How much money do I need to live in Dominica? Is it expensive to live in Dominica? These questions are essential to those seeking to relocate and live in this beautiful Caribbean country, and in this article we take an in-depth look at these topics. 

Understanding the cost of living in Dominica

Compared to the US or Europe the cost of living in Dominica is relatively low. Renting and real estate property prices are lower than in most Caribbean islands, local products are cheap, as well as transportation. If you are looking to live or retire on a budget, this is the place. 

As a reference, you can expect a family of four monthly costs to be about 3,200 dollars, without rent. A single person estimated monthly costs would be 860 dollars, without rent.

A loaf of fresh white bread is $1,90, roughly the same price as a pint of beer in a bar. A prepaid mobile tariff costs $0,32 per minute, and utilities for a 85 sq m apartment are about $46, plus unlimited data internet at $65. A monthly pass for a leisure fitness club is $60.

Eating and dining out 

Eating and drinking out is cheap in Dominica. Filled with bars and restaurants, this is a great place to eat out. Try out the delicious local cuisine, a blend of local, Native American, Spanish, French, and English cuisine influences. 

In Dominica, there are different options to dine out and prices vary accordingly. A meal in an inexpensive restaurant equals $7, while a three-course meal for two people in a mid range restaurant equals $70.

Also, keep in mind that imported and domestic beers are cheaper than in most countries.

To find out about entertainment in Dominica, check out our article: 15 Best Things to Do in Dominica.

Local transport costs

Taxi and buses are privatized and available mostly everywhere in Dominica at considerably lower prices than in the US. You will soon enough discover that taxis are actually the most popular and affordable way to commute on the island.

Health care

Community health services are free, and affordable private health services are also available, however you might not find many specialized health services. It is recommended to get a private health care scheme when living on the island. Health insurance companies such as Allianz, Cigna Global Health and Clements Worldwide offer full coverage for those living in Dominica.

Groceries 

The cost of groceries in Dominica is relatively cheap. Local products such as rice, fresh bread, local cheese, fresh fruits, and vegetables are cheaper than in the US and the UK, however imported products are more expensive such as milk and clothing.

One of the best ways to keep a low budget is to consume locally. Dominica’s local markets provide for plenty of local products at reasonable prices.

Study costs

Dominica has both a public education system – free – and a private education system – where you have to pay. 

The monthly fee of a private, full day preschool or Kindergarten is $140

School education is free and compulsory for students from 5 to 16 years old. You can however find a few private schools in Dominica.

Most of the universities are private. The registration fees will vary from universities, however below is an estimation of fees for international students for a year at private universities.

  • Fees for international undergraduates are estimated at $11, 900 per year
  • Fees for international graduates are estimated at $17, 850 per year

Students also have the opportunity to reside in on-campus housing if they wish – at an additional price.

Real estate

Renting

It’s not hard to find Dominica apartments for rent for very friendly prices.  You will for example find a one-bedroom apartment in the city center for $300 and a three-bedroom apartment for $800. Outside the city center prices are even cheaper: a one-bedroom apartment costs $200 and a three-bedroom apartment costs $400.

Dominica real estate 

Dominica real estate is also relatively cheaper to the rest of the Caribbean countries due to the island preservation from mass tourism. Instead the island is renowned for its eco-friendly tourism and preserved pockets of tropical nature.

Launched in 1993, the Dominica Citizenship by Investment program allows foreigners to obtain the Dominica passport provided that an investment is made in real estate of at least $200,000. Obtain second citizenship in 3 to 4 months for you and your family along with owning a beautiful property in Dominica.

There are plenty of properties for sale in Dominica such as shares in luxurious resorts, relaxed eco-lodge, fancy apartments, and beautiful villas. Some of the best places to live in Dominica are Roseau, Portsmouth, Soufriere and Marigot.

 

More on Dominica

15 Best Things to Do in Dominica
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Banks in Dominica: The Caribbean Banking System
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Citizenship by Investment Unit Dominica
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Frequently Asked Questions:

What is the currency in Dominica?

Dominica currency is the Eastern Caribbean dollar.

Is Dominica safe?

Yes, Dominica crime rate is very low.

Is Dominica expensive?

Dominica living costs are relatively low compared to the rest of the Caribbean islands, the US and UK. Local groceries, transports, and rents are low-cost.

What are the best places to live in Dominica for expats?

Whether you are planning to retire in Dominica, or to live and work in the country, some of the best places for expats are Roseau, Portsmouth, Marigot, and Soufriere.

Is food expensive in Dominica?

Depending on what you purchase, groceries can be cheap. Locally produced food is relatively low-cost, while imported products such as milk and clothing are more expensive than the average.

Is Dominica real estate expensive?

Dominica real estate is cheaper than the rest of the Caribbean. The cost of renting is also very cheap – a one-bedroom apartment in the city center equals to $300 dollars and outside the city center it’s around $200 dollars.