Let me tell you about my love affair with Caribbean island life. After spending months hopping between islands, I’ve found myself daydreaming about making the permanent move way too often. The scene in spots like Sint Maarten blows me away every time, where French bakeries meet Caribbean beach bars, and over in Barbados, where remote workers tap away on laptops from beachfront cafes while locals catch up at rum shops.
I’ve explored the best places in the Caribbean to actually live (not just vacation), and I’m breaking down my top picks. From affordable beach towns to luxe expat communities, these spots offer way more than just pretty views. After connecting with expats who made the leap and testing out different islands myself, I’m sharing the 12 places that could turn your Caribbean dream into reality.
Coolest Places to Live in the Caribbean in 2025
Looking for the best places to live in the Caribbean in 2025? Here are some of my favorite spots at a glance:
- Best for upscale living: Grand Cayman
- Best for unspoiled beauty: South Caicos
- Best for diving and adventure: Ambergris Caye, Belize
- Best for eco-tourism: Roatan, Honduras
- Best for vibrant expat community: Las Terrenas, Dominican Republic
- Best for relaxed living: Grand Bahama, The Bahamas
- Best for cultural experiences: Isla Mujeres, Mexico
- Best for shopping and nightlife: St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands
- Best for historical sites: Antigua and Barbuda
- Best for luxury lifestyle: St. Kitts
- Best for pristine beaches: Providenciales, Turks, and Caicos
- Best for island charm and heritage: Barbados
1. Grand Cayman
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $3,800-$7,000
- 🌟 Unique Features: Tax-free economy, Seven Mile Beach, top-notch diving
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: November to April (dry season)
- 🏆 Perfect For: Expats 🌍, financial professionals 💼, beach lovers 🏖️
Grand Cayman offers the perfect blend of Caribbean charm and modern infrastructure that makes daily life surprisingly smooth. I’ve spent over a week here and can attest that the island’s reliable internet, excellent healthcare system, and English-speaking environment create an ideal expat haven. The Seven Mile Beach isn’t just tourist eye candy…it’s where locals gather for morning runs and sunset yoga sessions.
What sets Grand Cayman apart is its tax-free status and robust banking sector, making it attractive for remote workers and retirees. The George Town area provides all modern amenities, from high-end grocery stores to world-class restaurants. For adventure, the Stingray City sandbar offers incredible snorkeling right in your backyard.
The cost of living is high…expect to pay $3,000+ monthly for a decent apartment. But the trade-off is political stability, pristine beaches, and a strong sense of community among the international residents. The Cayman Islands Hospital rivals facilities you’d find in major US cities, which gives peace of mind for families. Hurricane season requires preparation, but the island’s building codes and emergency systems are top-notch. Local tip: shop at Hurley’s for groceries to avoid the tourist markup at Foster’s.
2. South Caicos
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $2,500 – $4,800 (mid-range to luxury island living)
- 🌟 Unique Features: Pristine beaches, untouched nature, relaxed island lifestyle
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: November to May 🌊 (dry season, cooler temperatures)
- 🏆 Perfect For: Nature lovers 🌿, retirees 🌅, remote workers 💻
South Caicos is the Caribbean’s best-kept secret for those seeking an authentic island lifestyle without the crowds. This small island in the Turks and Caicos chain offers incredible fishing, pristine beaches, and a tight-knit community that welcomes newcomers with open arms. I was amazed by how quickly locals invited me to community barbecues and fishing expeditions.
The island’s main draws for residents include some of the Caribbean’s best bonefishing and stunning East Bay beaches. Also, don’t miss the historic Boiling Hole, a natural phenomenon where ocean water bubbles up through underground caves. The cost of living is significantly lower than Providenciales, with rental homes available from $800-1,500 monthly.
Daily life revolves around the ocean and community. The island has basic amenities—a small grocery store, clinic, and school—but you’ll need to fly to Provo for major shopping or medical needs. The South Caicos Airport connects to Providenciales multiple times daily. What I love most is the authentic Conch Bar Caves exploration and the fact that you can walk the entire island in a day. The local conch industry provides fresh seafood daily, and the Admiral Cockburn area offers the most affordable housing options.
