Growing numbers of British families are making the life-changing decision to leave the UK, seeking sunnier skies and a more affordable lifestyle overseas. New data highlights a significant exodus, with many finding their new home on the Spanish island of Mallorca.
From Grey Skies to Sunshine: A Family's New Chapter
Holly Smith relocated with her family to Mallorca almost a year ago, a move driven by a desire to escape the UK's high cost of living and frequently dreary weather. Reflecting on her experience in a TikTok video, Holly emphasised the profound sense of community she has found among fellow expatriates.
'Because we are all away from 'home' even though this is now home, there is such a sense of security,' she wrote. She also gushed about the tangible benefits of island life, from stunning beaches with crystal blue waters to a dramatically more relaxed pace of living.
The Allure of the Mallorcan Lifestyle
For Holly, the lifestyle shift has been particularly positive for her children. She highlighted how family-friendly the island is, noting that children are welcomed everywhere. 'Take your children everywhere with you and they're welcome, in fact they're always catered for. Soft play in a restaurant? You bet!' she explained.
Beyond the weather and landscapes, she values the extra time for socialising that a less hectic routine affords. Holly sought to 'have a different life' away from the busy lifestyle and 'grey skies' commonplace in Britain, and in Mallorca, she has found it.
A Long-Term Trend Confirmed by Data
Holly's story is far from unique. According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), approximately 992,000 British nationals left the country between 2021 and 2024. More recent figures from the Euro Weekly indicate that 252,000 left between July 2024 and June 2025.
One such long-term expat is Diana Winskill, who moved to Mallorca in 1999 at age 23 for a six-month stint as a TUI representative. Her plans changed when she met her future husband, Chris, also British-born, on the island. Now, 26 years later, they have raised two daughters and call Mallorca home.
'Even in winter, the average temperature only drops to 13 degrees, and you still get the most beautiful sunshine even in the colder months,' Diana said. Working as a TUI rep at a beachfront hotel, she enjoys the year-round positive atmosphere and has built lasting connections, with no plans to return to the UK. 'My colleagues have become my family,' she added.
The narrative is clear: for many Brits, the search for a better quality of life, favourable climate, and a welcoming community is leading them to establish new roots under the Mediterranean sun.
