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Expat Exchange - Cost of Living in Sarteneja 2024
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Cost of Living in Sarteneja

By Betsy Burlingame

Cigna Global Health
Cigna Global Health

Summary: If you're moving to Sarteneja, understanding the the cost of living in Sarteneja 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 Sarteneja
Apartment Rentals Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center can range from $400 to $600 USD per month. Rent for a three-bedroom apartment in the city center can range from $800 to $1,200 USD per month.
Apartment Purchases The cost of purchasing an apartment in Sarteneja can range from $50,000 to $100,000 USD, depending on the size and location.
Transportation Public transportation in Sarteneja is limited, but there are taxis available. The cost of a taxi ride within the city is usually around $5 USD. A bus ride from Sarteneja to Belize City is around $20 USD.
Groceries The cost of groceries in Sarteneja is relatively low. A gallon of milk is around $3 USD, a dozen eggs is around $2 USD, and a pound of chicken is around $4 USD.
Restaurants The cost of eating out in Sarteneja is relatively low. A meal at a mid-range restaurant is around $10 USD per person. A meal at a fast food restaurant is around $5 USD per person.
Utilities The cost of utilities in Sarteneja is relatively low. The average cost of electricity is around $50 USD per month. The average cost of water is around $20 USD per month.
Private School Tuition The cost of private school tuition in Sarteneja varies depending on the school. Preschool tuition is usually around $200 USD per month. Elementary school tuition is usually around $400 USD per month. Middle school tuition is usually around $500 USD per month. High school tuition is usually around $600 USD per month.

Monthly Budget for Retirees in Sarteneja

"The cost of living in Sarteneja is considered to be relatively low compared to many Western countries. Housing is affordable, with options ranging from modest homes to more luxurious villas. The cost of utilities such as electricity, water, and internet is also quite reasonable. Groceries in Sarteneja are inexpensive, especially if you buy local products. Fresh fruits, vegetables, and seafood are particularly affordable. Eating out at local restaurants is also quite cheap, with meals often costing just a few dollars. Transportation costs are also low in Sarteneja. Many locals choose to get around by bicycle or on foot, which is free. For those who prefer to drive, gasoline prices are comparable to those in the United States. Healthcare in Sarteneja is also affordable. There are local clinics and hospitals that offer services at a fraction of the cost compared to the U.S. However, for more serious medical conditions, you may need to travel to a larger city or even out of the country. Overall, the cost of living in Sarteneja, Belize is quite low, making it an attractive option for retirees and others looking to live in a tropical paradise on a budget," said one expat living in Sarteneja.

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

"I've been living in Sarteneja for a while now, and I can tell you that it's definitely possible to live comfortably on $1,500 a month, but you'll have to make some sacrifices. First, you'll need to adjust your expectations when it comes to modern amenities. While you can find some places with reliable electricity and internet, it's not as consistent as you might be used to. You'll also need to be prepared for the occasional power outage and slower internet speeds.As for housing, you'll want to look for more affordable neighborhoods like the outskirts of the village or even consider sharing a house with other expats to save on rent. The closer you get to the center of the village or the waterfront, the more expensive the properties will be. You can find a decent house or apartment for around $500 to $700 a month, but you'll need to be prepared to compromise on space and amenities.When it comes to food, you'll need to adjust your diet to include more local produce and ingredients, as imported goods can be quite expensive. Shopping at the local markets and eating at local restaurants will help you save money and give you a more authentic Belizean experience. You can expect to spend around $300 to $400 a month on groceries and eating out.Transportation is another area where you can save money. Sarteneja is a small village, so you can easily get around on foot or by bicycle. If you need to travel to other parts of Belize, you can use the local buses, which are quite affordable. Owning a car can be expensive due to the cost of gas and maintenance, so it's best to avoid it if you can.As for entertainment and activities, there are plenty of affordable options in Sarteneja. You can enjoy the beautiful beaches, go hiking in the nearby Shipstern Nature Reserve, or take part in community events and festivals. However, if you're used to a more active nightlife or frequent trips to the movies, you'll need to adjust your expectations.In conclusion, living in Sarteneja on $1,500 a month is possible, but you'll need to make some sacrifices and adjust your lifestyle. By choosing more affordable housing, eating local food, and taking advantage of the natural beauty and activities in the area, you can enjoy a comfortable life in this charming Belizean village," commented an expat living in Sarteneja.

