What's 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 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.

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.

Can US citizens live in Belize?

Residence and Citizenship in Belize

Work permits cost $1,500 per year for U.S. citizens. Having your residence also makes it easy to travel in and out of the country. You must live in Belize for 50 consecutive weeks before you can apply for permanent residence.

What is the average cost of a home in Belize?

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.

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

Can you use Medicare in Belize?

Expats who have Medicare in the U.S. or coverage under the Canadian healthcare system typically pay out-of-pocket for routine care in Belize and then fly north for surgery or any long-term, involved medical treatment.

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.

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.

Is Belize safe retirement?

Is it safe to retire in Belize? Generally Belize is a very safe place for expats to live. As with all countries there are areas you should avoid but the traditional expat loacations of Placencia and Ambergris Caye have very low crime rates compared to Belize City.

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.

Where is the safest place to live 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 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.

Is it cheaper to live in Belize or Mexico?

Belize is 80.5% more expensive than Mexico.

Can a U.S. 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.

Is it cheaper to live in Belize or Costa Rica?

Cheaper In Belize

You can live well in Costa Rica for less than at home, but it is no longer a bargain here. Compared with Belize, Costa Rica is actually expensive. You can get by in Costa Rica spending only a little. But you won't be able to live the kind of retirement that you could 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.

Can you drink the water in Belize?

Is the water safe to drink in Belize? Overall, yes, you can drink the tap water in Belize, although most hotels will provide bottled water, or they will filter the tap water.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

What food is Belize known for?

Which Caribbean country has the best healthcare?

Bahamas. Medical care in The Bahamas is widely considered to be among the best available in the Caribbean. Standards are generally very high and staff are well trained. There are two main public hospitals and two major private hospitals plus numerous health centers and clinics across the country.