From 2000 onwards, the southern region of Tenerife has witnessed an unparalleled surge in population growth, not only in the Canary Islands but also across the national landscape. The data from the National Institute of Statistics (INE) unequivocally highlight it as one of the regions with the highest population growth rates in the entire country.
Official figures from the state institution tell a compelling story: the top five municipalities with the highest population growth in the southern region (Arona, Granadilla de Abona, Adeje, San Miguel de Abona, and Guía de Isora) have collectively seen their populations grow by 2.5 times since the beginning of the century. In 2000, these five municipalities had a cumulative population of 94,735 residents. Last year, according to the latest INE data, the total number of inhabitants soared to 235,265 (an increase of 140,530), excluding the numerous tourists who choose the southern part of the island for their vacations.
Decline in the Capital
A contrasting trend is observed in the capital city of Tenerife, which not only failed to expand its population during the same period but saw a decline. The population figures decreased from 215,132 in 2000 to 209,395 last year, representing a decrease of 5,737 individuals. Conversely, the other major metropolitan area, La Laguna, saw an increase in its municipal register, with the population rising to 159,034 inhabitants compared to 126,543 registered in 2000.
According to the INE statistics, the population growth in the southern municipalities is striking. Arona, in less than 25 years, saw its population surge from 38,416 to 85,249; Granadilla de Abona from 20,323 to 54,942; Adeje from 14,007 to 50,167; San Miguel de Abona from 7,315 to 22,606, and Guía de Isora from 14,674 to 22,301.
Hub of Attraction
The tourism boom largely accounts for the demographic phenomenon experienced in the south of Tenerife. The robust growth in the tourism sector has been a major draw for both local and foreign workers, leading to significant strain on infrastructure, schools, social health centres, and housing. The housing issue has exacerbated in recent years due to a lack of public housing initiatives and a surge in holiday rentals.
Despite the exorbitant rental prices, especially in residential areas near tourist hotspots – where unions have warned about a potential tourism “crisis” owing to the housing affordability challenge faced by workers – the employment opportunities in the south of Tenerife make it an attractive destination for young immigrants, particularly Italians.
The rise in the populations of southern municipalities due to the influx of Italian citizens showcases a notable positive side effect – the mitigation of population ageing, a concerning issue widespread across the rest of the island.
