Cost of Living in Nassau, Bahamas
Last updated on Feb 10, 2023
Summary: The cost of living in Nassau, Bahamas is generally higher than in other parts of the Caribbean. A nice 1 bedroom apartment in Nassau can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $2,000 per month in US Dollars. A nice 2 bedroom apartment can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $3,000 per month in US Dollars. The cost of dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Nassau can range from $20 to $50 per person in US Dollars.
Is the cost of living in Nassau high?
We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Nassau, they wrote:
"The cost of living in Nassau is generally higher than in other parts of the Caribbean. Prices for basic necessities such as food, housing, and transportation are higher than in many other Caribbean countries. Eating out can be expensive, and the cost of imported goods is also higher than in other countries. However, the cost of living in Nassau is still lower than in many other parts of the world," explained one expat.
"Housing costs vary greatly but the last time I checked you needed to spend $500,000 USD as a minimum on the home in order to qualify for a permanence residence. This number may have risen in the last couple of years as they have talked about changing it to 750,000 or 1 million dollars. Besides that expect to spend at least $800 a month in groceries for a couple that eats well. Restaurants can run fairly expensive at about $50 for dinner for a couple up to thousands of dollars in the fancy places," said one person in Coral Harbour.

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Will I save money living in Nassau?
"Living in Nassau can be more expensive than living in the United States in some areas. The cost of living in Nassau is generally higher than in the United States, with the cost of housing, food, and transportation being particularly expensive. However, there are some areas where living in Nassau can be more affordable than in the United States, such as entertainment, healthcare, and taxes. Additionally, the cost of living in Nassau can be offset by the lower cost of living in other parts of the Bahamas," said one expat in Nassau.
"Yes, we expected it to cost us more and it has. No kidding, this is not a cheap island to retire too. Everything costs more here from groceries to real estate. Expect to spend more then you would in your home country," wrote a person living in Coral Harbour.
What is the average cost of housing in Nassau?
If you are thinking about moving to Nassau, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:
"The cost of housing in Nassau varies depending on the type of property and its location. Generally, the average cost of a single-family home in Nassau is around $400,000, while the average cost of a condo or apartment is around $200,000. Prices can be higher or lower depending on the size and condition of the property," remarked one in Nassau.
"About the same in terms of rent. Of course, in Bahamas everything comes furnished. You won't find that in Connecticut. ELECTRICITY here is ridiculously expensive," explained one expat.
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What are typical rental prices for expats in Nassau?
"The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Nassau can range from around $1,000 to $2,000 per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can range from around $1,500 to $3,000 per month," commented one expat who moved to Nassau.
" All on Paradise Island: Smallest one bedroom: 1500-1800, Well furnished one bedroom in nicer area: 1800-2000. Two bedroom: 2000-3500 depending on venue, amenities and furnishings. Three bedroom: 2800-5000. Almost all available units are condo type properties. Some townhome styles and few stand alones. 7000-10000 will get you into ocean club estates condos," said one expat.
What appliances are typically included in a rental?
We asked foreigners in Nassau what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included:
"Rental properties in Nassau typically include a refrigerator, stove, oven, dishwasher, washer, and dryer. Other common appliances may include a microwave, toaster, and coffee maker. Depending on the property, air conditioning units may also be included," said an expat in Nassau.
"Most rentals are completely furnished with all the main appliances necessary to live. It was hard to find a rental property where we could put our children's room set. Many of the properties are set up for vacationers so much of the furniture is whicker and cheap. A well furnished home is out there, but must be looked for," commented one expat living in Nassau, Bahamas.
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.
Additional Information:
- Expat Guide to Nassau
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Nassau
- Cost of Living in Nassau
- Health Care in Nassau, Bahamas
- The Insider's Guide to Nassau, Bahamas
- 5 Tips for Living in Nassau in the Bahamas
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Bahamas
- How to Navigate the Health System in Bahamas
- What It's Like Living in Nassau
- Pros and Cons of Living in Bahamas 2023
- 2023 Guide to Moving to Bahamas