Saipan, the United States

What do I need to know about living in Saipan?

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

"Before retiring in Saipan, it is important to familiarize yourself with the cost of living, residency and visa requirements, local laws and regulations, the climate and weather, healthcare options, taxes, and available housing options. It is also important to research the local culture and language. It may also be helpful to connect with the local expat community in Saipan for advice and support," said one expat who made the move to Saipan.

"Bring a job with you if at all possible (online work). Or secure employment before you arrive. Be prepared for heat and humidity, feral dogs and chickens, limited shopping (bring your favorite mascara with you!). Bring a camera, learn to snorkel, keep enough money for plane tickets set aside all the time, in case you need to go elsewhere for medical care or to buy mascara. Be prepared for isolation. We are very far from anywhere else. But it is beautiful, the people are lovely, and it is a worthwhile adventure to live here," explained one expat living in Saipan, United States.

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What do I need to know before moving to Saipan?

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

"When considering a move to Saipan it is important to recognize that the island is a U.S. territory, located in the North Pacific Ocean. Its official language is English, however, residents primarily speak Chamorro. The local currency is the US Dollar, and the cost of living is higher than average. Employment can be a challenge, so it is important to research opportunities and have a plan for finding work once you arrive. It is also important to budget for the cost of housing, utilities, education and health care. The weather on Saipan is tropical and humidity levels can be quite high. Travel between the island and mainland US can be costly, and can take several days. Finally, it is important to research any visa and immigration regulations that may apply," said one expat who made the move to Saipan.

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How do I find a place to live in Saipan?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"The best way to find a place to live in Saipan is to contact a local real estate agent or do a search online for rental properties in the area. You can also reach out to local rental websites or social media pages such as Facebook or Instagram to find apartments and houses for rent. It is also a good idea to speak to friends or family who already live in Saipan for recommendations on reputable landlords in the area," said one expat who made the move to Saipan.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Saipan?

"The typical expat home or apartment in Saipan is usually made up of a combination of traditional Chamorro and modern furnishings, providing a unique charm to the living space. The apartments typically have one or two bedrooms, with larger floor plans including a living room, dining room, and kitchen. In many cases, expats also have access to patios, balconies, and other outdoor spaces. Most apartments are outfitted with air-conditioning, although some also incorporate modern fans for additional air circulation. High-speed internet and other modern amenities are also generally available," said one expat who made the move to Saipan.

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What is the average cost of housing in Saipan?

If you are thinking about moving to Saipan, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The cost of housing in Saipan varies greatly depending on the size and location of the property. Generally, studios and one-bedroom apartments can range between $500 - $1,000 per month, while two-bedrooms and larger can cost anywhere from $1,000 - $2,000+ per month. Additionally, purchasing a home can range anywhere from $200,000 - $400,000 or more," said one expat who made the move to Saipan.

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How do I meet people in Saipan?

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

"There are a variety of ways to meet people in Saipan. You can join local clubs and organizations, attend events and festivals, participate in outdoor activities and sports, and explore the food scene. You can also join online conversations and social media groups to connect with locals and other visitors who are interested in the same things. Additionally, attending local churches, schools, or volunteering can also be a great way to meet people and make new friends," remarked one expat who made the move to Saipan.

"Attending a church is a good way to meet people. Canoe clubs are popular, as are the local CrossFit gyms. Diving is big. The local school systems need volunteers, so this would be a way to meet and help people," explained one expat living in Saipan, United States.

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What should I bring when moving to Saipan?

People living in Saipan were asked what three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They wrote:

"Essentials: clothing and footwear suitable for the climate, toiletries and makeup, prescription medications, phone charger, laptop and/or tablet. Toiletries/cleaning supplies, kitchenware, bed linens, towels and rugs, first-aid kit, tool kit, basic supplies like paper towels, garbage bags, toilet paper, pet supplies and personal items (photos, books, sports equipment, etc.). It is also a good idea to bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and beach towels and gear. An international driver’s license is also recommended. In addition, packing a warmer layer is important, as temperatures can drop in the evening," said one expat who made the move to Saipan.

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Where should I setup a bank account in Saipan?

