Expat Exchange
Free MembershipSign In


Cost of Living in True Blue

By Betsy Burlingame

William Russell
William Russell

Summary: If you're moving to True Blue, understanding the the cost of living in True Blue helps you know what to expect when it comes to apartment or house hunting, grocery shopping, transportation, dining out, utilities and more.

Category Cost
Apartment Rentals
  • 1-bedroom apartment in city center: $500 - $800 per month
  • 1-bedroom apartment outside city center: $400 - $600 per month
  • 3-bedroom apartment in city center: $1,000 - $1,500 per month
  • 3-bedroom apartment outside city center: $800 - $1,200 per month
Apartment Purchases
  • Price per square meter in city center: $1,500 - $2,500
  • Price per square meter outside city center: $1,000 - $1,800
Transportation
  • One-way local bus ticket: $1.00 - $1.50
  • Monthly public transport pass: $40 - $60
  • Taxi starting tariff: $5.00 - $7.00
  • Taxi 1 km (normal tariff): $2.00 - $3.00
  • Gasoline (1 liter): $1.20 - $1.50
Groceries
  • Milk (1 liter): $1.50 - $2.00
  • Bread (500g): $1.50 - $2.50
  • Rice (1 kg): $1.50 - $2.50
  • Eggs (12): $3.00 - $4.50
  • Chicken breasts (1 kg): $6.00 - $9.00
  • Beef round (1 kg): $8.00 - $12.00
  • Apples (1 kg): $3.00 - $5.00
  • Tomatoes (1 kg): $2.00 - $3.50
  • Potatoes (1 kg): $1.50 - $2.50
  • Water (1.5-liter bottle): $1.00 - $1.50
Restaurants
  • Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: $8.00 - $15.00
  • Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant: $40.00 - $70.00
  • Domestic beer (0.5-liter draught): $2.00 - $4.00
  • Imported beer (0.33-liter bottle): $3.00 - $5.00
  • Cappuccino: $2.50 - $4.00
  • Coke/Pepsi (0.33-liter bottle): $1.00 - $2.00
  • Water (0.33-liter bottle): $0.50 - $1.00
Utilities
  • Basic utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage) for an 85m2 apartment: $100 - $200 per month
  • 1 minute of prepaid mobile tariff (no discounts or plans): $0.20 - $0.40
  • Internet (60 Mbps or more, unlimited data, cable/ADSL): $60 - $100 per month
Private School Tuition
  • Preschool (or Kindergarten) tuition, full day, private: $2,500 - $4,500 per year
  • Elementary school tuition, private: $3,500 - $6,000 per year
  • Middle school tuition, private: $4,000 - $7,000 per year
  • High school tuition, private: $4,500 - $8,000 per year
Please note that these costs are approximate and can vary depending on individual preferences and lifestyle. It is always recommended to research and compare prices before making any decisions.

Monthly Budget for Retirees in True Blue

"True Blue, is considered to be a relatively affordable place to live, especially when compared to other Caribbean islands. The cost of living is moderate, with housing being the most significant expense. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center can be quite reasonable, while a similar apartment outside the city center is even less expensive. Groceries in True Blue are also reasonably priced. Local markets offer fresh produce, meat, and seafood at lower prices than supermarkets. Eating out at restaurants can vary, with local eateries being quite affordable and fine dining establishments being more expensive. Transportation costs are also quite low in True Blue. Public transportation is readily available and affordable. Gasoline prices are comparable to those in the United States. Healthcare in Grenada is relatively inexpensive, with both public and private healthcare options available. However, it's recommended to have health insurance to cover any potential medical costs. Overall, the cost of living in True Blue, Grenada, is quite affordable, making it an attractive place for expats and retirees," said one expat living in True Blue.

Can I live in True Blue on $1,500 a month?