3. Ambergris Caye, Belize
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $2,000 – $3,800 (affordable to mid-range island life)
- 🌟 Unique Features: Barrier reef access, English-speaking locals, tax benefits
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: December to May 🌞 (dry season, ideal weather)
- 🏆 Perfect For: Expats 🌍, divers 🤿, digital nomads 💻
Ambergris Caye combines Caribbean living with Central American adventure, creating a unique lifestyle that’s captured my heart completely. San Pedro Town serves as the main hub, where English is widely spoken and the US dollar is accepted everywhere, making the transition seamless for North American expats. It’s one of the prettiest destinations in Belize, as you’ll soon see why.
The island’s biggest advantage is its proximity to the Belize Barrier Reef – the second-largest reef system in the world sits literally in your backyard. I’ve never lived anywhere with such incredible diving and snorkeling access. The Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley become your weekend playground rather than expensive tourist destinations.
Housing ranges from $600 beachfront casitas to $3,000 luxury condos, with most expats finding comfortable middle-ground options around $1,200-1,800 monthly. The Tropic Air service connects you to Belize City and beyond, while golf carts serve as the primary transportation. No cars needed!
What makes daily life special here is the blend of Maya, Mestizo, and international cultures. The local markets overflow with fresh tropical fruits, and restaurants serve everything from traditional rice and beans to international cuisine. Healthcare is basic on-island, but Belize City hospitals are just a short flight away.
4. Roatan, Honduras
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,500 – $3,500 (affordable Caribbean living)
- 🌟 Unique Features: Low cost of living, world-class diving, expat-friendly
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: November to April 🌴 (warm and dry)
- 🏆 Perfect For: Budget-conscious expats 🏡, scuba divers 🤿, retirees 👴
Roatan offers incredible Caribbean living at a fraction of the cost found elsewhere. It has a thriving expat community that’s made this Bay Island home for decades. The island’s West End and West Bay areas provide the best balance of amenities, nightlife, and stunning beaches, while Coxen Hole serves as the commercial center.
What immediately struck me about Roatan is the world-class diving infrastructure. This island sits on the Mesoamerican Reef, making it a diver’s paradise. The Anthony’s Key Resort area and Mary’s Place offer some of the Caribbean’s most spectacular underwater experiences right offshore.
Living costs are remarkably affordable: comfortable homes rent for $500-1,200 monthly, local meals cost $3-8, and domestic help is readily available and affordable. The Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport connects directly to major US cities, making visits home convenient.
The expat community is well-established, with regular social events, business networks, and support systems in place. French Harbour offers excellent grocery shopping with familiar brands, while local markets provide fresh tropical produce. The island’s Gumbalimba Park and Carambola Botanical Gardens offer weekend adventure options. Healthcare is improving, with the Roatan International Hospital providing quality care. Though serious medical issues may require evacuation to San Pedro Sula or abroad.
5. Las Terrenas, Dominican Republic
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,800 – $3,600 (affordable to mid-range island life)
- 🌟 Unique Features: European expat community, eco-tourism, vibrant culture
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: November to April ☀️ (comfortable temperatures)
- 🏆 Perfect For: European expats 🇪🇺, entrepreneurs 💼, retirees 🏝️
Las Terrenas perfectly balances European sophistication with Caribbean laid-back living. For me, it’s one of the most cosmopolitan small towns in the Caribbean. This Samaná Peninsula gem attracts French, Italian, and North American expats who’ve created a vibrant international community that feels both exotic and familiar.
The town’s main street buzzes with sidewalk cafés, artisan shops, and restaurants serving everything from authentic Dominican mangu to French pastries. I love starting mornings at Playa Las Terrenas beach, where locals and expats mingle during daily walks and volleyball games. The nearby El Limón Waterfall provides incredible hiking adventures just 30 minutes away.
Housing options range from $400 local apartments to $2,000 beachfront villas, with most comfortable rentals falling between $600-1,200 monthly. The El Catey International Airport in nearby Samaná connects to North America and Europe. Santiago and Santo Domingo are accessible via scenic mountain drives.
What I love about Las Terrenas is its authentic Dominican culture mixed with international flair. The local colmados (corner stores) stock European wines alongside Presidente beer, and the weekend Plaza comes alive with merengue and bachata dancing. Healthcare is available locally, with excellent facilities in Santiago for serious medical needs.
