×
Interested in our Partner Program for businesses or our Local Guide Program for experienced expats and digital nomads? Click here to learn more.
Expat Exchange - Cost of Living in Gros Islet 2024
Expat Exchange
Free MembershipSign In


Cost of Living in Gros Islet

By Joshua Wood, LPC

William Russell
William Russell

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

Category Cost
Apartment Rentals
  • 1-bedroom apartment in city center: $500 - $800 per month
  • 1-bedroom apartment outside city center: $350 - $600 per month
  • 3-bedroom apartment in city center: $1,000 - $1,500 per month
  • 3-bedroom apartment outside city center: $700 - $1,200 per month
Apartment Purchases
  • Price per square meter in city center: $1,500 - $2,500
  • Price per square meter outside city center: $1,000 - $1,800
Transportation
  • One-way local transport ticket: $1.50 - $2.50
  • Monthly local transport pass: $40 - $60
  • Taxi starting tariff: $3 - $5
  • Taxi 1 km (normal tariff): $2 - $3
  • Gasoline (1 liter): $1.20 - $1.50
Groceries
  • Milk (1 liter): $1.50 - $2.50
  • Bread (500g): $1.50 - $2.50
  • Rice (1 kg): $1.50 - $2.50
  • Eggs (12): $2.50 - $4.00
  • Local cheese (1 kg): $8 - $12
  • Chicken breasts (1 kg): $6 - $10
  • Beef round (1 kg): $8 - $12
  • Apples (1 kg): $2.50 - $4.00
  • Bananas (1 kg): $1.00 - $2.00
  • Oranges (1 kg): $2.00 - $3.50
  • Tomatoes (1 kg): $2.00 - $3.50
  • Potatoes (1 kg): $1.50 - $2.50
  • Onions (1 kg): $1.50 - $2.50
  • Water (1.5-liter bottle): $1.00 - $1.50
Restaurants
  • Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: $10 - $15
  • Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant: $40 - $60
  • Domestic beer (0.5-liter draught): $2.50 - $4.00
  • Imported beer (0.33-liter bottle): $3.00 - $5.00
  • Cappuccino: $2.50 - $4.00
  • Soft drink (0.33-liter bottle): $1.00 - $2.00
  • Water (0.33-liter bottle): $0.50 - $1.00
Utilities
  • Basic utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage) for an 85m2 apartment: $100 - $200 per month
  • Internet (60 Mbps or more, unlimited data, cable/ADSL): $50 - $80 per month
Private School Tuition
  • Preschool (or kindergarten) tuition: $2,000 - $4,000 per year
  • Elementary school tuition: $4,000 - $8,000 per year
  • Middle school tuition: $6,000 - $10,000 per year
  • High school tuition: $8,000 - $12,000 per year
Please note that these costs are approximate and can vary depending on various factors such as location, time of year, and individual preferences. It is always a good idea to research and compare prices before making any decisions.

Monthly Budget for Retirees in Gros Islet

"The cost of living in Gros Islet is considered moderate. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center can be quite expensive, while outside the city center, it is significantly cheaper. The cost of utilities such as electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage is also moderate. Groceries in Gros Islet can be quite expensive, with items such as bread, milk, eggs, fruits, and vegetables costing more than in many other countries. Eating out at restaurants can also be costly, especially at mid-range to high-end establishments. Transportation costs in Gros Islet are relatively low, with affordable public transportation and reasonably priced gasoline. However, owning and maintaining a car can be expensive due to high import taxes on vehicles. Healthcare in Gros Islet is generally affordable, but the cost can vary depending on whether you use public or private healthcare services. Overall, while some aspects of living in Gros Islet can be expensive, others are quite affordable, leading to a moderate overall cost of living," said one expat living in Gros Islet.

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

"I've been living in Gros Islet 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 or houses in neighborhoods like Rodney Bay, Cap Estate, or Bonne Terre. These areas are relatively affordable compared to more upscale neighborhoods like Marigot Bay or Vigie.Next, you'll need to be mindful of your utility bills. Electricity can be quite expensive here, so try to use energy-efficient appliances and be conscious of your usage. Water is also costly, so be sure to conserve water whenever possible.Transportation is another area where you can save money. Public transportation is relatively cheap, and you can get around the island using buses or shared taxis. If you prefer to have your own vehicle, consider buying a used car to save on costs.When it comes to groceries, you'll find that local produce and products are more affordable than imported items. Shop at local markets and avoid buying too many imported goods to keep your grocery bill low. Eating out can also be expensive, so try to cook at home as much as possible.Finally, you'll need to be mindful of your entertainment expenses. Going out to bars, clubs, or restaurants can quickly add up, so try to find more affordable ways to enjoy your time in Saint Lucia. There are plenty of beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and other outdoor activities that you can enjoy for free or at a low cost.In summary, living comfortably on $1,500 a month in Gros Islet, Saint Lucia is possible, but you'll need to be mindful of your expenses and make some sacrifices. By choosing an affordable neighborhood, conserving utilities, using public transportation, shopping locally, and finding low-cost entertainment options, you can make it work," commented an expat living in Gros Islet.