We asked expats in Saipan what banks they use and there advice about banking. They advised:

"There are several banking institutions that offer services in Saipan, including: Bank of Saipan, Asia Pacific International Bank, Bank of Guam, Bank of Hawaii, Banco de Oro, Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi UFJ, Taiwan Business Bank, and United Overseas Bank. You can contact any of these banks to set up an account and to learn more about their specific services, requirements, and rules," wrote a member in Saipan.

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Will I be able to find a job in Saipan?

When we asked people about industries and career opportunities in Saipan, they reponded:

"Yes, you may be able to find a job in Saipan depending on your qualifications and experience. Saipan has a wide variety of job opportunities ranging from hospitality jobs to government positions. Additionally, there are various non-governmental organizations and private sector businesses that employ foreign workers on the island. It is important to research local labor laws and regulations before applying for any jobs in Saipan," said one expat who made the move to Saipan.

"Tourism is the main industry on this tiny island country. Wages are low, even for skilled workers. Today I saw a classified ad wanting to hire a full-time dive shop manager fluent in Russian and English, able to work on all kinds of machinery, And the salary offered was $1200/month. Facebook, incredibly, is where much housing/job information can be found that you would normally expect to find on Craigslist," explained one expat living in Saipan, United States.

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What is life like in Saipan?

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

"To local people, family is the priority. Family gatherings and celebrations are frequent. Soccer is very popular for all ages," said one expat who made the move to Saipan.

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What do expats in Saipan appreciate most about the local culture?

"Expatriates in Saipan appreciate the diversity of the local culture, as well as the friendliness and hospitality of the locals. The traditional Chamorro culture is well-respected, and the language and customs are acknowledged and respected by expats. The lush natural attractions of this tropical paradise, including its beaches and coral reefs, also greatly appeal to expats. Additionally, the year-round warm weather and abundance of outdoor activities are much appreciated by expats," remarked one expat who made the move to Saipan.

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What do expats find most challenging?

"Expatriates typically find adapting to a new lifestyle in another country difficult and daunting. This includes getting used to different cultural norms, the language barrier, and overcoming homesickness. Additionally, navigating unfamiliar bureaucracies and dealing with transportation issues, workplace challenges, security concerns and finding a sense of belonging in a foreign country can be difficult and overwhelming. Finding reliable, trustworthy and affordable services can be especially challenging and many expats may also struggle with understanding different taxes, customs and government regulations in their new home country," commented one expat who made the move to Saipan.

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Is there a lot of crime in Saipan?

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

"Crime is relatively low in Saipan, with a quite peaceful atmosphere. However, like the rest of the world, there are still incidents of petty thefts and vandalism. As such, precautions should be taken to ensure safety when travelling in the area," said one expat who made the move to Saipan.

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

"Saipan is a culturally diverse place, with over 135 ethnicities represented within its population. This includes a mix of native Chamorros, Filipino, Chinese, Japanese and US mainlanders. People in Saipan are generally very accepting of differences, with no one group predominantly outnumbering any other. Everyone is seen as equals and respected for their nationality and culture," remarked one expat who made the move to Saipan.

"Local people in Saipan are nearly all Catholic. There are large populations of various Asian peoples as well as the indigenous Chamorro and Carolinians. Not many Americans. The culture is very friendly and accepting, but people's private lives are very private, so the acceptance is on a surface level according to our experience so far. The people are lovely," explained one expat living in Saipan, United States.

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What are the schools in Saipan like?

"Schools in Saipan consist of both public and private institutions. Public schools include the Saipan Northern Marianas Public School System, which offers K-12 education and the Northern Marianas College, a two-year college. The private schools in Saipan include the Saipan International School, an international school catering to K-12 curriculum; and Marianas Baptist Academy, a K-12 Christian school. There are also several other private and independent schools on the island," explained one expat living in Saipan, United States.

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Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Saipan?

"Aside from what I said above, we use my husband's Blue Cross insurance with no trouble. It costs the same as elsewhere, being a benefit of his federal job (he transferred here). Our copays are the same as in Hawaii," said an expat in Saipan.

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Never worry about paying your medical bills out of pocket again. The innovative Get a quote from our partner, PassportCard. PassportCard allows for a stress-free experience for all expat families, remote travelers, and workers. With a 24/7 customer service and an outstanding customer base of over 2 Million clients, it will feel like medical care at home. Get up to 10% off on your policy now. Get a quote from our partner, PassportCard.

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