Canary Islands, a region known for its beautiful landscapes and rich culture, also presents a surprising economic disparity. Although the Gross Disposable Income of households in the Islands is one of the lowest in the country, with an average of 12,410 euros, there are enclaves that defy this trend, with neighborhoods that triple and even quadruple this figure. These opulent areas of the Canary Islands stand out for their exceptional levels of purchasing power, according to data from the National Institute of Statistics (INE) that collect income tax returns by postal code in municipalities with more than 200,000 inhabitants.
In the heart of The Palms of Gran Canaria Ciudad Jardín is located, the neighborhood with the highest purchasing power in the entire Archipelago. With an impressive gross income of 53,893 euros (41,270 euros net), Ciudad Jardín stands as an exclusive residential enclave, nestled between Alcaravaneras and Arenales. The neighborhood is characterized by its large green areas, with emblematic parks such as Romano and Doramas. In addition to its natural beauty, Ciudad Jardín is home to notable institutions such as the Santa Catalina hotel, which is a distinctive symbol of the capital.
Triana: Historical Heritage and opulence in harmony
A short distance from Ciudad Jardín, the historic center of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is home to Triana, the second most prosperous neighborhood in the region. Triana, declared a Site of Cultural Interest as a historical site in 1990, has a disposable income of 42,011 euros (32,896 euros net). Inspired by its Sevillian namesake, Triana is defined by its Calle Mayor, an important commercial area steeped in tradition. Among its iconic buildings are the Theater Perez Galdos and the Hermitage of San Telmo, which evokes the fishing origins of the neighborhood.
La Vega Lagunera: tranquility and elegance in San Cristobal from La Laguna
In Tenerife, La Vega Lagunera emerges as the third most prosperous enclave in the Canary Islands, located in San Cristóbal de La Laguna. With an income of 39,389 euros (30,895 euros net), this serene neighborhood features mostly single-family homes and large green spaces. Residents enjoy recreation areas and gardens with a diversity of plant species. Additionally, La Vega Lagunera is home to the Luther King School and a motocross circuit, although the latter has been the subject of recent controversy.
Ifara: residential elegance in Santa Cruz de Tenerife
The capital of Tenerife, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, welcomes the fourth enclave on this list, the Ifara neighborhood. This neighborhood, together with the García Sanabria park area and the rambla that crosses the city, shows a gross income of 39,251 euros (31,064 euros net). Ifara is divided into two nuclei, La Ninfa and Ifara, both located on slopes and enriched by a rich history. Despite its origins as a banana plantation area, Ifara has evolved to become a sought-after residential district.
Rambla de Santa Cruz – Puerto: elegance and proximity to the sea
The last entry on this list does not correspond to a neighborhood itself, but to a series of areas that range from Rambla de Santa Cruz to port. With gross income of 38,541 euros (30,468 euros net), this area stands out for its proximity to the sea and its exclusivity. Here are the Port Authority of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, government offices and renowned hotels such as the Mencey. Furthermore, the area known as Residencial Anaga shows exceptionally high real estate prices per square meter.
These prosperous neighborhoods in Canary Islands They contradict the narrative of widespread impoverishment in the region. Through its richness and exclusivity,They carry an intriguing perspective on the economic diversity that characterizes the Archipelago. However, we must not lose sight of the need to address socioeconomic disparities to ensure equitable development across the archipelago.