Cost of Living in Belize in U.S. Dollars: What You Need to Know

Moving to Belize can be a dream come true, but it's essential to understand the cost of living in this beautiful country. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in a city center can cost around $400-$600 per month.

Food prices in Belize are generally lower than in the US, but eating out can be expensive, with a meal at a mid-range restaurant costing around $15-$25 per person.

Groceries can be bought at local markets or supermarkets, with a basket of basic items costing around $30-$50 per week.

The cost of living in Belize can vary depending on where you live and your lifestyle. You can live well in places like Cayo for around $1,000 per month, but areas popular with tourists like Ambergris Caye can be more expensive.

Renting a two-bedroom place in Belize City can cost between $600 to $2,000 per month. Knowing the local ways of shopping can save you a lot and add to the fun of living abroad.

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On average, living in Belize might cost about $1,500, which can be much cheaper than living in the U.S., sometimes saving you around 75%. This makes Belize a fascinating choice for expats wanting a unique place to live.

Some expats have reported living on less than $600 per month, although this often involves living in a more basic housing area. A middle-aged expat in Corozal rents a nice small house for $250 per month.

Public health care, the cost of renting, buying or building a home in Belize, personal and auto insurance, property taxes, household labor and most products produced in Belize are less expensive than what you're used to paying.

Here are some approximate monthly living expenses for a couple in different areas:

Keep in mind that these are just rough estimates and can vary depending on your lifestyle and location.

Housing in Belize can be surprisingly affordable, with a basic Belizean-style wood home being the most cost-efficient option, costing between $800 and $1,200 per month for rent.

Renting an air-conditioned two-bedroom apartment in a beach town like San Pedro or Placencia can set you back $1,200 to $1,500 per month.

If you're looking to buy a home, you can find a modern one for $75,000 to $200,000 outside of tourist hotspots, but be prepared to pay $300,000 to $400,000 for a premium city location.

A single person's average expenses in Belize might reach about $2,395 a month, while couples might spend around $3,030, covering basic necessities like housing, food, and transportation.

To give you a better idea of expected costs, here's a breakdown of monthly expenses: rent ($800), groceries ($300), utilities ($150), transportation ($100), and dining out ($200).

For couples, these costs add up to around $3,030, while singles spend around $2,395, covering basic necessities like housing, food, and transportation.

The key to keeping housing costs in check is to spend no more than 25% to 30% of your take-home income on housing, which translates to $1,250 to $1,500 per month for a combined income of $5,000.

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Living in Belize can be cost-effective, especially for expats watching their spending. Groceries are affordable if you choose local foods and basics, with everyday items like rice, chicken, and vegetables being pretty cheap.

A meal at a simple restaurant in Belize costs around $7.93, much cheaper than in the U.S. Eating out is a reasonable option, but it's worth noting that imported items are more expensive.

A gallon of milk in Belize ranges from $4.73 to $18.95, and a dozen eggs costs between $1.50 and $4.00. These prices can vary depending on the item and whether it's imported.

Rent and utilities can take up a significant portion of your monthly expenses, with a single person's average rent being around $800 and couples paying around $1,200.

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In Belize, getting around is often as simple as walking or using a golf cart for short distances, especially when things are close by.

Having a car can be more costly, but might make sense for those living away from daily needs.

Belize's medical services are much cheaper compared to the U.S., with an urgent care visit costing only $25.

Staying in a private hospital can cost about $200 a day, offering huge savings over U.S. costs.

Most expats don't feel the need for insurance for basic healthcare because it's so affordable.

In Belize, you can get around without breaking the bank by walking or using a golf cart for short distances. Gas prices are higher than in the US, about two to 2-and-a-half times what you'd pay, so it's essential to plan your driving and combine trips to make the most of your gas budget.

Public transportation is the cheapest way to cover longer distances, with bus fares ranging from $1 to $15. The Belize government has made great strides in improving the reliability and quality of public transportation.

If you choose to own a vehicle, be prepared for the high cost of gasoline and potential headaches with repairs. Parts can be hard to come by, and finding a reliable mechanic can take time and effort.

Import taxes on motor vehicles in Belize are exorbitant, which is why most Belizeans drive used cars imported from the US. The public transport system operates on 25-year-old or more retired American school buses.

