San Ignacio, Belize
Last updated on Apr 20, 2023
Summary: People describe San Ignacio, Belize as a vibrant, friendly, and culturally diverse city. Expats love the laid-back atmosphere, the abundance of outdoor activities, and the affordability of living in San Ignacio. The weather in San Ignacio is typically warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to the mid-90s Fahrenheit. The average cost of living for an expat is around $1,500 USD per month. The cost of a one bedroom apartment is typically around $500 USD per month, while a two bedroom apartment can range from $600 to $800 USD per month. The approximate population of San Ignacio is around 20,000 people.
What are the pros and cons of living in San Ignacio?
Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in San Ignacio responded:
"Expats and digital nomads living in San Ignacio, often like the laid-back lifestyle, friendly locals, and the town's close-knit community. They appreciate the low cost of living, which allows them to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank. The natural beauty of the surrounding area, with its lush jungles, rivers, and ancient Mayan ruins, is also a major draw for those who enjoy outdoor activities and exploring. The warm climate is another attractive feature for expats and digital nomads, as it allows for year-round outdoor activities and eliminates the need for heavy winter clothing. Additionally, the availability of fresh, locally-sourced produce and seafood is a plus for those who enjoy cooking and eating healthy meals. However, there are also some aspects of living in San Ignacio that expats and digital nomads may dislike. The town's infrastructure can be lacking, with unreliable internet connections and frequent power outages, which can be frustrating for those who rely on technology for work or communication. The healthcare facilities in San Ignacio are limited, and more serious medical issues may require travel to Belize City or even outside the country. Some expats and digital nomads may also find the slower pace of life and limited entertainment options to be a downside, especially if they are used to a more bustling urban environment. The town's small size can also make it feel somewhat isolated, and the lack of public transportation options can make it difficult to explore other parts of Belize without a car. Finally, while the locals are generally friendly and welcoming, there can be a language barrier for those who do not speak Spanish or Belizean Creole, which may make it challenging to fully integrate into the community," said one in San Ignacio.
"Life is what you make of it. I love living in Belize, but I also do not have a lot of needs for high fashion and trendy things. I have usually lived in a semi-rural area, so the Cayo District of Belize feels homey to me. Urban folks might find it to be too slow. The official language here is English, with a lot of Spanish spoken. Anyone in customer service is bilingual or trilingual (to include Belizean Kriol). I wanted to live somewhere warm and lots of Central America fits the bill, but the English language and common law here are the icing on the cake. Some people think that Belize is just the island of Ambergris Caye and its village, San Pedro. Lots of expats out there, but most of us who live inland are happy to let them have it," explained one expat in San Ignacio.
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What type of social life can someone expect in San Ignacio?
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Allianz Care's plans ensure that you have access to quality healthcare whenever you need it. Our flexible solutions allow you to tailor your cover to meet your needs and budget. You can submit your claims digitally and our helpline is available 24/7 to help you anytime.
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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.
Other Questions:
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