| Category | Cost |
|---|---|
| Apartment Rentals (1 bedroom in City Center) | Approximately €600 – €800 per month |
| Apartment Rentals (1 bedroom Outside of City Center) | Approximately €500 – €700 per month |
| Apartment Purchase Price (City Center) | Approximately €2,500 – €3,500 per square meter |
| Apartment Purchase Price (Outside of City Center) | Approximately €2,000 – €3,000 per square meter |
| Transportation (Monthly Pass) | Approximately €30 – €50 |
| Transportation (Gasoline, 1 liter) | Approximately €1.50 |
| Groceries (Milk, 1 liter) | Approximately €1.20 |
| Groceries (Bread, 500g) | Approximately €1.50 |
| Groceries (Rice, 1kg) | Approximately €2.00 |
| Groceries (Chicken Breasts, 1kg) | Approximately €9.00 |
| Restaurants (Meal for 2 People, Mid-range Restaurant, Three-course) | Approximately €50 – €70 |
| Restaurants (Domestic Beer, 0.5 liter draught) | Approximately €3.00 |
| Utilities (Basic Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage for 85m2 Apartment) | Approximately €100 – €150 per month |
| Private School Tuition (Preschool) | Approximately €400 – €600 per month |
| Private School Tuition (Elementary School) | Approximately €500 – €700 per month |
| Private School Tuition (Middle School) | Approximately €600 – €800 per month |
| Private School Tuition (High School) | Approximately €700 – €900 per month |
Monthly Budget for Retirees in Fort-de-France
“The cost of living in Fort-de-France is considered to be relatively high compared to other Caribbean islands. This is largely due to the fact that many goods have to be imported, which increases their price. Housing costs can vary greatly depending on the location and size of the property. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city center can be quite expensive, while the same apartment outside of the city center is significantly cheaper. When it comes to groceries, prices are generally high. Imported goods, in particular, can be quite expensive. However, local produce and seafood are usually more affordable. Eating out in Fort-de-France can also be costly, especially in tourist areas and high-end restaurants. However, there are also plenty of more affordable local eateries to choose from. Transportation costs are relatively low, with affordable public transportation options available. However, owning and maintaining a car can be expensive due to high fuel costs and import taxes on vehicles.Overall, while the cost of living in Fort-de-France can be high, it is possible to live more affordably by choosing less expensive housing options, eating at local restaurants, and using public transportation,” said one expat living in Fort-de-France.
Can I live in Fort-de-France on $1,500 a month?
“I’ve been living in Fort-de-France for a few years now and I can tell you that living on $1,500 a month is possible, but it will require some adjustments. The cost of living here is higher than in many other Caribbean islands, mainly due to the fact that a lot of goods are imported from France. Rent is one of the biggest expenses. If you want to live in the city center or in upscale neighborhoods like Didier or Terresainville, you might have to pay around $800-$1,000 a month for a one-bedroom apartment. However, there are more affordable options in neighborhoods like Tivoli, Godissard, or Balata, where you can find a decent place for around $500-$600. Groceries can also be quite expensive, especially if you stick to imported products. I’ve learned to adapt my diet to local products, which are not only cheaper but also fresher and tastier. Eating out can be pricey too, but there are plenty of local food stalls where you can get a delicious meal for a few dollars. Transportation is not a big issue, as the public transportation system is quite efficient and affordable. A monthly pass costs around $50. However, if you plan to explore the island, you might want to consider renting a car, which can be quite expensive. Healthcare is of high quality, but it can be expensive if you’re not covered by the French social security system. I would recommend getting a good health insurance plan. As for entertainment, there are plenty of free or cheap activities to do. The island is a paradise for nature lovers, with plenty of hiking trails, beaches, and natural parks. The city also has a vibrant cultural scene, with many free concerts and festivals throughout the year. In terms of sacrifices, you might have to give up some of the luxuries you’re used to, like eating out regularly or having a spacious apartment in a trendy neighborhood. But in return, you get to live in a beautiful tropical island with a rich culture and a laid-back lifestyle. It’s all about adjusting your expectations and learning to live like a local,” commented an expat living in Fort-de-France.
