine and warm weather, making them an excellent choice for those who love a mild and pleasant climate.
What are the healthcare options like in the Canary Islands?
Living in the Canary Islands, you can rest assured that you’ll have access to excellent healthcare facilities. Several public and private hospitals and medical centers are equipped with the latest technology and staffed by highly qualified professionals experienced in dealing with international patients. Whether you need routine care or more specialized treatment, you can trust that you’ll be in good hands in the Canary Islands.
What is the Expat community like in the Canary Islands?
If you’re considering moving to the the Canary Islands, you’ll join a thriving and diverse Expat community. Many people from around the world have chosen to call these beautiful islands home, creating a vibrant and multicultural atmosphere. You’ll find plenty of social activities and groups for Expats and numerous opportunities to immerse yourself in the local community and culture. Whether you’re interested in Spanish language classes, cultural events, or outdoor activities, you’ll find no shortage of ways to connect with others and make the most of your new home in the Canary Islands.
The only question I have left is about the school system for kids! Iโd love some info on what is available as far as education!
Hi Katie – checkout our schools in Spain guide to get started. Cheers, Alastair
As an American expat (11 years in Tokyo, 2 years in Lithuania) who is looking to relocate to Spain very soon, this guide was SUPER helpful for me. Thanks so much for taking the time to make it!
Hi Seralyn – so glad you found the guide useful – our local expert, Nicola, loves sharing the insider tips that make the Canaries such a great place to live. Let us know if we can help at all with your move. Cheers, Alastair
Really helpful guide.
We are both Brits, mid 50s and were meant to go house hunting pre covid on Gran Canaria but family issues kept us here in UK .We have continued our research and have decided now is the time! However, we will be looking in the North, away from the busy south. Our situation means we can live without employment , we can live anywhere, and we love the Canaries.
Looking at sorting our Visa and improving language skills , looking forward to 2025 Canarian skies.
Hi – we’re here to help with any of the process! All the best with the move, Alastair
This was very interesting. At this stage we don’t plan to move there but would love to spend 6 weeks in the Canaries, mid Feb to end of March. Where would you recommend? tks
Hola, how would you compare lifestyle between Malaga and Valencia to the Canary Islands, as I am planning a 3-6 month stay next spring. I have a love for Spanish people, culture, food etc, I do speak some spanish. I am Canadian, living 12 years in Mexico, seeking a possible long term change of residence. It has been many years since my last visit to Spain. It has held a special spot in my heart.
Hi Raymond – the Canary Islands are extraordinary and different from mainland Spain. It has a low cost of living and a fantastic way of life, plus pretty awesome weather. The tourist season is a big part of life here – more people are permanent in Valencia or Malaga. I advise diving in during your trip and asking locals and Expats about their experiences. All the best, Alastair
My wife and I have booked a trip to Las Palmas this January. We are ready to plan our move there but are still working on hot to get our three dogs to the island. We are hoping to explore some real estate to get an idea of what to expect when we take the plunge. I have heard that sometimes to get time with a realtor there is a fee if you are not buying right now. Do you have any documentation getting pets to Spain and the realtor fees?
Hi Andy – you can check our guides on pet relocation and buying a house in Spain. Some buy agents also charge a fee – this is often worthwhile as you’re buying their time, not just been show the places they make the most commission off. All the best, Alastair
Hi Verity,
Thanks for your detailed post which I found very informative. It gives me very useful information while I am reflecting on my post-retirement activities.
Happy 2025!
Tony
Glad to here Mike’s article helped your planning – all the best, Alastair