The Cost Of Living On Barbuda Island

Antigua and Barbuda is a highly sought-after Caribbean destination, known for its stunning beauty, luxury services, and high quality of life. The cost of living in Antigua and Barbuda is considered more expensive than in most other Caribbean islands, with housing, food, transportation, healthcare, and real estate being the most significant factors. However, it is about 20% cheaper than in the US and the UK. In this guide, we will break down the costs associated with living in this tropical paradise and offer tips for navigating the financial aspects of relocating to or investing in this island nation.

Renting a property: $600-$1,500 per month for a one-bedroom apartment, and $800-$1,500 for a two-bedroom apartment

When it comes to renting a property in Barbuda, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, the cost of living in Barbuda is generally considered to be quite reasonable, with the cost of rent and utilities being a little expensive. Secondly, the island is a popular tourist destination, which can drive up the prices of certain goods and services.

With that in mind, let's take a closer look at rental prices for one and two-bedroom apartments. For a comfortable one-bedroom apartment in Barbuda, you can expect to pay anywhere between $600 and $1,000 per month. The variation in price will depend on the location and specific features of the property. For example, a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre will likely be towards the higher end of this range, while an apartment outside the city centre may be more affordable.

If you're looking for a larger space, a nice two-bedroom apartment in Barbuda will typically cost between $800 and $1,500 per month. Again, the final cost will depend on various factors, such as the location, size, and specific amenities offered by the property. It's worth noting that these estimates are for "nice" apartments, and you may find more affordable options if you're willing to compromise on certain features or location.

When renting a property in Barbuda, it's important to consider your budget and priorities. The cost of utilities, such as electricity, heating, and cooling, can also add to your overall expenses. Additionally, as Barbuda is known for its stunning beaches and exclusive lifestyle, rental prices in coastal areas may be higher than those further inland.

In summary, renting a property in Barbuda can range from $600 to $1,500 per month for a one-bedroom apartment and $800 to $1,500 for a two-bedroom apartment. By researching available properties and considering your specific needs and budget, you can find a rental option that suits your requirements and allows you to enjoy the beauty and attractions that Barbuda has to offer.

Food expenses: $9 for a basic meal in an inexpensive restaurant, and $92 for a three-course meal for two in a mid-range restaurant

Food expenses in Barbuda vary depending on the type of restaurant and the number of people dining. A basic meal in an inexpensive restaurant costs around $9, while a three-course meal for two people in a mid-range restaurant will cost approximately $92. These prices include a variety of options, from local cuisine to international dishes.

Dining out in Barbuda offers a range of culinary experiences to suit different budgets. The island's restaurants serve fresh fish, seafood, and locally grown vegetables. For those who enjoy cafés and bars, a cappuccino costs around $5, while domestic beers are priced at $3, and imported beers are slightly more expensive at $3.70.

Barbuda also offers low-cost street food options, such as fungee and pepperpot, available for just a few dollars. This makes it possible to enjoy a variety of local flavours without breaking the bank.

When it comes to groceries, a single person's food budget for imported goods in Barbuda is higher than average. However, the overall cost of groceries and basic necessities on the island is relatively affordable.

For those who enjoy cooking at home, the local markets offer a variety of fresh produce, including white bread (500g) for $2.70, and a litre of whole fat milk for $3.70. A kilogram of apples costs $4.50, and a kilogram of potatoes is $3.50.

In summary, while dining out in Barbuda can range from affordable to expensive, depending on the restaurant, the island offers a variety of options to suit different budgets. The local markets also provide reasonably priced ingredients for those who prefer to cook at home.

Transport costs: $1.40 for a one-way bus ride, $33 for a monthly public transport pass, and $5 per gallon of gas

Transport Costs in Antigua and Barbuda

Public transportation in Antigua and Barbuda is quite affordable, with buses costing around $1.40 for a one-way trip and a monthly public transport pass costing $33. The country has a small bus network that operates on the island of Antigua, connecting the capital city, St. John's, with various villages. Buses run daily from 5:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and while there is no set schedule, they generally follow a consistent route. Most buses are privately owned mini-vans that can seat about 15 people, and they can be identified by the "BUS" marking on their yellow license plates.

In contrast, taxis in Antigua and Barbuda are known for their high fees, which are set by the government instead of using a metered system. While taxis are readily available, especially at the airport and major hotels, the cost can be reduced by sharing rides with other passengers. Taxi drivers often double as tour guides, offering sightseeing tours of the island.

For those staying in the country for an extended period, renting a car may be a more cost-effective option. The daily rental cost is approximately US$40-50, and a temporary Antiguan driver's license is required, which can be arranged through rental agencies for around US$20. Driving in Antigua and Barbuda is on the left side of the road, and extra caution should be exercised at night due to limited lighting on the roads.

In terms of fuel costs, gas prices in the country are around $5 per gallon.

Utilities: $300 per month for basic utilities, and $70 per month for high-speed broadband

When it comes to utilities, the cost of living in Barbuda is relatively affordable compared to the average cost in the Caribbean. For basic utilities, including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage collection, expats living in Barbuda can expect to pay around $300 per month. However, it is worth noting that this cost can be reduced by opting for airy apartments or properties by the sea that do not require air conditioning.

The cost of utilities in Barbuda is similar to that in Europe or the US. The average monthly cost of basic utilities for a 915 sq ft apartment is around $300. This includes essential services such as electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage collection.

In addition to basic utilities, high-speed broadband is another essential service that comes at a cost. A monthly plan for high-speed broadband in Barbuda is priced at about $70, which is comparable to the rates in the US. This price is for a connection speed of 60 Mbps or more, with unlimited data usage.

While the cost of utilities in Barbuda may seem relatively affordable, it is important to consider the overall cost of living on the island. As a highly sought-after Caribbean destination, Barbuda tends to be more expensive than the majority of other Caribbean islands. However, the cost of living in Barbuda is about 20% cheaper than in the US and the UK.

When it comes to internet speeds, Barbuda offers competitive rates. As of November 2023, the average fixed broadband internet speed in Barbuda was 33.33 Mbps for downloads and 18.89 Mbps for uploads.

Entertainment: $7.40 for a cinema ticket, and $50 per person for a visit to Stingray City

The cost of entertainment in Barbuda varies depending on the activity. A trip to the cinema will cost you $7.40, while a visit to Stingray City is $50 per person.

Stingray City is an unforgettable experience, where you can snorkel and interact with the brightest Southern Rays in the Caribbean. These rays are friendly and gentle, and you can even feed them! The experience includes a short speedboat ride to a shallow pool surrounded by coral reefs. You can stand or swim with the rays, take pictures, and then enjoy complimentary rum or fruit punch when you return to the land base.

The cost of $50 per person for Stingray City is a great value, as it includes the boat ride, snorkelling gear, interaction with the rays, and refreshments. This unique experience is a highlight for many visitors to Barbuda, who describe it as "once in a lifetime" and "simply outstanding".

In addition to the $50 entry fee, you can also purchase professional photos of your experience for $15 each. These photos capture your special moments with the rays and are well worth the price.

Compared to the cost of a cinema ticket, the Stingray City experience offers a more interactive and memorable form of entertainment for a reasonable price. With the opportunity to get up close and personal with gentle rays, it's no surprise that this activity is a popular choice for visitors to Barbuda.

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