The Best Place To Live Or Buy Property In The Canary Islands In 2026

The pros and cons of moving to the different Canary Islands, including Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, and Lanzarote.

Are you thinking of moving to the Canary Islands? Are you wondering which would be the best island to move to? With so many great islands to choose from, it can be difficult to know which would be the right one for you and your family.

With this in mind, let us take a look at the pros and cons of each and see which would be the best choice for expats. You may well be familiar with the larger islands such as Tenerife, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria and Lanzarote but there are smaller ones to consider too.

There is no one best Canary Island to move to. Each has something different to offer, so which is best for you will depend on your preferences and requirements. Each has advantages and disadvantages.

For example, are you a permanent migrant looking to apply for the Digital Nomad Visa, or are you looking for a holiday property under the 90-day rule?? Are you looking for somewhere quiet to retire to or do you want to be closer to the nightlife? Do you want to mix with other UK expats or do you wish to connect with the local Spanish culture? With local movements in 2026 focusing on sustainable living, choosing the right island and integrating into the community is more important than ever.

No matter what you are looking for, you are sure to find it in one of the beautiful Canary Islands.

Choosing between islands becomes much easier once you’ve clarified your lifestyle goals, and for many people that clarity also extends back to the practical decisions waiting at home, especially when a move abroad means letting go of a current property.

The thought of navigating repairs, listings, and protracted negotiations can feel overwhelming, especially when balanced against the complexities of post-Brexit residency paperwork. Streamlining your departure by opting for a quick, hassle-free sale often becomes the most practical path, allowing you to bypass the traditional market and focus entirely on your transition to the islands.

Key Takeaways: Moving to the Canary Islands in 2026

• Best for Families: Tenerife and Gran Canaria offer the most robust infrastructure, including high-standard British international schools and comprehensive healthcare.

• Best for Value: Fuerteventura remains the most competitive for property prices, especially for those seeking villas or apartments near world-class beaches.

• Best for Remote Workers: Gran Canaria (Las Palmas) and Lanzarote are the top picks for digital nomads, offering high-speed fibre internet and a vibrant multicultural scene.

• Best for Tranquillity: La Palma, La Gomera, and El Hierro offer an escape from “over-tourism,” though Spanish language skills are essential in these smaller communities.

• Property Trends: In 2026, the market has shifted away from “ultra-budget” finds. Expect to start your search around €145,000 for apartments in residential areas and €450,000+ for villas in popular southern hubs.

• Residency & Visas: Most British expats now utilise the Digital Nomad Visa or the Golden Visa (where applicable) to bypass the 90-day rule for permanent relocation.

What are the Canary Islands?

A popular destination with tourists from all over the world, but particularly with Brits, the Canary Islands are a Spanish archipelago located on the north-west coast of Africa. The group of eight officially recognised main islands are known for their black and white sand beaches – a result of its rugged volcanic terrain.

The Spanish Canary Islands benefit from a warmer climate; the summers are much warmer and drier, and the winter months are usually much milder, although they are more prone to rainfall. As the Islands are surrounded by water, the temperatures, even during the summer, do not become as unbearably warm as those that might be experienced in the African countries on the nearby northwest coast of Africa. It is worth noting that the islands are famous for their “microclimates,” where the weather can change significantly depending on whether you are on the lush, greener north side or the sunnier, desert-like south.

From largest to smallest, the main eight islands that form the Canary Islands are Tenerife, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, La Palma, La Gomera, El Hierro and La Graciosa.

Each of these islands has its own unique attractions, with different islands appealing to different groups of individuals. It is a good idea to remember that just because you have enjoyed visiting a particular island on holiday, it may not be the right place for you to consider moving to.

So which is the best place to live in the Canary Islands for you?

The Pros and Cons of moving to each of the Canary Islands:

1: Tenerife – Best for everyone including British Expats

A benefit of Tenerife is that it is the largest and most populous of the Canary Islands. It is a popular choice with visitors from all over the world, with the largest expat population being Brits. This makes it a great location for those who really want to be part of a large and well-established community.

