A lot of Brits dream of living somewhere sunnier, warmer and close to the beach, and there are a lot of popular destinations to choose from. But, it’s hard to deny the appeal of Tenerife. This beautiful Canary Island strikes a balance between natural beauty and year-round warm weather,  with a laid-back lifestyle and a cost of living that tends to be lower than that in the UK. Plus, it boasts a strong expat community. It’s easy to see why Tenerife is one of the most popular destinations for UK movers. However, choosing where to live on the island is a big decision, but we’re here to help.

Where Should You Live in Tenerife as an Expat?

Tenerife offers a surprising variety of lifestyles depending on where you live, from beach resorts and rural villages, to bustling cities and surfer towns. With a climate that’s completely different from the UK, and no shortage of beautiful properties, there’s something for everyone. But, there’s more to moving to Tenerife than organising removals to the Canary Islands and hoping for the best. You need to choose where to live.

Costa Adeje

Located in the sunny southwest of the island, Costa Adeje is often seen as the ‘premium’ side of Tenerife. With its modern infrastructure, luxury apartments, golf courses and stunning beaches, it’s a prime location for expats wanting an easy and comfortable transition from life in the UK.

English is widely spoken in Costa Adeje, and there’s no shortage of familiar shops, international schools, medical centres and even Sunday roasts at local pubs. This area is especially attractive to retirees and families, thanks to its safe, clean environment and reliable services.

Los Cristianos

Once a sleepy fishing village, Los Cristianos has grown into a lively town popular with expats, tourists and locals. It has a British feel in parts, but Los Cristianos still retains its Canarian charm with a beautiful harbour, sandy beaches and a warm community feel. For expats, the appeal is obvious – it’s familiar, friendly and walkable. It also has strong transport links, including buses and ferries to other Canary Islands, making it easy to explore.

Santa Cruz

If you’re looking for a more authentic Spanish lifestyle, Santa Cruz – which is Tenerife’s capital city – offers something completely different from the touristy south. It’s a working, vibrant city full of culture, history and locals going about their daily lives. While fewer locals speak English fluently compared to the south, many British expats still choose Santa Cruz for its immersion into real Spanish life. You’ll find art galleries, theatres, parks, excellent healthcare and an exciting food scene in Santa Cruz, making it perfect for those wanting a more urban lifestyle with fewer tourists.

La Laguna

San Cristóbal de La Laguna is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, located inland from Santa Cruz and offers a completely different vibe. With its cobbled streets, colourful colonial buildings and bohemian spirit, La Laguna is often referred to as the cultural capital of the island. It’s also home to Tenerife’s main university. British expats who move here are typically drawn to its history, art scene and cooler climate, and that it’s more affordable than the resort towns in the south, making it appealing for younger families, remote workers or early retirees.

El Médano

El Médano is Tenerife’s kite-surfing and wind-surfing capital, and it has a relaxed, slightly bohemian vibe that sets it apart from Tenerife’s more tourist-heavy areas. With its wide, breezy beaches, beachfront cafes, yoga studios and independent shops, El Médano is a hotspot for outdoor enthusiasts and digital nomads. For people moving from the UK, the draw is the sense of community, the healthy, active lifestyle and the easygoing pace of life. Plus, it’s just ten minutes from the airport, making it easy to travel back and forth.

Puerto de la Cruz

Located in the north of Tenerife, Puerto de la Cruz offers a very different feel from the southern resorts. The climate is cooler and more humid, meaning it’s surrounded by greenery and coastal cliffs. It’s popular among nature lovers, photographers and those who prefer a more tranquil lifestyle. For expats, it offers a quieter pace, traditional Canarian feel and lower property prices. Though it’s less commercialised than the south, Puerto still offers all the essential services.

Our Top Tips for Choosing the Best Place to Live in Tenerife

Here are a few tips and tricks to help you decide where in Tenerife you should live. 

• Spend Time in Tenerife Before Committing – If you can, visit Tenerife and stay in a few different areas, for more than a few days. This will give you an idea of what it feels like to live there. Try living like a local; shop at markets, use public transport, visit during weekdays and talk to other expats.

• Understand the Island’s Microclimates – Tenerife is famous for having multiple microclimates. The north is greener and cooler with more rain, while the south is drier, sunnier and warmer year-round. Decide if you want a bit of seasonal variation, or sunshine everyday, as it can make a big difference.

• Think About Your Lifestyle Needs – It’s important to consider your lifestyle needs. For example, are you retiring and looking for peace and quiet, or are you moving with children who need good schools and activities? Match your base in Tenerife to your priorities, as not everyone offers the same lifestyle.

• Research Local Amenities – Look into access to healthcare, shops, transport and schools, especially if you’re planning to live in more rural or northern areas. There’s a lot going on in Tenerife but, if you’re planning to base yourself away from a busy town or city, you’ll need to factor in being able to access amenities when you need to.

• Consider the Cost of Living – While Tenerife tends to be more affordable than the UK, prices do vary depending on the region. The south can be more expensive, especially in tourist-heavy areas, whereas the north and inland villages are often more budget-friendly.

Ready to Make Your Big Move?

Moving to Tenerife is a dream for many, but moving internationally takes careful planning. One of the key steps to take is partnering with a reliable international removals team, like United International Removal. We’ll help you to avoid common pitfalls and ensure your belongings get to Tenerife safely, so you can focus on starting your new life with confidence. Get in touch to find out more.