6. Grand Bahama, The Bahamas
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $2,500 – $5,200 (mid-range to luxury island life)
- 🌟 Unique Features: Duty-free shopping, laid-back island vibe, proximity to the U.S.
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: November to May 🌴 (cooler, drier months)
- 🏆 Perfect For: U.S. retirees 🏡, business owners 💰, beach lovers 🏖️
Grand Bahama offers a unique Caribbean lifestyle just 55 miles from Florida, making it incredibly convenient for maintaining US connections while enjoying island living. Freeport serves as the main city, providing all modern amenities including excellent shopping at the Port Lucaya Marketplace and Count Basie Square.
The island’s proximity to the United States is its biggest advantage—I can be in Fort Lauderdale in 30 minutes via Grand Bahama International Airport, making it perfect for maintaining business ties or family connections. The Lucayan National Park offers incredible nature trails and Gold Rock Beach, consistently rated among the Caribbean’s most beautiful.
Living costs are moderate by Caribbean standards, with apartments ranging from $800-2,000 monthly in desirable areas. The island uses the Bahamian dollar, which equals the US dollar, eliminating currency confusion. Port Lucaya offers international restaurants, while local conch shacks provide authentic Bahamian cuisine.
Looking for some top things to do in the Bahamas? The Peterson Cay National Park provides excellent snorkeling and diving. Rand Nature Centre showcases native wildlife and bird watching opportunities. Grand Bahama has good medical facilities, including the Rand Memorial Hospital, with serious cases easily transferred to Florida. The island’s duty-free shopping and lack of income tax make it financially attractive. Though be aware: hurricane preparedness is essential during the June-November season.
- Read next: 10 Best Airlines to the Bahamas in 2025
7. Isla Mujeres, Mexico
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,800 – $3,500 (affordable to mid-range)
- 🌟 Unique Features: Small island charm, affordable beachfront homes, lively expat scene
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: November to April ☀️ (perfect beach weather)
- 🏆 Perfect For: Retirees 🌅, divers 🤿, remote workers 💻
Want to stay in a hidden gem in Mexico? Isla Mujeres captures the authentic Mexican Caribbean experience while remaining incredibly affordable and welcoming to international residents. This small island off Cancun’s coast offers a perfect escape from tourist crowds while maintaining easy access to modern amenities via the 20-minute ferry ride to the mainland.
The island’s Playa Norte consistently ranks among the world’s most beautiful beaches. And it’s literally a golf cart ride from anywhere on the island. I love the daily rhythm here. Morning swims, afternoon siestas, and sunset celebrations at beachfront bars like Sunset Grill. The local Mercado Municipal provides fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and everything needed for daily life.
Rental costs are remarkably reasonable: $400-800 monthly gets you a comfortable apartment, while $1,000-1,500 secures beachfront living. Golf carts serve as primary transportation, costing about $100 monthly to rent. The Punta Sur Sculpture Garden and Hacienda Mundaca ruins provide cultural exploration opportunities.
I love this about Isla Mujeres: it’s genuine Mexican culture mixed with international influences. Local taquerías serve authentic street food for $2-4, while upscale restaurants offer international cuisine. The Centro de Salud provides basic medical care, and Cancun’s modern hospitals just a ferry ride away. The whale shark season (June-September) brings incredible wildlife encounters right offshore.
- Read next: 12 Most Beautiful Places in Mexico
8. St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $3,000 – $6,000 (mid-range to luxury island life)
- 🌟 Unique Features: No passport needed for U.S. citizens, duty-free shopping, tax incentives
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: December to April 🌞 (pleasant and dry)
- 🏆 Perfect For: U.S. expats 🇺🇸, entrepreneurs 💼, yacht enthusiasts ⛵
St. Thomas offers the unique advantage of Caribbean living without leaving US territory. This makes it incredibly convenient for American citizens seeking island life without visa complications. Charlotte Amalie serves as the bustling capital, famous for duty-free shopping and its historic 99 Steps staircase carved from ballast bricks.
The island’s Magens Bay consistently ranks among the world’s most beautiful beaches. I also love Coral World Ocean Park and Paradise Point, which provide entertainment and stunning harbor views. I’m constantly amazed by the island’s dramatic topography…mountainous terrain creates microclimates and spectacular viewpoints throughout.
