Are you considering living in Guernsey?

Moving to a new place is always challenging, especially when your move takes you overseas.

Guernsey, nestled in the English Channel, offers a unique and attractive lifestyle—but relocating here brings specific considerations you may not have encountered before.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore what living in Guernsey is truly like, covering everything from housing and employment to education, transport, and leisure activities.

Here are the top reasons you should consider living in Guernsey.

1. Discovering Guernsey: A Brief Overview

Guernsey is one of the Channel Islands, approximately 27 miles off Normandy’s coast.

It is just a 25-minute flight from the UK mainland, offering both tranquillity and convenient access to major cities.

It’s the largest island in the Bailiwick of Guernsey, a group that also includes Alderney, Sark, Herm, Jethou, and Lihou.

This beautiful island blends British and Norman heritage, providing residents with a rich historical environment alongside modern amenities.

2. Stunning Natural Beauty

One of Guernsey’s most fantastic attractions is its breathtaking landscapes.

The island boasts rugged cliffs, golden sandy beaches like Vazon Bay and Petit Bot Bay, and rolling green hills.

Whether you prefer relaxing on the beach, coastal walks, or water sports, Guernsey’s natural scenery provides endless opportunities to connect with nature.

3. Quality of Life

Living in Guernsey offers a uniquely high quality of life.

The island is renowned for its low crime rate, strong community spirit, and relaxed lifestyle.

Residents enjoy top-tier healthcare, excellent educational opportunities, and a friendly environment ideal for families, retirees, and professionals alike.

Guernsey’s slower pace of life and excellent infrastructure make it an exceptional place to live.

4. Employment Opportunities in Guernsey

Guernsey has a vibrant, diverse economy primarily based around financial services, tourism, agriculture, and the growing digital sector.

Professionals relocating here find ample job opportunities and room for career advancement.

The island also increasingly attracts remote workers and digital nomads, providing excellent connectivity and modern coworking spaces such as The Hub Guernsey, making it an ideal remote working destination.

5. Guernsey’s Excellent Transport Links

Though an island, Guernsey boasts fantastic transport links.

Regular flights connect residents to UK mainland airports, and ferries offer easy access to nearby France and England.

On-island transport is also straightforward—there’s an extensive public bus network, reliable taxi services, and manageable roads.

The picturesque coastal roads might require careful driving, but they provide stunning scenic views.

6. Education and Schools in Guernsey

Families considering a move to Guernsey will find a robust education system closely aligned with UK standards.

The island has an impressive range of state and private schools, offering quality primary and secondary education.

Standout institutions include Les Varendes Grammar School & Sixth Form Centre, Blanchelande College, and Elizabeth College.

The island also has excellent facilities for adult education and lifelong learning.

7. Buying a Home in Guernsey

Buying property in Guernsey differs slightly from mainland UK due to its unique market structure. Properties are divided into two categories:

• Local Market: Available primarily to long-term residents or those with family ties.
• Open Market: Open to UK passport holders and international investors.

As of early 2025, the average property price is around £610,000, and rental averages are approximately £2,037 per month.

Working with reputable estate agents or property lawyers, such as Ogier Property Law, is advisable.

8. Economic and Tax Advantages

Guernsey’s tax system is desirable, featuring:

• A flat personal tax rate of just 20%.
• No VAT, Capital Gains Tax, or Inheritance Tax.
• Tax-free personal allowances for earnings up to £10,000.

These tax advantages appeal to professionals, entrepreneurs, and retirees looking to optimise their financial situations.

9. Healthcare in Guernsey

Guernsey residents benefit from high-quality healthcare.

The island’s primary healthcare facility is the Princess Elizabeth Hospital (PEH), offering comprehensive care services.

The island also has numerous local GP practices and wellness centres providing accessible healthcare.

Life expectancy is notably high, reflecting the island’s clean environment and excellent healthcare standards.

10. Cost of Living

While certain living costs are slightly higher due to importation costs, the overall quality of life compensates for this.

Utilities, groceries, and housing might be pricier than on the mainland, but shopping in local markets and budgeting wisely make expenses manageable.

Numbeo.com provides comprehensive, up-to-date information on everyday costs in Guernsey.

11. Outdoor Activities and Leisure

Guernsey’s climate and geography offer residents a wide variety of outdoor pursuits. Coastal paths, cycling trails, and water sports like kayaking and sailing are popular among locals.

The island’s beaches, such as Cobo Bay, are ideal for family days out, while its varied hiking and cycling trails cater to all abilities.

12. Shopping and Dining

Guernsey boasts a thriving shopping scene, from independent boutiques to high-street names like Waitrose and Marks & Spencer.

The island’s culinary landscape is equally impressive, with fresh local seafood, traditional markets, and quality restaurants like The Anchor Restaurant and The Seafarer Café.

Food festivals are held annually, celebrating Guernsey’s unique culinary heritage.

Ready to Start Living in Guernsey?

If you’ve decided that Guernsey is the right place for you, Curtiss & Sons Portsmouth can help make your move stress-free.

With years of experience assisting families and individuals moving to Guernsey, we provide reliable removals services tailored to your needs.

Contact us on 023 9298 5830 or complete our online contact form, and our friendly team will be happy to help you begin your exciting new chapter of living in Guernsey.