Retiring in Trinidad and Tobago: 2025 Cost of Living, Food, Healthcare & Lifestyle Guide
Trinidad and Tobago, a dual-island Caribbean nation, is increasingly attracting retirees seeking a blend of tropical beauty, vibrant culture, and a relatively high standard of living. If you are considering retiring here in 2025, it’s essential to understand the cost of living, healthcare, food expenses, and what day-to-day life is like for expats and retirees. This guide synthesizes the latest data and expat insights to help you plan your dream retirement in Trinidad and Tobago.
Cost of Living in Trinidad and Tobago (2025)
The cost of living in Trinidad and Tobago is moderate compared to North America and Western Europe, but prices for certain goods—especially imported items—can be high. Here’s a breakdown based on the latest data:
| Household Type | Estimated Monthly Cost (TTD) |
|---|---|
| Family of Four | 24,336 |
| Single Person | 10,246 |
Cost of Living Index (2025): 52.6 (Wise, April 2025)
Rent is, on average, 67% lower than in the United States, making housing relatively affordable. However, imported goods, electronics, and some services can be significantly more expensive than in the US or UK.
Sources: Numbeo (June 2025), Wise (April 2025), Expatistan (2025)
Food Costs: What to Expect
Food costs have risen in the past year, with expats noting that dining out and groceries—especially imported or specialty items—can be pricey. Here’s a sample of typical prices:
| Item | Average Price (TTD) |
|---|---|
| Combo meal (fast food) | 60 |
| Chicken breast (500g) | 25 |
| Milk (1L) | 10 |
| Bread (500g) | 8 |
| Eggs (12) | 15 |
Dining at mid-range restaurants is typically 150–250 TTD per person. Expats recommend bringing specialty foods or dietary products, as gluten-free and imported goods can be hard to find and expensive.
Sources: Expatistan (2025), Expat Exchange (2025)
Healthcare for Retirees
Trinidad and Tobago’s healthcare system is well-developed for the region, with both public and private options. Public healthcare is available to residents, but expats and retirees are strongly advised to have private health insurance, ideally covering major illnesses and emergency evacuation. The healthcare index for 2025 is estimated at 51.9.
Major hospitals include the Port of Spain General Hospital, which is a key trauma center for the Caribbean. Private clinics offer higher standards and shorter wait times, but at a cost.
Sources: Expat Focus (2025), Numbeo (2025)
Standard of Living & Lifestyle
The islands offer a laid-back lifestyle, beautiful beaches, and a vibrant culture. Infrastructure is generally good, with well-developed transport and communications networks, though occasional power and water outages are reported.
Housing is affordable compared to other Caribbean islands. Trinidad is the commercial hub, while Tobago is more residential and relaxed. Expats praise the friendly, family-oriented culture but note that bureaucracy and inefficiencies can be frustrating.
Sources: Expat Focus, Expat Exchange (2025)
Residency, Pensions, and Practical Tips
- Residency for retirees requires proof of income or assets; government pensions are only for those who have contributed to the local system.
- Transport is modern, with ferries, water taxis, and international airports on both islands.
- Bring specialty goods, bedding, and summer clothing, as these can be expensive or hard to find locally.
Conclusion
Trinidad and Tobago offers a unique retirement destination with a high standard of living, affordable housing, and a vibrant culture. While some goods and services can be expensive, careful planning and local knowledge can help you make the most of your retirement here.
This article was published on June 21, 2025. All data sourced from Numbeo, Wise, Expatistan, Expat Focus, and Expat Exchange (see links above).