The Caribbean country of Belize is made up of over 450 islands, islets and atolls and sits on the east coast of Central America. Despite its size, Belize is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the region. The country is home to a diverse range of landscapes, including rainforests, mountains, and beaches. Belize also has a rich culture and history, which can be explored through its many museums and archaeological sites.
If you are considering moving to Belize, the various costs listed below will help you make an informed decision on what costs are involved when moving and living in this little piece of paradise.
Quick Belize Facts:
- Population: 405,272 (2022 estimate)
- Official Language:The official language of Belize is English. However, Spanish and Creole patois are also widely spoken in the country.
- GDP Per Capita:BZD $8,900.96
- No Fast Food: McDonald’s, Burger King, Starbucks and KFC haven’t arrived yet.
- Currency: Belize dollar (BZD $). As of 2022, £1 = BZD $ 2.25, €1 = BZD $ 1.98, $1 CAD = BZD $1.4582, $1 AUD = BZD $ 1.2905
1. Moving and Shipping Costs to Belize
Here are some sample international container shipping rates to Belize from other countries around the world.
2. Belize Housing Costs
There’s variety of property available in Belize, much of it is owned by investors who rent out properties to tourists. You can find anything from a beach hut to upmarket villas.
Monthly Rental Prices in Belize
- 1 bedroom apartment in City Centre: BZ$450.34 – BZ$ 1,411.76
- 1 bedroom apartment outside the City Centre: BZ$ 300.32 – BZ$ 1,008.40
- 3 bedroom apartment in City Centre: BZ$ 901.02 – BZ$ 3,025.20
- 3 bedroom apartment outside the City Centre: BZ$ 504.80 – BZ$ 2,218.48
- Price per square metre (10.7 square feet) to buy in City Centre: BZ$ 1,008.40 – BZ$ 3,799.01
- Price per square metre (10.7 square feet) to buy outside City: BZ$ 1,907.10 – BZ$ 2,713.58
Belize Housing Cost Comparison
This is how rents in Belize compare with other countries around the globe.
UK is 162.98% more expensive
United States is 301.29% more expensive
Spain is 82.87%more expensive
Canada is 185.88% more expensive
Australia is 201.19% more expensive
France is 112.08% more expensive
Italy is 71.33% more expensive
Germany is 119.88% more expensive
Source: Numbeo
How to Save on Housing Costs
- Share an apartment or house. This will obviously split the cost of rent and utilities between two or more people, but it can also help you to find a place in a nicer area or with more amenities. Have a look at the following sites to find your perfect room or flat: Belize Real Estate, HomeExchange, iRoommates, and erasmusu.
- Consider renting a room in a house rather than an entire apartment or home. This is often cheaper and can still give you some privacy.
- Think about living in a smaller town or village rather than a large city. The cost of living is generally lower in these areas, so your housing costs will be as well.
- Research government programs that may help with housing costs. In Belize, the National Housing Trust offers loans and subsidies to eligible citizens for the purchase or construction of homes.
3. Belize Food, Grocery and Restaurant Costs
The cost of food in Belize is relatively affordable, with a variety of options available to suit any budget. For those on a tight budget, street food is a cheap and convenient
option, while those with a bit more to spend can enjoy the fresh seafood or international cuisine on offer in the restaurants.
Grocery prices are also reasonable, and it is possible to find all the necessary ingredients for cooked meals at the local markets.
- Inexpensive Restaurant: BZ$ 6.05 – BZ$ 22.18
- Takeout Coffee: BZ$ 4.00 – BZ$ 12.10
- Bottle of Coke: BZ$ 1.51 – BZ$ 4.03
- 1L of milk: BZ$ 2.50 – BZ$ 8.07
- Loaf of Bread: BZ$ 1.75 – BZ$ 6.05
- 12 Eggs: BZ$ 3.00 – BZ$ 6.45
- 1kg Chicken: BZ$ 5.52 – BZ$ 20.01
- 1kg Beef: BZ$ 8.04 – BZ$ 20.01
- 1kg Apples: BZ$ 2.02 – BZ$ 19.98
- 1kg White Rice: BZ$ 1.31 – BZ$ 5.50
This is how restaurants and food prices compare with other major countries in the world.
- United Kingdom restaurants are 112.72% more expensive and groceries are 5.67% more expensive than Belize.
- US restaurants are 119.66% more expensive and groceries are 54.79% more expensive than Belize.
- Spanish restaurants are 62.28% more expensive and groceries are 11.64% cheaper than Belize.
- Canadian restaurants are 103.55% more expensive and groceries are 42.13% more expensive than Belize.
- Australian restaurants are 103.80% more expensive and groceries are 46.14% more expensive than Belize.
- French restaurants are 89.10% more expensive and groceries are 40.66% more expensive than Belize.
- Italian restaurants are 82.04% more expensive and groceries are 12.51% more expensive than Belize.
- German restaurants are 76.30% more expensive and groceries are 8.88% more expensive than Belize.
Source: Numbeo
Bonus Tips for Cheaper Food, Restaurants and Groceries
- Know your supermarkets: Belize has many independently owned grocery stores and ethnic stores as well as the usual supermarket chains. There are also farmers’ markets and shops which sell health foods and organic foods. Popular supermarkets in Belize are: Adams and California scents.
