Belize Vs. The Us: A Lifestyle Comparison

Belize is a popular destination for US expats, offering a relaxed way of life, stunning natural scenery, and friendly people. It is also an English-speaking country, making the transition easier for US expats.

The cost of living in Belize is generally lower than in the US, although it may be more expensive than other Central American countries. Imported items are expensive due to import taxes, so it is recommended to live like a local and buy local produce.

Belize has a stable political environment, but its financial system is fragile, and the country lacks advanced medical care and high-quality healthcare options. Crime is also an issue, with violent crime and gang-related activities being common.

Overall, Belize offers an enviable lifestyle with a low cost of living, but it is important to consider the potential drawbacks, such as safety concerns and limited access to quality healthcare.

Cost of living

Housing

The cost of renting or buying a home in Belize depends on the property's size, location, ownership status, and build. Basic Belizean-style wooden homes are the most economical option, while concrete homes are becoming increasingly popular despite being more expensive.

Renting a two-bedroom home in San Ignacio, an inland area, can cost as little as $600 per month. In contrast, renting a one-bedroom condo on the coast in Placencia, Hopkins, or Ambergris Caye can cost upwards of $1,200 per month.

For those looking to buy, a 2 or 3-bedroom home with a garden in the Cayo District can cost less than $150,000. In popular expat or tourist communities like San Pedro, Placencia, or Caye Caulker, prices vary based on proximity to the beach or the town center. For example, a two-bedroom apartment near the beach with air conditioning in San Pedro or Placencia can range from $1,200 to $1,500 per month.

Outside of the expensive tourist hotspots, real estate purchases are more affordable. A modern home can cost between $75,000 and $200,000, while a premium city location with all the amenities can range from $300,000 to $400,000.

Utilities

Utilities in Belize can be expensive, especially electricity. The residential rate for electricity is $0.45 per kWh, and a couple running air conditioning in both bedrooms at night can expect an average bill of $150 per month. City water is inexpensive, and rain catchment is a great alternative, with a couple paying anywhere from $20 to $50 per month. Internet costs range from $25 to $80 for speeds suitable for streaming, and cable TV is a flat rate of $30 per month.

Transportation

Vehicle fuel is relatively expensive in Belize, with gasoline prices ranging from $5 to $7 per gallon, while diesel tends to be cheaper. Third-party insurance, vehicle license, and driver's license costs are approximately $250, $100, and $30 per year, respectively.

Public transportation is the cheapest way to get around, especially for inter-city travel, with bus fares ranging from $1 to $15 depending on the destination. Many residents in popular retirement spots walk or use a golf cart to get around, but some choose to have a car, keeping in mind the high fuel costs.

Food

The cost of food in Belize can be high, driving some residents to shop across the border in Mexico or Guatemala. However, the low cost of fresh produce locally grown by Belizean farmers helps temper this. Eating out in tourist areas like Placencia, Ambergris Caye, and Caye Caulker can be expensive, but there are cheaper options available if you ask the locals for recommendations.

Belize's national meal, stewed chicken with rice and beans, can be found at roadside stands for $6 to $8. To save on food costs, it's recommended to shop like a local, relying more on local items and produce rather than imported goods.

Healthcare

Healthcare in Belize is affordable but may not be as efficient as in other Central American countries like Panama or Costa Rica. The country has both public and private healthcare systems, and doctors are typically trained in the US, Mexico, or Cuba. Most specialized medical institutions are in Belmopan and Belize City.

An urgent care visit might cost around $25, while advanced lab work can cost around $200. Many choose to travel to Mexico for more advanced medical care due to the higher standard and still low costs compared to the US.

Summary

Overall, the cost of living in Belize is significantly cheaper than in the US, with estimates ranging from 50% to nearly 200% lower. However, it is more expensive than other Central American countries. A couple from North America can survive on $1,000 per month, but $1,500 would be more reasonable. The cost of living in Belize ultimately depends on one's lifestyle, with some expats learning to live well on a fraction of their budget from the US.

Healthcare

Belize's healthcare system is comprised of both public and private healthcare systems. The Ministry of Health (MoH) is the government agency responsible for overseeing the entire health sector and is also the largest provider of public health services in Belize. The MoH offers affordable care to a majority of Belizeans with a strong focus on providing quality healthcare through a range of public programs and institutions.

Public Healthcare in Belize

Belize has eight major public hospitals and around 60 public clinics. The public system provides free basic care for all Belizeans and visitors, including emergency room care, prenatal care, urgent care, basic medications, and doctor visits. Specialized care, labs, and certain medications cost money but are much cheaper than in the US. However, the public hospitals and clinics are underfunded, understaffed, and undersupplied, which often results in long waiting times. The largest public hospital, Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital, is located in Belize City and is considered the premier public healthcare provider in the country. However, due to funding issues, the hospital has faced challenges with equipment problems, medical supply shortages, and operation management issues.

Private Healthcare in Belize

The private health sector in Belize provides care to a smaller portion of the population but at a relatively low cost and with a focus on quality. There are three main private hospitals in Belize: La Loma Luz Hospital, Belize Medical Associates, and Universal Health Services. Belize Medical Associates is often considered the closest thing to Western care. Private healthcare facilities in Belize are better equipped and funded than public ones, but they still do not meet Western standards of medical care.