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

"I've been living in Gros Islet 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 sacrifices and adjustments to your lifestyle. First, you'll need to find an affordable place to live. Some of the more expensive neighborhoods like Rodney Bay and Cap Estate might be out of your budget, but you can still find nice, affordable apartments or houses in areas like Monchy, Bonne Terre, and Beausejour. These neighborhoods are still close to amenities and have a good mix of locals and expats.When it comes to transportation, owning a car can be quite expensive due to import taxes and high gas prices. Instead, consider using public transportation like buses or shared taxis, which are quite affordable and reliable. If you do decide to get a car, consider a fuel-efficient model to save on gas costs.Eating out can also be expensive, especially in touristy areas. To save money, try cooking at home more often and shopping at local markets for fresh produce and seafood. There are also some affordable local restaurants and food stands where you can enjoy delicious St. Lucian cuisine without breaking the bank.As for entertainment, you might have to cut back on some of the more expensive activities like golfing, fine dining, and high-end shopping. However, there are plenty of affordable or free activities to enjoy, like hiking, snorkeling, and exploring the beautiful beaches and natural attractions of the island.Finally, keep in mind that the cost of living in Saint Lucia can be higher than in some other countries, especially when it comes to imported goods and electronics. To save money, try to buy local products whenever possible and limit your purchases of imported items.Overall, living in Gros Islet on $3,000 a month is doable, but you'll need to be mindful of your spending and make some adjustments to your lifestyle. By choosing an affordable neighborhood, using public transportation, cooking at home, and enjoying the many free or low-cost activities the island has to offer, you can live comfortably and enjoy your time in this beautiful Caribbean paradise," said one expat living in Gros Islet.

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

"I've been living in Gros Islet for a while now, and I can tell you that it's definitely possible for an expat to live comfortably on $5,000 a month here. Of course, you might have to make some sacrifices, but overall, you can maintain a good quality of life with modern amenities.Firstly, you'll want to choose an affordable neighborhood to live in. I'd recommend looking into areas like Rodney Bay, Cap Estate, or Bonne Terre. These neighborhoods offer a mix of local and expat communities, and you can find reasonably priced apartments or houses for rent. You might want to avoid more expensive neighborhoods like Marigot Bay or Sugar Beach, as these areas cater more to luxury tourism and can be quite pricey.When it comes to utilities and internet, you'll find that the costs are relatively affordable. However, you might have to compromise on the speed and reliability of your internet connection, as it can be a bit slower and less consistent than what you might be used to in a more developed country.Groceries and eating out can be quite affordable if you're willing to shop at local markets and eat at local restaurants. Imported goods and dining at high-end restaurants can be expensive, so you'll want to limit those indulgences if you're trying to stick to your budget.Transportation is another area where you can save money. Public transportation is quite affordable, and you can also consider renting a car or even buying a used one if you plan to stay for a longer period. Taxis can be expensive, so it's best to use them sparingly.As for entertainment and leisure activities, there are plenty of affordable options to choose from. You can enjoy the beautiful beaches, go hiking in the rainforest, or explore the local culture and history. There are also many free or low-cost events and festivals throughout the year that you can attend.In conclusion, living comfortably on $5,000 a month in Gros Islet, Saint Lucia is achievable if you're willing to make some sacrifices and adapt to the local lifestyle. By choosing an affordable neighborhood, being mindful of your spending on utilities, groceries, and transportation, and enjoying the many low-cost leisure activities available, you can have a fulfilling and enjoyable experience in this beautiful Caribbean island," commented an expat living in Gros Islet.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.


William Russell
William Russell

William Russell
William Russell

GeoBlue
GeoBlue

Top-quality coverage for people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
Get Quote

GeoBlueGeoBlue

Top-quality coverage for people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
Get Quote

Contribute to Saint Lucia Network Contribute
Help others in Saint Lucia by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Saint Lucia.

William Russell
William Russell

Copyright 1997-2024 Burlingame Interactive, Inc.

Privacy Policy Legal Partners & Local Guides