The cost of owning a car in Belize can be a significant expense, with gasoline prices between $5 and $7 per gallon. Many expats and residents opt for public transportation or taxis instead.

Belize's medical services are much cheaper compared to the U.S. An urgent care visit might cost only $25.

Staying in a private hospital can cost about $200 a day. Surgery prices range from $500 to $5,000, offering huge savings over U.S. costs.

Most expats don't feel the need for insurance for basic healthcare because it's so affordable. Lab work might cost about $200.

Public facilities do offer free or low-priced services, but they often lack medical supplies and equipment.

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In Belize, the national currency is the Belize dollar, which is fixed at a rate of two to the US dollar, making it easy to calculate exchange rates.

US dollars are widely accepted and sometimes even preferred as currency, which can create confusion, so it's essential to clarify which currency is being referred to when making purchases.

The Belize dollar is divided into 100 cents, with banknotes coming in denominations of 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 dollars, and coins coming in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 25, 50 cents, and 1 dollar.

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San Pedro Town, Belize has a cost of living that's 17% more expensive than in Belize City. This makes it a great option for those who want a slightly more luxurious lifestyle, but still want to save money compared to other major cities.

If you're considering moving to Belize City, you'll be happy to know that it's 44% cheaper than Salt Lake City, Utah. This is a huge difference, and it's definitely worth considering if you're looking to save money on your living expenses.

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In comparison, San Pedro Town is 14% cheaper than Sacramento, California. This makes it a great option for those who want to experience the laid-back Caribbean lifestyle without breaking the bank.

Here's a quick comparison of some major cities in the United States and their cost of living in Belize City:

These numbers are staggering, and they definitely make Belize City an attractive option for those looking to save money on their living expenses.

The Belize dollar is the national currency, fixed at a rate of two to the US dollar, making it easy to calculate exchange rates.

US dollars are widely accepted and sometimes preferred as currency, which can create confusion, especially in high-end expat destinations like San Pedro where prices are often quoted in US dollars.

The Belize dollar is divided into 100 cents, with banknotes available in denominations of 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 dollars.

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Coins come in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 25, 50 cents, and 1 dollar, although 10 and 50 cent pieces are not commonly used.

Most banknotes and coins feature a portrait of Queen Elizabeth, reflecting Belize’s British colonial history.

New currency notes started going into circulation in January 2025 and will eventually replace all paper currency, featuring images of national heroes George Price and Philip Goldson.

Belize doesn't have a progressive personal income tax regime, instead, residents and non-residents pay a flat tax of 25% if they earn more than $26,000 annually.

If you earn less than $26,000, you're exempt from paying taxes. This is a great incentive for those looking to retire or live in Belize.

The country also offers tax exemptions and cuts for businesses and self-employed individuals. However, the corporate tax rate depends on the business activity, ranging from 1.75% to 19%.

Property tax in Belize varies between 1% and 1.5% of an undeveloped land's value, and there is no capital gains tax. This makes it a great option for investors looking to buy or sell property.

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A 12.5% GST on almost everything, except some food and medical items, is a significant tax affecting expatriate residents. Import taxes also make up a significant portion of government revenue.

Residents under the Retired Persons Incentive Act don't have to pay import duties on several items, including a car, boat, plane, and up to $15,000 in household goods.

Knowing what it will cost to live in Belize is key for anyone thinking of moving there. The cost of living can change a lot based on where you live and how you choose to live.

It's essential to get a handle on your monthly expenses for budgeting. This will ensure a smooth change when relocating to Belize.

The cost of living in Belize can vary depending on where you choose to live. For example, the cost of living in Belize City is generally lower than in other areas like Ambergris Caye.

It's crucial to consider these costs and make sure they fit with your long-term goals. This will help you make informed decisions about your move to Belize.

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Living in Belize can be a great experience, but it's essential to understand the monthly expenses involved.

A single person's average expenses in Belize might reach about $2,395 a month.

Rent can cost around $800, while groceries can range from $300.

Utilities and transportation can add up to around $250.

Dining out can cost about $200.

Couples might spend about $3,030 a month, with rent costing around $1,200 and groceries around $500.

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