The south of the island is where you will find the biggest concentration of tourist-heavy resorts. While historically popular with families, 2026 has seen a shift in the South towards more upscale, residential developments. However, be aware that as of early 2026, Tenerife has introduced new measures to manage “over-tourism,” including potential fees for access to natural landmarks like Mount Teide, which may affect those relocating for a quieter life.

The most popular destination in Tenerife is Santa Cruz. It has great amenities and shops, access to plenty of local beaches and is a short distance from the terrain for exploring. Santa Cruz remains more affordable than the south, with property prices averaging around €2,960 per m², compared to the luxury hubs in the south.

For those who prefer to be in the heart of the action or who are relocating to set up a business, Los Cristianos, Arona, and Adeje remain the primary hubs. Like Santa Cruz, they have access to great shops and beaches, but demand here is at an all-time high; in Costa Adeje, prime property prices now range between €3,800 and €5,100 per m².

Laura, who moved to Tenerife, comments on the beaches and villages:

“Tenerife for me has everything, it has nature, mountains, the volcano (Teide), nice beaches, villages, touristic places and guachinche, which are small family restaurants with local food and wine, mostly in the north of the island.”

Buying property in Tenerife

Many of the properties you will find for sale in Tenerife consist of apartments in serviced complexes. This means there is often access to a communal pool and a communal parking area.

While you could previously find apartments for under €100,000, the market has shifted. In 2026, even in less touristy areas, a 2-bedroom apartment is more likely to start around €145,000. In high-demand areas like Callao Salvaje or Adeje, similar-sized properties now typically command a price tag of €340,000 to €410,000.

Villas and townhouses remain popular, but prices have risen; a 3-bedroom villa in Adeje is now likely to cost in the region of €550,000 to €750,000, depending on its proximity to the coast. Despite these increases, property prices often still compare favourably to those in the UK, particularly when considering the lifestyle and climate benefits.

Facilities in Tenerife

There are many larger shopping centres in Tenerife. The majority of these can be found on the southern tip of the island, centred around Costa Adeje and Arona, such as the Siam Mall and Plaza del Duque. Here you will find all of the big-name shops you would expect to find in any major European town. To the north of the island, near Santa Cruz de Tenerife, you will also find several larger shopping locations like Centro Comercial Meridiano, again with plenty of high-street stores.

The island has an excellent selection of international schools. The British School of Tenerife serves the north, while Wingate School, which specialises in British education, is located in the south. Both remain popular choices for English-speaking families, though it is advisable to enquire about waiting lists well in advance of your move.

Healthcare in Tenerife

For an island of its size, Tenerife has a robust healthcare network. In addition to the four main hospitals, including the Hospital Universitario Nuestra Señora de Candelaria and Hospital Universitario de Canarias, there are dozens of primary care and specialist clinics (Centros de Salud) across the island.

For residents, healthcare is provided through the Spanish state system, which is generally free at the point of use. However, you will usually be required to pay a percentage of the cost for prescriptions (typically between 10% and 60%, depending on your income). As with the rest of Spain, dental care is not covered by the state and must be paid for privately.

Pros of Tenerife

• Established Communities: It has the largest British expat population in the islands, making it easy to find a well-established community and familiar amenities.

• Excellent Facilities: The island is home to the most robust healthcare network and the widest choice of international schools, including the British School of Tenerife.

• Diverse Landscapes: From the sandy beaches of the south to the lush forests and the snow-capped Mount Teide, there is an incredible variety of environments to explore.

• Urban and Resort Options: You can choose between the cosmopolitan city life of Santa Cruz or the lively, sun-drenched resort hubs like Costa Adeje.

Cons of Tenerife

• High Tourism Levels: As the most popular island, it can become very busy and noisy during the peak season, particularly in the southern resorts.

• Rising Property Costs: Prices in popular areas like Adeje have risen significantly, meaning “bargains” are harder to find in 2026 compared to previous years.

• Peak Traffic: With its high population, the main motorways (the TF-1) can suffer from congestion during rush hours and holiday periods.

