Moving to Bahamas

"The Bahamas is a beautiful island nation situated in the Caribbean, offering a unique blend of adventure and relaxation. Expats should be aware that the local language is English, so it is helpful to know the basics, although most everyday conversations will be conducted in English. It's wise to research transport options before arriving in The Bahamas as public transportation is limited. Additionally, expats should be aware that the cost of living is relatively high compared to other countries in the Caribbean, and expats may need to adjust their budget accordingly. Despite these considerations, moving to The Bahamas can still be an incredibly rewarding experience and should be a smooth transition for those prepared to live in a tropical island paradise," explained one expat living in Bahamas.

"Work with a good realtor. Talk to people and look at websites. Look for "security" first and foremost. Gated community feels safest if you are alone," said one expat in Nassau.

"We use a real estate agent. We choose the western side of the island, no traffic! But of course it depends where your office is located," commented one expat who made the move to Nassau.

"The best way to find a place to live in the Bahamas is to use an online real estate listing site such as Propertyskipper or Bahamas Realty. You can peruse both of these websites to find places that match your budget, desired location and size. Additionally, it is possible to come to the Bahamas and look at locations in person. There are frequently notice boards in grocery stores and other places around the islands that advertise available properties. It is also advisable to seek out any information regarding rentals on social media platforms such as Facebook, where locals post details of their homes and apartments that they would like to rent out," remarked one expat in Bahamas.

"A typical expat home or apartment in Bahamas is likely to feature bright and airy rooms with large windows, high ceilings, and modern, contemporary furnishings. Apartments can range from modest to lavish, usually featuring fully-equipped kitchens, outdoor areas, and spacious living and dining areas perfect for entertaining. Many homes also feature stunning ocean or bay views, with lush, manicured gardens and spectacular outdoor areas for enjoying the pleasant weather and ocean breezes," commented one expat who made the move to Bahamas.

"I live in a gated community with a pool. It's a townhouse style condo and the complex of 20 units is made up almost entirely of expats," remarked one expat in Nassau, Bahamas.

"Most of the answers on this forum are from people living on New Providence. Look at other islands. You don't need to live in a gated community on Grand Bahama Island. Rent is reasonable compared to large urban areas in the US. The biggest difference is the taxes. No Income tax, no real estate tax (to a point), no inheritance tax. The VAT (10%) is about what most people pay for sales tax in the US. Duty on imported goods can be high, but that is the only downside that I have encountered," commented one expat who made the move to Bahamas.

"Much much much higher. It varies. USD 3,000 per month will get you a decent apartment. USD 7,000 per month will get you a big house," remarked one expat in Nassau, Bahamas.

"The average cost of housing in the Bahamas is generally high compared to other countries in the Caribbean. Property prices in Nassau, the largest city in the Bahamas, tend to be above the average cost of housing in the rest of the country. Prices vary widely based on location, property type, and amenities," said one expat in Bahamas.

"When we first arrived we purchased a small condo which was rather easy to do. There are a lot of taxes and fess involved and the real estate laws are a little complicated here so it is highly recommended you get a good real estate agent involved and not purchase directly from the seller," commented one expat who made the move to New Providence.

"Deciding whether to buy or rent a home in the Bahamas depends on a variety of factors. These might include a homebuyer's budgetary constraints, anticipated length of stay, and lifestyle preferences. Buying a home generally involves long-term, hefty investment of time and money, however it can provide a secure base of operations and potential investments benefits. Conversely, renting a home can be a more cost-effective and oftentimes less time-intensive option, making it ideal for those who intend to stay in the Bahamas for a shorter period. Ultimately, which option is best depends on the individual's needs and preferences," remarked one expat in Bahamas.

"Only needed electronics (PC or Mac etc) and especially cables; what you can pack in checked luggage; most homes for rent/lease are furnished; would recommend purchasing just low cost housewares here (cheap plastic knockoffs) but any appliance (Air Fryer; etc) you should bring as it will cost double here to purchase plus VAT tax," said one expat in Bahamas.

"Brought in: good broom, more storage boxes, kitchen ustensiles Left home: antique furniture, Lamps, kitchen appliance with european voltage," said one expat who made the move to Nassau.

"I had to ask people to repeat themselves numerous times because I didn't understand what they were telling me with the local dialect. Sometimes I realized after it should have been obvious but I just was not getting it at the time," said one expat in Nassau.

"Yes, too many to name but the one that stands out is refusing to pay 15% gratuity on service/no service and complaining on a regular basis to managers," said one expat who made the move to Nassau.

"In The Bahamas, it is important to dress appropriately out of respect for the local culture. Beachwear should be restricted to the beach and public displays of affection should be limited in public places. Additionally, referring to the locals by nicknames is considered impolite and visitors should not take photographs of people without their permission. It is also important to show respect to religious sites and national monuments by refraining from loud or disruptive behavior," explained one expat living in Bahamas.

"The Bahamas offers expats a chance to enjoy a sunny, tropical lifestyle with a vibrant social scene and stunning natural beauty. The cost of living is relatively low compared to other parts of the world, and there are no income or capital gains taxes. Expats living in the Bahamas will also find a safe and friendly environment with a stable and modern infrastructure and world-class medical care. The country also offers excellent education opportunities and an abundance of outdoor activities and attractions," said one expat living in Bahamas.

"I believe the majority of foreigners are here for retirement and tax shelters. Many foreigners are here in the banking sector while others are here working in tourism," offered one expat living in Paradise Island.

"Regardless of coverage, ensure you have the ability to travel to US for any major care needs. There are many private practitioners but only two hospitals. One is for people without insurance (Princess Margaret) and the other is for people with insurance (Doctors Hospital). Ask around in your community for reliable local providers, especially for kids. We found some incredible providers this way for our children," stated one expat who made the move to Paradise Island.

"The healthcare services in the Bahamas are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is available to all citizens and permanent residents. The quality of public healthcare is generally good, with a wide range of services available, including primary care, emergency care, and specialist care. Foreign residents are able to access the public healthcare system, although they may be required to pay a fee. Expats in the Bahamas can use the public healthcare system, but they may need to pay a fee for certain services. In addition, many expats opt to purchase private health insurance to cover any additional costs," remarked one expat in Bahamas.

"As compared to Canada the availability and quality of some health care services is lacking but still adequate. The speed of which they will see you at the clinics and private hospitals is much faster then it is in Canada and for what is missing a quick trip to Florida will provide you with all you need that can not be found in New Providence," wrote one expat living in Nassau.

"My home country offers Public Health that is very inclusive. Access to Healthcare services there take a very long time. In my adopted country, the public Healthcare Coverage is insufficient, and Private coverage is expensive. However, services are very accessible. The quality of healthcare is adequate for basic healthcare as well as for some specialties. However, many residents will travel for healthcare to the USA for more experienced specialists if they have international healthcare coverage. This is starting to change somewhat with some medical facilities commanding a higher quality and level of service, education, and experience," offered one expat living in Nassau.

"The medical services in the Bahamas are generally of a high standard. The country has a number of well-equipped hospitals and clinics, staffed by experienced and qualified medical professionals. The country also has a number of private medical facilities, offering a range of services from general practice to specialist care. The Bahamas also has a number of pharmacies, providing access to a wide range of medications. In addition, the country has a number of medical insurance providers, offering coverage for medical expenses," wrote one expat living in Bahamas.