Dread having to go home after your Caribbean vacation? Find yourself planning your next trip before you even leave? Ready for a permanent change of scenery?
Stow the post-vacation blues for good by relocating to the Caribbean! The Caribbean is home to a variety of spots that are perfect for setting-up your new home. Check out this list for some of the best places to live in the Caribbean.
Ambergris Caye, Belize
Ambergris Caye, Belize is an affordable destination for ex-pats interested in purchasing beachfront property. Thanks to the area’s affordability, it’s been a popular spot for ex-pats for years. Though property costs are increasing, Ambergris Caye is still an excellent value for those seeking an affordable relocation to the Caribbean.
While some of the island is developed, there are still large swathes of untouched land that offer a lot of natural beauty. The large, white sand beaches and clear, turquoise water are ideal for relaxing, walking, swimming, and other water sports.
Treasure Cay, Abaco, Bahamas
Treasury is located in Abaco in the Bahamas. This community is a popular choice with expats thanks to the small-town atmosphere and welcoming residents. There are a lot of small stores and restaurants where you can do your shopping or grab a bite to eat.
The lifestyle on Treasure Cay is laidback and tranquil, making it ideal for anyone who’s seeking a slower change of pace. Much of Treasure Cay’s population consists of individuals who are retired. Sailing, tennis, and golf are popular pastimes among expats who call Treasure Cay their home.
Grenada
Grenada is located in the Southern Caribbean below the hurricane belt, closer to the equator. Over half of the island consists of forest that isn’t populated; this is a volcanic, mountainous island filled with gorgeous waterfalls, lush rainforest, and beautiful beaches. The variety of scenery in Grenada make it ideal for anyone who appreciates a variety of natural beauty.
While nature is a top Grenada attraction, expats also favor Grenada thanks to the exciting variety of sailing regattas and music festivals. The temperature is between 70 and 88 degrees, and there’s a rainy season that lasts from April to November. Fortunately, most showers last less than 15 minutes.
The island is friendly, welcoming, and helpful. Grenada’s expat population tends to live close to the coast.
The Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic has multiple traits that make it a terrific area to relocate to. Applying for residency in the Dominican Republic is a simple process; if you’re worried about the logistics of moving to the Caribbean, the ease of becoming a Dominican Republican resident should put your mind at ease.
There are multiple gated communities in the Dominican Republic, including neighborhoods in Casa de Campo and Punta Cana. Or, if you prefer a more private location, consider purchasing a home in Las Terrenas, a quiet beach down on the northern side of the island.
Living in the Dominican Republic is affordable, allowing expats to live a terrific lifestyle. Property is affordable whether you’re renting or buying. Thanks to the ever-increasing expat community, there’s multiple options for entertainment and socialization. Expats often report that the Dominican Republic feels like “home,” but with a tropical setting.
The infrastructure has been recently updated, allowing for easier travel across the island.
St Lucia
St Lucia is known for its dramatic landscapes, including white sand beaches, vibrant rainforests, and powerful waterfalls. However, the draw of St Lucia isn’t limited to its natural beauty. If you prefer a city-like atmosphere in the Caribbean, St Lucia is an excellent spot to consider.
There are lots of cultural events, restaurants, and shopping spots to explore. Golf, sailing, and hiking are all popular activities. The cost of living is low; both food and real estate are relatively affordable. St Lucia also has favorable tax laws for Americans, including no capital gains, inheritance, or wealth tax on your income or assets.
You can also obtain quality healthcare in St Lucia, as there are three public hospitals and a private hospital.
The Cayman Islands
Looking for a luxurious lifestyle in the Caribbean? The Cayman Islands boasts one of the highest standards of living in the Caribbean. Its also home to the internationally famous, award-winning Seven Mile Beach. This 6.3-mile stretch of coastline boasts glittering white sand and relatively calm clear blue water.
Snorkeling, scuba diving, and parasailing are all popular pastimes in The Cayman Islands. There are also multiple sports leagues, including organizations for football, basketball, cricket, and rugby. Deep sea fishing, particularly for barracuda and tuna, is another enjoyable activity.
Spas, movie cinemas, restaurants, stores, and bars are all widely available. You’ll have access to public and private healthcare, and if necessary, you can take an air ambulance to Miami.
Curacao
Curacao is a Dutch-Caribbean Island that boasts a lot of charming, brightly colored colonial architecture. The rainy season in Curacao is shorter than many spots in the Caribbean; it usually begins in October and ends in January. Most of the year is sunny, warm, and pleasant.
Since there’s not as much rain in Curacao, there tends to be less mosquitos and flies. Curacao’s location means that it’s outside of the hurricane belt and unlikely to experience a severe natural disaster.
While Curacao has numerous opportunities for relaxation and more laidback activities, there’s also a vibrant night life that includes casinos, beach clubs, bars, and restaurants. Willemstad, Curacao’s capital, is home to a diverse expat community. It also has a thrilling art scene. Thanks to the island’s small size, most places in Curacao are a short drive away.
Bonaire
Bonaire is a small island situated in the southern portion of the Caribbean close to South America. The climate is warm year-round with temperatures consistently in the 80s. You’ll enjoy a laidback atmosphere in Bonaire. Even though the island is becoming a more popular spot for expats, it still has a small-town vibe.
