Planning a move from the UK to Gran Canaria? You’re not alone, it’s something a lot of expats do. Of all the Canary Islands, Gran Canaria is certainly one of the most popular relocation destinations for Brits, thanks to its warm climate, expert community and relaxed lifestyle. Whether you’re retiring, moving with children, working remotely or simply looking for a sunnier way of life, choosing the right part of Gran Canaria is one of the most important steps.

To help you out, we’ve taken a look at the best areas in Gran Canaria for expats, what each place has to offer, and how to decide which location suits you best.

Where Should You Live in Gran Canaria?

Gran Canaria has a wide range of landscapes and microclimates; the south is warm, dry and sunny almost every day of the year, whereas the north is greener, cooler and more traditional. If you head inland you’ll find mountain villages, hiking trails and historical towns. It’s easy to see why it’s an island a lot of people move to. But, before you arrange removals to the Canary Islands and start packing up your things, it’s important to familiarise yourself with the main areas to live in.

Maspalomas

Maspalomas is one of the most desirable areas for expats on the island, and it’s easy to see why. Known for its famous dunes, golden beaches and calm lifestyle, it offers a blend of modern living and beautiful scenery. It boasts quiet residential zones away from the more tourist-driven parts, and English is widely spoken, which is perfect for new arrivals. You’ll also find a good mix of apartments, bungalows and villas, with many properties offering private gardens and pools.

Playa del Inglés

The climate in Gran Canaria is focused on sunshine and warmth, and you’ll be able to make the most of that in Playa del Inglés. Playa del Inglés is one of the island’s liveliest and most cosmopolitan areas. It’s famous for its long promenade, nightlife and entertainment options.

You can expect a vibrant social scene and plenty of nightlife, walkable streets with everything close by, and easy access to beaches, shops and restaurants. Despite its reputation as a tourist hotspot, Playa del Inglés has many quiet residential complexes perfect for long-term living. It’s especially appealing for younger expats, remote workers and those who enjoy an active social lifestyle.

Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is located on the southwest coast of Gran Canaria and is one of the sunniest places on the island. Over time it has developed from a holiday resort into a popular expat community. It boasts sheltered beaches ideal for swimming, a renovated marina and plenty of water sports, large shopping centres, great restaurants and family-friendly activities. Puerto Rico is popular amongst families and retirees, as it offers a peaceful, warm and comfortable place to live with fantastic access to amenities.

Arguineguín

Arguineguín is a charming fishing town that has become one of the most popular expat hubs on the island. With a calm, community-centred atmosphere, seaside paths, markets and local festivals, there’s a lot to love about the area. It’s also where you’ll find more affordable housing compared to major resorts, so you can enjoy a quieter lifestyle, whilst still being close to beaches, amenities and without breaking the bank.

Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria’s capital, Las Palmas, offers a completely different experience compared to the southern resorts. It’s a vibrant Spanish city with a lot of culture, shopping, transport and one of Europe’s best urban beaches, Las Canteras. It’s perfect if you want a genuine Spanish lifestyle with fewer tourists, great public transport and walkable neighbourhoods. There’s a mix of
entertainment, culture, beaches and city living in Las Palmas, so there’s something for everyone. Popular neighbourhoods include Avenida Marítima, Mesa y López, La Minilla, Triana and Guanarteme.

San Fernando

San Fernando sits just behind Playa del Inglés and Maspalomas, offering a more local, residential feel. Many expats choose San Fernando because it’s quieter, more affordable and close to everything. There are a number of benefits that come with living in San Fernando, such as lower property prices than the resort centres, a strong community feel and easy access to beaches without the tourist crowds. It also has a variety of schools, sports facilities, parks and shopping areas. It’s an excellent choice for those who want to stay close to the south’s amenities, without being right in the heart of tourism.

Mogán and Puerto de Mogán

The municipality of Mogán includes several popular residential areas, and Puerto de Mogán is one of the most picturesque towns on the island. Expats are drawn to the area by the stunning marina, colourful houses, village-like vibe, excellent weather and calm beaches. There’s also a number of popular restaurants in the area. It’s perfect for expats looking for tranquillity, beauty and a slower pace of life.

Teror

If you want a completely different lifestyle, consider Teror. Teror offers mountain views, traditional houses and cool, fresh air. It’s one of the island’s most historic towns, and it has a very different feel to the rest of the island. In Teror, you can expect rural living, culture, local markets, festivals and Canarian traditions. It’s slightly cooler in Teror, making it ideal for hiking and outdoor activities. Though living inland requires more driving, the lifestyle rewards often outweigh this if you’re wanting a more authentic way of life.

Struggling to Decide Where to Live in Gran Canaria?

With various islands to choose from, deciding on the best place to live in the Canary Islands can be difficult. The island offers a wide variety of lifestyles and things to do, climates and communities, so what suits one person might not be ideal for someone else. Before you pack everything up and jump on the plane, you need to factor in a few key things.

