Today we are going to learn more about the population of Lanzarote to better understand the island’s dynamics. What are the demographic trends and what impact does tourism have on its inhabitants? Keep reading to find the answers to these and other questions.
Overview of Lanzarote Population
If we look at Lanzarote’s demographic data, we can see a considerable increase in the population from the 1960s onwards. Some of the factors that have influenced this growth include economic development, migration, and the expansion of tourism.
Current Population Figures
In 2025, Lanzarote’s population is reported to be 166,878 inhabitants, according to Gazette Life, which reflects the latest census carried out on the island. This figure represents an increase on the data reported in the 2024 survey, which estimated the population at 163,230 inhabitants.
Population Growth Trends Over Time
The population growth in Lanzarote has been remarkable over recent decades. Part of the responsibility for this trend lies with mass tourism.
If we compare current figures with those from the mid-20th century, the difference is considerable. In 1950, Lanzarote had 30,751 inhabitants and since then the number has risen steadily according to statistics from the Cabildo de Lanzarote.
Besides tourism, economic opportunities in the region and migration from mainland Spain as well as other countries have contributed. The population increase in the Canary Islands in general has also helped to improve quality of life across the islands.
Population Breakdown: Who Lives in Lanzarote?
Demographic Composition by Age
Before travelling to Lanzarote, you may be interested in knowing details such as the age of the residents. In recent years, there has been a notable increase in people between 40 and 60 years old.
Although Lanzarote has traditionally attracted many young people seeking opportunities in the tourism sector, recent data shows a gradually ageing population. However, the ageing rate is slower than in other regions of Europe.
The age demographic profile of the population indicates that people are settling on the island long-term, contributing to the workforce, internal consumption and social structure.
Nationality and Foreign Residents
The island has become home to a significant number of foreign residents. The largest foreign populations include Colombian, British and Italian nationals.
The British, in particular, are drawn not only by the climate and the possibility of retiring in this paradise, but also because Lanzarote and the United Kingdom share the same time zone, which makes adapting to life on the island easier.
Overall, the foreign population of Lanzarote is around 23% of the total populace, while the rest are Spanish. A considerable percentage have arrived from mainland Spain.
Distribution by Municipality
Lanzarote is a small island, yet full of charm that attracts both Spaniards and foreigners. Over the years, most of the population has concentrated in the municipalities of Arrecife and Teguise. By 2024, the populations in these municipalities were 68,025 and 23,762 respectively.
The third most populated municipality is Tías, which also has the highest concentration of British residents on the island.
Tourism vs. Resident Population
How Tourism Affects Day-to-Day Population
With the arrival of tourists on the island, the population increases daily. Although exact figures are not clear, what is certain is that this fluctuation increases traffic in the most populated areas. There is also a higher demand for services such as restaurants in Lanzarote, transport, water and more.
Most tourists who visited the island during 2024 arrived from the United Kingdom, Ireland and Germany. These were followed by a significant percentage of visitors from other parts of Spain.
Peak Season Population vs. Resident Population
The impact caused by tourists intensifies even more during the high season—namely summer and the winter holidays.
This seasonal increase in an area’s total population, made up of tourists and temporary visitors, places additional and significant pressure on local infrastructure, public services and the environment.
Historical Population Trends
Growth Since the 20th Century
At the beginning of the 20th century, Lanzarote’s population barely exceeded 20,000 inhabitants. It was concentrated in rural hubs such as Teguise, the island’s historical capital. At the time, the economy was based on agricultural exploitation and activities related to the extraction of marine products.
It was during the 1970s that the arrival of international tourism marked a crucial turning point. At that moment, the population had only just surpassed 41,000 inhabitants. By 1900, they already numbered 74,000 people. Although the population decreased for a few years, by 2000 it had reached 96,310 inhabitants.
Factors Driving Population Increase
Population growth in Lanzarote responds to multiple factors. Firstly, the tourism industry has been the main driver of this demographic expansion.
The increased number of visitors has created the need for accommodation, food services, retail and leisure. Consequently, jobs are created, encouraging both national and international immigration.
In recent decades, there has also been significant real estate development, meaning an increase in housing construction and hotel complexes.
Likewise, improvements in infrastructure—such as the expansion of the airport, modernization of roads and the extension of basic services—have made the island more accessible and attractive both to residents and investors.
Apart from all these improvements. Lanzarote’s quality of life and favourable climate have attracted European retirees and digital nomads, particularly in recent years.
Future Projections & Challenges
Predicted Population Growth
It is likely that Lanzarote’s population will continue to grow over the coming years. However, it will do so at a more moderate pace than in previous decades due to the relative saturation of certain real estate markets and increased awareness of the island’s carrying capacity.
Sustainability and Policy Issues
Locals in Lanzarote are protective of their island, and population growth poses new challenges. The island is a territory with limited resources facing considerable pressure on aspects such as fresh water availability, waste management and the conservation of its unique ecosystems.
From now on, it is essential to implement territorial planning strategies that balance economic development with the preservation of natural areas.
Would you like to learn more about the population of Lanzarote? Visit the island and meet its residents, who will be delighted to welcome you. Make use of Lanzarote transfer services to travel between municipalities and get to know more about the island.
Sources:
- https://www.cabildodelanzarote.com/lanzarote/datos-demogr%C3%A1ficos/-/asset_publisher/0pViWpiWKXn8/content/id/885841
- https://lanzaroteinformation.co.uk/lanzarote-in-numbers-2024/
- https://gazettelife.com/news/lanzarotes-population-higher-than-ever/
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