Engel & Völkers
  • 4 min read

Living and investing in Gran Canaria: Discover the Top 5 Places

Images of Gran Canaria beaches, where you can live and invest.

Can you imagine waking up each morning to the sun kissing your window, with views of the Atlantic Ocean or a one-of-a-kind volcanic landscape? In Gran Canaria, that’s not a dream—it’s everyday life. This gem of the Canary Islands offers unspoiled nature, spring-like weather all year round, and an enviable quality of life.

Living in Gran Canaria is not only a lifestyle choice—it’s a strategic investment. Whether you’re looking for a second home, a stress-free remote work destination, or a high-yield rental property, this island offers a diverse and promising real estate market.

To help you discover the very best, we’ve prepared this ultimate guide to the top 5 places to live, invest, and enjoy in Gran Canaria. We’ll show you what makes each location special, who they’re ideal for, and the current demand in their surrounding property markets.

Table of Content

  1. Gran Canaria: Why It’s a Top Choice for Living and Smart Investment

  2. Discover the Top 5 Places to Live and Invest in Gran Canaria

  3. How to Choose the Best Area for You?

  4. Want to receive exclusive properties and insights for your new life on the island?

Gran Canaria: Why It’s a Top Choice for Living and Smart Investment

Before exploring the highlights, let’s put things into perspective—here’s why thousands of national and international buyers are drawn to this island every year:

  • Over 320 days of sunshine per year and average temperatures of 22°C

  • Excellent air connectivity with Europe and mainland Spain

  • Top-tier healthcare and education services

  • Diverse landscapes: beaches, mountains, forests, and ravines

  • Real estate options for all lifestyles—from modern lofts to luxury villas with ocean views

Discover the Top 5 Places to Live and Invest in Gran Canaria

Now that you know the undeniable advantages of settling in this Atlantic paradise, let’s dive into the heart of Gran Canaria. With its stunning diversity of landscapes and ways of life, the island offers endless opportunities for every type of investor and resident. From lively urban living to peaceful rural escapes, every corner hides a unique charm—and, more importantly, real estate potential you won’t want to miss.

In this section, we unveil the five most sought-after destinations, highlighting not only their lifestyle appeal but also the strategic reasons that make them smart investments. Get ready to discover your next home—or your next business opportunity—in paradise.

Las Palmas de Gran Canaria: Urban Lifestyle, Beaches, and Investment Opportunities (Live by the Sea)

The island’s capital is a magnet for those who want to blend city life with beach living. Neighborhoods like Guanarteme, Triana, and Vegueta offer history, culture, fine dining, and a vibrant social scene. Las Canteras Beach—one of Europe’s best urban beaches—is the city’s heartbeat.

Why invest here? It’s a mature market with strong demand for both residential and vacation rentals. Plus, remote work has significantly increased interest from European professionals choosing Las Palmas as their base.

Maspalomas – Meloneras: Luxury, Golf, and Exclusivity

Located in the island’s sunny south, this area is synonymous with elegance. You’ll find 5-star resorts, golf courses, fine dining, and iconic beaches like the postcard-perfect Maspalomas dunes.

Buyer profile: High-net-worth families, international retirees, and buyers of high-end holiday homes.

Key advantage: Extremely high returns from vacation rentals and excellent capital appreciation due to limited land availability.

Agaete – Valley and Port: Natural Beauty and Tranquility

Nestled in the island’s northwest, this magical corner combines lush green valley views with a charming fishing village by the sea. Agaete Valley is fertile and scenic, while Puerto de las Nieves boasts whitewashed houses, rocky coves, and fresh seafood restaurants.

Ideal for: Those seeking a break from urban life—artists, creatives, and remote workers in search of inspiring settings.

Pro tip: Unique investment opportunities in rural estates, charming homes, and properties that increase in value over time.

San Bartolomé de Tirajana (Monte León – Ayagaures): Privacy and Endless Views

In the elevated areas of southern Gran Canaria, you’ll find a haven of privacy and exclusivity. Monte León and Ayagaures are coveted for their serenity, safety, and breathtaking scenery.

Who invests here? Mostly international buyers looking for luxury, security, and exclusivity—without sacrificing access to services.

Advantage: Many properties offer large plots, pools, gardens, and unique architecture. Strong demand in the premium segment.

Tejeda: Natural Heritage in the Island’s Heart

Considered one of the most beautiful villages in Spain, Tejeda is surrounded by mountains, almond trees, and hiking trails. Here, authenticity and fresh air are part of everyday life. It’s ideal for those who value peace, tradition, and connection with nature.

Perfect for: Buyers of rustic estates, country homes, or sustainable tourism projects.

Opportunity: Increasing interest in second homes inland, where people seek to disconnect or start experience-based tourism businesses.

How to Choose the Best Area for You?

The best part of Gran Canaria is that there’s a place for every lifestyle:

  • If you want city life, beaches, and full services → Las Palmas

  • If you seek luxury and high returns → Maspalomas–Meloneras

  • If you prefer calm and authenticity → Agaete or Tejeda

  • If you dream of a private villa with views → Monte León

And if you’re still unsure—leave it to us. At Engel & Völkers Gran Canaria, we help you find the perfect property, whether you’re planning to live here, invest, or enjoy extended stays under the best climate in the world.

Want to receive exclusive properties and insights for your new life on the island?

Subscribe to our newsletter and each month you’ll receive:

  • Featured properties in the best areas of Gran Canaria

  • Local market news and trends

  • Expert advice on investing, buying, or relocating

  • Inspiring ideas to enjoy every corner of your new home in the Canaries

Ready to Live (or Invest) in Gran Canaria?

Whether you’re looking for a penthouse overlooking Las Canteras, a villa with a garden and pool in the south, or a country home in a hidden valley—Gran Canaria has it. And we’re here to help you find it.

Contact us today and schedule a personalized visit.

Discover why thousands have already chosen to live or invest on this island that truly has it all.

Engel & Völkers Gran Canaria — your trusted partner in finding the perfect home in paradise.

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Engel & Völkers Spain

Avenida Diagonal 640, 6B

08017 Barcelona, España

Tel: +34 900 747 281