Britain & Ireland 'Sick Men' of Europe

The British can boast the highest incomes but Tenerife, with the lowest taxes and essential goods prices, offers the highest quality of life, according to a new report.

The report shows that although Britain and Ireland earn substantially more than their European neighbours, when it comes to quality of life, they remain the 'sick men' of Europe.

The report reveals that Britain and Ireland have the highest average incomes in Europe, however, when it comes to 'quality of life' they come bottom. Spain and France are at the top of the index.

The results of the survey of European countries reveals that the British pay huge prices for fuel, food and other essentials. They also have the shortest holidays, latest retirement age and lowest life expectancy, .

Ireland, fares even worse than Britain according to the report . Like Britain, Ireland has seen a massive market-driven economic boom over the last decade, however, it came last in the European Quality of Life Index.

The continuing rises in food prices and inflation, together with high property costs, are placing the biggest squeeze on disposable incomes in well over a decade.

The study assessed 19 factors affecting quality of life, ranging from income and working conditions to healthcare, education and cost of living.

The average net income of the British is around 35,000 pounds (approx. 44,000 euros) a year, about 10,000 pounds more than the European average. Ireland comes second on more than 29,000 pounds, however, they pay 30% more for fuel and 49 percent more for energy. Add in the astronomical costs of Council Tax, Valued Added Tax and water rates and it is easy to see why and how their net disposable incomes are eroded.

With regard to retirement age Ireland comes worst , reporting an average of 64.1 years, closely followed by Britain on 63.2 years, while life expectancy is 78.1 years and 78.9 years respectively, the lowest with the exception of Italy.

At the other end of the scale, residents of the Canary Islands have the lowest average income, at some 16,800 pounds, but low taxation and cheaper essential goods prices put them at the top of the overall quality of life indicator. Life expectancy (attributable to the climate, and healthier lifestyle) is one of the highest in the world.

France comes second, benefitting from some of the longest holidays in Europe at 40 days and the second-lowest retirement age at 58.9 years, just later than Poles who retire at 58.4 years old on average. The Canary Islands top the list for 'Fiesta Holidays' many of which are unofficial but accepted by the employers resulting in a more relaxed working environment and contentment with the workers.

Tenerife Royale Estate Agents S.L. have reported an upsurge in inquiries for retirement in Tenerife. Most of these people are initially looking to relocate due to economic reasons, with the warmer climate and quality of life a major bonus.