Drago Canarias Report Unveils Disturbing Trends in Housing Affordability

The latest report from Drago Canarias has shed light on a pressing issue in the Canary Islands: the alarming rise in rent prices juxtaposed with stagnant wages. This troubling trend raises serious concerns about the living conditions for many residents in the region.

Disposable Income Takes a Nosedive

The report, titled “Housing and Living Conditions in the Canaries,” reveals a stark decline in disposable income for those earning the minimum wage. In 2021, individuals receiving the Minimum Interprofessional Wage (SMI) of €965 found themselves with only €279 left after paying rent for an average-sized apartment of 70 square meters, which cost around €686. Fast forward to 2025, and while the SMI has increased to €1,184, the average rent has skyrocketed to €1,050. This leaves residents with a mere €134—less than half of what they had just four years earlier, highlighting a severe affordability crisis.

Stagnant Salaries Fuel Housing Challenges

Further compounding the issue, the report points out that the median salary in the Canary Islands is the lowest in all of Spain, standing at €19,804 annually. This figure translates to approximately €1,650 per month over 12 payments or €1,414 across 14 payments. Such earnings are grossly inadequate for covering not only rent but also essential living expenses, including utilities, groceries, and transportation.

Carmen Peña, the National Spokesperson for Drago Canarias, emphasized the gravity of the housing crisis during the report’s presentation. She remarked that even individuals earning the minimum wage are finding it increasingly difficult to secure adequate housing, as rent consumes a significant portion of their income. This leaves little room for other necessities, leading to a precarious living situation for many. Peña poignantly noted that the phrase “you can no longer live in the Canaries” is becoming a harsh reality for residents.

Demanding Political Responsibility and Future Solutions

In her remarks, Peña did not shy away from criticizing all political parties in the region, asserting that they have collectively failed to address the ongoing housing crisis despite their prolonged time in power. She stated that Drago Canarias is committed to improving living conditions for residents rather than merely critiquing the current management. Peña reaffirmed the organization’s dedication to holding political leaders accountable and advocating for a brighter future for the people of the Canary Islands.

The report also delves into other financial indicators, such as the Minimum Vital Income and the Canary Citizen Income, which provide limited support to families in need. For instance, an adult with a dependent child can receive a maximum of €856, which falls significantly short of covering average housing costs. Additionally, non-contributory pensions for disability or retirement are set at €565, while unemployment benefits do not exceed €570, further illustrating the financial strain on residents.

Drago Canarias compiled the report using a variety of public statistical sources, including ISTAC, the Government of the Canaries, the Spanish Government, and real estate portals. This comprehensive approach aims to provide a thorough overview of the housing situation in the region, highlighting the urgent need for effective policy interventions.

Key points

• Minimum wage earners in the Canary Islands saw their disposable income drop from €279 in 2021 to €134 in 2025 after rent.
• The SMI increased from €965 in 2021 to €1,184 in 2025, while average rent rose from €686 to €1,050.
• The median salary in the Canary Islands is the lowest in Spain at €19,804 annually.
• Carmen Peña highlighted the severe housing crisis affecting residents’ ability to afford basic living expenses.
• Drago Canarias calls for political accountability from parties in power regarding the housing situation.
• Support programs like the Minimum Vital Income and Canary Citizen Income provide insufficient aid for families.
• The report utilized data from public sources to analyze the housing and living conditions in the Canary Islands.