Ever say, forget it...I'm just going to move to Jamaica? Well, I have. But how much would it cost?
According to those who have moved to Jamaica from the US, this is an approximate breakdown of costs. (as of April of 2010)
- Rent - A secure apartment runs about 47k to 69k Jamaican per month. ($550 to $800US)
- High speed internet - Around $3,500JA per month. ($41 US)
- Cell phone service - $1,200 to $3,000JA depending on minutes used. ($14 to $35 US)
- Food costs - Well, it all depends on you. Call it 30k JA per month for 2. ($352 US)
So call that around $1,200 to $1,500 per month to live decently in Jamaica.
www.JamicanHouseRentals.com <---click for samples
I'm sure there are other costs like utilities and transportation. The above list takes you into the $1,300 range, US, per month to live. Not bad compared to here in Los Angeles! Current Jamaican law allows us American's to live there for up to 6 months at a time before you need to check in. American's can apply for permanent residency but it's a long and tricky process that can take up to 3 years. For a decent read check out this dudes post, A retired American moves to Jamaica, where this man has a 27 Q&A session.
Hospital in Jamaica
Digicel in Jamaica
Internet at Home
BONUS LINKS
2010 Rate Schedules for UtilitiesHospital in Jamaica
Digicel in Jamaica
Internet at Home
So if you really wanna make a go of it check out the Jamaican Embassy here in US @ Jamaican Embassy.
Update as of September 23, 2010.
ReplyDeleteHere's a good link of rentals in Negril...
http://www.viviun.com/AD-148741
Prices range from $600 (a studio with no kitchen) to $1,600 (2BR 2BA with living room and balcony)
Maureen sent me this link:
ReplyDeletehttp://www.hostelworld.com/search?search_keywords=Falmouth%2C+Jamaica&country=Jamaica&city=Falmouth
It has some decent rates on places to stay in Falmouth.
They seem to be less resort like and more for people with a budget in mind, and these days that's everyone! :-)
Chad