Belize Resort Workers: Uncovering The True Value Of Paradise

The average monthly salary in Belize is 3,920 BZD, which is lower than what one would find in developed countries. However, the cost of living is also much lower, and when compared to wages in other Central American countries, Belize looks quite good. For example, the average monthly salary in Guatemala is only 1,600 BZD, and in Honduras, it is 1,300 BZD. Salaries in Belize will vary a lot based on experience, location, skills, and gender. The minimum monthly wage in Belize is 990 BZD, while the maximum is 17,500 BZD. The average monthly salary is 5,333 BZD. The average salary for a Belizean worker is about 1,200 BZD per month, which is significantly lower than the average salary in developed countries. The most popular jobs in Belize are in the tourism and agriculture sectors.

Resort worker salaries in Belize

The average monthly salary in Belize is 3,920 BZD, with the lowest average salary being about 1,218 BZD and the highest 209,700 BZD. The average hourly earnings are 23 BZD, with the minimum wage being 8 BZD per hour. The average yearly salary is 48,140 BZD.

The average salary in Belize is lower than in developed countries, but the cost of living is also much lower. When compared to other Central American countries, Belize's average salary is higher. For example, the average monthly salary in Guatemala is only 1,600 BZD and in Honduras, it is 1,300 BZD.

In Belize, salaries will vary based on experience, location, skills, and gender. Male employees earn an average of 50,020 BZD, while female employees earn 45,600 BZD, indicating a 10% average pay gap between genders.

Employees in Belize may expect to get a 5% rise in their compensation every 28 months. The average wage is $3,000 per month, and it increases with each additional year of work experience.

The minimum monthly wage in Belize is 990 BZD, while the maximum is 17,500 BZD. The average monthly salary is 5,333 BZD. The median wage is 3,840 BZD per month, meaning that half of the population earns less than this amount, while the other half earns more.

The most popular jobs in Belize are in the tourism and agriculture sectors, as well as the fishing industry and construction. Salaries in these industries are generally lower than the national average but still offer a good standard of living.

For example, a real estate agent in Belize earns on average 2,980 BZD per month, while a flight attendant makes 2,760 BZD. A financial analyst earns 4,560 BZD, and a registered nurse 4,290 BZD.

Cost of living in Belize

Housing

Belize offers a wide range of housing options, with the cost depending on style and location. A basic, traditional Belizean-style wooden home is the most economical option, typically featuring one or two bedrooms, a simple kitchen, and a seating area. These homes usually don't have air conditioning and often have shutters over screened windows instead of glass.

Concrete homes are another option and have become increasingly popular, as the cost of building with concrete is similar to that of wood. Concrete homes are available in a broader range of sizes and often include conveniences like air conditioning. They tend to be more expensive than wooden homes.

The cost of renting or buying a home in Belize varies depending on the location. In inland Belize, a two-bedroom home in San Ignacio can be as low as $600 per month, while in coastal areas like Placencia and Hopkins, or on Ambergris Caye, a one-bedroom condo can cost at least $1,200 per month.

In the Cayo District, it is possible to purchase a 2 or 3-bedroom home with a garden for less than $150,000.

Utilities

Utilities in Belize can be relatively expensive, especially electricity. The residential rate for electricity is $0.45 per kWh, and running air conditioners can quickly increase the electric bill. A couple living in a 2-bedroom home without air conditioning may pay around $50 per month, while those running A/C in both bedrooms at night can expect an average bill of $150 per month.

City water is inexpensive, and rain catchment is also an option. A couple can expect to pay between $20 and $50 per month for water. Internet costs range from $25 to $80 for speeds suitable for emailing, streaming, and Netflix.

Cable TV is available for $30 per month, providing access to channels like HBO, Food Network, CNN, Fox News, and sports channels.

Transportation

Vehicle insurance, licensing, and fuel can add to the cost of living in Belize. Third-party insurance, which is mandatory, costs approximately $250 per year, while vehicle licensing is $100 per year, and a driver's license is $30 per year.

Fuel is relatively expensive, ranging from $5 to $7 per gallon for gasoline, with diesel usually being cheaper.

Public transportation is also an option and is the cheapest way to cover longer distances. Bus travel costs can range from $1 to $15, depending on the distance travelled.

Food

The cost of food in Belize can vary depending on the location and type of food. Local produce and items are generally more affordable than imported brands. A sample monthly budget for a couple from North America, assuming they own their home, is estimated to be around $1,000 to $1,500 per month.

Belize's national dish, stewed chicken with rice and beans, is a cheap and filling option, costing $6 to $8 at roadside stands. Eating out at local restaurants can cost around $15 to $25 for dinner, while roadside takeout is usually $6 to $10.

• Wheat Flour – $0.60/LB
• White Flour – $0.60/LB
• White Rice – $0.50/LB
• Whole chicken – $1.25/LB
• Breakfast Links – $6/pack
• A gallon of Milk – $3.50
• Coke – $2.50/litre
• Dr. Pepper – $1.25/can
• A loaf of Wheat Bread – $2.50
• Mozzarella/Cheddar Cheese (locally produced) – $8.00/LB
• Pork Chops – $3.00/lb
• Bananas (7) – $0.50
• Apples – $0.50 each
• Watermelon – $0.50/LB
• Fish Fillet – $8/lb for snapper or grouper
• A loaf of White Bread – $1.50

Other Expenses

Healthcare in Belize is affordable, with costs being significantly lower than in the US. A local "urgent care" visit might cost around $25, while advanced lab work can be around $200. For more advanced medical care, some people choose to travel to Mexico, where the standard of care is higher but costs remain low compared to the US.

