Oracabessa, Jamaica
Last updated on Jul 02, 2023
Summary: Expats, digital nomads and retirees talk about what it is really like living in Oracabessa, Jamaica. They offer advice about meeting people, cost of living, finding a home and more.
What do I need to know about living in Oracabessa?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Oracabessa, they said:
"Oracabessa is a beautiful coastal town that offers a relaxed lifestyle, making it an attractive retirement destination for expats. Before making the move, there are several things to consider. Understanding the cost of living is crucial. While Jamaica is generally less expensive than many western countries, prices can vary depending on lifestyle and location. Oracabessa, being a tourist destination, might be slightly more expensive than other parts of the country. Healthcare is another important factor. Jamaica has both public and private healthcare systems. While public healthcare is free, it can be slow and crowded. Private healthcare offers faster service and better facilities, but it can be expensive. Therefore, having a good health insurance plan is essential. Safety is a concern in some parts of Jamaica, but Oracabessa is generally considered safe. However, it's still important to take standard precautions, such as avoiding isolated areas at night and not displaying wealth openly. The climate in Oracabessa is tropical, with hot and humid weather throughout the year. It's important to consider how well you can adapt to this type of climate, especially if you're used to a cooler environment. Understanding the local culture and customs is also important. Jamaicans are known for their friendliness and hospitality, but they also appreciate respect for their customs and traditions. Learning some basic Jamaican Patois, the local dialect, can also be helpful. Finally, it's important to understand the immigration process. To retire in Jamaica, you'll need to apply for a "retired person’s visa" which requires proof of sufficient income from pensions or other retirement benefits. It's recommended to consult with an immigration lawyer to ensure a smooth process," commented one expat who made the move to Oracabessa.
Interested in expat health insurance? Take a minute to get quotes from our partner, International Citizens Insurance, a trusted expat health insurance broker. They will provide you with comparison quotes from some of the biggest expat health insurers: Cigna, Allianz, IMG and GeoBlue.

Interested in expat health insurance? Take a minute to get quotes from our partner, International Citizens Insurance, a trusted expat health insurance broker. They will provide you with comparison quotes from some of the biggest expat health insurers: Cigna, Allianz, IMG and GeoBlue.
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What do I need to know before moving to Oracabessa?
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.