Housing costs are high. Expect $1,500-3,500 monthly for decent accommodations, but you maintain US benefits, banking, and citizenship rights. The Cyril E. King Airport connects directly to major US cities, while local safari buses provide affordable island transportation. Cost-U-Less and Plaza Extra offer familiar grocery shopping experiences.
The multicultural blend creates a unique atmosphere where calypso music mixes with American pop, and local kallaloo soup appears alongside American chain restaurants. Schneider Regional Medical Center provides quality healthcare, while the University of the Virgin Islands offers educational opportunities. The island’s duty-free status makes luxury goods affordable. And the Coral Bay area on nearby St. John provides pristine nature experiences just a short ferry ride away.
9. Antigua and Barbuda
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $2,500 – $5,500 (mid-range to upscale island life)
- 🌟 Unique Features: 365 beaches, strong expat community, attractive residency program
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: November to April 🌴 (warm and dry)
- 🏆 Perfect For: Investors 💰, beach lovers 🏖️, retirees 🌅
Antigua and Barbuda boasts 365 beaches…one for every day of the year. For me, this makes it a beach lover’s paradise with consistently perfect conditions somewhere on the island. St. John’s serves as the colorful capital, where Heritage Quay and Redcliffe Quay offer shopping and dining in restored colonial buildings.
The island’s English Harbour area, particularly Nelson’s Dockyard, provides a fascinating historical backdrop for daily life. Each April, you can take advantage of the annual Antigua Sailing Week. I love exploring the island’s Fig Tree Drive, where tropical rainforest creates a completely different ecosystem from the beaches.
Living costs vary significantly: local-style housing runs $600-1,200 monthly. Resort-area properties, on the other hand, cost $2,000+. The V.C. Bird International Airport connects to major international destinations, and the island’s Eastern Caribbean Dollar maintains stability against the US dollar. Epicurean Fine Foods and Best Buy provide familiar grocery shopping experiences.
What makes Antigua special is its perfect sailing conditions and rich maritime culture. The Betty’s Hope sugar plantation ruins and Devil’s Bridge natural arch provide historical and geological interest. Local healthcare is available through Holberton Hospital, with serious medical cases typically referred to Barbados or the United States. The island’s stable political system and Commonwealth ties provide security for long-term residents.
10. St. Kitts
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $2,800 – $5,800 (mid-range to luxury island life)
- 🌟 Unique Features: Citizenship-by-investment program, lush green landscapes, rich history
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: November to April 🌞 (cooler, less humid)
- 🏆 Perfect For: Investors 💼, history lovers 🏛️, expats 🌍
St. Kitts offers a sophisticated Caribbean lifestyle with its well-preserved colonial architecture in Basseterre and the island’s impressive Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that provides both historical significance and stunning views of neighboring islands.
The island’s Citizenship by Investment program attracts international residents seeking second passport options, creating a cosmopolitan expat community. Frigate Bay serves as the main resort and nightlife area, while Romney Manor and the Caribelle Batik facility showcase local arts and crafts traditions.
Housing costs range from $800-2,000 monthly, with the Southeast Peninsula offering newer developments and Monkey Hill providing traditional Caribbean neighborhoods. Robert L. Bradshaw International Airport connects to major Caribbean hubs and North America. Local shopping at TDC Mall and Palms Arcade provides necessities alongside duty-free goods.
For unique experiences in the Caribbean, St. Kitts has got you covered. The island’s volcanic origin creates dramatic landscapes, from black sand beaches on the Atlantic side to golden sands facing the Caribbean Sea. The St. Kitts Scenic Railway offers a great way to explore the island’s sugar plantation heritage. Joseph N. France General Hospital provides adequate healthcare, with Martinique and Puerto Rico available for specialized medical needs. The annual St. Kitts Music Festival and Culturama celebration create vibrant cultural experiences, while the island’s stable political environment ensures long-term security for residents.
