The Cost Of Paradise: Navigating The Price Of Living In Belize

Belize is a desirable retirement location, with a warm, subtropical climate and access to the Caribbean Sea. The cost of living is generally lower than in the US, with expats reporting that it is at least 50% cheaper than in their home country. However, this depends on your lifestyle and location.

The cost of living in Belize has increased in 2024, in line with the global rise in living costs. The country has a stable currency, the Belize dollar, which is fixed at a rate of two to the US dollar.

The cost of food, utilities, and housing in Belize varies. Food and basic necessities are relatively expensive, driving some to shop in Mexico or Guatemala. Electricity is also costly, but water is cheap, and internet and phone plans are reasonably priced. Housing options range from basic wooden homes to modern concrete builds, with prices dependent on style and location.

Housing: Basic, local-style homes are cheapest, while concrete builds are pricier

Housing in Belize varies in price, depending on the style and location of the property. Basic, local-style homes are the cheapest option. These are typically small, Belizean-style wooden houses with one or two bedrooms, one bathroom, and a simple kitchen and seating area. They tend to be more economical as they don't have air conditioning and often have shutters over screened windows instead of glass.

More recently, concrete homes have become a popular option, as the cost of building with concrete is now similar to that of wood. Concrete homes are available in a broader range of sizes and tend to offer more conveniences, such as air conditioning. They are pricier than the basic, local-style wooden homes.

The location of the property also affects the price. Living in popular expat or tourist communities, such as San Pedro, Placencia, or Caye Caulker, is more expensive, especially if the property is close to the beach or the town centre.

For example, a two-bedroom apartment near the beach in San Pedro or Placencia, with air conditioning and located a few miles from the town centre, would cost around $1,200 to $1,500 per month. A similar apartment in Cayo, on the water and within walking distance to the town, would cost around $1,000 per month.

Outside of the high-cost tourist areas, it is possible to build a house for $30-$60 per square foot or buy an attractive, modern home for $75,000-$200,000. Property taxes are generally low, rarely exceeding $100-$400 annually, even for luxury homes.

Utilities: Electricity is expensive, but water, phone and internet are reasonable

Belize may not offer the lowest cost of living compared to other Caribbean countries, but it is still significantly cheaper than North America and Europe.

Utilities are a mixed bag in Belize. Electricity is expensive, but water, phone, and internet are all reasonably priced.

Electricity

Electricity in Belize is costly, with rates of around $0.45 to $0.52 per kWh. This is multiple times more expensive than rates in North America and Europe. For this reason, many residents of Belize opt for a simpler, more local lifestyle, walking to shops and eating local food, which can help to stretch your budget further.

A couple living in a 2-bedroom home with no air conditioning may pay around $50 per month for electricity, while running air conditioning units can see this rise to $150 per month.

Water

Water in Belize is abundant and inexpensive. Rain catchment is a great alternative to city water, which costs a couple around $20-$50 per month.

Phone

Most people in Belize rely on a cell phone, and an unlimited talk and text plan with 8GB of monthly data will cost around $28 per month. The largest data plan, with 66GB, is $78 per month.

Internet

Internet access in Belize is affordable, with basic 20 Mbps services costing about $25 per month. There are also 40, 80, and 150 Mbps plans available, with the latter costing $100 per month.

Overall, while electricity is expensive in Belize, other utilities such as water, phone, and internet are reasonably priced, making it possible to live comfortably on a budget.

Food: Eating like a local is cheaper, with the national meal costing $6-8

Belize's food scene is heavily influenced by its neighbours in Central America and the Caribbean, as well as the many cultures that make up the nation of Belize. The result is a diverse and delicious culinary offering.

Belize's national meal is a prime example of this. Stewed chicken, rice, and beans, served with fried ripe plantains and salad, is a true taste of Belize. This meal, which costs $6-8, is widely available at roadside stands across the country and is a cheap, filling option for locals, with some eating it every day.

The dish is made with locally produced foods, which helps to keep the cost of living down for those who choose to eat like the locals. The meal typically includes a protein, such as stewed chicken, beef, or pork, or BBQ chicken, beef, or pork. It is often served with potato salad or coleslaw and fried plantain.

Belize's culinary offerings are heavily influenced by its diverse population. The Maya, for example, use recado and corn or maize for most of their meals, while the Garifuna are fond of seafood, cassava, and vegetables. The Kriols eat a relatively balanced diet, with a cultural dish of boiled eggs, fish, or pig tail, served with a variety of ground foods such as cassava, green plantains, yams, sweet potatoes, cocoa, and tomato sauce.

Belize's food scene in popular tourist destinations like San Pedro, Caye Caulker, and Placencia is well-established, with plenty of restaurants to choose from. However, in less-visited destinations, food options may be more limited, as cooking your own food is an old Belizean custom.

For those looking to save money, eating like a local is a great option. Learning to shop like a Belizean and relying on local items and produce is a great way to reduce costs. For example, replacing imported snacks with locally-made tortilla chips or fried plantain chips can save money. Shopping at vegetable stands and knowing the best day to get the freshest options can also help stretch your budget.

Eating out regularly can be affordable if you know where to go. Asking locals for recommendations can help you find the cheaper, out-of-the-way restaurants. Eating local food, using public transport, and living in a Belizean-style home can significantly reduce the cost of living in Belize.

Transport: Gas is expensive, but public transport is cheap and reliable

Transport in Belize

While gas prices in Belize might put a dent in your wallet, you'll be pleased to discover that the country makes up for it with its affordable and reliable public transportation system.

Belize's public transportation network is extensive and well-developed, providing easy access to various parts of the country. Buses are the primary mode of transport for locals and tourists alike, offering a comfortable and economical way to get around. The bus system is comprehensive, with regular routes covering major towns and cities, as well as some rural areas. Fares are typically very reasonable, making bus travel a cost-effective way to explore the country.

For those who prefer a more flexible option, taxis are also readily available in Belize. While taxi fares are generally higher than bus fares, they can be a convenient choice for travellers, especially when travelling in groups or when time is a factor. Remember to agree on a price before starting your journey to avoid unexpected costs.

If you're considering renting a car and driving yourself around, gas prices in Belize are something to take into account. Driving in Belize offers the freedom to explore the country's diverse landscapes and attractions at your own pace. The road infrastructure is generally well-maintained, making self-driving a viable option for those confident in navigating new territories.

Additionally, Belize has a few domestic airlines that operate small planes and provide scenic flights within the country. These flights can be a time-saving option when travelling between distant locations or simply a unique way to enjoy the country's breathtaking views from above.

In summary, while high gas prices are a consideration in Belize, the availability of affordable and reliable public transportation options ensures that getting around the country need not be expensive. Whether you choose to travel by bus, taxi, rental car, or even domestic flight, Belize offers a range of choices to suit different budgets and preferences, making it possible to explore on a budget.

Healthcare: Basic care is affordable, but advanced care is limited

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