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


Cost of Living in Negril

By Betsy Burlingame

AGS Worldwide Movers
AGS Worldwide Movers

Summary: If you're moving to Negril, understanding the the cost of living in Negril 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 Negril
Apartment Rentals Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center can range from $500 to $1,500 per month, while a three-bedroom apartment can cost up to $2,500 per month. Outside of the city center, rent can be as low as $400 per month for a one-bedroom apartment.
Apartment Purchases The cost of purchasing an apartment in Negril can range from $50,000 to $200,000, depending on the size and location. Prices can be higher for beachfront properties.
Transportation Public transportation in Negril is limited, so most people rely on taxis or rental cars. Taxi fares start at $2.50 and can go up to $20, depending on the distance. Rental cars start at $50 per day.
Groceries Basic groceries such as bread, milk, and eggs can cost around $10 per week. Prices for other items such as fruits, vegetables, and meat can vary depending on the season and availability.
Restaurants The cost of eating out in Negril can range from $10 to $50 per person, depending on the type of restaurant. Fast food meals can cost as little as $5.
Utilities Utility bills in Negril can range from $50 to $150 per month, depending on usage. This includes electricity, water, and internet.
Private School Tuition Tuition for private preschools in Negril can range from $500 to $1,000 per month. Tuition for elementary, middle, and high schools can range from $1,500 to $3,000 per month.

Monthly Budget for Retirees in Negril

"The cost of living in Negril is generally considered to be quite affordable. Groceries, transportation, and utilities are all relatively inexpensive, while dining out and entertainment can be more expensive. Rent prices vary depending on the area, but are generally lower than in other parts of the country. Overall, Negril is a great place to live if you're looking for a budget-friendly destination," said one expat living in Negril.

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

"I've been living in Negril 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 a more affordable neighborhood to live in. I'd recommend looking into areas like West End or Sheffield, where you can find decent housing at a lower cost compared to the more expensive neighborhoods like Bloody Bay or Long Bay.When it comes to utilities, you'll need to be mindful of your usage, especially with electricity, as it can be quite expensive here. Try to use energy-efficient appliances and be conscious of turning off lights and electronics when not in use. Also, be prepared for occasional power outages, which are not uncommon in Jamaica.Transportation can be affordable if you use local route taxis or buses, but owning a car can be quite expensive due to high import taxes and gas prices. So, I'd recommend relying on public transportation or even renting a scooter to get around.As for food, eating out can be pricey, especially in touristy areas. To save money, try cooking at home more often and shopping at local markets for fresh produce. You can find some great deals on fruits, vegetables, and even seafood if you know where to look.In terms of entertainment, 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 frequent trips to high-end restaurants or bars.Lastly, healthcare can be a concern for expats in Jamaica. While there are public hospitals and clinics available, the quality of care might not be up to the standards you're used to. You might want to consider getting private health insurance, which can be an additional expense, but it will give you access to better healthcare facilities.Overall, living in Negril on $1,500 a month is doable, but you'll need to be mindful of your spending and be willing to make some sacrifices in terms of housing, transportation, and entertainment," commented an expat living in Negril.

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

"I've been living in Negril 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 Negril can be quite expensive, such as the West End or the beachfront areas. I'd recommend looking for a place to live in more affordable neighborhoods like Sheffield, Orange Bay, or even Whitehall. These areas still offer decent housing options and are close enough to the main attractions in Negril.Another thing to consider is transportation. Owning a car in Jamaica can be quite expensive due to import taxes and high gas prices. I'd suggest using public transportation, such as route taxis or buses, which are quite affordable and can get you around Negril and its surrounding areas.When it comes to groceries and dining out, you'll need to be mindful of your spending. Imported goods can be quite pricey, so I'd recommend shopping at local markets and buying fresh produce, which is not only cheaper but also healthier. Dining out can also add up quickly, so try to limit eating out to special occasions or opt for more affordable local eateries.Lastly, entertainment and leisure activities can also impact your budget. Negril has a lot to offer in terms of nightlife and attractions, but some of these can be quite costly. I'd suggest looking for free or low-cost activities, such as visiting the beautiful beaches, hiking, or exploring the local culture and community events.Overall, living in Negril on $3,000 a month is doable, but you'll need to be mindful of your spending and make some sacrifices to ensure you stay within your budget," said one expat living in Negril.

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

"I've been living in Negril 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 area you choose to live in. Some neighborhoods in Negril can be quite expensive, such as the West End, which is known for its luxury villas and upscale resorts. On the other hand, there are more affordable areas like the town center or Sheffield, where you can find reasonably priced apartments and houses.When it comes to utilities, you might find that electricity can be quite expensive, especially if you're using air conditioning regularly. To save on costs, you could consider using fans instead of air conditioning, or investing in energy-efficient appliances.Groceries can also be a bit pricey, especially if you're buying imported goods. To save money, try shopping at local markets and buying fresh produce, as well as sticking to local brands when possible. Eating out can be affordable if you stick to local eateries, but dining at high-end restaurants or tourist spots can quickly add up.Transportation is generally affordable, especially if you use local taxis or buses. However, if you plan on renting a car, be prepared for high gas prices and maintenance costs.In terms of entertainment, there are plenty of free or low-cost activities to enjoy, such as visiting the beach, hiking, or exploring local attractions. However, if you're into nightlife or more upscale activities, you might find that your budget gets stretched a bit thin.Overall, living comfortably on $5,000 a month in Negril is definitely achievable, but you'll need to be mindful of your spending and make some adjustments to your lifestyle. By choosing a more affordable neighborhood, being conscious of your utility usage, and prioritizing local goods and experiences, you can enjoy a comfortable life in this beautiful Jamaican town," commented an expat living in Negril.

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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Negril, Jamaica

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