Whether you’re a single person spending your golden years under the sun or a family of four looking for an attractive destination with progressive social and economic development, Antigua and Barbuda suits a diverse demographic. Living in Antigua is steadily becoming a favored choice among Americans and other foreign nationals. This guide delves into:
- Life in Antigua as an expat
- Cost of living
- Best cities to live
- Immigration options
- Benefits of living in Antigua
About Antigua and Barbuda
Antigua and Barbuda is known as the ‘Romantic Island of the Caribbean’ due to its popularity as a destination for romantic getaways. The country comprises two islands, Antigua and Barbuda, and several smaller islands.
Antigua serves as the bustling economic hub of the nation, home to the Bird International Airport, upscale shopping malls, state-of-the-art healthcare facilities, a vibrant culture, and an array of tourist hotspots. In contrast, Barbuda, home to just three percent of the country’s population, appeals predominantly to nature enthusiasts who appreciate its unspoiled beauty and tranquil atmosphere despite its lesser development.
It’s easy to enjoy a luxurious lifestyle in cities like St John’s, the country’s capital and largest city, and Jolly Harbour, a resort town with luxury accommodations, attracting tourists worldwide.
Antigua and Barbuda’s social and political stability make the island nation appealing. As a member of the British Commonwealth, its official language is English. The country operates under a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system, closely mirroring the governmental structure of the United Kingdom.
Ten Benefits of Living in Antigua
- Antigua is a lush tropical island with an average annual temperature of 28 °C (82 °F).
- Antigua and Barbuda is a small country. The government ensures that the country’s land and sea environments remain pristine through green initiatives such as the Green Globe Certification and the Barbuda Blue Halo Initiative.
- Expats can purchase approved real estate from $300,000 to acquire a desirable living space while obtaining Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment and the right to reside in the country permanently.
- Antigua and Barbuda is one of the Caribbean’s most politically stable and crime-free countries, offering a high level of safety for residents.
- Antigua’s living costs are affordable, with the average cost of rent around 50 percent cheaper than in the United States.
- Tax residents of Antigua and Barbuda pay no income tax, inheritance, wealth, or capital gains taxes.
- Antigua and Barbuda is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar, which is pegged to the US dollar, ensuring a solid economic environment and stable prices.
- English is the primary language spoken in Antigua and Barbuda, so American expats and foreign nationals from other English-speaking countries do not face a language barrier when undertaking day-to-day tasks or exploring the best things to do in Antigua and Barbuda.
- Expats can fly directly from Antigua to the US, Canada, and Europe.
- Antigua and Barbuda’s average life expectancy of 79 years places it among the top countries in the Americas and ahead of developed nations like the US and Canada. This demonstrates the strengths of Antigua healthcare, living conditions, and social and environmental stability.
US and Antigua and Barbuda Cost of Living Compared
According to Numbeo, the overall cost of living in Antigua and Barbuda is significantly cheaper than in the United States. While living costs can be relatively high compared to other Caribbean countries, Antigua offers a diverse range of lifestyle factors and services that justify its value, including modern infrastructure, quality healthcare, and educational opportunities.
Rental costs
Renting in Antigua and Barbuda is cheaper than in the US. Here is a comparison of the average cost to rent an apartment in Antigua vs the US:
Property Type | Average Monthly Rent in Antigua | Average Monthly Rent in the US |
One-bedroom apartment in the city center | $740 | $1,770 |
One-bedroom apartment outside the city center | $370 | $1,450 |
Three-bedroom apartment in the city center | $1,450 | $2,960 |
Three-bedroom apartment outside the city center | $1,110 | $2,400 |
Grocery costs
Antigua and Barbuda groceries in Antigua and Barbuda are relatively inexpensive with many items being cheaper than in the US. As a small Caribbean island nation, a lot of food items are imported and tagged with high import duties, making them more expensive than many other countries.
Banking costs
While the largest US banks allow citizens and residents to maintain accounts free of charge, banks in Antigua, like ABC Caribbean, require account holders to pay monthly maintenance fees. Service fees range from EC 20 ($7.40) to EC 35 ($13) for national banks.