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

"I've been living in Sarteneja 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'll have to make to ensure you stay within your budget.Firstly, you'll need to be mindful of your housing choices. Sarteneja has a mix of affordable and more expensive neighborhoods. I'd recommend looking for a place in the more affordable areas, such as near the village center or along the main road. These areas tend to have more modest homes, but they're still comfortable and offer all the basic amenities you'll need. I'd avoid the more upscale neighborhoods near the waterfront or the more secluded areas, as these can be quite pricey.Another thing to consider is transportation. While Sarteneja is a small village, you may still need a vehicle to get around, especially if you plan on exploring other parts of Belize. I'd recommend getting a used car or a scooter, as these are more affordable options. Keep in mind that gas prices can be high, so you'll want to factor that into your budget as well.When it comes to groceries and dining out, you'll find that local produce and products are quite affordable. However, if you're used to certain imported goods, you may have to pay a premium for them. I'd recommend shopping at the local markets and trying to cook at home as much as possible to save money. Dining out can be affordable if you stick to local eateries, but avoid the more touristy restaurants, as they tend to be more expensive.As for entertainment and activities, there are plenty of affordable options in Sarteneja and the surrounding areas. You can enjoy the beautiful beaches, go hiking in the nearby Shipstern Nature Reserve, or take part in local community events. However, if you're used to more extravagant forms of entertainment, such as high-end clubs or luxury resorts, you may have to cut back on those to stay within your budget.In terms of utilities and internet, you'll find that they can be a bit more expensive than what you might be used to. However, if you're mindful of your usage and opt for more basic plans, you should be able to manage within your budget.Overall, living in Sarteneja on $3,000 a month is doable, but it does require some adjustments and sacrifices. By being mindful of your housing choices, transportation, and spending habits, you can enjoy a comfortable life in this beautiful Belizean village," said one expat living in Sarteneja.

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

"I've been living in Sarteneja 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 are some sacrifices you'll have to make to ensure you stay within your budget.Firstly, you'll need to be mindful of your housing choices. Sarteneja is a small village, so there aren't really specific neighborhoods that are more or less expensive. However, you can find affordable houses or apartments for rent, usually ranging from $300 to $800 per month, depending on the size and location. If you're looking for something more luxurious, you might have to pay a bit more, but it's still possible to find something within your budget.One of the sacrifices you might have to make is adjusting to the slower pace of life in Sarteneja. While it's a beautiful and peaceful place, it doesn't have the same level of infrastructure and amenities as a big city. For example, you might not have access to high-speed internet or cable TV, and you'll have to rely on local markets for groceries, which might not have the same variety of products you're used to.Another thing to consider is transportation. While Sarteneja is small and you can easily walk or bike around the village, you might need a car if you want to explore other parts of Belize or if you need to commute to work. Gas prices can be quite high, so this could be an additional expense to factor into your budget.Eating out and entertainment options are also limited in Sarteneja, so you might have to get creative with your leisure activities. There are a few local restaurants and bars, but they might not offer the same variety or quality of food and drinks you're used to. On the plus side, this can help you save money by cooking at home and finding inexpensive ways to enjoy your free time, like exploring the beautiful nature surrounding the village or participating in community events.In conclusion, living in Sarteneja on a $5,000 a month budget is definitely doable, but it requires some adjustments and sacrifices. By being mindful of your housing choices, transportation, and entertainment options, you can enjoy a comfortable life in this charming Belizean village," commented an expat living in Sarteneja.

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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