• Access Fees: Certain popular natural spots, such as specific trails on Mount Teide, now require pre-booking and small access fees to manage overcrowding.

2: Fuerteventura – Best for beaches and great value properties

As the second largest of the Canary Islands, Fuerteventura is widely celebrated as a premier holiday destination, famous for its vast expanses of white sand and world-class conditions for water sports. The island enjoys a remarkably dry climate, making it a firm favourite for those seeking guaranteed sunshine and a coastal lifestyle.

The international community here has grown significantly, with the most recent figures indicating that over 42,000 foreigners now call the island home. While a good number of these residents are British, the population is quite diverse. In the north, the towns of Corralejo, El Cotillo, and Lajares are particularly popular, offering a more active atmosphere and a higher concentration of inhabitants. Conversely, many expats prefer the southern reaches of the island, settling in areas such as Costa Calma, Gran Tarajal, and Morro Jable, which tend to be quieter and more traditional in feel.

“If you want total peace and quiet and away from it all, Fuerteventura, has very very little rain!”  according to Ibizababy on a forum for English-speaking expats in the Canary Islands.

Buying Properties in Fuerteventura

The majority of properties you will find for sale in Fuerteventura are villas and apartments, often on complexes with similar properties and shared facilities like swimming pools. In Corralejo, a 3-bedroom apartment will now set you back approximately €320,000, and a villa of the same size is closer to €450,000.

A 3-bedroom apartment in Gran Tarajal, one of the popular expat areas, will cost in the region of €210,000. A budget of €550,000 will buy a 4-bedroom villa in Morro Jable, which still represents very good value. The island has affordable smaller apartment properties in locations that would make great holiday homes as well.

Healthcare and education in Fuerteventura

Whilst Fuerteventura is the second largest of the Canary Islands, it is much less densely populated compared to Tenerife and, as such, there is only one main public hospital on the island. They can treat a range of illnesses and emergencies, however, more serious issues may need to be treated at a hospital on the nearby island of Gran Canaria. The first port of call in the case of a non-emergency medical issue should be the pharmacy (chemist), where the staff are very knowledgeable and able to help with a wide range of issues.

There are no British schools in Fuerteventura at the moment, so schooling would be in Spanish, which is something to consider if you have school-age children. Whilst youngsters can pick languages up very quickly, this may be an issue for some families.

Shopping in Fuerteventura

In addition to all of the smaller shops like bakeries that you would expect to find on an island of this size, Fuerteventura has several malls and shopping centres dotted all over the island, offering many of the well-known brands you would expect to find. This is largely due to the number of tourists that visit the island each year, and so they are mostly found on the north and east of the island, with a high concentration on the southern tip.

 Pros of Fuerteventura

• Great Culture and Nightlife: The island offers plenty to do whilst remaining slightly less touristy and more relaxed than Tenerife.

• Reasonable Property Prices: Even in 2026, the island offers some of the most competitive property prices in the archipelago.

• Strong Infrastructure: Despite its rugged feel, the island has a great infrastructure and reliable amenities for residents.

• Exceptional Climate: With very little rainfall and consistent sun, it is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and water sports fans.

 Cons of Fuerteventura

• Education Hurdles: The lack of British schools could be off-putting for families with children who do not speak enough Spanish to get by.

• Seasonal Noise: Like all the main islands, certain areas will get busier and noisier during the peak holiday months.

• Specialised Healthcare: For very serious or rare medical conditions, you may occasionally need to travel to Gran Canaria for treatment.

3: Gran Canaria – Best for laid-back holiday homes

The second most populous of the Canary Islands and the third largest in Gran Canaria. This is a bustling island with plenty of black lava and white sandy beaches.

The capital city, Las Palmas is a hub for duty-free shopping and is a major cruise ship docking point. Although the coastal areas of the island can be busy, the interior offers a much more tranquil outlook with its rural and mountainous landscape.

The island is particularly popular with tourists from the UK, and it is therefore little surprise that there is a large migrant community on the island. With English being widely spoken in Gran Canaria, the island is a popular draw for those who speak little Spanish.