Some of the activities that Bonaire is famous for include diving and snorkeling, as beautiful coral reefs surround the islands. Bonaire is technically part of the Netherlands and offers exceptional healthcare.
There are no restrictions concerning the purchase of property by foreign buyers. You can choose from a variety of affordable properties to call home, including condo resorts with high-end amenities, and private villas that offer seclusion and privacy.
The British Virgin Islands
The British Virgin Islands consists of 60 different islands. Not surprisingly, water sports, like parasailing, swimming, kayaking, and sailing, are popular among the island’s residents. Each island has its own atmosphere activities, making island hoping a must for expats who want to experience everything the islands have to offer.
For example, Jost Van Dyke is known as the “party island.” You can grab a drink, enjoy a meal, and engage in some fun watersports.
Or, trek to Tortola to bask in the dramatic beauty of massive cliffs against white sand beaches. The island of Anegada offers more than 300 wrecks for divers to explore; the island’s highest point is a mere 28 feet above sea level.
If you’re interested in exploring other Caribbean locales, the British Virgin Islands are less than two hours away from some of the top Caribbean spots, including San Juan and St. Kitts.
Providenciales in Turks and Caicos
Providenciales in Turks and Caicos is an excellent spot to establish your new home in part because there’s already a large community of expats. You’ll have other individuals who are in the same situation as yourself to socialize with as you acclimate to your new environment.
The Turks and Caicos is known for its astonishing natural beauty, including clear waters and pristine beaches. There’s also no income or property tax.
This location has a delicious culinary scene, making it ideal for residents who value having a variety of delectable dishes to choose from. Much of the Turks and Caicos’ infrastructure, stores, and other businesses are located on the island of Providenciales.
Aruba
Not sure if you want to spend your time relaxing on the beach, engaging in exciting watersports, or checking out the nightlife and art scene? Aruba offers all these activities and more, making it a terrific spot to establish your Caribbean home.
The temperature in Aruba is a steady 80 degrees Fahrenheit the entire year, and the island only gets 18 inches of rain a year. It’s also well outside of the hurricane zone.
Aruba is home to some of the best beaches that offer tranquil views, inviting blue water, and soft, white sand. While some areas of Aruba (like Oranjestad) are developed, other portions of the country are more rural. There’s an extremely low rate of crime. While Aruba has a higher-than-average cost of living than many Caribbean spots, its residents enjoy a higher standard of living.
St. Croix
The U.S. Virgin Islands include St. Croix, St. Thomas, and St. John. Though St. Thomas is lovely and a top tourist spot, it’s expensive and crowded at times. Instead of St. Thomas, consider relocating to St. Croix.
St. Croix is a residential island that offers a relaxing atmosphere. While the island’s community of personal residents is close-knit, they’re extremely welcoming to new residents on the island and frequently willing to lend their help. St. Croix is a wonderful destination for families, as it is so hospitable.
Temperatures on this island vary from 72 to 88 degrees Fahrenheit. With 23 beaches on St. Croix, you’ll have a seemingly endless number of coastal spots to explore. There are also hiking and biking trails.
St. John
St. John is the smallest of the U.S. Virgin Islands’ three main islands. More than half of the land is part of the Virgin Islands National Park.
The island boasts a slow pace of life and a higher-than-average cost of living. However, the quality of life in St. John is fairly high for all residents. Cruz Bay Quarter is the island’s main port and offers a variety of restaurants and entertainment options.
Roatan, Honduras
Roatan is a small island with a span of only 30 miles. A popular cruise port due to it’s beauty and proximity to the Caribbean’s largest coral reef, this island is a perfect place to live. It’s a charming, laidback island that ex-pats are increasingly choosing for their new Caribbean homes. Residence permits are easy to acquire and make the process of moving to Roatan simple and straightforward. There’s also an established community of ex-pats on Roatan to interact with.
You’ll have miles of white sand beaches and undeveloped areas to explore. Roatan is sprinkled with traditional fishing villages and busy markets, along with a charming, old-fashioned atmosphere.
The cost of living in Roatan is extremely affordable, making it a perfect option for anyone looking to relocate to the Caribbean on a budget. Most of the island’s recreational activities revolve around the water and include hobbies like fishing, swimming, snorkeling, and boating. Some beaches are quiet, tranquil, and scattered with only a few people, while others boast a more lively beach-party atmosphere with music and dancing.
St.Kitts and Nevis
St. Kitts and Nevis is a dual-island spot that’s known for its gorgeous tropical landscapes and picturesque beaches. Diving, swimming, and hiking are all popular pastimes. While much of the islands are undeveloped, there are pockets that are developed and offer a variety of modern amenities. You’ll be able to enjoy beach views and a laidback island atmosphere without sacrificing your quality of life.
Choose from a multitude of properties, including apartment complexes that include access to a pool and gym, or select a private home if you prefer more space and privacy.
The islands have a mild climate with lots of sunshine, low humidity, and refreshing trade winds. Residents of St. Kitts and Nevis are known for being friendly and helpful while embracing the concept of “island time.” Life in St. Kitts and Nevis is significantly more laid back.