11. Providenciales, Turks, and Caicos
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $3,500 – $7,500 (luxury island living)
- 🌟 Unique Features: High-end resorts, some of the world’s best beaches, tax benefits
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: November to May ☀️ (pleasant and dry)
- 🏆 Perfect For: Luxury seekers 🏡, entrepreneurs 💼, beach lovers 🏖️
Providenciales sets the gold standard for upscale Caribbean living, with Grace Bay Beach consistently rated the world’s best and a level of luxury amenities that rivals any international destination. Grace Bay and The Bight areas offer the highest concentration of resorts, restaurants, and services, while Turtle Cove provides a more residential atmosphere.
The island’s conch fishing industry and salt production heritage create authentic local culture alongside international sophistication. I’m constantly impressed by the island’s pristine barrier reef system, which provides world-class snorkeling and diving literally steps from shore. Conch Cove and Smith’s Reef offer incredible marine life encounters.
Living costs are premium. Expect $2,500-6,000+ monthly for quality accommodations, but the infrastructure, security, and natural beauty justify the expense. Providenciales International Airport connects directly to major North American cities, while local conch bars and upscale restaurants provide diverse dining options. Graceway Gourmet and IGA supermarkets stock international products.
The Chalk Sound National Park offers stunning turquoise lagoons perfect for kayaking, while Northwest Point provides secluded beaches and Marine National Park protection. Cheshire Hall Medical Centre provides quality healthcare, with serious cases transferred to Nassau or Miami. The island’s British Overseas Territory status provides political stability, while the lack of income tax attracts international residents seeking favorable tax environments.
12. Barbados
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $2,800 – $5,500 (mid-range to luxury island life)
- 🌟 Unique Features: Digital nomad visa, lively culture, top-tier healthcare
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: December to April ☀️ (dry season, cooler)
- 🏆 Perfect For: Digital nomads 💻, professionals 💼, retirees 🌅
Barbados offers the most developed infrastructure in the Eastern Caribbean. Bridgetown serves as a cosmopolitan capital featuring UNESCO World Heritage sites and modern amenities that rival any major city. The island’s St. Lawrence Gap area provides vibrant nightlife, while Holetown offers upscale shopping and dining experiences.
The island’s year-round trade winds create perfect sailing conditions, and the Barbados Museum and George Washington House provide rich historical context for daily life. I love the island’s rum heritage—Mount Gay Distillery and Foursquare Rum Factory offer tours and tastings that showcase authentic Barbadian culture.
Housing costs range from $800-3,000 monthly, with Christ Church and St. Michael parishes offering the most amenities. Grantley Adams International Airport provides excellent connectivity to Europe, North America, and other Caribbean islands. Massy Stores and Super Centre provide comprehensive grocery shopping with international brands.
What sets Barbados apart is its UNESCO Creative City designation and thriving arts scene. Harrison’s Cave and Animal Flower Cave offer spectacular natural attractions, while Crop Over Festival brings authentic Caribbean carnival culture. The Queen Elizabeth Hospital provides excellent medical care, and the University of the West Indies campus creates an educated, international atmosphere. The island’s stable democracy and Commonwealth ties provide security and familiar legal systems for international residents.
FAQs About the Top Places to Live in the Caribbean
What’s the easiest Caribbean island to move to as an expat?
Belize is one of the easiest. English is the official language, the Qualified Retirement Program (QRP) is super friendly to foreigners, and residency is straightforward. Plus, it’s affordable and has strong expat communities in places like Ambergris Caye.
Which Caribbean island has the best healthcare?
Barbados and Grand Cayman are top choices. During my travels, I found both islands have modern hospitals, well-trained doctors, and clean facilities…especially in the capital areas. Great for retirees or anyone needing reliable care.
Where can I live in the Caribbean on a budget?
Roatán and the Dominican Republic offer a great lifestyle for less. I’ve had delicious $5 meals and beachfront stays for under $40 a night. Monthly costs can stay under $2,000 depending on your lifestyle.
Is it safe to live in the Caribbean?
It depends on the island and neighborhood. In my experience, Cayman Islands, Barbados, and Turks and Caicos felt very safe, even at night. Like anywhere, do your research and talk to locals or expats before making the move.
Can I work remotely from the Caribbean?
Yes, and it’s easier than ever. Islands like Barbados, Antigua, and Curaçao offer digital nomad visas. I’ve personally worked online from beach cafés in Barbados and had solid Wi-Fi the whole time.