“Very pleasant. Nice atmosphere, clean and decent, not too crowded.” A user from Tripadvisor.

Buying Property in Gran Canaria

The most popular areas of Gran Canaria with British property buyers are Puerto Rico and Playa del Inglés, both of which are found on the southern coast of the island. Properties on the island are very similar to those found on the other Canary Islands.

In 2026, a 3-bedroom apartment in Puerto Rico will typically cost around €320,000, with the same type of property in Playa del Inglés often coming in at around €360,000. A 3-bedroom villa in Las Palmas will cost in the region of €450,000 and will offer a little more space for your money. Overall, property prices in Gran Canaria are comparable to those in the UK, and shopping around may just find you something a little special at a great price.

 Facilities in Gran Canaria

The advantage of living in Gran Canaria for anyone relocating with children is that the island has a very good number of British and international schools for children of all ages, such as the British School of Gran Canaria and Oakley College. For those with limited Spanish, schooling is not an issue on the island, though it is worth checking for availability as these schools are very popular in 2026.

 Healthcare in Gran Canaria

The island is well equipped to deal with medical emergencies, with two large medical centres that form part of the main University hospital group, Doctor Negrín and the Insular University Hospital. Both of these are located in the more touristy areas of the island, and there is a further hospital on the southern end, the Hospital Universitario San Roque in Maspalomas.

There are plenty of doctors on the island but, as with mainland Spain, the local pharmacy is usually the best port of call for non-emergency medical issues.

Pros of Gran Canaria

• Diverse Living Options: From the cosmopolitan city life of Las Palmas to the quiet, mountainous interior, the island offers an environment for every lifestyle.

• Strong Education Links: The presence of established British schools makes it one of the best choices for families relocating with school-age children.

• English Proficiency: English is very widely spoken, particularly in the south, making the initial transition much smoother for those who speak little Spanish.

• Excellent Infrastructure: As a major hub, the island boasts great shopping, high-speed internet, and a reliable public transport network.

Cons of Gran Canaria

• High Population Density: Gran Canaria is more heavily populated than some of the other islands, so if you are looking for total peace and tranquillity, this may pose a problem in urban areas.

• Tourist Crowds: It can get very busy with cruise ship travellers in Las Palmas and holidaymakers in the south during the peak winter and summer seasons.

• The “Panza de Burro”: The capital, Las Palmas, can often be cloudy while the rest of the island is sunny, a local weather phenomenon that some find surprising.

4: Lanzarote – Best for families and the young hip crowd

The island of Lanzarote is an enchanting one, with black pebble beaches, volcanic cones, and plenty of surf to entice those who love water sports. The fourth largest of the Canary Islands, it has seen steady growth in recent years, with the population now exceeding 167,000. Around 23% of the residents are expats from all over the world, with British nationals remaining the largest foreign group, giving the island a wonderfully multicultural feel.

Popular areas include Arrecife, Costa Teguise, and San Bartolomé. The island is known for its clear water and golden sands, but also for its incredibly friendly people who are full of humour. There is an evident sense that “life is to be enjoyed” everywhere you go.

“If they are retiring, I think Lanzarote would be perfect. They have everything they need there and a near-perfect climate. Tenerife and Gran Canaria are lovely, but I adore the peace and tranquillity of Lanzarote.” recommends Llama

Buying Properties in Lanzarote

The three most popular areas for holiday homes and expat residences are Playa Blanca, Puerto del Carmen, and Puerto Calero. Due to strict building regulations that protect the island’s unique aesthetic, property supply is often limited, which keeps prices on the higher side compared to some of the other islands.

In 2026, a 3-bedroom villa in Playa Blanca will typically set you back about €450,000, whilst in Puerto del Carmen, you should budget closer to €520,000 for a similar property. Puerto Calero remains the most exclusive and expensive area of the three, with luxury villas frequently exceeding €800,000.