- Find Cheap Eats:Belize has some great restaurants at affordable prices. If you hunt around you will find great restaurants that offer specials on various days of the week. Have a look at the following sites for suggestions – Wanderlog, San Pedro Scoop, Otehlia Travels, and Off Path Travels.
4. Belize Alcohol Costs
Drinking is a popular activity in Belize, and alcohol is widely available. The legal drinking age is 18, and there are no restrictions on where or when alcohol can be consumed. Alcohol is sold in supermarkets, bars, and restaurants, and is also served at many tourist attractions.
The cost of alcohol in Belize varies depending on the type of drink and the venue. Beer is typically the cheapest option, followed by rum and wine. Cocktails and other mixed drinks usually cost more than straight liquor. Prices also vary depending on whether you are buying alcohol at a bar, restaurant or store. In general, buying alcohol at a store is cheaper than buying it at a bar or restaurant.
- Pint (0.5L) domestic beer at a restaurant/pub: BZ$ 3.50 – BZ$ 7.99
- Bottle of imported beer at a restaurant/pub: BZ$ 4.99 – BZ$ 10.08
- Pint (0.5L) domestic beer at a supermarket: BZ$ 2.52– BZ$ 5.31
- Bottle of imported beer at a supermarket: BZ$ 4.00 – BZ$ 9.08
- Mid-range bottle of wine at a supermarket: BZ$ 15.13 – BZ$ 64.91
How to drink for less in Belize
- Keep an eye on the local papers and flyers for cheap drinks, either in supermarkets or in bars, clubs and restaurants.
- Drink where the locals drink. Not only is the alcohol likely to be cheaper, but you’ll also get a more authentic experience.
- Stick to local brands of beer and rum, which are typically cheaper than imported brands.
- Take advantage of any happy hours or other promotions they may offer on drinks.
5. Belize Transportation Fares
The best way to get around Belize is by renting a car. This way, you can explore the country at your own pace and make stops along the way. If you’re not comfortable driving in a foreign country, there are plenty of other transportation options available.
You can take buses or shuttles between towns, or even hire a driver for the day. Water taxis are also a popular option for getting around the coastal areas and for island hopping.
Here are some example ticket costs.
- One-way Ticket (Local Transport) – BZ$ 2.00 – BZ$ 7.06
- Monthly Pass (Regular Price) – BZ$ 10.77 – BZ$ 91.36
- Taxi Start (Normal Tariff) – BZ$ 5.01 – BZ$ 8.07
How to save money on public transport
- Buy a monthly ticket BZ$45 for 30 days of unlimited travel
- Buy a bike. Cycling is big in Belize, just beware of the potholes
- Walking is another option in the towns
6. Cost of Internet in Belize
Broadband in Belize is affordable, with the average price of a 60Mbps (unlimited data, cable/fibre) package coming in at BZ$40.00 per month. Here are some sample internet prices from late 2022 for unlimited downloads, with no data caps:
7. Cost of Clothing, Personal Items, Gym and Leisure
Belize experiences a tropical climate, with the dry season running from late February to May, and the wet season from June to November. The average temperature in Belize City during December is 23C and 29C in July. The annual rainfall varies depending on the area. Corozal in the north has around 4,445mm per annum and Punta Gorda in the south has around 1,270mm.
Onshore trade winds prevail for the most part of the year, and during September to December, northerly winds bring less humid air. From July through to November, hurricanes (tropical cyclones) can be a hazard.
Locals and visitors alike can get away with wearing light, summery clothing all year round. However, it is worth noting that some businesses do have a dress code (such as closed-toe shoes for restaurants) so it is always best to check in advance.
Here are some clothing prices, together with other useful prices.
- Pair of Jeans: BZ$25.00 – BZ$100.36
- Summer Dress: BZ$30.06 – BZ$90.76
- Running Shoes (Trainers): BZ$100.19 – BZ$250.89
- Business Shoes: BZ$125.24 – BZ$301.07
- Short Doctor’s visit (15 mins): BZ$30- BZ$40.
- Deodorant: BZ$7
- Shampoo: BZ$12
- Toilet Paper (4 rolls): BZ$3.05
- Gym membership: BZ$49.93 – BZ$121.01 per month
- Movie (cinema) ticket: BZ$15.02 – BZ$30.01
Source: Numbeo and Expatistan
8. Cost of Owning a Car and Driving a Car in Belize
Many people have cars in Belize and use them for commuting and getting around. If you don’t have an American driving licence, you’ll need an International Driving Licence to drive in Belize. If you are staying in Belize for over three months, then you’ll need to get a Belizean driving licence.
Here are some other sample costs of owning and operating a car in Belize:
- Volkswagen Golf: BZ$ 55,232.06 – BZ $ 60,308.90
- 1 litre (¼ gallon) of gas (petrol):BZ$ 2.65 – BZ$ 5.78
- Other costs: Registration (3, 6, 9 or 12 months) – cost varies depending on the time frame and size of vehicle – between BZ$45 and BZ$200. You need to prove you have insurance to register a vehicle.
