Cost of Living in Viti Levu
Summary: Understanding the the cost of living in Viti Levu helps a newcomer what to expect when it comes to apartment or house hunting, grocery shopping, transportation, dining out, utilities and more.
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Monthly Budget for Retirees in Viti Levu
"The cost of living in Viti Levu, can be considered moderate compared to many Western countries. Housing and accommodation costs are relatively affordable, especially outside the main tourist areas. Local food and produce are also reasonably priced, while imported goods and dining in restaurants can be more expensive. Public transportation is quite cheap, but owning and maintaining a car can be costly due to high import taxes on vehicles. Utilities such as electricity and water are also relatively affordable, but internet services can be expensive. Healthcare is generally inexpensive, but it's recommended to have health insurance for more serious medical issues. Overall, the cost of living is lower for those who adapt to a local lifestyle, while those who prefer a more Western lifestyle may find it more expensive," said one expat living in Viti Levu.
Can I live in Viti Levu on $1,500 a month?
"I've been living in Viti Levu 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. For example, you might not be able to afford a luxurious apartment in an upscale neighborhood, but you can still find decent accommodation in more affordable areas.One of the more affordable neighborhoods I'd recommend is Nadi, which is a bit more laid-back and has a lower cost of living compared to Suva, the capital city. You can find a decent apartment or house for rent in Nadi for around $500 to $800 per month. On the other hand, I'd avoid neighborhoods like Denarau Island, which is a high-end resort area with expensive properties.When it comes to utilities and other expenses, you'll need to be mindful of your usage. Electricity and water can be quite expensive, so try to conserve energy and water as much as possible. Internet and mobile phone plans can also be pricey, so you might want to look for a more basic plan to save some money.Eating out can be quite affordable in Fiji, especially if you stick to local restaurants and markets. However, if you're used to dining at high-end restaurants or buying imported groceries, you'll need to adjust your habits to fit your budget. I'd recommend shopping at local markets for fresh produce and trying out local dishes to save money on food.Transportation can also be a significant expense, especially if you're used to driving a car. Public transportation is available, but it's not always reliable or convenient. You might want to consider getting a bicycle or a scooter to get around more affordably.Overall, living in Viti Levu on $1,500 a month is doable, but you'll need to be mindful of your spending and make some sacrifices. By choosing a more affordable neighborhood, being conscious of your utility usage, and adjusting your lifestyle to fit your budget, you can live comfortably and enjoy the beautiful island life that Fiji has to offer," commented an expat living in Viti Levu.
Can I live in Viti Levu on $3,500 a month?
"I've been living in Viti Levu 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 choose an affordable neighborhood to live in. I'd recommend looking into areas like Nadi, Lautoka, or even some parts of Suva. These areas have a good mix of local and expat communities, and you can find decent housing options at reasonable prices. I'd avoid neighborhoods like Denarau Island or Pacific Harbour, as these are more upscale and expensive.When it comes to transportation, owning a car can be quite costly due to high import taxes and fuel prices. I'd suggest using public transportation like buses or taxis, which are relatively affordable and reliable. You can also consider buying a second-hand scooter or motorbike for short commutes.Eating out can be expensive, especially if you prefer dining at high-end restaurants or hotels. To save money, I'd recommend cooking at home and shopping at local markets for fresh produce. You can also try local eateries and food stalls, which offer delicious and affordable meals.As for entertainment and leisure activities, you might have to cut back on some of the more expensive options like golfing at exclusive clubs or going on luxury cruises. Instead, you can explore the beautiful beaches, go hiking, or visit local attractions, which are often free or have minimal entrance fees.Lastly, while you'll have access to modern amenities like internet and cable TV, the quality and reliability might not be up to the standards you're used to. You might experience occasional power outages or slow internet speeds, so it's essential to be patient and adaptable.Overall, living in Viti Levu on $3,000 a month is doable, but it requires some adjustments and sacrifices. By choosing an affordable neighborhood, using public transportation, cooking at home, and enjoying low-cost leisure activities, you can live comfortably and enjoy the beautiful island life," said one expat living in Viti Levu.
Can I live in Viti Levu on $5,000 a month?
"I've been living in Viti Levu 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 choose an affordable neighborhood to live in. I'd recommend looking into areas like Nadi, Lautoka, or even some parts of Suva. These areas have a good mix of local and expat communities, and you can find decent housing options at reasonable prices. On the other hand, I'd avoid neighborhoods like Denarau Island or Pacific Harbour, as these are more upscale and expensive.When it comes to utilities and internet, you might have to compromise a bit on the quality and speed of the services. Fiji's infrastructure isn't as developed as in some Western countries, so you might experience occasional power outages or slow internet speeds. However, this is something you'll get used to over time.Transportation can be quite affordable if you're willing to use local buses and taxis. Owning a car can be expensive due to import taxes and high fuel prices, so I'd recommend using public transportation as much as possible.Eating out can be quite affordable if you stick to local restaurants and markets. However, if you prefer dining at high-end restaurants or buying imported groceries, your food expenses can add up quickly. I'd suggest trying to cook at home more often and exploring local cuisine to save money.Lastly, while healthcare in Fiji is relatively affordable, the quality of care might not be up to the standards you're used to. I'd recommend getting a comprehensive health insurance plan that covers medical evacuation in case of emergencies.Overall, living in Viti Levu on $5,000 a month is doable, but you'll need to be mindful of your spending and be willing to make some sacrifices. Embrace the local culture and lifestyle, and you'll find that Fiji can be an affordable and enjoyable place to live," commented an expat living in Viti Levu.
About the Author
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.