Health Insurance in Belize

Both public and private healthcare in Belize must be supplemented with international health insurance that provides medical airlifting and overseas evacuation. Emergency evacuation coverage is particularly important, as an ambulance flight can easily cost $15,000. Dozens of companies offer international health insurance plans that cover the cost of overseas medical care and/or the cost of flying home for emergency treatment. Popular choices among expats include Cigna Global, Bupa/IHI, and International Medical Group.

Health Risks and Vaccinations

When travelling to Belize, it is important to be aware of certain health risks and to ensure that your vaccinations are up to date. Malaria, dengue fever, and other tropical diseases are present in Belize, although they are rare. No shots are required for entry into Belize, except for yellow fever if you are coming from an infected area. It is also important to protect yourself against diseases such as tetanus, hookworm, and strongyloidiasis, which can be contracted by walking barefoot, and leptospirosis, which can be contracted by swimming in stagnant water. Simple precautions, such as wearing appropriate footwear and using condoms, can protect you from a host of issues. Additionally, it is recommended to bring your own prescription medications to Belize, as some medications may not be available or may require a prescription that would not be necessary in your home country.

Crime

Tourists are generally not the targets of gang violence, but they can still be affected by finding themselves in the wrong place at the wrong time. Violent crimes such as sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder are common, even during daylight hours and in tourist areas. A significant portion of these crimes is gang-related, and local police often lack the resources and training to respond effectively, leaving most crimes unresolved and unprosecuted.

In addition to violent crime, petty crimes such as pickpocketing and purse snatching are also common in Belize, with tourists being frequent targets, especially at resorts. Criminals often operate in groups and target individuals travelling alone. Credit card and ATM fraud are also prevalent, especially in San Pedro, where several credit card fraud rings are believed to be active.

To minimise the risk of becoming a victim of crime in Belize, it is recommended to remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings at all times, avoid travelling after dark, keep your cellphone charged, and refrain from displaying signs of wealth, such as expensive watches or jewellery. If threatened, it is advised to comply and hand over cash and valuables without resistance.

Leisure activities

Belize is a haven for nature lovers, offering a plethora of outdoor leisure activities. The country boasts mountains, forests, jungles, rivers, and caves, with 26% of its landmass protected and 79% forest. Adventure seekers can hike through tropical rainforests, tube on rivers, explore ancient caves, climb temples, and snorkel or scuba dive at the world's second-largest barrier reef. Belize is also known for its stunning beaches, ideal for those seeking relaxation.

The country's diverse ecosystems provide a habitat for a wide variety of plant and animal species. Nature enthusiasts can discover endemic species such as howler monkeys, parrots, toucans, crocodiles, and tapirs. For birdwatchers, Belize is a paradise, with nearly 600 bird species to spot, especially in the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve.

Belize also holds a wealth of history and culture. Once a central part of the Mayan Empire, the country is home to ancient ruins like Altun Ha, Lamanai, and Xunantunich. Xunantunich, a former ceremonial centre, boasts over twenty ancient temples and a royal palace. Smaller sites like Lubantuun and Nim Li Punit offer unique insights and artefacts, like the mysterious Crystal Skull. Belize's caves, such as ATM, were considered entrances to the underworld by the Mayans, and are believed to have been sites for sacred ceremonies.

In addition to its natural wonders, Belize offers a range of cultural experiences. Visitors can indulge in traditional Belizean cuisine, including hand-crafted chocolate, and explore the cultural offerings of the Kriol and Garifuna people, which blend African, Spanish, British, and indigenous Caribbean traditions.

In contrast, leisure activities in the United States, as of 2013, tend to be more indoor-focused. According to a survey, 42% of US adults named watching TV as their preferred leisure activity, followed by dining out (36%), reading books (28%), and listening to music (27%). Other popular hobbies include playing games, cooking, and shopping. While Americans do engage in outdoor pursuits like gardening and birdwatching, these activities are less prevalent than indoor leisure options.

Weather

Belize has a subtropical climate with distinct dry and wet seasons. The temperature in Belize varies little throughout the year, with an average yearly temperature of 79–84 °F (26–29 °C). The annual average temperature is similar to that of the US state of Florida, but the US as a whole has a much larger variation in temperature due to its size. The coastal sea breezes, large tracts of jungle, and rainforests in Belize provide cooling relief even during the hottest summer months.

The dry season in Belize falls between November and May, with the high-dry season from November to February and the low-dry season from February to May. These are the main tourist seasons. The dry season is characterised by mild temperatures and little rainfall. February is the driest month, with mild days and cooler nights, making it a great time to explore the rainforest. The dry season is followed by the wet season, which lasts from June to December. During this time, parts of the country receive up to 50–180 inches of rain, with the northern region receiving less rainfall than the extreme south. The wettest months are from May to October, with the rainy season starting in June. The country experiences heavy storms associated with the Caribbean, usually in the late afternoons. The most frequent rainfall usually occurs in June or early July and is punctuated by a break in late July or August, known as the "little dry". The wet season is also hurricane season, and while Belize does not attract many major direct hits, it does experience severe tropical weather with high winds and rain.

The temperature in Belize rarely falls below 60 °F (16 °C) or exceeds 94 °F (34 °C). The water temperature stays constant, with an average between 79 and 83 °F. However, the temperature can vary by region, especially in the coastal regions due to the trade winds from the Caribbean coast. The mountainous regions, such as the Mountain Pine Ridge, experience a noticeably cooler climate year-round. Overall, the seasons in Belize are differentiated more by average rainfall and humidity than by temperature.

Frequently asked questions