Facilities of Lanzarote

The island is a fantastic choice for those interested in art and architecture, having been heavily influenced by the artist César Manrique. You will find several famous museums and cultural sites, such as the Museo César Manrique and Casa José Saramago. For families, Lanzarote is well-equipped with international schooling options, including the British School of Lanzarote in Tahiche and Colegio Hispano Británico in Tías.

Pros of Lanzarote

• Peace and Tranquillity: Ideal for those looking to relax and enjoy a slower pace of life, with a unique volcanic landscape that remains largely unspoiled.

• Consistent Climate: Lanzarote is one of the driest islands, offering nearly perfect weather and sunshine all year round.

• Strong Community: With a high percentage of international residents, it is very easy to integrate and find English-speaking services and social groups.

• Controlled Development: Thanks to strict environmental laws, the island has avoided high-rise “concrete jungles,” preserving its boutique and authentic charm.

Cons of Lanzarote

• Higher Entry Costs: Property prices, particularly in the premium southern resorts, are among the highest in the archipelago.

• Limited Property Supply: The lack of new large-scale developments can make finding the “perfect” home a longer process than on Tenerife or Gran Canaria.

• Windy Conditions: The island is known for its breezes; while perfect for windsurfers, it can be a bit much for those who prefer a completely still environment.

5: La Palma – Best for green spaces

Known as La Isla Bonita (the beautiful island), La Palma is an island with real character. The capital city of the island, Santa Cruz de la Palma, has cobbled streets and quaint houses with wooden balconies. The island also has a substantial national park with volcanic craters, pine forests, and waterfalls. Whilst it is certainly the greenest of the Canary Islands, visitors will still find plenty of beaches to enjoy as well, though many feature the island’s iconic volcanic black sand.

The expat community in La Palma is thriving and close-knit. For those who do not speak Spanish, this is a vital connection as the islanders speak little English. Those who do not speak Spanish will struggle to get a job, even within the tourist industry.

Tripadviser user Brian comments:

“La Palma is a wonderful place to live, peaceful, with good scenery, good weather (on most parts of the island), friendly people, reasonable services, little criminality, few tourists, low taxes and is part of the EU.

But as with many islands … you need to have income.”

Buying Property in La Palma

The island has a number of rather enchanting places to live in and, due to its size, the expat population is more widespread than you would perhaps find on the other islands. Since the volcanic eruption in 2021, the market has stabilised, though some areas in the Aridane Valley are still undergoing reconstruction.

The price of a 3-bedroom villa will vary widely from one place to another. In El Paso, for example, you could spend anywhere between €310,000 to €720,000 on a property with similar specs. Investment opportunities are certainly available on the island, with large, characterful properties occasionally coming to market for around €750,000, offering significant space for your money.

Facilities in La Palma

There are a good number of schools on the island; however, with no British or International schools currently in operation, the teaching is all done in Spanish. This may pose a problem to those relocating with children if they do not speak at least some Spanish. There are plenty of medical facilities on the island, including the General Hospital of La Palma, and a couple of larger shopping areas. Larger shopping trips are possible with a regular ferry service to the neighbouring islands.

Pros of La Palma

• Tranquil Lifestyle: It is a perfect choice for those looking for a quiet, slower pace of life away from the main tourist hubs.

• Investment Potential: The property market offers unique opportunities, particularly for those looking for traditional homes with land.

• Natural Beauty: As the greenest island, it is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers, offering landscapes found nowhere else in the archipelago.

• Stargazing: La Palma is a world-renowned “Starlight Reserve,” providing some of the clearest night skies on the planet.

Cons of La Palma 

• Language Barrier: English is not as widely spoken as it is on the larger islands, making Spanish proficiency almost essential for daily life.

• Educational Limitations: The lack of international schools can be a significant drawback for families with school-age children.

• Economic Pace: For those who like their surroundings to be a little busier or who require a fast-paced job market, La Palma may feel a little too quiet.

6: La Gomera – Best for timeless beauty

The second smallest of the original seven islands that made up the Canary Islands, La Gomera, has a prehistoric forest with a UNESCO World Heritage designation. The island is small, almost circular in shape, and just 25km across. It has an altogether different feel to the larger islands and is not for everyone.

