Living in Los Cristianos: Classic Coastal Life in South Tenerife

Living in Los Cristianos: Classic Coastal Life in South Tenerife

23 de julio de 2025
Diana Jeste


Los Cristianos is one of the most established and accessible towns in southern Tenerife. Once a small fishing village, it has grown into a lively, full-service coastal hub that still retains much of its charm. Its popularity with both locals and foreigners is easy to understand: Los Cristianos combines beachside living, year-round sun, walkable streets, and every imaginable service – all without the high-end exclusivity or tourist chaos of other resort zones. It is a real town where people live and work, not just a place to holiday. For buyers seeking a practical, well-connected location with a strong community and plenty of amenities, Los Cristianos remains one of the best choices on the island. 


The property market in Los Cristianos is dynamic and varied. A one-bedroom apartment can range from €180,000 to €250,000 depending on condition and distance to the beach. Two-bedroom homes are typically priced between €240,000 and €350,000, while sea-view properties or units in newer developments can exceed €400,000. Villas and townhouses are rare in the central area but exist in surrounding neighbourhoods like Oasis del Sur or Los Arcos, often starting at €500,000 and climbing higher depending on size and outdoor space. With a high percentage of full-time residents, the town maintains a strong resale market, and buyers can still find value depending on location and building age.


Ownership costs are generally reasonable. IBI (property tax) for an average apartment ranges between €250 and €400 per year, while community fees depend on the services provided in the complex. In basic residential buildings, fees can be as low as €50 per month. More modern or well-equipped complexes with pools, lifts, garages, and 24/7 security – like Cristimar, Playa Graciosa, or Los Alisios – may charge between €100 and €200 monthly. The broad range of properties means buyers can choose based on their budget and preferences, whether looking for a lock-up-and-go apartment near the port or a larger family home with more privacy.


Los Cristianos has a wide selection of residential complexes, both older and newer, catering to a variety of lifestyles. In the central and beachfront areas, buildings like Comodoro, Cristimar, and San Marino offer walkable access to the beach and marina, making them ideal for retirees or those seeking a car-free lifestyle. Playa Graciosa, near the Sunday market, is a more recent development with quality finishes, spacious terraces, and community pools – highly regarded among long-term residents. Meanwhile, areas like Oasis del Sur, Port Royale, and The Heights sit on elevated terrain and offer more tranquility and panoramic views, though they require more uphill walking or driving. Overall, the town has housing for every profile – from compact holiday-style units to family-sized residences.  


One of Los Cristianos’ strongest points is its location and connection to the sea. The town has two main beaches – Playa de Los Cristianos, with calm waters and a family-friendly atmosphere, and Playa de las Vistas, which connects seamlessly to Playa de las Américas. A long promenade stretches along the entire coast, ideal for walking, running, or cycling. The harbor also provides ferry connections to La Gomera and other islands, adding to the town’s practical appeal. Restaurants, bars, shops, and medical clinics are all within walking distance. Schools, sport centers, and green spaces support family life, while cafés and terraces provide social energy throughout the day. Despite being active and busy, Los Cristianos still feels human-scaled, with a walkable grid and many corners that retain the old fishing-town charm.


The climate in Los Cristianos is one of the best in Europe. Located on the sunny southern coast, the area enjoys around 300 days of sunshine per year, with temperatures ranging from 21°C in winter to 28°C in summer. Rainfall is minimal and typically limited to short showers in the cooler months. The coastal breeze helps regulate the heat, and the ocean is swimmable year-round. Unlike windier zones like El Médano, the town’s beach area is consistently calm and protected – one of the reasons it remains popular with families and retirees alike. The consistent good weather supports an outdoor lifestyle and makes terraces, balconies, and roof decks highly valuable features. 


The community in Los Cristianos is one of the most diverse on the island. Spanish residents live alongside a well-established international population – including British, Italian, German, Nordic, and Latin American residents – many of whom have been there for decades. This multicultural mix gives the town a unique dynamic: services are adapted to international needs, English is widely spoken, yet the local Canarian culture remains strong in daily life. The town functions year-round, unlike purely seasonal resorts, and this gives it a sense of continuity and normalcy that many buyers seek. Whether you're a retiree, a remote worker, or a young family, it’s possible to integrate and feel at home here quickly.


In summary, Los Cristianos is an ideal option for those seeking a full-time residence or second home in Tenerife with everything at their doorstep. It offers a great balance between comfort, convenience, and value – with a strong local identity, walkable layout, and access to the beach and transport. It may not have the luxury image of El Duque or the quiet of a village like Alcalá, but for practical living with sun, sea, and services, Los Cristianos is hard to beat. 

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