Island Life Under Pressure: Coping with the Cost of Living Crisis

Families Across the Channel Islands Struggle With Soaring Living Costs

Islanders in both Jersey and Guernsey say rising costs are forcing tough choices as inflation and housing prices continue to bite.

Jersey mother-of-three Sarah Aubert says she's been skipping meals to ensure her children have enough to eat. “It’s really hard to support your family at the moment,” she said, citing the rising cost of basics like cereal, snacks, and even suncream.

Jersey’s inflation rose to 2.6% between March and June, driven largely by a 4.1% jump in food prices. In Guernsey, overall inflation is higher at 3.9%, though food inflation there was slightly lower.

In Guernsey, housing remains the main concern. Rents have risen 8.2% in the past year and over 50% in five years. Local worker Luke Jackson blamed States relocation grants for driving up prices. “Locals can’t compete,” he said.

New mother Chantelle Bearder, also in Guernsey, said living on one income has forced her to rethink how she shops. “I’m constantly weighing what’s affordable versus what might end up in the bin,” she said.

The States of Jersey has raised the minimum wage to £13 and boosted income support, while Guernsey residents await further action. Meanwhile, many families are turning to community resources like stay-and-play groups just to get through the week.

“We’ve noticed a real increase in prices,” said Nausheena Nackwa, a recent immigrant with a young child. “Without family here, we rely on daycare—and that, plus housing, is a huge financial strain.”

For hospitality worker Sheikh Sakib, rent remains the biggest monthly burden. “In Guernsey, a two-bedroom flat can cost over £2,000—more than what I’ve seen in parts of London or Edinburgh,” he said.