Taxi Licences in Lanzarote Lag Behind Population Growth
Over the last 25 years, the growth of taxi licences in Lanzarote has not kept pace with the island’s rising population. Official data from local councils and the Transport Department reveal that from 2000 to 2025, the number of taxi licences increased from 316 to 457—a rise of 141 licences, or 44.6%.
During the same period, the island’s resident population surged from 96,310 to 167,406, marking an increase of 71,096 people, or 73.8%, according to the Canary Islands Statistics Institute (ISTAC) and the National Statistics Institute (INE).
Fewer Taxis Per Resident
The imbalance is evident when comparing the number of residents to licences. In 2000, there was roughly one taxi for every 305 residents. By 2025, this ratio had changed to one taxi for every 366 residents.
Additionally, Lanzarote’s substantial tourist population greatly affects demand for taxi services, especially in tourist areas and transfers to the airport, ports, and hotels.
Municipal Variances
The growth in taxi licences has varied between municipalities. Arrecife increased its licences from 114 to 132, while Yaiza has nearly tripled its number from 27 to 77. San Bartolomé has grown from 38 to 84 licences, and Tías from 89 to 109. Conversely, Teguise saw only a slight increase from 32 to 39, Haría has maintained ten licences for decades, and Tinajo remains at six.
Tourist municipalities also show the highest population growth. Yaiza grew from 5,175 residents in 2000 to 18,842 in 2025; Teguise’s numbers rose from 12,184 to 24,027, while Arrecife exceeded 70,800 residents.
Overall, the situation appears even less promising when looking at longer trends. Over the last four decades, Lanzarote’s population nearly tripled, yet the number of taxi licences has only increased by 55% in the past 28 years.