The migrant community on the island is on the small side, and adapting to life on La Gomera is not for the faint-hearted. However, it has its charms.

Blogger Alison Chino explains, “Valle Gran Rey, where amazing hillsides of palm trees and man-made terraces guard the way down to the ocean, where there is a small, neat resort, the word old-fashioned comes to mind. The swimming is safe and great there, unlike some of the other rocky places with strong currents around the island. The island really is a series of what must once have been hidden valleys.”

Buying Property in La Gomera

Houses, villas, apartments, and even land are amongst the gems for sale in La Gomera, although it should be noted that properties do not come up that often. Very good-sized plots of land do come up for sale and could offer an investment opportunity to the right person. However, at €890,000 for 6243m², even in a prime location, it certainly doesn’t come cheap in 2026.

A 4-bedroom villa in San Sebastián, however, will set you back in the region of €395,000. Alternatively, you could find a 5-bedroom villa in Vallehermoso in need of a fair bit of updating for around €145,000, offering a project for those looking to create a bespoke home.

Healthcare in La Gomera

The island has a medical centre and a small hospital, the Hospital de La Gomera, which can deal with some, but not all, medical emergencies. Patients requiring more complex treatment need to be airlifted to Tenerife, and this involves waiting for the helicopter to come out to La Gomera first, as it is stationed in Tenerife. For routine care, residents rely on local clinics and pharmacies found in the main towns.

Pros of La Gomera

• Total Escape: The island offers a complete escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, making it a dream location for nature lovers.

• Property Bargains: Despite rising costs elsewhere, there are still opportunities to find substantial properties or renovation projects at reasonable prices.

• Community Spirit: It is a rewarding location for those who are not afraid of working hard to become part of a small, authentic community.

Cons of La Gomera

• Medical Limitations: The lack of facilities for people with complex conditions makes the island a less-than-ideal location for those with significant health concerns.

• Limited Infrastructure: With fewer shops and no international schools, you may find yourself relying on the ferry to Tenerife for major services.

7: El Hierro – Best for quiet and tranquillity

Nicknamed Isla del Meridiano, El Hierro is the farthest of the Canary Islands to the South and West. It is also the second smallest, with a population that has grown slightly to just under 12,000. The island is world-renowned for its diving and its incredibly tranquil surroundings. It isn’t for everyone, and there are still very few Brits living here, but for those who seek peace and solitude, this is the perfect location.

To quote Bob, a Brit living there:

“We like the island very much for its splendid isolation and tranquillity, the smiling local people, and our South American neighbours.”

Healthcare and shops in El Hierro

There is a small hospital in El Hierro, the Hospital Nuestra Señora de los Reyes, located in Valverde, which offers a range of basic services and some specialised treatment. There are several doctors on the island for day-to-day medical requirements, and the majority of the shops, which are mostly small supermarkets and local food shops, are also located in Valverde. This is also where you will find the island’s few schools.

Buying property in El Hierro

Villa de Valverde, Las Puntas, and Frontera are the most popular parts of the island to live in. Properties here are predominantly townhouses, and they vary quite significantly in price. In 2026, the more traditional style of older houses in Frontera with 3 bedrooms typically costs around €210,000. Three-bedroomed apartments in a complex in Valverde come in at closer to the €240,000 mark. There are still some very cheap properties to be had for those willing to take on a renovation project, as well as more modern homes with higher price tags.

Pros of living in El Hierro

• Splendid Isolation: The island is peaceful and perfect for those who love a quiet outdoor life and value sustainability, as the island aims to be entirely self-sufficient.

• Easy Navigation: Being so small, the island is very easy to get around, and it has all the basic amenities needed for those in good health to enjoy life.

Cons of living in El Hierro

• Minimal Expat Support: The British community is almost non-existent, so you will likely need to speak Spanish well to integrate and handle daily tasks.

• Service Limitations: For larger schools or more complex healthcare, you will often need to consider travelling to the larger islands.