Transportation costs
The cost of traveling around Antigua varies depending on the distance traveled and the mode of transportation. Generally, public transportation, such as buses and taxis, is affordable. A bus ticket costs about $1.40 compared to $2.50 in the US. Taxis rides between popular routes such as St John’s and Marina Bay Beach cost around $12.
The cost of car ownership in Antigua is higher than in the US. Car buyers in Antigua should anticipate relatively steep import taxes on vehicles, which will impact the overall cost of owning a vehicle. Additionally, the average price per gallon of fuel liter of fuel stands at $1.34 compared to 96 cents in the United States.
Living in Antigua as a Retiree
American retirees have transformed Antigua and Barbuda into one of the most popular Caribbean islands for retirement. There are numerous things to do in Antigua and Barbuda, from basking in the sun on picturesque beaches like Darkwood Beach and Ffyes Beach to exploring the scenic trails of Shirley Heights Lookout.
Healthcare
The Antigua healthcare system is efficient and high-quality, with large facilities like John’s Medical Center on Mount St. delivering state-of-the-art critical care and medical services.
Taxes
Antigua and Barbuda is a Caribbean tax haven. Residents, include foreign retirees, are not required to pay income tax, capital gains, wealth, or inheritance taxes. Retirees can remit investment funds and social security income to banks in Antigua without paying Caribbean taxes.
Immigration Options to Move to Antigua
There are three options to move to Antigua and Barbuda:
1. Tax Residency Program
The Antigua tax residency program grants permanent residency, provided applicants fulfill the following requirements:
- Buy or rent real estate to live in
- Reside in Antigua for at least 30 days annually
- Earn an annual income of $100,000 or more
- Pay a flat annual tax of $20,000
2. Nomad Digital Residence Program (NDR)
The NDR offers temporary residency of up to two years, with the following requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be employed by a foreign company or earn self-employment income abroad
- Earn an annual income of $50,000 or more
3. Citizenship by investment
The Antigua citizenship program allows investors to obtain an Antigua and Barbuda passport and reside in the country permanently, provided they fulfill the following criteria:
- Are at least 18 years old
- Contribute at least $230,000 to the economy
- Pay the necessary processing fees
Antigua and Barbuda provides the option to donate to the University of the West Indies Fund as a qualifying investment for the program. This options allows a family moving to Antigua and Barbuda through the citizenship by investment program to enroll one studying child at the university for a year tuition free. Additionally, investors can enjoy 151 Antigua and Barbuda visa free countries.
Best Towns to Live in Antigua
Most American expats living in Antigua choose to live in the following towns:
St John’s: St John’s is Antigua and Barbuda’s capital city. Vibrant and rich in history, St John’s has the most attractions and real estate options, such as luxury condos, townhouses, and family homes. Expats living in St John’s enjoy the most convenient access to everyday amenities.
English Harbour: English Harbour has one of Antigua’s largest expat communities and is sought-after for Caribbean investments, being home to Nelson’s Dockyard, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a hub for yachting enthusiasts.
Jolly Harbour: Jolly Harbour is a resort town on Antigua’s west coast. Many expats choose to live there for its natural beauty and stunning beaches like Jolly Beach.
Dickenson Bay: Located on the northwest coast of Antigua, Dickenson Bay offers a tranquil lifestyle and is a favored destination among expats for relaxed recreational activities like paddleboarding and snorkeling.
Nonsuch Bay: Nonsuch Bay is a small Antigua beach town providing the most laid-back lifestyle for expats who prefer a more secluded way of living for their second home. The location faces the Atlantic Ocean on Antigua’s east coast and is surrounded by hills and lush greenery.
Antigua Expat Communities
Antigua has a growing expat community that welcomes individuals from around the world, drawn by the island’s stunning beaches by the Caribbean Sea, optimal climate, and laid-back island life. The expat community in Antigua6 is diverse and mixed, predominantly of American, Canadian, and British nationals.
Social networks for expats are robust, with various clubs, events, and gatherings that foster a sense of belonging. English Harbour is among expats’ most popular towns, as many are involved in the Antigua Yacht Club, which is based in the town. Jolly Harbour and Dickenson Bay are also sought-after for their access to amenities, marinas, and recreational activities.