Your Lifestyle Needs

Start by thinking about what your day-to-day life will look like. Are you looking for a quiet, relaxed environment? Do you want a lively social scene? Are you moving with children who need access to schools, parks, and activities? Retirees often opt for Maspalomas, Arguineguín or Puerto Rico, where life is calm and easy. Young professionals often choose Las Palmas for its coworking spaces, culture and city amenities. Families tend to prefer San Fernando, where local services and schools are close by.

Climate Preferences

Gran Canaria is famous for its microclimates. In Maspalomas, Playa del Inglés and Puerto Rico, the climate is hot, dry and sunny nearly every day. In Las Palmas, Arucas and Gáldar, it’s cooler, greener, and there’s more cloud cover. If sunshine is your priority, the South is the safest bet. If you prefer mild temperatures and more greenery, the north or interior may suit you better.

Budget and Cost of Living

Popular resort areas tend to be more expensive for property and everyday shopping. In general, the South has higher rent and higher demand. In the North and inland, you’ll usually get better value, larger homes and a more traditional Canarian lifestyle. If you’re planning to buy, inland towns often offer the best square footage for your budget.

Access to Amenities

When choosing where to live, consider what you need close by, such as healthcare, public transport, supermarkets, schools, and sports facilities. If you choose a rural mountain village like Teror, you’ll likely drive more. If you want everything within walking distance, the south coast or capital city may be a better fit.

Community and Language

Some areas have large, established expat communities, which can make adapting to your new home easier. Maspalomas, Playa del Inglés, Arguineguín and Puerto Rico have a significant expat presence, whereas Las Palmas and Teror have a more local feel. If you’re keen to learn Spanish and embrace local culture, living outside the main resorts can be very rewarding.

Noise, Tourism and Pace of Life

Resort towns are lively and busy for much of the year, which is great if you enjoy plenty going on, but not ideal if you want peace. Visiting areas at different times of the day – morning, afternoon and evening – can help you to understand their true atmosphere, before committing to your move.

Try Before You Buy

If you can, spend a week or two staying in different parts of the island. Shop locally, try public transport, and get a feel for everyday life outside tourist areas. This is the best way to determine which location suits you. You can then make your move to Gran Canaria, knowing you’re heading to your ideal area.

Top Tips for Moving to Gran Canaria

Moving to Gran Canaria from the UK is exciting, but an international relocation comes with challenges. You can’t simply pack up, book a flight and go. If you want your move to be smooth, stress-free and organised, you need to plan ahead.

• Start Planning Early – Give yourself time to research locations, organise removals, check rental and buying processes, and prepare documents. Six months before moving is a good starting point, as it gives you enough time to get organised and ensure everything is in order. If it’s not, you still have time to find a solution.

• Choose a Reliable Removals Company – You need to choose a reliable removals company, such as United International Removals, a team experienced in Canary Islands removals. This takes away much of the stress. You can focus on moving, knowing that your belongings are in safe, capable hands.

• Understand Visa Requirements – Rules vary depending on your nationality and circumstances. Make sure you understand what documents you need to go to Gran Canaria, whether you need to register with local authorities, how to access healthcare, and how long you can stay. This avoids issues once you arrive. You can move without worrying about passport or visa issues.

• Research Healthcare Options – Gran Canaria has excellent healthcare, but you should plan early. Check how to access public healthcare, consider private health insurance if you can, and register with a local medical centre once you move. Most expats use a combination of public and private services.

• Sort Out Your Finances – Before you move to Gran Canaria, make sure your finances are in order. Notify your bank of your move and explore Spanish bank account options. You need to understand currency transfers and exchange rates, and be sure to check tax rules if you’re staying long-term. This helps avoid unexpected fees or complications.

• Think Carefully About What to Bring – Shipping is straightforward, but consider what you really want to bring. Do you want to ship furniture? Will your appliances fit Spanish plug sockets and voltage? Are certain sentimental items worth transporting? Most people ship their essentials and buy bulkier items locally.

• Learn Basic Spanish – Even though English is widely spoken in the south of Gran Canaria, everyday life is easier when you know basic Spanish phrases. Locals always appreciate the effort, and it helps you feel more at home.

• Keep Important Documents Handy – Be sure you keep important documents safe, but also somewhere you can easily access them. Don’t pack them in your shipment. Have them with you when you travel, including passport, birth certificates, marriage certificate, driving licence, insurance documents and bank details. This avoids delays or administrative headaches.

• Give Yourself Time to Adjust – The first few weeks can feel overwhelming when you move somewhere new, even more so when you move abroad. Take it slowly, get to know your neighbourhood, meet locals and join expat groups. Give yourself time to adjust, and don’t rush the process.

Ready to Move to Gran Canaria?

Moving to Gran Canaria is an exciting opportunity, but planning an international relocation takes time and organisation. Working with a trusted international removals company, such as United International Removal, ensures your belongings travel safely and securely. We’ll help you to avoid common mistakes and make your move to Gran Canaria as smooth as possible. Get in touch today to start your journey with confidence.