Cost of Living in Speightstown, Barbados
Last updated on Apr 13, 2025
Summary: What is the cost of living in Speightstown, Barbados? Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Speightstown talk about the general living costs, the cost of housing and health insurance.
Is the cost of living in Speightstown high?
We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Speightstown, they wrote:
"The cost of living in Speightstown, can be considered moderate to high depending on one's lifestyle. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center can be quite expensive, while outside the city center, it is somewhat more affordable. The cost of utilities such as electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage is also relatively high. Groceries in Speightstown can be costly, with items such as bread, milk, and eggs being more expensive than in many other countries. Eating out at restaurants can also be quite pricey, especially at mid-range to high-end establishments. Transportation costs in Speightstown are relatively low, with affordable public transportation options and reasonably priced gasoline. However, owning and maintaining a car can be expensive due to high import taxes on vehicles. Healthcare in Speightstown is of a high standard, but it can be costly, especially for non-residents. It is recommended to have comprehensive health insurance to cover any medical expenses. Overall, while the cost of living in Speightstown can be high compared to other places, it offers a high quality of life with its beautiful beaches, warm climate, and friendly community," said one expat in Speightstown.

Get Quote
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote
Will I save money living in Speightstown?
"The cost of living in Speightstown can be lower than in many cities in the United States, especially when it comes to housing and utilities. However, groceries and other goods can be more expensive due to import costs. Healthcare is also generally cheaper in Barbados. The overall savings would depend on your lifestyle, consumption habits, and the specific city in the U.S. you are comparing it to. It's also important to consider the exchange rate and your income source. If you're earning a local salary in Barbados, it might not go as far as a U.S. salary would," remarked one expat in Speightstown.
What is the average cost of housing in Speightstown?
If you are thinking about moving to Speightstown, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:
"The average cost of housing in Speightstown can vary greatly depending on the type, size, and location of the property. For instance, a luxury beachfront property can cost significantly more than a modest inland home. However, on average, you can expect to pay a moderate amount for a standard family home. It's important to note that prices can fluctuate based on the real estate market and other economic factors. Therefore, it's always a good idea to consult with a local real estate agent or conduct thorough research to get the most accurate and current pricing information," remarked one in Speightstown.

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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:
- What should I pack when moving to Speightstown?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Speightstown?
- Will I be able to find a job in Speightstown?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do expats in Speightstown appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Speightstown?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Speightstown accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Speightstown like?
- How are healthcare services in Speightstown?
- What are medical services in Speightstown like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Speightstown?
- What are emergency services like in Speightstown?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Speightstown?
- How are local medical facilities in Speightstown?
- As a foreigner living in Speightstown, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?