Considerations

Living on an island is not for everyone and there are some important matters you need to consider before moving here.

Cost of Living

While our taxes are currently lower than the UK, some expenses like oil, gas and electricity are higher.

Health

For our small size and population our island facilities are amazing. Yet if you have any serious medical conditions you should think very carefully before moving here. Our hospital is a small 22 bed unit with limited facilities compared to much larger UK hospitals. Guernsey is only a medevac away in dire emergencies, but ongoing chronic conditions can make life difficult here. There is no reciprocal agreement with the NHS and primary medical services are private, so you have to pay to see the Doctor. Permanent residents do enjoy free secondary medical care.

Education

Alderney's St Anne’s School is lovely but only covers pre-school through to secondary level. Some families choose to send their children to be educated in Guernsey, where higher education is also available.

Island Fever is a Thing

For a small Island Alderney has amazing variety but some people will not find island life to their liking. It’s a bit of a marmite experience. If you are the sort to feel trapped or suffer from the sort of mental health problems that may be made worse living on a small island, think long and hard before moving here.