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Expat Exchange - Cost of Living in Falmouth 2024
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Falmouth, Jamaica


Cost of Living in Falmouth

By Betsy Burlingame

SJB Global
SJB Global

Summary: If you're moving to Falmouth, understanding the the cost of living in Falmouth helps you know what to expect when it comes to apartment or house hunting, grocery shopping, transportation, dining out, utilities and more.

Cost of Living Falmouth
Apartment Rentals Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center can range from $400 to $1,000 USD per month. Rent for a three-bedroom apartment in the city center can range from $800 to $2,000 USD per month.
Apartment Purchases The cost of purchasing an apartment in Falmouth can range from $50,000 to $200,000 USD, depending on the size and location.
Transportation Public transportation in Falmouth is relatively inexpensive. A one-way bus ticket costs around $1 USD. Taxis are also available and the cost of a ride is usually around $5 USD.
Groceries Basic groceries such as bread, milk, and eggs can cost around $10 USD per week. Prices for other items such as fruits and vegetables vary depending on the season.
Restaurants The cost of eating out in Falmouth can range from $10 to $30 USD per person, depending on the type of restaurant. Fast food restaurants are usually cheaper than sit-down restaurants.
Utilities The cost of utilities in Falmouth can range from $50 to $100 USD per month, depending on usage. This includes electricity, water, and internet.
Private School Tuition The cost of private school tuition in Falmouth can range from $2,000 to $5,000 USD per year, depending on the school and grade level. Preschool tuition is usually the least expensive, while high school tuition is usually the most expensive.

Monthly Budget for Retirees in Falmouth

"Living in Falmouth is relatively affordable compared to other locations. Renting an apartment in the area can cost between $500 to $900 per month, and food is generally inexpensive. Many individuals in the area rely on public transportation, but the cost of owning a vehicle can be quite high due to added costs of fuel and maintenance. Healthcare costs in Falmouth are reasonable, with access to free public health clinics, clinics charging nominal fees, and private healthcare facilities. Overall, the cost of living in Falmouth, Jamaica is quite low, with most people able to maintain a comfortable standard of living," said one expat living in Falmouth, Jamaica.

Can I live in Falmouth on $1,500 a month?

"I've been living in Falmouth for a while now, and I can tell you that it's possible to live comfortably on $1,500 a month, but you'll have to make some sacrifices. First, you'll need to find an affordable place to live. I recommend looking for a rental in neighborhoods like Hague, Martha Brae, or Florence Hall. These areas are more budget-friendly and still offer decent living conditions. You might have to settle for a smaller apartment or house, but it's doable.On the other hand, I'd avoid neighborhoods like Stonebrook Estates or Coral Spring, as they tend to be more expensive and cater to a more upscale lifestyle. Utilities can also be a bit pricey, so you'll want to be mindful of your usage, especially with electricity and water. You might need to cut back on air conditioning or invest in energy-efficient appliances to save on costs.When it comes to transportation, owning a car can be expensive due to high import taxes and gas prices. I'd recommend using public transportation or even getting a bicycle to get around town. It's not only cheaper but also a great way to explore the local culture and scenery.Groceries can be affordable if you shop at local markets and cook at home most of the time. Eating out can be a bit pricey, especially in touristy areas, so you'll want to limit that as much as possible. You can still enjoy the local cuisine by trying out street food vendors, which are usually more affordable.As for entertainment and leisure activities, you'll need to prioritize and choose wisely. There are plenty of free or low-cost activities to enjoy, like going to the beach, hiking, or exploring local attractions. However, you might have to cut back on more expensive hobbies or outings, like going to high-end bars or taking part in pricey tours.Overall, living in Falmouth on $1,500 a month is possible, but it requires some sacrifices and smart budgeting. By choosing an affordable neighborhood, being mindful of utility usage, and prioritizing low-cost activities, you can make it work and still enjoy your time in Jamaica," commented an expat living in Falmouth.

