The cost of living in the Channel Islands is fairly high. In comparison to mainland UK, most things in the Channel Islands are more expensive. This is largely because of the cost of importing goods to the islands. Jersey, the larger of the two bailiwicks, has a slightly higher cost of living than Guernsey. Accommodation, food and furniture are particularly pricey, but fuel and insurance are generally cheaper than in the UK.
Cost of accommodation in Channel Islands
With limited space on the islands, it's expensive to both buy and rent accommodation on Jersey and Guernsey. There are extensive licensing and permit regulations governing the rent and purchase of housing on the islands, and expats are often limited to just a small portion of the local market.
The cost of parking might not be included in rental costs, and the price of utilities such as gas and electricity has been steadily rising over the last few years.
Cost of transport in Channel Islands
The small size of both Jersey and Guernsey make it quite possible to live without a car, although those who do decide to drive on the islands will be glad to know that petrol, insurance and parking are cheaper here than in mainland UK. Public transport, cycling and walking are good alternatives to driving. Channel Island bus services are efficient and affordable.
Cost of food and groceries in Channel Islands
Much of the fresh produce sold in the Channel Islands has to be imported from elsewhere, and the cost of doing so is generally passed on to the customer, hiking the price that these goods would otherwise be sold for. Local produce is much cheaper and can be found at town markets, although quantity is limited.
The Channel Islands are well known for fresh and high-quality cuisine, particularly seafood. Eating out in Jersey or Guernsey costs about the same as eating out in London.
Cost of education in Channel Islands
The cost of education in the Channel Islands is equal to or lower than in the UK. State schools are free to attend in Jersey and Guernsey, as they are in the UK, while private schools on the islands are usually just as good as private schools in the UK, and have much lower fees.
Cost of living in Channel Islands chart
Prices may vary depending on product and service provider. The list below shows average prices for Jersey in February 2022.
Accommodation |
|
Three-bedroom apartment in city centre |
JEP 2,500 |
Three-bedroom apartment outside city centre |
JEP 2,300 |
One-bedroom apartment in city centre |
JEP 1,300 |
One-bedroom apartment outside city centre |
JEP 1,000 |
Shopping |
|
Eggs (dozen) |
JEP 3.30 |
Milk (1 litre) |
JEP 1.20 |
Rice (1kg) |
JEP 2.40 |
Loaf of white bread |
JEP 1.60 |
Chicken breasts (1kg) |
JEP 7 |
Pack of cigarettes (Marlboro) |
JEP 10 |
Eating out |
|
Big Mac Meal |
JEP 6 |
Coca-Cola (330ml) |
JEP 1.80 |
Cappuccino |
JEP 3 |
Local beer (500ml) |
JEP 4.50 |
Three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant |
JEP 70 |
Utilities |
|
Mobile-to-mobile call rate (per minute) |
JEP 0.48 |
Internet (uncapped ADSL or cable – average per month) |
JEP 45 |
Basic utilities (per month for small household) |
JEP 160 |
Transport |
|
Taxi rate (per kilometre) |
JEP 3 |
Bus/train fare in the city centre |
JEP 2.10 |
Petrol/gasoline (per litre) |
JEP 1.30 |
Further reading
►To learn about the ups and downs of expat life in Jersey and Guernsey, read Pros and Cons of Moving to Channel Islands
Are you an expat living in Channel Islands?
Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Channel Islands. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute.
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