What is it like for an American to live in Belize?

Belize is a very non-materialistic place and people do not spend money on items like they do in the U.S. You find you don't need the stuff you left in the U.S. There isn't much to buy here, it is one of the greatest lifestyle shifts that I have personally experienced. Fancy things look out of place here.

How hard is it for an American to live in Belize?

Belize is a very welcoming country for foreigners, especially those who are done working, and all they want is to enjoy life in a quiet and tranquil atmosphere. The Qualified Retirement Program is the initiative that allows people who are 45 years and above to settle in the country effortlessly.

Do people in Belize like Americans?

You Like Belizeans

As a general rule Belizeans like North Americans and Europeans and people from all over the world. It is estimated that the equivalent of Belize's entire population lives in North America. Because Belizeans speak English, hundreds of thousands live in the U.S.A. and Canada.

What are the downsides of living in Belize?

How much do you need to live comfortably in Belize?

And though Belize's cost of living is comparably lower than that of the U.S., its costs vary per area. However, you may very well be able to survive with a monthly budget between $1,200 and $1,500. But housing and food will play a significant role in your monthly bill.

15 Reason's NOT to retire to Belize! Don't live in Belize!

Does Belize have good healthcare?

Medical care in Belize generally gets a poor grade, but it has been steadily improving in the last few years. Most expat residents say the country needs more healthcare facilities, more specialized physicians and staff, and better equipment.

Is there a Walmart in Belize City?

You can go to Sam's Club in Mexico, and to many other stores equal to those in the U.S., even Walmart, but not in Belize.

Can I get my Social Security if I move to Belize?

Social Security is available for any U.S. citizen, regardless of the country you're currently living in.

Where do most American expats live in Belize?

The most popular landing spots for expats in Belize are Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker; the Placencia peninsula; the Corozal district; and the Cayo Region. Some expats are now gravitating as far south as the Toledo District, although you'll find fewer First World amenities there.

Is Belize English speaking?

Languages of Belize

English is the official language of Belize, but most of the population also speaks a creole patois, and many Belizeans are multilingual. Yucatec, Mopán, and Kekchí are spoken by the Maya in Belize.

What are the pros and cons of living in Belize?

Pros: No commitment, no financial requirement, flexibility, little red tape. Cons: No tax advantages, no official status, inconvenience of having to renew periodically, monthly fee of US$25. to $50. per person to extend, possibility rules may change, can't work for pay in the country.

How are Americans treated in Belize?

Americans and expats in general are treated well here in Belize. Everybody gets along here and there's not a lot of separation. You would not hear people say, "Oh you're a foreigner.” Rather, they would look at you and say "Hey, you're just a person". The expats who move here look at the locals that way, too.

Is Belize safe retirement?

The average income in Belize is lower than neighboring Caribbean countries like the Bahamas, but the laid-back approach to life, combined with lower costs, makes it an excellent place to retire. When it comes to getting a sense for the overall costs of retiring in Belize, Investopedia estimate around $1,700 per month.

How much does a house in Belize cost?

Belize tends to be less expensive than other Caribbean destinations. House prices range from BZ$294,002 (US$150, 000) to BZ$2,156,011 (US$1,100,000) depending on location. Condominiums range from BZ$280,281 (US$143,000) to BZ$772,244 (US$394,000), according to revealrealestate.com.

Is Belize safe for American expats?

In the tourist and expat areas of Placencia and Ambergris Caye, you will find most expats feel safe, and crime is similar to most tourism areas in the world. Petty theft is an issue, and violent crime, while it happens occasionally, is statistically rare.

How long can a U.S. citizen live in Belize?

Visa and Residency Options for Expats in Belize

As a citizen of the U.S. or Canada you can stay in Belize for up to one month without a visa. If you want to stay longer you'll need to go to the immigration office for an updated visitor's permit or tourist stamp.

Can a US citizen own property in Belize?

Belize is one of the most amenable countries for foreigners looking to buy real estate, as the rights of non-nationals are exactly the same as nationals. Unlike in many other countries, non-nationals can buy a property outright rather than have to settle for a long-term lease with the national government.

Does Belize get hit by hurricanes?

In the past, major hurricanes have caused extensive damage, serious injuries, and deaths. The areas in Belize most sensitive to hurricane damage are the cayes and coastal areas, including popular destinations such as San Pedro on Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker, and Placencia on the mainland.

What is the safest city in Belize?

What is the safest part of Belize? Placencia, San Pedro, and Caye Caulker are all considered safer areas for tourists. Belize City can be safe too if you stick to the tourist areas and don't wander off alone – especially not into the Northern part of the city.

Is there a Costco in Belize?

You're a hobby shopper.

There's little opportunity for non-essential shopping in Belize, and there are no big chain stores. You won't be able to shop at Wal-Mart, Costco or Sam's Club. This is a small country where life is simple. You'll find everything you need, but probably not everything you might want.

Can you live outside the U.S. and collect Social Security?

If you are a U.S. citizen, you may receive your Social Security payments outside the U.S. as long as you are eligible for them.

What is Belize retirement age?

The mandatory retirement age is 55.

Is there a Mcdonalds in Belize?

Fast-Food Chains are a No, No

I'm sorry for anyone who visits Belize and is addicted to McDonald's, Wendy's or Pizza Hut! American fast-food chains don't exist here. When Belizeans want a fast-food fix, they head to hole-in-the-wall places and order things such as panades, salbutes, garnaches and tacos.

How do I retire on Social Security in Belize?

You don't have to be retired—or even of retirement age—to take advantage of this program. However, you must be at least 45 years old, and be able to show that you have adequate resources to deposit a monthly income of $2,000 or more per month, and comply with several other minor requirements.

Can I use my cell phone in Belize?

Your phones should work, but make sure you get the international on your phone so it will take it down to a lower price per minute. If your phone has a sim card, you can buy a sim card here on the island to get a Belizean number and then buy prepaid cards to add minutes to your phone.