Retiring in The Bahamas in 2025: Cost of Living, Lifestyle, and Practical Tips
Retiring in The Bahamas in 2025: Cost of Living, Lifestyle, and Practical Tips
Introduction
The Bahamas, a stunning archipelago of over 700 islands, is a dream destination for many retirees. But what does it actually cost to retire here in 2025? This guide covers the latest data on cost of living, standard of living, food, and healthcare, with practical tips and citations from authoritative 2025 sources.
Cost of Living in The Bahamas (2025)
The Bahamas is known for its high cost of living, largely due to its reliance on imports and luxury amenities. According to Better MCR Bahamas and Unbiased (2025):
| Category | Monthly Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Single Person (excluding rent) | $1,465 |
| Family of Four (excluding rent) | $5,254 |
| Rent (1BR, City Center) | $1,293 |
| Rent (1BR, Outside Center) | $1,500 |
| Rent (3BR, City Center) | $3,350 |
| Rent (3BR, Outside Center) | $3,400 |
Overall, the cost of living is about 22% higher than the United States. (Sources: Better MCR Bahamas, Unbiased 2025)
Standard of Living: Low, Medium, and High
The Bahamas offers a relaxed, luxury lifestyle, but costs vary by island and lifestyle. Here’s what to expect at different budget levels:
| Standard | Estimated Monthly Budget (USD) | Lifestyle Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Low | $2,500 | Modest apartment, public transport, basic groceries, limited dining out |
| Medium | $4,500 | Comfortable apartment, regular dining out, some travel, private healthcare |
| High | $7,000+ | Luxury housing, frequent dining out, travel, premium healthcare |
For a comfortable retirement, most sources recommend a budget of at least $2,500 per month for a single person. (Unbiased 2025)
Food Costs
Food is expensive in The Bahamas due to import reliance. According to Better MCR Bahamas (2025):
| Item | Average Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| Milk (1L) | $2.50 |
| Bread (500g) | $3.00 |
| Eggs (12) | $4.00 |
| Chicken (1kg) | $10.00 |
| Rice (1kg) | $5.00 |
| Local Cheese (1kg) | $12.00 |
| Bananas (1kg) | $3.00 |
Eating out is also costly, with a meal at an inexpensive restaurant costing around $20–$30. (Source: Better MCR Bahamas 2025)
Healthcare Costs
The Bahamas offers both public and private healthcare. Expats and retirees must purchase private health insurance, as only citizens can participate in the national plan. According to Unbiased (2025):
- Monthly health insurance: $200–$400 (private, expat plans)
- Doctor’s visit: $80–$120
- Specialist visit: $150–$250
- Hospital stay (private, per day): $500–$900
Grand Bahama and New Providence have the best hospitals; clinics are available on other islands.
Practical Tips for Retirees
- Residency requires property purchase of at least $500,000 or an annual homeowner’s card.
- Most goods are imported—shop local when possible for savings.
- Utilities and internet are reliable but costly.
- US citizens continue to receive Social Security benefits, but must pay US taxes on 401(k)s and IRAs.
Conclusion
Retiring in The Bahamas in 2025 offers a unique blend of luxury, relaxation, and vibrant culture. However, the cost of living is higher than in the US, especially for food and healthcare. Plan for a budget of $2,500–$4,500 per month for a comfortable lifestyle. For more details, see the sources below.