Where do most 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.

What is the best part of Belize to live in?

Where is the safest place to live in Belize?

Placencia, San Pedro, and Caye Caulker are all considered safer areas for tourists. Don't carry much cash when you go out. Do not flash wealth or carry fancy bags, wear fancy clothes shoes etc. —this is a developing country and you will stand out.

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.

Is Belize expat friendly?

Belize offers other advantages. As a British Commonwealth country, English is the primary language, making it easy for expats to transition. This little country is also well known for its open-arms attitude toward expats who wish to become residents, or to open a business.

The 5 Best Places to Live in Belize

What are the downsides of living in Belize?

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.

What is the average cost of a house 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.

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.

How long can a U.S. citizen stay 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.

Where do most Americans go 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 safer than Mexico?

More importantly, which country is safer? Belize is safer than Mexico, because the small nation is so dependent on tourism that they have to make strides to keep visitors safe. In truth, each of these nations boasts a stunning landscape, rich history, and friendly people.

What is the nicest city in Belize?

Which is better San Pedro or Belize City?

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between San Pedro and Belize City, we can see that San Pedro is more expensive. And not only is Belize City much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Belize City would let you spend less money overall.

Is Belize good for retirement?

Belize has one of the world's best retiree programs. Through the Qualified Retired Persons (QRP) Program, the government gives qualified retirees an exemption from taxes on all income derived from sources outside Belize, whether such income is earned or passive, and whether or not it is remitted to Belize.

What is the richest part of Belize?

The most expensive area of Belize where expats reside are Ambergris Caye, Placencia, and Caye Caulker. At the top end of the real estate market in Ambergris Caye.

What is the leading cause of death in Belize?

Ischemic heart disease was the leading cause of death in Belize in 2019, accounting for around 49.2 deaths per 100,000 people.

How much does an MRI cost in Belize?

A visit to a medical practitioner for basic ailments will cost about U.S. $70. including medication such as basic antibiotics, cough or allergy medicine. Ultrasound ranges about US$75. An MRI averages US$900.

Do hurricanes ever hit Belize?

Belize is vulnerable to hurricanes, storms and associated flooding, wind damage, and storm surge, especially in Belize City. The country's low-lying terrain exacerbates the effects of flooding and sea level rise. Belize is also at risk to extreme temperature events.

Are there property taxes in Belize?

Property taxes in Belize are extremely low—usually spanning from 1 – 1.5 percent. That's amazing, especially if you're enjoying your retirement living in Belize and are on a fixed income and are concerned about the cost of living.

Is Belize tax free?

Income Tax in Belize

There's no graduated scale of taxation like in the U.S. and many other countries. Belize currently has no capital gains tax.

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.

Is it better to live in Belize or Panama?

Panama boasts one of the lowest crime rates in Central America, especially outside of the capital, Panama City. Belize has a higher overall crime rate per capita because it's much smaller than Panama, but most criminal activity is found in Belize City and we don't recommend living there.

Why are expats leaving Costa Rica?

Feeling homesick and missing family while living abroad. The increasing crime rate in Costa Rica. Coping with negativity coming from the expat community. Adjusting to the extreme climate, unstable infrastructure, and cultural/lifestyle differences.

Is it easy to buy property in Belize?

Although Costa Rica and Panama get all the publicity, Belize is renowned as one of the easiest countries in Central America for foreign buyers. There are no restrictions on noncitizens owning property, no capital gains taxes and low property taxes.