"I've been living in True Blue for a while now, and I can tell you that it's possible to live comfortably on $1,500 a month, but you'll have to make some sacrifices. First, you'll need to find an affordable place to live. True Blue is a popular area for expats, so the prices can be a bit higher than other parts of the island. I'd recommend looking for a smaller apartment or a shared living situation to keep your housing costs down. You might also want to consider living in a nearby neighborhood like Grand Anse or Morne Rouge, where you can find more affordable housing options.When it comes to transportation, owning a car can be expensive due to import taxes and high gas prices. I'd recommend using public transportation, which is quite affordable and reliable. You can also save money by walking or biking to nearby destinations.Eating out can be pricey, especially at touristy restaurants. To save money, I'd suggest cooking at home and shopping at local markets for fresh produce and seafood. You can also find more affordable local eateries and street food vendors if you're willing to venture off the beaten path.As for entertainment and activities, there are plenty of free or low-cost options to enjoy on the island. You can spend your days exploring the beautiful beaches, hiking in the rainforest, or visiting historical sites. Just be mindful of your spending on activities like scuba diving, boat tours, or other tourist attractions, as these can add up quickly.In terms of sacrifices, you might have to give up some of the modern amenities you're used to, like high-speed internet or cable TV. You'll also need to be mindful of your energy consumption, as electricity can be quite expensive on the island.Overall, living in True Blue, Grenada on $1,500 a month is doable, but you'll need to be budget-conscious and willing to make some lifestyle adjustments," commented an expat living in True Blue.

Can I live in True Blue on $3,500 a month?

"I've been living in True Blue for a while now, and I can tell you that it's definitely possible to live comfortably on $3,000 a month, but you'll have to make some adjustments to your lifestyle. First, you'll need to find an affordable place to live. True Blue itself is quite popular among expats and students, so the rental prices can be a bit higher than in other areas. I'd recommend looking for a place in the nearby neighborhoods of Grand Anse or Morne Rouge, where you can find more affordable housing options. When it comes to transportation, owning a car can be quite expensive due to import taxes and high gas prices. I'd suggest using public transportation, which is quite reliable and affordable. You can also consider getting a bicycle or scooter for short distances. As for groceries and dining out, you'll need to adjust your expectations a bit. Imported goods can be quite expensive, so try to stick to local produce and products as much as possible. There are also many local markets where you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, and fish at reasonable prices. Dining out can be pricey, especially in touristy areas, so try to explore local eateries and street food options for a more affordable and authentic experience. In terms of entertainment and leisure activities, you might have to cut back on some of the more expensive options like golfing or going to high-end spas. However, there are plenty of affordable or free activities to enjoy, such as hiking, snorkeling, and exploring the beautiful beaches and waterfalls around the island. Lastly, you'll need to be mindful of your utility usage, as electricity and water can be quite expensive in Grenada. Make sure to turn off lights and appliances when not in use, and try to conserve water as much as possible. Overall, living in Grenada on $3,000 a month is doable, but it requires some adjustments and sacrifices. By being mindful of your spending and embracing the local lifestyle, you can enjoy a comfortable and fulfilling life on this beautiful island," said one expat living in True Blue.

Can I live in True Blue on $5,000 a month?

"I've been living in True Blue for a while now, and I can tell you that it's definitely possible to live comfortably on $5,000 a month, especially if you're used to modern amenities. However, there might be a few sacrifices you'll have to make to ensure you stay within your budget.Firstly, you'll want to consider the neighborhood you choose to live in. True Blue itself is quite a popular area, especially among expats and students attending St. George's University. This means that rental prices can be a bit higher compared to other areas on the island. If you're looking for more affordable options, you might want to consider neighborhoods like Grand Anse or Morne Rouge, which are still close to the main amenities but tend to have lower rental prices.When it comes to transportation, owning a car can be quite expensive due to import taxes and high gas prices. To save money, you might want to consider using public transportation, which is quite reliable and affordable in Grenada. Alternatively, you could also invest in a scooter or bicycle for shorter distances.Eating out can also be quite pricey, especially in touristy areas. To save money, try cooking at home more often and shopping at local markets for fresh produce. When you do eat out, opt for local eateries rather than high-end restaurants.As for entertainment, there are plenty of free or low-cost activities to enjoy on the island, such as hiking, snorkeling, and exploring the beautiful beaches. However, you might have to cut back on more expensive activities like scuba diving or attending events at luxury resorts.In terms of utilities, electricity can be quite expensive in Grenada, so you'll want to be mindful of your usage. Consider using energy-efficient appliances and turning off lights and electronics when not in use.Overall, living comfortably on $5,000 a month in True Blue, Grenada is achievable, but it will require some budgeting and making a few sacrifices. By choosing a more affordable neighborhood, using public transportation, cooking at home, and being mindful of your utility usage, you can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle while staying within your budget," commented an expat living in True Blue.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.


William Russell
William Russell

William Russell
William Russell

William Russell
William Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

William RussellWilliam Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

Contribute to Grenada Network Contribute
Help others in Grenada by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Grenada.

William Russell
William Russell

Copyright 1997-2024 Burlingame Interactive, Inc.

Privacy Policy Legal