Can I live in Falmouth on $3,500 a month?

"I've been living in Falmouth for a while now, and I can tell you that it's definitely possible to live comfortably on $3,000 a month, especially if you're used to modern amenities. However, there are some sacrifices you might have to make to ensure you stay within your budget.Firstly, you'll need to be mindful of where you choose to live. Some neighborhoods in Falmouth can be quite expensive, so you'll want to avoid areas like Florence Hall Village and Stonebrook Vista, as the rent and cost of living in these areas can be quite high. Instead, consider more affordable neighborhoods like Hague Settlement or Martha Brae, where you can find decent housing at a more reasonable price.Another thing to consider is transportation. Owning a car in Jamaica can be quite expensive, especially when you factor in the cost of insurance, maintenance, and gas. To save money, you might want to rely on public transportation, which is quite affordable and reliable in Falmouth. You can use route taxis or buses to get around town, and they're usually quite easy to find.When it comes to groceries and eating out, you'll want to be mindful of your spending as well. Shopping at local markets and cooking at home can help you save a lot of money, as eating out at restaurants can add up quickly. If you do want to treat yourself to a meal out, try to stick to local eateries rather than more expensive tourist spots.Finally, you'll want to be mindful of your entertainment and leisure expenses. While there are plenty of free or low-cost activities to enjoy in Falmouth, such as visiting the beach or exploring the town's historic sites, you might have to cut back on more expensive hobbies or outings. For example, you might want to limit how often you go out for drinks or attend events with pricey admission fees.Overall, living in Falmouth on $3,000 a month is definitely doable, but you'll need to be mindful of your spending and make some sacrifices to ensure you stay within your budget. By choosing an affordable neighborhood, relying on public transportation, cooking at home, and being mindful of your entertainment expenses, you can enjoy a comfortable life in this beautiful Jamaican town," said one expat living in Falmouth.

Can I live in Falmouth on $5,000 a month?

"I've been living in Falmouth for a while now, and I can tell you that it's definitely possible to live comfortably on $5,000 a month, especially if you're used to modern amenities. However, there might be some sacrifices you'll have to make to ensure you stay within your budget.Firstly, you'll want to consider the neighborhood you choose to live in. Some of the more affordable neighborhoods in Falmouth include Hague, Martha Brae, and Florence Hall. These areas offer a mix of local and expat communities, and you can find decent housing options at reasonable prices. On the other hand, you might want to avoid more expensive neighborhoods like Stonebrook Estates and Coral Spring Village, as the cost of living there can be significantly higher.When it comes to utilities, you'll find that electricity can be quite expensive in Jamaica. To save on your monthly bills, you might want to consider using energy-efficient appliances and being mindful of your energy consumption. Additionally, you may need to rely on mobile data for internet access, as Wi-Fi can be spotty in some areas. This can also add to your monthly expenses, so it's important to find a mobile plan that suits your needs and budget.Transportation is another factor to consider. While public transportation is available, it can be unreliable and crowded at times. If you're planning to drive, be prepared for the high cost of gasoline and car maintenance. Alternatively, you can consider using taxis or ride-sharing services, but this can also add up over time.As for groceries and dining out, you'll find that local markets and street food vendors offer affordable and delicious options. However, if you prefer dining at restaurants or buying imported groceries, you'll need to be prepared to pay a premium for these items.In terms of entertainment and leisure activities, there are plenty of affordable options like visiting local beaches, hiking, and exploring the island's natural beauty. However, if you're interested in more upscale activities like golfing or attending high-end events, you might need to cut back on these to stay within your budget.Overall, living comfortably on $5,000 a month in Falmouth, Jamaica is achievable, but it will require some adjustments and sacrifices. By choosing an affordable neighborhood, being mindful of your utility consumption, and finding a balance between local and imported goods, you can make it work and enjoy your time in this beautiful island paradise," commented an expat living in Falmouth.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.


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SJB Global

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SJB Global

Falmouth, Jamaica

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