Can I live in Fort-de-France on $3,500 a month?
“I’ve been living in Fort-de-France for a few years now and I can tell you that living on $3,000 a month is definitely possible, but it does require some careful budgeting and lifestyle adjustments. The cost of living here is higher than in many other Caribbean islands, mainly due to the fact that a lot of goods are imported from France. For housing, I’d recommend looking at neighborhoods like Terres-Sainville or Clairière. They’re not the most upscale areas, but they’re safe and you can find a decent apartment for around $800-$1,000 a month. On the other hand, areas like Didier or La Meynard are more upscale and expensive, so you might want to avoid them if you’re on a tight budget. Groceries can be a bit pricey, especially if you’re buying imported goods. I’ve found that shopping at local markets and buying local produce can save a lot of money. Eating out can also be expensive, so I’ve learned to cook more at home. Utilities like electricity and internet are also more expensive than what you might be used to. I’ve found that being mindful of my usage and opting for a smaller internet package has helped keep these costs down. Transportation is another area where you can save. Public transportation is reliable and much cheaper than owning a car. Plus, Fort-de-France is pretty walkable, so I often just walk or bike to where I need to go. Healthcare is one area where you won’t have to worry too much. The healthcare system here is excellent and relatively affordable, especially if you have insurance. Overall, living on $3,000 a month in Fort-de-France is doable, but it does require some sacrifices. You’ll have to live in a less upscale neighborhood, be mindful of your utility usage, cook more at home, and use public transportation. But in return, you get to live in a beautiful Caribbean island with great healthcare and a laid-back lifestyle,” said one expat living in Fort-de-France.
Can I live in Fort-de-France on $5,000 a month?
“I’ve been living in Fort-de-France for a few years now and I can tell you that living on $5,000 a month is definitely possible, even with a taste for modern amenities. However, you’ll need to be smart about your spending. The cost of living here is higher than in many places in the U.S., but it’s still manageable. Firstly, housing will be your biggest expense. If you want to live in the city center, you’ll be looking at around $1,000 to $1,500 a month for a decent one-bedroom apartment. However, if you’re willing to live a bit further out, in neighborhoods like La Meynard or La Ferme, you can find something for around $700 to $900 a month. These areas are still safe and well-connected to the city, but they’re not as trendy or bustling as the city center. On the other hand, neighborhoods like Didier and Terres-Sainville are quite expensive, with rents often exceeding $2,000 a month. Unless you’re willing to allocate a large portion of your budget to housing, I’d recommend avoiding these areas. Groceries can also be a bit pricey, especially if you’re buying imported goods. I spend around $400 a month on groceries, but I try to buy local products as much as possible. Eating out is also more expensive than in the U.S., with a meal at a mid-range restaurant costing around $20 to $30. Utilities, including electricity, water, and internet, will cost you around $200 a month. Public transportation is quite affordable, with a monthly pass costing around $50. However, if you’re planning on getting a car, keep in mind that gas prices are higher than in the U.S. Healthcare is another factor to consider. While the healthcare system in Martinique is excellent, it can be expensive if you’re not covered by French social security. I’d recommend getting a good health insurance plan, which will cost you around $100 to $200 a month, depending on your coverage. Lastly, you’ll want to set aside some money for entertainment and leisure activities. There’s plenty to do in Fort-de-France, from visiting the beautiful beaches to exploring the local markets and historical sites. I usually spend around $200 a month on these activities, but this can vary depending on your interests. All in all, living in Fort-de-France on $5,000 a month is definitely doable, but you’ll need to budget carefully and be willing to make some compromises. However, the beautiful surroundings and laid-back lifestyle make it all worth it,” commented an expat living in Fort-de-France.
