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Expat Exchange - Cost of Living in Saint-Joseph 2024
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Cost of Living in Saint-Joseph

By Betsy Burlingame

Universal Tax Professionals
Universal Tax Professionals

Summary: Understanding the the cost of living in Saint-Joseph helps a newcomer what to expect when it comes to apartment or house hunting, grocery shopping, transportation, dining out, utilities and more.

Category Details Cost
Apartment Rentals 1-bedroom apartment in city center €500 - €700 per month
1-bedroom apartment outside city center €400 - €600 per month
Apartment Purchases Price per square meter in city center €1,800 - €2,500
Price per square meter outside city center €1,200 - €1,800
Transportation One-way local transport ticket €1.50
Monthly local transport pass €40 - €60
Gasoline (1 liter) €1.40 - €1.60
Taxi (1 km) €1.50 - €2.00
Groceries Milk (1 liter) €0.90 - €1.20
Bread (500g) €1.00 - €1.50
Rice (1 kg) €1.50 - €2.00
Chicken breasts (1 kg) €7.00 - €10.00
Restaurants Meal at an inexpensive restaurant €10.00 - €15.00
Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant €40.00 - €60.00
Domestic beer (0.5-liter draught) €2.00 - €3.50
Cappuccino €1.50 - €2.50
Utilities Basic utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage) for an 85m2 apartment €80 - €150 per month
Internet (60 Mbps or more, unlimited data, cable/ADSL) €25 - €40 per month
Mobile tariff (no discounts or plans) €0.10 - €0.20 per minute
Private School Tuition Preschool €250 - €400 per month
Elementary School €300 - €500 per month
Middle School €350 - €600 per month
High School €400 - €700 per month
Please note that the costs provided are approximate and may vary depending on the specific location within Saint-Joseph, and the current economic situation. It is always a good idea to research and compare prices before making any decisions.

Monthly Budget for Retirees in Saint-Joseph

"The cost of living in Saint-Joseph can be considered moderate. Housing tends to be the most significant expense, with rental prices varying based on the size and location of the property. Utilities such as electricity, heating, cooling, and water are also a considerable part of the monthly budget.Groceries in Saint-Joseph are relatively affordable, with local markets offering fresh produce, meat, and fish. Imported goods and specialty items can be more expensive due to transportation costs. Dining out can range from inexpensive at local eateries to more costly at high-end restaurants.Transportation costs are also a factor to consider. While public transportation is available and affordable, many residents opt for personal vehicles, which include costs for maintenance, insurance, and fuel. Healthcare in Martinique is of a high standard and is generally affordable, with both public and private options available. However, private health insurance can add to monthly expenses.Lastly, leisure activities such as sports, entertainment, and cultural events can vary in cost, but there are options available for all budgets. Overall, the cost of living in Saint-Joseph, Martinique is influenced by lifestyle choices and personal spending habits," said one expat living in Saint-Joseph.

Can I live in Saint-Joseph on $1,500 a month?

"I've been living in Saint-Joseph 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 apartments in neighborhoods like Quartier La Ferme or Morne des Esses, where you can find a decent one-bedroom apartment for around $500-$600 a month. Avoid more expensive neighborhoods like La Trinité or Le Lamentin, as rents there can be much higher.Next, you'll need to be mindful of your utility bills. Electricity and water can be quite expensive here, so try to conserve energy by using fans instead of air conditioning and being conscious of your water usage. You should also consider getting a local SIM card for your phone, as international roaming charges can add up quickly.When it comes to transportation, owning a car can be costly due to high gas prices and maintenance costs. Instead, consider using public transportation or carpooling with coworkers. If you do need a car, look for a fuel-efficient model and try to limit your driving to essential trips.Groceries can also be a significant expense, especially if you're used to buying imported products. To save money, try shopping at local markets and buying fresh, local produce. You can also save by cooking at home instead of eating out, as restaurant prices can be quite high.Finally, you'll need to be mindful of your entertainment and leisure expenses. While there are plenty of free or low-cost activities to enjoy in Martinique, such as hiking, swimming, or exploring the island's beautiful beaches, you may need to cut back on more expensive hobbies or outings.Overall, living in Saint-Joseph, Martinique on $1,500 a month is doable, but you'll need to be conscious of your spending and make some sacrifices to make it work," commented an expat living in Saint-Joseph.

Can I live in Saint-Joseph on $3,500 a month?

"I've been living in Saint-Joseph for a while now, and I can tell you that it's definitely possible to live comfortably on $3,000 a month, but you'll have to make some adjustments to your lifestyle. First, you'll need to find an affordable place to live. I recommend looking for apartments in neighborhoods like La Ferme, La Croix Rivail, and La Plaine. These areas are more budget-friendly and still offer decent living conditions. On the other hand, you might want to avoid more expensive neighborhoods like La Trinite, Le Lamentin, and Fort-de-France, as the cost of living there can be significantly higher.When it comes to transportation, owning a car can be quite expensive due to the high cost of gas and maintenance. I suggest using public transportation or even getting a bicycle to get around. The bus system is pretty reliable, and it's a great way to save money.As for groceries and eating out, you'll need to be mindful of your spending. Shopping at local markets and cooking at home can help you save a lot. Eating out can be quite expensive, especially in touristy areas, so try to limit that to special occasions or when you really want to treat yourself.In terms of entertainment, there are plenty of free or low-cost activities to enjoy on the island. Hiking, going to the beach, and exploring the beautiful nature of Martinique are all great ways to spend your time without breaking the bank. You might have to cut back on more expensive hobbies or activities, but there's still plenty to do and see.Lastly, be prepared to adjust your expectations when it comes to certain modern amenities. While you'll still have access to things like internet and cell phone service, they might not be as fast or reliable as you're used to. It's a small sacrifice to make for the opportunity to live in such a beautiful place.Overall, living in Saint-Joseph, Martinique on $3,000 a month is doable, but it requires some adjustments and careful budgeting. By being mindful of your spending and embracing the local lifestyle, you can make it work and enjoy your time on this beautiful island," said one expat living in Saint-Joseph.

Can I live in Saint-Joseph on $5,000 a month?

"I've been living in Saint-Joseph 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 Saint-Joseph include Quartier La Ferme, Morne des Esses, and Quartier Parnasse. These areas offer more reasonably priced housing options, while still providing access to modern amenities like grocery stores, restaurants, and public transportation. On the other hand, you might want to avoid more expensive neighborhoods like Quartier Bellevue and Quartier Desmarinières, as the cost of living there can be significantly higher.When it comes to transportation, owning a car can be quite expensive due to the cost of gas and maintenance. Instead, I'd recommend using public transportation or even investing in a bicycle to get around. This will not only save you money but also allow you to explore the beautiful island at a more leisurely pace.Eating out can also be quite pricey in Martinique, so I'd suggest cooking at home as much as possible. Local markets offer a great selection of fresh produce, meats, and seafood at reasonable prices. Plus, you'll get to experience the local cuisine and culture by preparing your own meals.As for entertainment, there are plenty of free or low-cost activities to enjoy on the island. Hiking, snorkeling, and exploring the many beautiful beaches are just a few examples. However, you might have to cut back on more expensive activities like dining at high-end restaurants or attending concerts and other events.Overall, living comfortably on $5,000 a month in Saint-Joseph, Martinique is definitely achievable, but it will require some careful budgeting and a willingness to make a few sacrifices. By choosing an affordable neighborhood, utilizing public transportation, cooking at home, and enjoying low-cost activities, you'll be able to make the most of your time on this beautiful island," commented an expat living in Saint-Joseph.

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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