Paradise Island, Bahamas

What do I need to know before moving to Paradise Island?

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

"Use these types of forums to ask questions. Use the internet to explore. Google maps was very helpful. Our process was 10 months from first interview, so we had plenty of time to research, neighborhoods, schools and shopping areas. That said, nothing can prepare you for being on the ground. If you can get the chance to do some recon, do it," explained one expat living in Paradise Island, Bahamas.

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How do I find a place to live in Paradise Island?

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

"We used a couple online real estate agents: Dupuch and Paradise Island living. Looking for anything on Paradise Island close to Atlantis," remarked another expat who made the move to Paradise Island.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Paradise Island?

"It is like an old beach house transformed into everyday living. They are all sharing walls but not duplexes or town homes. Similar to a one story condo. Several expats live in the area," remarked another expat who made the move to Paradise Island.

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What is the average cost of housing in Paradise Island?

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

"Rent is about the same but utilities far surpass what we were paying in UAE. That says a lot. I'd say average power bill is $500 month with summer months peaking at $750 and water bills average $150. We do have a private small pool which adds to the cost of both," remarked another expat who made the move to Paradise Island.

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What should I bring when moving to Paradise Island?

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

"I wish I had brought climate friendly work clothes, tech friendly items like chromecast/ firestick/ routers and tools. I wish I had left kitchen utensils and luggage items," added another expat who made the move to Paradise Island.

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Will I be able to find a job in Paradise Island?

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

"Tourism, fishing, international banking and some farming. Many of the expats here made their money in banking. I believe finding jobs here is more by word of mouth and being in the right place at the right time. Being able to open your own business is probably the best way to ensure work," remarked another expat living in Paradise Island, Bahamas.

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Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Paradise Island?

"Before our health insurance kicked in at work our daughter needed stitches. We initially went to PM for treatment but after several hours wait a coworker assisted us to a private provider down the street. The cost at PM to be registered was $150. We lost that. The total cost at the private provider was approx $800 not including meds which were about $150. Work health insurance appears pretty good. We have a moderate copay and are accepted most places...even in united states," commented one expat who moved to Paradise Island.

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Is the cost of living in Paradise Island high?

We asked people about the cost of living in Paradise Island, they wrote:

"Definitely on the high end. Almost all goods are imported and there is a very large duty fee for just about everything. COL is also high as many of the safer places to live come with a larger price tag. We have seen Paradise Island 2-3 bedroom condos from $2500-$5000 a month. The same product 'across the bridge' in Nassau will run about half of that," added one expat living in Paradise Island.

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What are the visa & residency requirements in Paradise Island?

"You must have a job to get a visa to live. The job must convince the government no Bahamanian can do your job before the residency/work visa is permitted. You can qualify for residency visa when you purchase a home for more than $350k-$500k. That number may vary depending on which island. this can be a very lengthy process," said one expat living in Paradise Island.

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Why do people move to Paradise Island?

When we asked people why foreigners move to Paradise Island, they responded:

"I believe the majority of foreigners are here for retirement and tax shelters. Many foreigners are here in the banking sector while others are here working in tourism," commented one expat who moved to Paradise Island.

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