In a concerning turn of events, the cost of rental accommodation in Guernsey has surged dramatically, leaving residents like Tom Pinsard grappling with financial challenges upon their return from abroad. After relocating to Australia in 2022, the Pinsard family faced unexpected hardships that led them back to their home island in June 2023. The adjustment, however, was anything but smooth, as Mr. Pinsard discovered that the rental market had doubled in price in just under a year.
Tom Pinsard, who initially enjoyed a more manageable rental cost of £1,300 per month for a two-bedroom house located near the beach, encountered a shocking reality upon their return. In September 2023, they secured a new rental property, a cramped two-bedroom unit in St. Sampsons, but at an exorbitant cost of £2,600 per month. This dramatic increase shocked the family, as Mr. Pinsard remarked, “It is shocking that in such a short period of time, nine to 10 months, rental cost actually doubled.” This sentiment is echoed throughout various reports, including a recent one from the Guernsey Community Foundation, which highlights how soaring living costs are compelling young families to relocate from the island.
When the Pinsards returned to Guernsey, they initially arranged to rent a property, but it turned out to be in such disrepair that it was uninhabitable. This situation forced them into a scramble for an alternative, often unaffordable, accommodation. According to the government’s Property Prices Bulletin, the average rental price in Guernsey surged to £2,068 in the first quarter of 2025, marking an increase of 1.5% from the previous quarter and a staggering 51.7% increase over the past five years. The figures convey a disturbing trend that has left many families struggling to find decent housing.
To cope with the rising expenses, the Pinsards faced an emotional and financial strain that led them to live in temporary accommodations, draining their savings in the process. With their financial security thinned, Mr. Pinsard articulated that they reached a critical juncture: “We got to the point where it was either we have to buy to get onto the property market or leave the island again.” Ultimately, after considerable struggle and sacrifice, they managed to purchase a property that needed renovations. However, this achievement came at great personal cost, as both Mr. Pinsard and his wife had to work extra hours. His wife took additional shifts at the hospital, while he operated a side business on weekends to sustain their family.
While the couple’s determination led to eventual homeownership, Mr. Pinsard lamented the toll these sacrifices took on family life. He pointed out that the numerous hours spent working detracted time that could have been spent with their children. In his statement, he revealed the harsh reality of modern family life in Guernsey, where affording a home often requires extreme work commitments that disrupt familial bonds.
The challenges facing families like the Pinsards in Guernsey raise significant concerns about the viability of living on the island. With rental prices skyrocketing and living costs becoming increasingly burdensome, there are legitimate fears that many residents will be compelled to leave. As Guernsey continues to experience economic pressures, stakeholders must consider effective strategies to manage housing costs, and retain young families who are essential to the island’s future. This landscape demands a concerted effort to create affordable housing solutions that can ensure sustainability for the diverse resident population in this beautiful but costly locale.
As discussions continue around housing and living conditions, it remains vital for all parties involved—government, businesses, and community organizations—to collaborate on finding long-term resolutions to these pressing issues. In an ever-changing economic environment, it is essential to prioritize the needs of the community and implement proactive measures to secure the well-being of present and future generations residing on the island of Guernsey.