Retiring in Aruba in 2025: A Comprehensive Guide to Costs, Living Standards, and Practical Tips
Retiring in Aruba in 2025: A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction
Aruba, a beautiful island in the southern Caribbean, is increasingly popular among retirees seeking sun, sea, and a high quality of life. But what does it really cost to retire in Aruba in 2025? This guide covers the latest data on cost of living, food, healthcare, and what to expect at different living standards. All data is sourced from reputable 2025 publications and cost-of-living indices.
Cost of Living in Aruba (2025)
Aruba’s cost of living is notably higher than many other Caribbean destinations, primarily due to its reliance on imports. According to Numbeo and Exiap (2025):
| Category | Monthly Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Single Person (excluding rent) | $1,368 |
| Family of Four (excluding rent) | $4,896 |
| Rent (1BR, City Center) | $1,000 - $1,400 |
| Rent (1BR, Outside Center) | $800 - $1,100 |
Overall, the cost of living is about 14–18% higher than the United States, but rent is slightly lower. (Sources: Numbeo, Exiap 2025)
Standard of Living: Low, Medium, and High
Aruba offers a high quality of life, with excellent healthcare, clean water, and a safe environment. Here’s what to expect at different budget levels:
| Standard | Estimated Monthly Budget (USD) | Lifestyle Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Low | $2,000 | Basic apartment, limited eating out, public transport, modest entertainment |
| Medium | $3,500 | Comfortable apartment, regular dining out, some travel, private healthcare |
| High | $5,000+ | Luxury housing, frequent dining out, travel, premium healthcare |
For a comfortable retirement, most sources recommend a budget of at least $2,000 per month for a single person. (InvestGuiding 2025)
Food Costs
Food is one of the biggest expenses in Aruba due to import reliance. Grocery shopping is a significant part of the monthly budget. Here’s a breakdown (Numbeo 2025):
| Item | Average Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| Milk (1L) | $2.10 |
| Bread (500g) | $2.00 |
| Eggs (12) | $3.50 |
| Chicken (1kg) | $8.00 |
| Rice (1kg) | $3.00 |
| Local Cheese (1kg) | $9.00 |
| Bananas (1kg) | $2.00 |
Eating out is also pricey, with a meal at an inexpensive restaurant costing around $15–$20. (Source: Numbeo 2025)
Healthcare Costs
Aruba boasts excellent healthcare, with both public and private options. Health insurance is recommended for expats and retirees. According to Numbeo and InvestGuiding (2025):
- Monthly health insurance: $100–$200 (private, expat plans)
- Doctor’s visit: $40–$60
- Specialist visit: $80–$120
- Hospital stay (private, per day): $250–$400
Public healthcare is of high quality and often included for residents, but private insurance is recommended for retirees.
Practical Tips for Retirees
- Most goods are imported—shop local when possible for savings.
- Utilities and internet are reliable and reasonably priced.
- Garbage collection is government-funded for residents.
- Using the local currency (Aruban florin) instead of USD can save money.
Conclusion
Retiring in Aruba in 2025 offers a high standard of living, safety, and a vibrant expat community. However, the cost of living is higher than many expect, especially for food and imported goods. A budget of $2,000–$3,500 per month is recommended for a comfortable lifestyle. For more details, see the sources below.