8: La Graciosa – Best for day trips or weekend breaks!

A volcanic island, La Graciosa is around 29 square kilometres. There are only two villages on this, the smallest of the Canary Islands. The island’s population is approximately 730 people, and its economy is predominantly based on tourism and fishing.

There are no paved roads, but there are plenty of bike paths, isolated mountains, and secluded beaches. For some people, this might be the dream location; however, as a relocation destination, it certainly won’t be for everyone.

 Buying property in La Graciosa

Caleta de Sebo is the island’s port where the ferries from Lanzarote dock. It is also the most populated of the two villages. Pedro Barba, the original settlement on the island, is the other one. Those who live on the island can be found in one of these two villages, as the rest of the island is predominantly rough terrain.

Understandably, there are not many houses for sale in La Graciosa, and because of its protected status as a “natural gem,” prices have risen significantly. In 2026, a traditional detached house or finca with 4 bedrooms is likely to set you back at least €525,000, with prime beachfront properties often exceeding €1,000,000.

Shops, facilities and healthcare in La Graciosa

As you might expect with an island of this size, there are few shops, consisting of just two small supermarkets, a bakery, and a DIY shop. There are also a couple of bars, restaurants, and a small church. Many of the local children attend school on Lanzarote as boarders and return home at the weekend.

The island has an arrangement with Lanzarote regarding healthcare. Doctors from the nearby island take it in turns to stay on La Graciosa for a month at a time to give basic medical care. More urgent medical cases are either airlifted to Lanzarote or met from the ferry with an ambulance.

Pros of La Graciosa

• Total Peace: The island is incredibly peaceful with very little pollution, offering a lifestyle that feels completely removed from the modern world.

• Natural Beauty: Living here means having direct access to some of the most unspoiled beaches and volcanic landscapes in the Atlantic.

Cons of La Graciosa

• Difficult Property Market: Purchasing property is extremely difficult due to the very limited supply and high demand for holiday investments.

• Limited Infrastructure: With very basic schooling, healthcare, and shopping, you are almost entirely dependent on Lanzarote for your essential needs.

Moving to the Canary Islands

Each Canary Island will have its advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to do your research, however, you will be sure to find an island to suit you whether you have a young family, are retiring or want to be close to the nightlife. We hope this has helped you find the best place to buy property in the Canary Islands. But to find the best place to live in the Canary Islands is to jump on an aeroplane and experience the islands for yourself.

One good thing about moving to the Canary Islands is that they are so popular with British migrants, expats and property buyers that you are not short of relocation and removal services. In fact, container shipping and removal services to the major islands such as Tenerife, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria and Lanzarote are very frequent and quite cost effective.

If you would like to receive information about moving to the Canary Islands, visit our removals page to start the process of moving your personal belongings. As experts in the international removals industry, we provide support throughout the process including assistance with documentation and customs clearance.

If you need help with your property search, A Place in the Sun has properties for sale, whether you are on a budget or looking for a luxury home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Canary Island has the best weather for living year-round?

While all islands enjoy a “sub-tropical” climate, Lanzarote and Fuerteventura are the driest. Tenerife and Gran Canaria feature microclimates, where the south is consistently sunny, while the north is greener and cooler.

Can I move to the Canary Islands after Brexit?

Yes. British citizens can stay for 90 days out of every 180 without a visa. For permanent moves, you must apply for a residency visa, such as the Digital Nomad Visa for remote workers or the Non-Lucrative Visa for retirees.

Are there British schools in the Canary Islands?

Yes, but they are primarily located on the larger islands. Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and Lanzarote have well-established British and International schools. There are currently no British-curriculum schools on Fuerteventura, La Palma, La Gomera, or El Hierro.

What is the cost of property in the Canary Islands in 2026?

Prices vary by island. A 2-bedroom apartment in a residential area of Tenerife or Gran Canaria starts at approximately €145,000, while a 3-bedroom villa in a prime location like Costa Adeje or Playa Blanca averages between €450,000 and €650,000.