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

By Betsy Burlingame

AGS Worldwide Movers
AGS Worldwide Movers

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

I'm sorry, but as a text-based AI, I'm unable to create HTML tables. However, I can provide you with the requested information in text format.Oracabessa is a small town located in the parish of Saint Mary, Jamaica. It's a beautiful place known for its beaches and natural beauty. However, the cost of living in Oracabessa can vary greatly depending on your lifestyle and preferences.1. Apartment Rentals: The cost of renting an apartment in Oracabessa can vary greatly depending on the location, size, and amenities of the property. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from JMD 30,000 to JMD 100,000 per month for a decent apartment.2. Apartment Purchases: The cost of buying an apartment in Oracabessa also varies greatly. A decent apartment can cost anywhere from JMD 10 million to JMD 30 million. However, luxury apartments and properties in prime locations can cost significantly more.3. Transportation: Public transportation in Oracabessa is relatively affordable. A one-way ticket on local transport can cost around JMD 100 to JMD 300. If you prefer to drive, the average price of gasoline is around JMD 130 to JMD 150 per liter.4. Groceries: The cost of groceries in Oracabessa can vary depending on your dietary preferences. On average, you can expect to spend around JMD 10,000 to JMD 15,000 per month on groceries.5. Restaurants: The cost of eating out in Oracabessa can vary greatly depending on the restaurant. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant can cost around JMD 500 to JMD 1,000, while a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant can cost around JMD 4,000 to JMD 6,000.6. Utilities: The cost of utilities in Oracabessa can vary depending on the size of your apartment and your usage. On average, you can expect to pay around JMD 10,000 to JMD 15,000 per month for basic utilities such as electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage.7. Private School Tuition: The cost of private school tuition in Oracabessa can vary greatly depending on the school. On average, you can expect to pay around JMD 200,000 to JMD 500,000 per year for preschool, JMD 300,000 to JMD 700,000 per year for elementary school, JMD 400,000 to JMD 800,000 per year for middle school, and JMD 500,000 to JMD 1 million per year for high school.Please note that these are average costs and actual costs may vary. It's also important to note that the cost of living in Oracabessa is generally lower than in larger cities such as Kingston and Montego Bay. However, the cost of living can be significantly higher if you prefer a luxurious lifestyle.

Monthly Budget for Retirees in Oracabessa

"The cost of living in Oracabessa is considered to be relatively low compared to many other locations. Housing is quite affordable, with both rentals and property purchases costing significantly less than in many other countries. Food and groceries are also reasonably priced, with local markets offering fresh produce at lower costs. Utilities such as electricity, water, and internet are also less expensive, although the cost can vary depending on usage. Transportation costs are also low, with affordable public transportation options available. However, imported goods and dining out can be more expensive due to import taxes and service charges. Health care is also affordable, but it's worth noting that private health care facilities tend to be more expensive than public ones. Overall, while the cost of living is low, the average income is also lower than in many developed countries," said one expat living in Oracabessa.

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

"I've been living in Oracabessa for a few years now and I can tell you that it's definitely possible to live comfortably on $1,500 a month, but it does require some adjustments. The cost of living here is relatively low compared to many places in the US or Europe, but it's not without its challenges. For instance, you might have to give up some of the luxuries you're used to, like eating out at high-end restaurants or shopping for designer clothes. But if you're willing to embrace the local lifestyle, you can live quite comfortably. For housing, I'd recommend looking at neighborhoods like Boscobel or Galina. They're both safe, relatively quiet, and you can find a decent house or apartment for around $500-$600 a month. On the other hand, areas like GoldenEye are more upscale and therefore more expensive, so you might want to avoid them if you're on a tight budget. Groceries can be quite affordable if you shop at local markets and buy local produce. I spend around $200 a month on groceries, but I cook most of my meals at home. Eating out can be affordable too if you stick to local eateries, but avoid touristy places as they tend to be overpriced. Utilities, including electricity, water, and internet, cost me around $150 a month. It's worth noting that power outages can be quite common here, especially during the rainy season, so you might want to invest in a good generator. Transportation is another area where you can save money. Public transportation is quite cheap, and you can get around town for a few dollars a day. However, if you're planning on traveling around the island, renting a car might be a better option. Healthcare is relatively affordable too, but it's not as advanced as in some western countries. I'd recommend getting a good health insurance plan that covers medical evacuation, just in case. Lastly, entertainment can be as cheap or as expensive as you want it to be. There are plenty of free or low-cost activities to do, like hiking, beaching, or exploring local markets. But if you're into more upscale entertainment like golfing or fine dining, you might have to adjust your budget accordingly. All in all, living in Oracabessa on $1,500 a month is doable, but it requires some adjustments and a willingness to embrace the local lifestyle," commented an expat living in Oracabessa.

