Exploring The Cost Of Renting In Belize

Belize is a small country nestled in the corner of Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, with one foot in the Caribbean and the other in Central America. It offers a low cost of living, with rent prices 75% lower than in the US. The cost of living in Belize is 31% lower than in the US, and the national currency is the Belize dollar, which is fixed at a rate of two to the US dollar.

The average cost of rent in Belize varies depending on location and style. A simple, Belizean-style wooden home without air conditioning will be the most economical option, while concrete homes are a more expensive but increasingly popular choice.

In popular expat destinations like San Pedro, Placencia, or Caye Caulker, rental prices vary depending on proximity to the beach or the town centre. In Belize City, a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre costs around $300 per month, while a three-bedroom apartment costs around $600. In more remote areas, such as the Cayo region, it is possible to find rentals with spacious homes and yards for as little as $500 per month.

Overall, Belize offers a range of housing options to suit different budgets, and its low cost of living makes it an attractive destination for retirees and expats seeking a laid-back lifestyle in a tropical location.

Rent in Belize City

The cost of rent in Belize City, Belize, can vary depending on the style and location of the property. Here is a guide to help you understand the rental market in this area.

Firstly, it is important to note that Belize offers a wide range of housing options, catering to different budgets and preferences. The style of the property can significantly impact the rental price. For instance, a basic, traditional Belizean wooden home is typically the most economical option. These houses usually feature shutters over screened windows instead of glass and often do not have air conditioning. They tend to be smaller, with one or two bedrooms, one bathroom, and a simple kitchen and living area. On the other hand, concrete homes are a more modern alternative, offering conveniences like air conditioning and a broader range of sizes, but they may be slightly more expensive.

Location is another crucial factor that influences rental prices in Belize City. Properties located in popular expat or tourist communities, such as San Pedro, Placencia, or Caye Caulker, tend to be more expensive. Even within these areas, rental prices can fluctuate depending on proximity to the beach or the town centre. For example, a two-bedroom apartment near the beach in San Pedro, a few miles from the town, could cost between $1,200 and $1,500 per month. Similarly, in Placencia, a two-bedroom apartment near the beach and the village could fall within the same price range. If you're looking for a more affordable option, consider renting in smaller towns or locations that are not within walking distance of the beach or the town centre.

Additionally, it is worth noting that the cost of living in Belize is generally considered higher compared to other retirement destinations in the region. However, this can be mitigated by adopting a more local lifestyle. For instance, walking to shops and markets is common, and the limited selection at local shops may encourage you to rely more on local produce and items, reducing the need for costly online purchases with additional shipping and customs fees.

In conclusion, while rental prices in Belize City can vary, the country offers a diverse range of housing options to suit different budgets and preferences. By considering factors such as property style and location, you can find suitable accommodation that fits within your financial means.

Rent in popular expat regions

The cost of rent in Belize varies depending on the location and style of the property. Basic, Belizean-style wooden homes tend to be the most economical option, while concrete homes are more expensive. In general, the average cost of rent in Belize is around 75% lower than in the US.

• Corozal District: Located near the Mexican border, Corozal Town is a low-key family town with a tranquil setting and an affordable cost of living. Rent prices in this region can start from $350 per month for a simple studio apartment, while a larger modern apartment in Consejo Shores can cost around $550 per month.
• Ambergris Caye: This popular offshore caye is known for its stunning Caribbean waters and vibrant town of San Pedro. Rent prices on Ambergris Caye can start from $750 per month for a one-bedroom condo, with beachfront properties commanding higher premiums. Two-bedroom condos on the beach can rent for $1,000 or more per month.
• Caye Caulker: A charming and laid-back island located near Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker has a truly Caribbean feel. Rental properties on this island can be hard to come by, but deals can be found through word of mouth. A two-bedroom, one-bath apartment can be rented for around $650 per month.
• Placencia: Located on the Placencia Peninsula, this region is known for its sandy beaches and tranquil atmosphere. While it can be challenging to find long-term rentals in Placencia, studio, one-, or two-bedroom condos can be found for $450 to $600 per month.
• The Cayo Region: This lush and eco-tourism-rich region offers rentals in thriving river towns like San Ignacio and Santa Elena, as well as in outlying villages such as Bullet Tree and Unitedville. In Unitedville, for example, a three-bedroom, three-bath house on a one-acre property with fruit trees and flowers can be rented for $500 per month.

In addition to the rent, it is important to consider other factors such as food, transportation, and utility costs when creating a budget for living in Belize. Eating out, especially in tourist areas, can be expensive, but savings can be found by shopping and eating like the locals. Transportation costs can vary depending on the location, with some areas being more walkable or requiring a vehicle. Utilities such as electricity can be expensive, while phone and internet plans are relatively affordable.

