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St. John's, Antigua & Barbuda: Cost of Living, Healthcare, Local Clubs and Activities, Healthcare and What to Know About Living in St. John's | Expat Exchange
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St. John's, Antigua & Barbuda

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Aug 06, 2024

Summary: Expats, digital nomads and retirees discuss what it is like to live in St. John's, Antigua & Barbuda: Cost of living, Finding a home, Meeting People and more.

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What do I need to know before moving to St. John's?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to St. John's, they said:

"St. John's, the capital city of Antigua and Barbuda, is a vibrant city with a rich history and a laid-back Caribbean lifestyle. Before moving to St. John's, expats should be aware of several important factors. Firstly, the official language is English, which makes it easier for expats from English-speaking countries to communicate and integrate. However, the local dialect can sometimes be difficult to understand. The cost of living in St. John's is relatively high compared to other Caribbean cities. This is due to the fact that most goods are imported and subject to import taxes. Housing can also be expensive, especially in the more desirable areas. The climate in St. John's is tropical, with warm temperatures year-round. However, the city is susceptible to hurricanes, which usually occur between June and November. Healthcare facilities in St. John's are adequate for routine health issues, but serious medical conditions may require evacuation to a country with more advanced medical facilities. Therefore, comprehensive health insurance is recommended. The city has a relatively low crime rate, but petty crime such as theft does occur. Expats are advised to take basic safety precautions, such as locking doors and not displaying valuable possessions. Public transportation in St. John's is limited and not always reliable. Most expats choose to buy or rent a car for getting around. The education system in St. John's follows the British model. There are a few private international schools, but spaces are limited and tuition can be expensive. Finally, while St. John's offers a relaxed lifestyle, it's important to respect local customs and traditions. The local population is generally friendly and welcoming, but it's important to dress modestly and behave respectfully," wrote a member in St. John's.

What is a typical expat home or apartment like in St. John's?

"A typical expat home or apartment in St. John's, Antigua and Barbuda is often located in a safe and secure neighborhood, often within gated communities or near the beach. These homes are usually fully furnished, featuring modern amenities such as air conditioning, high-speed internet, and cable TV. They often have spacious living areas, fully equipped kitchens, and multiple bedrooms and bathrooms. Some homes may also have private pools, patios, or balconies with stunning views of the ocean or the city. The architecture and design of these homes often reflect the Caribbean style, with bright colors, open floor plans, and large windows to let in natural light. Many expat homes are also located close to local amenities such as shops, restaurants, and schools. Some may even be within walking distance to the beach," explained one expat living in St. John's, Antigua & Barbuda.

What is the average cost of housing in St. John's?

If you are thinking about moving to St. John's, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The average cost of housing in St. John's, Antigua and Barbuda can vary greatly depending on the type and location of the property. For a standard family home in a residential area, prices can range from moderately affordable to quite expensive. Luxury villas and beachfront properties, on the other hand, can be significantly more costly. As of recent data, it is estimated that the average cost of a home in St. John's is in the mid to high six-figure range in USD. However, it's important to note that prices can fluctuate based on the real estate market and other economic factors," remarked one expat who made the move to St. John's.

Where should I setup a bank account in St. John's?

We asked expats in St. John's what banks they use and there advice about banking. They advised:

"Expats considering retirement in St. John's, Antigua and Barbuda should be aware of several key factors. Firstly, the cost of living can be high, particularly for imported goods, due to the island's remote location. The local currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar, but the US dollar is also widely accepted. Healthcare facilities in Antigua and Barbuda are adequate for routine health issues, but serious medical conditions may require evacuation to a country with more advanced medical facilities. Therefore, comprehensive health insurance is highly recommended. The official language is English, which makes it easier for English-speaking expats to communicate. The climate is tropical maritime, with little seasonal temperature variation, which can be a significant change for those used to four distinct seasons. The country is generally safe, but like anywhere, crime does exist, so it's important to take standard precautions to protect yourself and your property. In terms of residency, Antigua and Barbuda offers a citizenship by investment program, which can be an attractive option for those looking to retire there. However, it's important to consult with a legal expert to understand the implications and requirements. The country's culture is laid back and friendly, with a strong emphasis on community and family. It's also worth noting that the pace of life is slower than in many Western countries, which can take some adjustment. Finally, while St. John's is the largest city and has more amenities, it can also be busier and more expensive than other parts of the island. Therefore, it's worth exploring the entire island to find the area that best suits your lifestyle and budget," said one expat who made the move to St. John's.

What do expats in St. John's appreciate most about the local culture?

"Expats in St. John's often appreciate the friendly and welcoming nature of the local people. They enjoy the laid-back lifestyle and the slower pace of life, which is a refreshing change from the hustle and bustle of city living. The rich history and vibrant culture, including the local music, dance, and festivals, are also highly appreciated. The local cuisine, featuring fresh seafood and tropical fruits, is another aspect that expats enjoy. They also appreciate the beautiful natural environment, including the stunning beaches and the opportunity to engage in various outdoor activities. The safety and stability of the country is another factor that expats value, making it a comfortable place to live," wrote a member in St. John's.

What do expats find most challenging?

"Expats in St. John's often find the slow pace of life challenging, as the local culture values relaxation and leisure over urgency and efficiency. This can be frustrating for those used to a fast-paced, deadline-driven lifestyle. Another challenge is the local dialect, which can be difficult to understand for those not familiar with Caribbean English. This can lead to misunderstandings and communication difficulties. The local cuisine, while delicious, can be quite different from what many expats are used to. It can take time to adjust to the local food, which is heavily based on seafood, rice, and tropical fruits. The heat and humidity can also be a challenge for those not used to tropical climates. It can be uncomfortable and can take a while to acclimate to. Lastly, while the locals are generally friendly and welcoming, there can be a sense of being an outsider. This can be challenging for those who are used to feeling integrated and accepted in their home culture," wrote a member in St. John's.

Is there a lot of crime in St. John's?

We asked people if there is a lot of crime. They answered:

"St. John's, the capital city of Antigua and Barbuda, experiences crime but it is not considered to be at an extremely high level. The most common crimes reported are petty theft and burglary, often targeting tourists. Violent crime does occur, but it is less common and typically involves some form of personal dispute rather than random attacks. The local police force actively works to maintain safety and security, but resources can be limited. Visitors are advised to take standard precautions such as not displaying expensive belongings, avoiding isolated areas, especially at night, and ensuring accommodations are secure. Despite these issues, many residents and visitors enjoy a peaceful experience in St. John's," remarked one expat who made the move to St. John's.

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.

SJB Global
SJB Global

SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
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SJB GlobalSJB Global

SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
Learn More

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