What do I need to know before retiring in Bahamas?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Bahamas, they said...
"Really take a close look at the cost of living before deciding. Everything is much more expensive here then it would be in most parts of the world. As an example a car here will cost about double the value in the USA. If you import it they add 75-80% duty on the value they determine (along with all the freight costs it quickly gets to 100% on top of the value) and if you purchase here the prices are already about double the price in the USA to begin with. Rent, Water and electricity are also very expensive here. This is not a location you would come to in order to lower your cost of living and "stretch" your salary but if you can afford the high cost of living the weather, beaches and people are quite inviting," wrote a member who made the move to New Providence, Bahamas.
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"Expats considering retiring in the Bahamas should consider the cost of living as well as the local culture. Before deciding to retire in the Bahamas, expats should familiarize themselves with the different visa requirements and ensure they comply with them. Additionally, expats should be aware that property ownership is restricted in certain areas and that different taxes may apply. Lastly, expats should research the local infrastructure, such as hospital and medical care availability, as well as transportation and accessibility options," explained one expat living in Bahamas.
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Bahamas?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Bahamas?
- Will I be able to find a job in Bahamas?
- What is life like in Bahamas?
- What do expats in Bahamas appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Bahamas?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Bahamas accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Bahamas like?
- What are healthcare services like in Bahamas?
- What are medical services in Bahamas like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Bahamas?
- What are emergency services like in Bahamas?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Bahamas?
- How are local medical facilities in Bahamas?
- As a foreigner living in Bahamas, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
What do I need to know before retiring in Bahamas?
If you live in Bahamas, newcomers to Bahamas would love to hear your answer to this question.
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.