El Fraile is a densely populated urban neighbourhood in the municipality of Arona, located just inland from Las Galletas and Costa del Silencio. While it may not have the charm of a traditional village or the polish of a resort town, El Fraile has earned its place as one of the most practical and affordable areas for everyday living in southern Tenerife. Its strength lies in accessibility, affordability, and proximity to the coast — making it a popular choice for residents who prioritize budget and convenience.
Property prices in El Fraile are among the lowest in the entire south of the island. One-bedroom apartments typically start around €75,000, while two-bedroom flats range from €90,000 to €130,000. Larger units with three bedrooms or rooftop terraces can be found between €140,000 and €160,000. The market here is mostly composed of small apartments in multi-storey buildings, with very few detached homes or villas. For first-time buyers, residents on a budget, or investors looking for long-term rental properties, El Fraile represents strong value for money.
Ownership costs are equally affordable. Annual IBI rarely exceeds €150–250 for most apartments, and community fees tend to stay between €20 and €50 per month depending on the building. Many buildings are older and lack pools or elevators, which helps keep expenses down. While not designed for luxury, El Fraile allows residents to maintain their properties and lifestyle with minimal overhead — a key reason why it continues to attract year-round working residents.
Housing in El Fraile is compact and urban. Most buildings are basic concrete constructions with flat roofs, balconies, and simple finishes. While aesthetics vary and renovations are often needed, some properties offer sea views or access to private rooftop spaces. There are no gated communities or landscaped residences here — this is practical housing designed for permanent use. Street parking is common, and the layout is walkable, with all services accessible on foot.
The lifestyle in El Fraile is practical and busy. Everything needed for daily life is within walking distance — supermarkets, pharmacies, bakeries, banks, gyms, schools, and public transport. It has a strong local identity and a lively commercial scene, with small businesses catering to residents rather than tourists. The beach at Las Galletas is just five minutes away by car or a 20-minute walk, offering swimming, a marina, and a seaside promenade with restaurants and cafés. Buses also connect El Fraile with Los Cristianos, Las Galletas, and the rest of Arona regularly.
The climate in El Fraile is dry and warm year-round. Being in the south of the island, temperatures rarely fall below 20°C even in winter, and summer highs typically stay between 28–32°C. The area gets minimal rainfall and enjoys long hours of sunshine — ideal for outdoor activities or quick trips to the beach. Homes here are not built for high-end insulation, so ventilation is important in summer, and some may benefit from light upgrades for comfort.
The population of El Fraile is one of the most diverse in Tenerife. It is home to a mix of Canarian locals and international residents, including large communities from Italy, Colombia, Venezuela, Senegal, and mainland Spain. Spanish is the main language, though many residents speak multiple languages due to the multicultural environment. It is a working-class area with a strong sense of community and local energy, where everyone coexists with a shared focus on daily life, not tourism.
In conclusion, El Fraile is not for those seeking prestige, views, or peace and quiet. But for buyers who want affordability, centrality, and a no-nonsense lifestyle near the sea, it delivers exactly what it promises. It is one of the few places in southern Tenerife where you can still buy property at a low price and live comfortably, surrounded by local services, public transport, and community life.
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