Take a look at our Antigua vs St Kitts Citizenship by Investment Comparison
Antigua and Barbuda Real Estate
Purchasing real estate in Antigua and Barbuda is one of the strategic ways to relocate to the country. The Antigua and Barbuda real estate market has numerous pre-approved property options, ranging from waterfront apartments and luxury family homes to modern condos and beachfront villas.
The minimum purchase value of a home that qualifies for citizenship by investment in Antigua and Barbuda is $300,000. Depending on the town and location, investors can expect to pay between $200,000 and $12 million for an Antigua residential property.
Relocating to Antigua with a Pet
Traveling to Antigua with a pet involves fulfilling requirements to ensure the safety and health of the pet and the island’s native species. The Veterinary and Livestock Division (VLD) of the Ministry of Agriculture in Antigua and Barbuda outlines the requirements for importing pets into Antigua and Barbuda. These include:
- Import permit: Obtain a pet import permit from the Veterinary and Livestock Division before departure.
- Vaccination: Pets must have up-to-date on vaccinations listed by the VLD. This includes a rabies vaccination administered at least 21 days before arrival for dogs.
- Health certificate: A veterinarian must issue a health certificate stating the pet is free of contagious diseases and fit for travel.
- Quarantine: Pets may be inspected upon arrival, depending on their vaccination status and health certificate.
For the most accurate and updated information, consult the Veterinary and Livestock Division of the Ministry of Agriculture in Antigua and Barbuda.
The Pros and Cons of Living in Antigua and Barbuda
Pros:
- Tropical climate: Antigua offers year-round sunshine and warm temperatures as well as several of the best things to do in the Caribbean.
- Affordable cost of living: Living costs in Antigua and Barbuda are cheaper than in the US
- Direct flights: US residents can fly directly to several cities across the US, including Miami, New York, New Jersey, and Atlanta. British expats moving to Antigua from the UK have access to direct from London.
- English speaking: Living in Antigua as an expat American does not require overcoming a language barrier, as English is the country’s official language.
- Stable economy: The Eastern Caribbean Dollar is pegged to the USD, ensuring a stable economy for citizens.
Cons:
- Limited job opportunities: For non-retired expats or those who don’t work online, the job market in Antigua may be limited, particularly in certain industries.
- Reliance on imports: Antigua and Barbuda heavily relies on imported goods, resulting in higher prices for certain products such as electronics and specific food items.
- Hurricane risk: Like many Caribbean countries, Antigua is susceptible to natural disasters caused by hurricanes.
- Healthcare access: Although Antigua offers modern Caribbean healthcare facilities, its scope may not match the extensive services available in the United States.
Take a look at our Guide on Buying Property in the Caribbean
Frequently Asked Questions about Living in Antigua
Various factors determine the amount needed to live comfortably in Antigua and Barbuda, including lifestyle, residence preferences, and general spending habits. To provide a rough estimate, a single person in Antigua will require a monthly budget of $1,500 to $3,000 to cover basic living expenses such as rent, utilities, groceries, transportation, and entertainment.
Americans can move to Antigua thanks to the Antigua and Barbuda citizenship program. The immigration program allows US citizens and other foreign nationals to gain citizenship and permanently move to the country by investing in its economy through one of four investment options.
Antigua and Barbuda is an inviting paradise and an ideal place to live as an American if you’re looking for an attractive destination with beautiful beaches, a vibrant culture, outdoor activities like hiking and sailing, and a low crime rate.
Antigua offers a safe environment owing to its low crime rate. Residents enjoy a relaxed quality of life, with the comfort of walking around at any time of day. Still, foreigners should exercise caution when walking around at night in Antigua and Barbuda or any destination.
Antigua and Barbuda provides one of the cheapest Caribbean CBI programs, starting at $230,000 for the government donation option. Americans relocating to Antigua and Barbuda enjoy a lower average cost of living in the USA.
According to stats from the most recent Human and Economic Assessment of Impact (HEAT) Report from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), 18 percent of Antigua’s population could be classified as poor, and 3.7 percent considered on the poverty line.
American can relocate to Antigua and Barbuda for retirement by participating in the Antigua citizenship program. The program grants the chance to become a lifetime citizen through investments such as buying an Antigua home or contributing to the country’s government fund.