Living in Bermuda: Cost of Living, Healthcare and What to Know About Living in Bermuda

Summary: People describe life in Bermuda as relaxed, laid-back, and beautiful. Expats love the stunning beaches, the vibrant culture, and the friendly locals. The average cost of living for an expat is quite high, with the cost of living index estimated to be around 150. The population of Bermuda is estimated to be around 65,000 people, with the largest cities being Hamilton, St. George's, and Hamilton Parish. The cons of living in Bermuda include the high cost of living, the limited job opportunities, and the lack of public transportation. Additionally, the weather can be quite unpredictable, with hurricanes and tropical storms occurring frequently.

What do I need to know about living in Bermuda?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Bermuda, they said:

"It's too expensive. Rent, food and utilities run quite high. There is a lot of political unrest. In spite of all the outward friendliness "good day" to each person you pass on the street there is a lot of underlying tension. If you are not a church goer, or not into sports it is difficult to meet people outside of the work place. It also gets quite damp in the winter. If you are not Bermudian you are considered a threat and an enemy. Drugs and violence have entered this small island," wrote a member in Hamilton.

"Don't, unless you have a very good remuneration package, with a housing allowance of at least $2500. You will not be able to rent ANYTHING for less than that, and a decent appartment will cost $5000 up. Everything is VERY expensive, especially food. The island is VERY small, and you will get "island fever" and need to leave periodically. This is also quite expensive as there are no cheap flights off the island. Go and have a look first, and be prepared for culture shock," commented one expat who made the move to Hamilton.

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How do I meet people in Bermuda?

When we asked people living in Bermuda about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"I came to Bermuda with my wife and our two young daughters. I was working a lot although my wife started socializing through the MAMA group in which she made few very good friends," remarked one expat living in Hamilton, Bermuda.

"Golf is a major way of meeting new people on this island as there an abundance of clubs, but be warned, they are expensive if you plan on making yourself a member of one. Otherwise, there is beach volleyball on Elbow Beach, or various other sports like running clubs etc. If you're not into sport, and are male, or a brave female, just turn up at The Hamilton Princess on Friday evenings in summer and get yourself a drink at Happy Hour prices and join the drunken crowds that populate that place. You'll soon meet new friends, only they may not remember meeting you the next day," wrote one member in Hamilton.

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What is life like in Bermuda?

When we asked people living in Bermuda what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"I found family, religion and social events to be a very high priority to most people. Also, in this country where the cost of living is extremely high, finances (money) is also a priority to many people. Many Bermudians work two or three different jobs to make ends meet and to afford a house. I also found public holidays to be very important social and family events, especially Cup Match (2 day at the end of July, start of August). This one is probably more important than Christmas/NYE," wrote a member in Hamilton.

"Life revolves around the company you work for primarily, and the friends you make there through social events. Secondly sports associations (squash, golf etc.) and for ladies the American Women's Club and its events," commented one expat who made the move to Hamilton.

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Is there a lot of crime in Bermuda?

We asked people if there is a lot of crime. They answered:

"Bermuda is generally considered to be a safe place to visit and live. However, like any other place, there is some crime. Petty theft, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, is the most common type of crime in Bermuda. Violent crime is relatively rare, but it does occur. Drug-related crime is also a problem in Bermuda, as is human trafficking," wrote one member in Bermuda.

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Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Bermuda accepting of differences?

"They are quite diverse. However, they do not embrace their differences, there is a lot of racial tension. The locals really dislike the expats," said one expat who made the move to Hamilton.

"The blacks and the whites tend not to mix much socially, except perhaps in the churches. There is a quite noticeable level of resentment on the part of the blacks towards the whites, and the politics is uncomfortable at times, although not physically threatening at all," explained one expat living in Hamilton, Bermuda.

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What are the schools in Bermuda like?

"Bermuda has a number of excellent international and bilingual schools. The Bermuda High School for Girls is a private, all-girls school that offers a rigorous academic program and a wide range of extracurricular activities. The school is known for its strong emphasis on the development of leadership skills and its commitment to the development of the whole person. The Berkeley Institute is a public school that offers a bilingual program in English and Spanish. The school has a strong focus on the development of critical thinking skills and encourages students to become active participants in their own learning. The Saltus Grammar School is a private school that offers a comprehensive curriculum and a wide range of extracurricular activities. The school is known for its commitment to academic excellence and its focus on the development of the whole person. The Bermuda Institute is a private school that offers a bilingual program in English and French. The school has a strong focus on the development of critical thinking skills and encourages students to become active participants in their own learning," commented one expat when asked about in Bermuda.