Cost of utilities

The cost of utilities in Belize is primarily driven by electrical usage. Electricity is expensive per kilowatt-hour (kWh), with water, cooking gas, phone, and internet services being far more reasonably priced.

Phone

Most people in Belize rely on their cell phones, as cell coverage is great in populated areas. An unlimited talk and text plan with 8 GB of monthly data costs about $28 per month, while the largest data plan with 66 GB is $78 per month.

Internet

Fiber-to-the-home is available in many developed areas of the country, with a basic 20 Mbps service costing about $25 per month. There are also 40, 80, and 150 Mbps plans available, with the latter costing $100 per month.

Cooking Gas

Belize uses butane as its sole cooking gas, with the price regulated by the Government of Belize. However, local providers may not always stick to the guideline, so it is best to shop around for the best rates, and expect to pay $3 or more per gallon.

Water

Water is generally abundant and cheap in Belize, but the price and quality vary. In Placencia, for example, water can be drunk straight from the tap and costs $0.005 per gallon. In other areas, the cost of water can be higher, and some people use water tanks to catch rainwater to lower their water bill.

Electricity

Electricity is the most significant utility expense in Belize, costing about $0.22 per kWh, which is many times more expensive than in North America and Europe. A couple running air conditioners in both bedrooms at night may see an average bill of around $150 per month.

Overall, while the cost of utilities in Belize is generally lower than in countries like the United States, the high cost of electricity can significantly impact the monthly budget of residents, especially those who are heavy users of air conditioning.

Cost of food

The cost of food in Belize varies depending on location and type of food. The country's national meal, stewed chicken with rice and beans, is a cheap option, costing between $6 and $8 at roadside stands. In general, eating at street stalls is more affordable than dining in restaurants. A simple meal of rice, beans and protein from a street stall costs around $5-7, while a seafood BBQ will set you back $15-20. Mexican-style tamales can be purchased for a couple of dollars.

In sit-down restaurants, prices are higher, with standard breakfast options like sausage and eggs or a breakfast burrito costing around $10. Local specialties like stuffed fryjacks (deep-fried dough stuffed with egg, cheese, and meat) typically cost $8-10 per plate. Throughout the day, prices vary depending on the type of food and the restaurant's fanciness. Jerk chicken costs around $10, a burger is about $15, a shrimp curry is approximately $20, and a rack of ribs with sides is roughly $25.

It's important to note that some restaurants may not list prices on the menu or may have a "market price" for certain items, which can be higher than expected.

For those looking to cook their own meals, grocery shopping in Belize can be expensive due to high import duties on many goods. It's recommended to shop like a local, opting for local produce and products instead of imported brands.

When it comes to drinks, beer prices vary depending on the establishment. At BC's Beach Bar, beer is $2, while most places in town charge $2.50. Resorts typically have higher prices. A case of beer from a distributor costs about $25, but it's unclear if this includes a deposit.

In summary, while it's possible to find affordable food options in Belize, particularly at street stalls and local eateries, the country is generally more expensive than neighbouring Mexico and Guatemala.

Cost of transportation

The cost of transportation in Belize depends on the mode of transportation, distance travelled, and origin and destination points. Here is a breakdown of the costs for different modes of transportation:

Buses

Public buses are the cheapest way to travel long distances within Belize, with prices ranging from $1 to $15 based on the distance travelled. However, the buses tend to be run-down, and routes can be challenging to navigate.

Taxis

Taxis are easily accessible and affordable in Belize City and San Pedro, with fares typically ranging from BZ$10 to BZ$15 (approximately $5 to $7.50). However, regular taxis do not have a fixed meter rate or a consistent look, so it is advisable to agree on a price before getting into the taxi.

Water Taxis

Water taxis are the primary mode of transportation to access Belize's numerous cayes (small, low-lying coral islands). One-way tickets with popular water taxi services like the San Pedro Belize Express typically cost between $21 and $31.

Rental Cars

Rental cars are readily available near the country's two major airports and are a convenient option for visiting outlying Maya sites. An international driving permit is required to drive in Belize. Four-wheel-drive vehicles are recommended due to rustic roads and challenging driving conditions during rainy weather.

Flights

For longer distances or travel to islands, commuter airlines like Tropic Air and Maya Island Air offer daily flights from Belize City to popular destinations. Prices vary depending on the route, airline, and season.

Gasoline

Gasoline is expensive in Belize, costing about two to two-and-a-half times the price in the United States. This also affects taxi fares and the cost of operating a private vehicle.

Other Options

In popular retirement destinations and smaller islands like Caye Caulker, getting around is often done on foot or using golf carts.

Frequently asked questions