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

Living in Barbados

Last updated on Feb 10, 2024

Summary: The approximate population of Barbados is 287,000 people. The largest cities in Barbados are Bridgetown, Speightstown, and Holetown. Expats love living in Barbados for its beautiful beaches, warm climate, and friendly people. Life in Barbados is often described as laid-back and relaxed. Popular foods in Barbados include flying fish, cou-cou (a cornmeal dish), and sweet potato pudding. The cons of living in Barbados include the high cost of living, limited job opportunities, and the lack of public transportation. The average cost of living for an expat is estimated to be around $2,500 to $3,500 per month in US dollars. This includes rent, utilities, groceries, and other expenses.

What do I need to know about living in Barbados?

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

"Before retiring in Barbados, expats should be aware of the cost of living, which is higher than in many other Caribbean countries. They should also research the local healthcare system and the availability of medical services. Additionally, expats should familiarize themselves with the local laws and regulations, as well as the tax system. It is also important to consider the climate and the type of housing available. Finally, expats should research the local culture and customs to ensure a smooth transition into their new home," said one expat who made the move to Barbados.

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About the Author

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.