Pros and Cons of Living in Nassau
Last updated on Feb 23, 2023
Summary: The pros of living in Nassau, Bahamas include its beautiful beaches, warm climate, and vibrant culture. The city is also known for its excellent seafood, and its proximity to the United States makes it a great option for those who want to stay close to home. Additionally, the cost of living is relatively low compared to other Caribbean destinations. The cons of living in Nassau include the high crime rate, limited job opportunities, and the fact that the city can be quite expensive for tourists. Additionally, the infrastructure is not as developed as other Caribbean cities, and the public transportation system is not as reliable.
What are the pros and cons of living in Nassau?
Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Nassau responded:
"We moved from a different international location. Our interview process was extremely long so we were able to do a ton of research before making our decision to move. Boots on the ground is the best way to get a feel for any country and would suggest a visit prior to decision. Love the lifestyle here. willing to deal with all the negatives to live here. We have made great friends and remain active socially. Research the schools if you have kids. Some fit better than others. We are very happy with our decision for our kids (7/4). You must be flexible to live in any foreign land and the Bahamas is no different. Understanding the culture is paramount to a successful tenure. Unless, you have enough money to isolate yourself in certain areas. Happy to explain or speak on any issue to help someone out," explained one expat in Nassau.
"Expats and digital nomads generally like living in Nassau, due to its beautiful beaches, warm climate, and friendly locals. They appreciate the laid-back island lifestyle, which offers a relaxing environment to work and live. The proximity to the United States is also a plus, making it easy to travel back and forth for business or personal reasons. Additionally, the Bahamas has a relatively low crime rate, making it a safe place to live. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads may dislike the high cost of living in Nassau, as housing, groceries, and other expenses can be quite expensive. The limited availability of certain goods and services can also be frustrating, as well as the slow pace of life, which may not suit everyone. The island's infrastructure, such as internet connectivity, can be unreliable at times, which can be challenging for digital nomads who rely on a stable connection for work. Lastly, the hurricane season can be a concern for some, as it may cause disruptions to daily life and potential property damage," said one expat in Nassau.
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What do expats in Nassau appreciate most about the local culture?
"Friendliness of the people in my office - I am the only expat. Ability to be happy despite not having much. Their religious faith is strong," explained one expat.
"Expats in Nassau appreciate the laid-back atmosphere and the friendly locals. They also enjoy the vibrant nightlife, the beautiful beaches, and the diverse range of activities available. The city is also known for its rich cultural heritage, with a variety of festivals and events taking place throughout the year. Additionally, the cost of living is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for expats," said one person in Nassau.
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What do expats find most challenging?
"Expats in Nassau often find the local culture to be quite different from what they are used to. The pace of life is slower and more relaxed than in many other countries, and the locals tend to be more laid-back and less focused on material possessions. Additionally, the local language, Bahamian Creole, can be difficult to understand for those who are not native speakers. Furthermore, the cost of living in Nassau is quite high, making it difficult for expats to adjust to the local economy. Finally, the weather in Nassau can be quite hot and humid, which can be a challenge for those who are not used to the climate," said one person in Nassau.
"Lack of professionalism, laid back attitude in industries that should move swiftly, prices, customs duties, lack of activities for children," remarked one expat in Nassau.
"Work ethic is lacking. Ability to understand their responsibility for their own betterment. Tendency to take a laid-back approach to everything," explained one expat living in Nassau.
About the Author
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.
Additional Information:
- Expat Guide to Nassau
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Nassau
- Retire in Nassau Guide
- 7 Tips for Living in Nassau
- Pros & Cons of Living in Nassau
- Tips for Expats Driving in Nassau
- Cost of Living in Nassau
- Health Care in Nassau
- The Insider's Guide to Nassau
- 5 Tips for Living in Nassau in the Bahamas
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Bahamas
- Best Places to Live in Bahamas
- Culture Shock in Bahamas
- What It's Like Living in Nassau
- Pros and Cons of Living in Bahamas 2024
- 2024 Guide to Moving to Bahamas