Entertainment and activities in Belize can vary in price. Snorkelling, scuba diving, fishing, and spending the day on a caye can range from $65 to $100 per person.

Hiring a housekeeper or groundskeeper who works daily will cost about $25 per day, and a six-day workweek is standard in Belize.

Overall Cost of Living

Compared to the USA, the cost of living in Belize is estimated to be at least 50% cheaper, according to testimonials from expats living in the country. The cost of living can depend on one's lifestyle and location within Belize.

A couple from North America can survive on a tight budget of $1,000 per month if they own their home, but a more comfortable budget would be around $1,500 per month.

The average household income for a Belizean family of two adults and two children is $700 per month, as they are comfortable eating local, inexpensive meals and may not require air conditioning or other expensive utilities.

Minimum wage in Belize

Belize's minimum wage is BZD$5.00 per hour, which has been in effect since 1 January 2023. This rate translates to around BZD$851 per month, calculated as 4.33 times the standard hours per week. The minimum wage in Belize is government-mandated, and employers who fail to comply may face punishment.

The minimum wage increase is part of the Government of Belize's strategy to combat poverty and reduce inequality. The last time the minimum wage was raised was in 2012, and the recent increase is intended to help working-class families cope with rising consumer prices, global inflation, and economic shocks caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The International Labour Organization's Minimum Wage Policy, which Belize affirms, states that minimum wages are meant to protect workers from unduly low pay and ensure a just and equitable share of the fruits of progress for all.

The Ministry of Labour is currently reviewing a wage-setting methodology to determine future minimum wage increases periodically. This process is part of the government's overall effort to promote sustainable development and achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals related to poverty alleviation, decent livelihood, decent work, and reducing inequality.

Average salary in Belize

The average annual salary in Belize is 48,140 BZD, which equates to a monthly salary of 3,920 BZD or 5,333 BZD, and an hourly wage of 23 BZD. The average monthly salary in Belize is lower than in other Central American countries such as Costa Rica (5,129 BZD) and Panama (5,665 BZD), as well as South American countries like Brazil (8,927 BZD) and Argentina (7,587 BZD). However, the cost of living in Belize is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for foreign workers, retirees, and digital nomads.

The average salary in Belize can range from a minimum of 12,180 BZD to a maximum of 209,700 BZD per year. The median salary is 47,180 BZD, meaning 50% of the population earns less than this amount, while the other 50% earns more. The average salary also varies based on factors such as experience, location, skills, and gender.

Salary by Experience Level

Employees with two to five years of experience can expect to earn approximately 35% more than those in junior positions. Those with ten or more years of experience will see their wages increase by another 20%, and employees with 15 or more years of experience can expect a further 15% increase.

Salary by Education Level

Education level also plays a significant role in determining earning potential in Belize. Employees with a certificate or diploma from a post-secondary program can expect to earn 17% more than those with only a high school education. A bachelor's degree can increase earnings by 25% compared to a certificate or diploma, while a master's degree can boost salaries by 30% compared to a bachelor's degree.

Salary by Gender

On average, male employees in Belize earn 10% more than their female counterparts across all professions. In the public sector, women's salaries are about 80% of what men earn for comparable positions. This gender earnings gap is evident across all ethnic groups and educational levels.

Compensation and Benefits

Belize follows a progressive taxation system, with higher earners taxed at a higher rate. Income tax rates range from 0% to 25%, and there is also a social security tax of 6% deducted from employees' salaries, which is matched by employers. The minimum monthly wage in Belize is 990 BZD, while the maximum is 17,500 BZD. The average monthly salary, including housing, transportation, and other benefits, is 5,333 BZD. However, salaries can vary substantially based on the industry and specific job role. For example, doctors may earn around 15,000 BZD per month, while those in the tourism industry may earn as little as 3,000 BZD per month.

Bonuses and Incentives

34% of employees in Belize reported receiving at least one bonus in the previous 12 months, with bonus rates ranging from 3% to 6% of yearly compensation. The most common types of bonuses include individual performance bonuses, company performance bonuses, goal-based bonuses, and holiday bonuses. Additionally, some employers offer cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) bonuses, housing allowances or bonuses, and retention bonuses.

Belize's standard hourly wage

The average salary in Belize City is BZ$24,000, with the cost of living being lower than the national average. The Government of Belize pays its employees an average of BZ$17,000 per year, while the University of Belize pays its staff an average of BZ$24,960 per year.

In the real estate industry, the average salary is about $86,821 per year, or a rate of $42 per hour. A real estate sales associate can expect to make between $32,861 and $40,756 per year, while a marketing manager can earn up to $94,567 per year.

Resorts in operation generally pay their general staff US$10-12.50 per day, but many remote locations provide meals and housing, so they pay less in cash wages.

Frequently asked questions