There’s no perfect blueprint to find happiness, but living in the Caribbean is all but certain to put you on the right path.
What may seem like a far-fetched dream is in closer grasp than you might think, and we’re not talking about your crazy uncle who ditched the fam for a rugged surf shack in Mexico…
We’re talking about those picture-perfect islands that flash across your screensaver — you know, places that seem untenable.
Our team of experts here at Travel Off Path dug deep and found 5 gorgeous Caribbean destinations to help you achieve your dream of living in paradise, all for under $1500 per month.
5) Wake Up To Lush Jungle & Pristine Shores In Belize
If you think Mexico’s vibrant beach towns have become too ‘Americanized’, Belize makes for a great alternative.
Neighboring Mexico lies what feels like uncharted jungles, lesser-known ruins, pristine coastlines and off-shore cays truly worthy of taking up space on your bucket list.
Coastal gems like Placencia are gaining attention as new hotspots, but there’s an endless amount of untouched hideaways calling to be discovered.
Other than price, the most enticing aspect is Belize’s official language is English, making your transition seamless.
While the capital Belize City is mostly known as a pass-through gateway, you can live comfortably in a nice apartment as low as $479, and going up to as much as $1500 the closer you want to be to the coast.
4) St. Lucia: The Caribbean’s Trendiest Island Is Surprisingly Affordable
St. Lucia must not have graduated Economics 101…
Supply and demand haven’t changed the cost of living for the Caribbean’s trendiest vacation spot.
While I opted for a stay at Secrets St. Lucia and loved it, you can live monthly for the fraction of the price of a weeklong vacation.
Located in the Western Antilles, there’s no shortage of culture and wondrous natural attractions. For example, did you St. Lucians love country music?
You’ll feel right at home honky-tonkin’ on weeknights and enjoying paradisal beach days whether it be volcanic black sand, Marigot Bay’s coconut cocktails, or legendary mud baths below the famous Pitons.
Expect to set aside $1,160 – $1,500 for your monthly budget, including rent, in one of the Caribbean’s safest countries.
Or if you’re bank rolling, consider earning St. Lucia citizenship with a hefty real estate investment.
3) Antigua & Barbuda: Live In This Dynamic Duo Before It’s Discovered
Despite the dual nation of Antigua & Barbuda breaking all-time tourism records, it’s still relatively unknown to the masses beyond the cruise port.
Still oozing with “hidden gem” appeal, this slightly confusing 3-island, 2-name nation is still very affordable to call home.
With fewer crowds than its burgeoning neighbors, you will have your own slice of paradise snorkeling crystal-clear waters, making pals with sailboat owners, savoring an abundance of rum concoctions without breaking the bank, or maybe even indulging at Nobu for a nostalgic taste of home.
Expect to pay anywhere between $1,000 – $1,500 per month for all living expenses. Better yet, Americans can stay up to 90 days.
Best of all, even if you do ultimately become a tax citizen, you’re exempt from paying income, inheritance, and capital gains taxes here.
2) Grenada Is The Caribbean’s Best Kept Secret To Call Home
Another safe haven for Americans to make their base is Grenada, a name we all know but don’t know much about.
Like Belize, English is the official language, so no need to brush up on Rosetta Stone before making a big move.
Home to astounding tropical scenery, welcoming locals, underrated cuisine, and more authenticity over curated resort life, Grenada is the perfect place to get away from America’s 9-to-5 grind.
Finding a comfortable apartment in the city center only runs for about $615 per month on average, while your total expenses should be roughly $1000 – $1500.
1) Dominican Republic: Not Just A Ritzy Resort Getaway
The Dominican Republic is Americans’ favorite Caribbean island getaway right now given Jamaica’s ongoing recovery.
But it’s not just Punta Cana’s ritzy resorts that are a draw — it’s the affordable housing and easy access just a quick flight away.
Think about this — you can live comfortably in one of the Caribbean’s most renowned destinations for as low as $800 per month.
Considering I just payed $1300 for a laptop, what do you think I’d rather splurge on? Without question, I’d rather wake up amongst colorful faces of colonial buildings a stone’s throw from turquoise waters for under $450 per month in Santa Domingo.
Largely considered safe despite some unsettling travel advisories, you’ll find a community of expats, you’ll find a community of expats, digital nomads, and long-term travelers who’ve carved out their own corners of the country, and we suggest you get a move-on to some of the nation’s lesser-known locals as the D.R. is rapidly spreading beyond Punta Cana.
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