Move to Jamaica - how much does it cost to live there?

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.

BONUS LINKS

2010 Rate Schedules for Utilities
Hospital 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.