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Is the cost of living in Bermuda high?

We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Bermuda, they wrote:

"The cost of living in Bermuda is generally higher than in other countries due to the high import taxes and the fact that most goods and services must be imported. Rent and utilities tend to be more expensive than in other countries, and the cost of food and other necessities can also be higher. Transportation costs can also be high, as there is no public transportation system and most people rely on taxis or private vehicles," explained one expat living in Bermuda.

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"The cost of living in Bermuda is generally high compared to other countries. The cost of living is higher in the capital city of Hamilton and in the tourist areas of St. George's and St. David's. The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Bermuda is around $2,000 USD per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment is around $2,500 USD per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Bermuda can cost around $50 USD per person," commented one expat living in Bermuda.

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What type of recreational facilities are in Bermuda?

When we asked people living in Bermuda about recreational activities, they mentioned:

"Residents of Bermuda enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, including beaches, golf courses, tennis courts, and parks. There are also a number of marinas and boat clubs, as well as a variety of water sports such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and sailing. For those looking for a more relaxed experience, there are plenty of restaurants, pubs, and cafes to explore. Bermuda also has a vibrant nightlife, with a variety of bars, clubs, and live music venues. Additionally, there are a number of cultural attractions, such as museums, galleries, and historic sites," said one expat.

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What is the weather like in Bermuda?

"The weather in Bermuda is typically warm and sunny, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit throughout the year. The island is known for its balmy climate, with gentle breezes and low humidity. The summer months tend to be the hottest and most humid, while the winter months are milder and drier. Bermuda is also prone to tropical storms and hurricanes, so it's important to check the forecast before planning a trip," said one expat living in Bermuda.

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Are there good restaurants in Bermuda?

"One of the most popular restaurants in Bermuda is the Waterlot Inn, located in the Fairmont Southampton Resort. This restaurant is known for its fresh seafood, including the signature dish of Bermuda Fish Chowder. The restaurant also offers a variety of other dishes, such as steak, pasta, and salads. The atmosphere is elegant and the views of the harbor are stunning. Another popular restaurant in Bermuda is the Lobster Pot, located in the heart of St. George's. This restaurant is known for its fresh seafood, including the signature dish of Bermuda Fish Chowder. The restaurant also offers a variety of other dishes, such as steak, pasta, and salads. The atmosphere is casual and the views of the harbor are beautiful. The Swizzle Inn is another popular restaurant in Bermuda. This restaurant is known for its traditional Bermudian cuisine, including the signature dish of Bermuda Fish Chowder. The restaurant also offers a variety of other dishes, such as steak, pasta, and salads. The atmosphere is relaxed and the views of the harbor are breathtaking. Finally, the Pickled Onion is a popular restaurant in Bermuda. This restaurant is known for its traditional Bermudian cuisine, including the signature dish of Bermuda Fish Chowder. The restaurant also offers a variety of other dishes, such as steak, pasta, and salads. The atmosphere is cozy and the views of the harbor are stunning," commented one expat living in Bermuda.

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Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Bermuda?

"People living in Bermuda typically buy groceries and do other shopping at supermarkets, convenience stores, and specialty stores. There are also a variety of local markets and farmers' markets where people can purchase fresh produce and other items. Additionally, many people shop online for groceries and other items," said one expat.

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What are the visa & residency requirements in Bermuda?

"In order to visit Bermuda, visitors must obtain a valid visa prior to arrival. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting an application form, providing proof of identity, and paying the applicable fee. In order to become a resident of Bermuda, applicants must obtain a Certificate of Residency. This process involves submitting an application form, providing proof of identity, and providing evidence of financial means. Applicants must also provide a valid passport, a police certificate, and a medical certificate. Additionally, applicants must attend an interview with the Bermuda Immigration Department," commented one expat who moved to Bermuda.

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Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Bermuda?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Bermuda can be expensive. The cost of medical care is higher than in many other countries, and health insurance premiums can be costly. The cost of health insurance is based on a variety of factors, including age, pre-existing conditions, and the type of coverage chosen. Additionally, there is a mandatory health insurance levy that is added to the cost of health insurance premiums. Despite the high cost, Bermuda has a high quality of healthcare and a wide range of medical services available," remarked one expat in Bermuda.

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