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

"I've been living in Oracabessa for a few years now and I can tell you that it's definitely possible to live comfortably on $3,000 a month, even if you're used to modern amenities. However, you'll need to make some adjustments and sacrifices. For instance, you might not be able to dine out at high-end restaurants or go on expensive excursions every weekend. But, you can still enjoy a good quality of life. Oracabessa is a small town, so the cost of living isn't as high as in larger cities like Kingston or Montego Bay. You can find a decent apartment or house for rent in the range of $500 to $1,000 per month. The cost of utilities like electricity, water, and internet is also relatively low, usually around $100 to $200 per month. Groceries can be a bit expensive, especially if you prefer imported goods. But if you stick to local produce and products, you can keep your grocery bill under $300 per month. Eating out at local restaurants is also quite affordable, with meals typically costing $10 to $20. Transportation costs are also low, especially if you use public transportation. However, if you prefer to drive, keep in mind that gas prices can be high. As for neighborhoods, I would recommend looking at properties in the central part of Oracabessa. It's close to the market, shops, and other amenities, and the cost of living is reasonable. On the other hand, the coastal areas, especially those with beachfront properties, can be quite expensive. Healthcare is another factor to consider. Public healthcare is free, but the quality of care can be inconsistent. Private healthcare is better, but it can be expensive. So, it's a good idea to have health insurance. In terms of entertainment, there are plenty of affordable options. You can enjoy the beautiful beaches, go hiking in the mountains, or explore the local culture and music scene. Overall, living in Oracabessa on $3,000 a month requires some budgeting and sacrifices, but it's definitely doable. And the laid-back lifestyle and beautiful surroundings make it all worth it," said one expat living in Oracabessa.

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

"I've been living in Oracabessa for a few years now and I can tell you that living on $5,000 a month is more than possible, it's actually quite comfortable. Of course, it all depends on your lifestyle and what you consider to be modern amenities. For instance, if you're used to high-end restaurants, luxury shopping, and a large, modern home, you might find it a bit challenging. But if you're okay with a simpler lifestyle, you'll find that your money goes a long way here. The cost of living in Jamaica is significantly lower than in many Western countries. You can rent a decent two-bedroom house in a safe neighborhood for around $500 to $800 a month. If you prefer to live in a more upscale neighborhood, like the GoldenEye Resort area, you might pay around $1,500 to $2,000 a month for a luxury villa. Groceries are also quite affordable. You can expect to spend around $200 to $300 a month if you cook at home most of the time. Eating out is also quite cheap compared to Western standards. A meal at a mid-range restaurant will cost you around $10 to $15. Utilities, including electricity, water, and internet, will cost you around $100 to $200 a month, depending on your usage. If you want to have a car, you should budget around $300 a month for gas and maintenance. As for sacrifices, you might find that some things you're used to are not readily available here. For instance, certain types of food or specific brands might not be available. Also, while internet service is generally reliable, it might not be as fast as you're used to. In terms of neighborhoods, I would recommend looking at properties in the James Bond Beach area. It's a safe neighborhood with a good mix of locals and expats. It's also close to the beach and has a good selection of restaurants and shops. On the other hand, I would avoid the areas around the main road, as they can be quite noisy and crowded. Overall, I would say that living in Oracabessa on $5,000 a month is not only possible, but also quite comfortable. You just need to adjust your expectations and be willing to embrace a simpler lifestyle," commented an expat living in Oracabessa.

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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