Source: Expatistan, Belize Department of Transport
Ways to save money driving in Belize
- Car sharing or pooling is one way to save money. Try Car Pool World.
- Consider taking public transportation instead of driving. Belize has a public bus system.
- You can also save money by walking or biking when possible. This is good for your health and the environment!
9. Taxes in Belize
No matter where you live in Belize, you will pay tax. To learn more about the different taxes in Belize, go to International Living and GSL. Sales Tax in Belize is 12.5% and is added to most goods and services. Generally, the price you see on an item does not include sales tax.
If you own your home, you will be subject to property tax based on the area in which you live and the size of the property you live in. Learn more about property tax in Belize at Belize City Council. Finally, if you decide to buy an apartment or house in Belize, you need to pay real estate transfer tax.
10. Flight Costs from Belize
If you do make the move to Belize, here’s approximately how much it will cost to fly to other major world cities based on lowest, one-way fares from Skyscanner as of 2022:
- London: BZ$1, 237
- New York: BZ$744
- Los Angeles: BZ$607
- Toronto: BZ$ 795
- Vancouver: BZ$701
- Dubai: BZ$2, 247
- Sydney: BZ$4, 855
- Melbourne: BZ$5,100
- Cape Town: BZ$2,591
- Hong Kong: BZ$5,433
Other Belize Relocation Tips
The costs and pricing above should give you a good idea of the cost of living in Belize but perhaps the following extra tips will make your move go more smoothly.
11. Relocating to Belize Alone
Moving is always a stressful time but moving on your own can be exceptionally difficult. The relatively laid back atmosphere in Belize and the friendly people will help you ease into your new life. Here are a few tips about settling in Belize.
- Meetups:Belize has many Meetup groups covering a wide range of activities from surfing to architecture.
- Attend local events: There are many free festivals and cultural events happening all year round in Belize. Have a look at the following sites for inspiration – Travel Belize, Indigo Belize, and Belize Hub.
12. Moving to Belize with a Family
Moving to Belize with your family can be a difficult but rewarding experience. There are museums, parks, national parks, and, of course, the sea and everything it has to offer.
- New parents (or parents to be):Check out Expat for advice, courses and ways to meet other parents or parents to be.
- Live in a family friendly area:If you’re looking for a family friendly area to live in Belize, San Pedro, San Ignacio and Placencia are popular areas for families.
- Find things to do with the kids:Belize has lots of activities to keep the children occupied and happy. Have a look at the following website for inspiration – Travel Belize, Trip Advisor, Family Destination Guide, and Belize Hub.
13. Moving to Belize for Work
Moving to a new country for work is one of the most common reasons people choose to move. While it is possible to move without a job, it makes sense to ensure there are jobs in your field before you make the move.
Tourism is one of the biggest industries in Belize, so there are plenty of opportunities to work in hotels, restaurants, and tour companies. There are also a number of international businesses with operations in Belize’
If you’re thinking of making the move to Belize for work, be sure to do your research and plan ahead. With a little preparation, you can find a great job and have an amazing experience working in this beautiful country.
Here are a few things to consider when moving for work:
- Salary:Salaries in Belize are generally lower than in North America and Europe. However, the cost of living is also lower, so your purchasing power will be higher. It’s important to research salaries in your field and compare them to the cost of living to get an accurate picture of what you can expect to earn. You can check salary ranges on sites such as Glassdoor and Payscale.
- How to find work: If you want to have a job lined up before you move to Belize, but aren’t sure where to begin, the following sites are good places to start: Jobs Island, Indeed, and Career Builder. You may also want to Google recruiters in your industry, as they can often help land you some initial interviews as well.
14. Moving to Belize from Australia
There is a small Aussie contingent living in Belize. If you are thinking of moving from Australia to Belize, here are a few things to consider.
- Size comparison:If you look at the population of Belize and compare it with cities in Australia, it is slightly bigger than Brisbane
- Join expat groups: Expatoffers ways of meeting up with other Australians in Belize. Meetup and Internations are other great options as you can start your own group to meet like souls.
15. Moving to Belize from Canada
There are a small number of Canadians living in Belize. If you’re considering making the move from Canada here are a few things to consider.
- Size:If you compare the population size of Belize with that of Canada, it would be like comparing a small city with an entire country. Belize is one of the smallest countries in Central America, but it is also one of the most diverse. So, moving to Belize from Canada is a big change, but it is also an exciting one.
- Expat groups:Meeting up with fellow Canadians helps the moving process. Link up through sites such as Expat, Internations and Meetup,
16. Moving to from Belize the United Kingdom
The climate and way of life in Belize attracts people from the UK. In fact, there are many working in the country, especially in hospitality, so if you’re considering joining them, here are a few bonus tips:
- Size: Looking at the population size of Belize, it equates to the population of theBirmingham conurbation in the UK.
- Expat groups:If you want to get together with others from the UK who are enjoying the weather, then go to Internations and Meetup.
Hopefully, the tips and costs above are helpful. If want to get started pricing out how much it will cost you to move to Belize you can start by comparing moving quotes here.