Grenada has witnessed a surge in foreign nationals from the US and other nations seeking a new life in the Caribbean. Living in Grenada comes with numerous perks, and this guide explores these benefits as well as essential factors for moving to the island, such as:
- Cost of living
- Residency options
- Best cities to live
- Expat communities
- Pros and cons
About Grenada
Grenada island is an unspoiled Caribbean paradise, also known as the ‘Spice of the Caribbean’ or ‘Spice Isle’ due to its significant exports of spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg. With its sister islands, Carriacou and Petite Martinique, Grenada is a Caribbean destination offering broad lifestyle choices.
The “Spice Island” has 40 pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, 15 waterfalls, 30 top-notch diving locations, and a vast, awe-inspiring rainforest ready for exploration.
As a former British Colony and part of the British Commonwealth, Grenada’s official language is English, and a Grenadian Creole language mixed with English, French, and African languages is also widely spoken among the population.
Direct flights to multiple cities in the United States are available from Grenada’s Maurice Bishop International Airport, including to New York and Miami, as well as Toronto, Canada.
Since the introduction of Grenada’s citizenship by investment program in 2013, there has been a remarkable increase in American expats living in Grenada. Foreign nationals have the opportunity to acquire a Grenada passport in exchange for investing in the country.
Eight Benefits of Living in Grenada as an American
- Making an investment in Grenada is an option to permanently move to the country as well as earn income.
- Grenada offers a high standard of living with its tropical climate and natural beauty.
- The country has tax-friendly policies, including no personal income tax on foreign income and no inheritance, capital gains, wealth, or capital gains tax.
- Living costs in Grenada are lower than in the United States.
- Grenadians welcome foreigners, and the friendly local population speaks English, making it easier to navigate daily life and make new friends.
- Americans relocating to Grenada can fly directly to multiple cities across the US, including Miami, Charlotte, and New York.
- Grenada has a stable political environment and democratic government, contributing to its safety and peacefulness for citizens and foreign residents.
- Despite its small population, Grenada’s deep cultural roots have inspired the creation of numerous cultural festivals to explore, including Grenada Carnival, Carriacou Regatta, and Fisherman’s Birthday.
Cost of Living in Grenada
The cost of living in Grenada, is about 13 percent cheaper than in the United States when including rent. Additionally, Grenada taxes are more favorable that United States taxes. Residents do not pay foreign income, wealth, capital gains, or inheritance tax.
Groceries
Though Grenada heavily depends on imported goods, residents save money by buying locally produced food like citrus fruits and bananas and the island’s renowned spices such as cloves, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Here is a comparison of the cost of everyday groceries in Grenada versus the United States.
Product | Grenada | United States |
Milk (1 liter) | $4.95 | $1.05 |
Local cheese 1kg | $9.21 | $12.88 |
Fresh white bread (500g) | $1.59 | $3.59 |
Oranges | $1.74 | $4.51 |
Eggs (12) | $3.84 | $3.71 |
Onions (1kg) | $2.21 | $3.06 |
Bottle of wine (mid-range) | $9.47 | $15 |
Chicket fillets (1kg) | $12.05 | $7.24 |
Dining out
Dining out in Grenada is relatively cheap, particularly for local food and inexpensive meals. To dine at an inexpensive restaurant costs just $7.40 on average compared to $20 in USA. There isn’t much separation in the prices for two people dining at a mid-range restaurant, with the average price in both countries being around $75.
Rent
Grenada rent prices are cheap. The average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center costs $590, and a three-bedroom apartment costs $1,215. Outside the city center, prices are cheaper, and a one-bedroom apartment costs $360, and a three-bedroom apartment costs $690.
Property Type | Average Monthly Rent in Grenada | Average Monthly Rent in the US |
One-bedroom apartment in the city center | $590 | $1,760 |
One-bedroom apartment outside the city center | $370 | $1,455 |
Three-bedroom apartment in the city center | $1,215 | $2,935 |
Three-bedroom apartment outside the city center | $690 | $2,400 |
Grenada Real Estate for Americans
Grenada real estate features brand-new apartments, luxury villas, and charming beachfront bungalows, providing diverse housing options to suit various preferences and budgets.
If you are a US citizen purchasing Grenada property, you must apply for the Alien Landholding License (ACHL), which is ten percent of the property value. However, investing in the country’s Caribbean citizenship program negates the need to acquire an ACHL when buying Grenada real estate.
The average cost per square meter for a central property in Grenada is $1,430 compared to $3,455 in the United States.
Discover why you should Explore Caribbean Real Estate Investment
Traveling around Grenada
Grenada is a small Caribbean nation, so traveling around is fairly easy and affordable for both locals and foreign residents. Most residents use public transportation, which consists of minibusses. These minibusses operate on fixed routes and are budget-friendly. Fares typically cost $1.11 for a one-way ticket. Local taxis are also available for more convenience.
Some expats purchase a vehicle for more flexibility, which comes at a higher cost than the United States. Grenada car prices include high import taxes, and fuel is also relatively expensive, costing $1.39 per liter on average compared to 96 cents in the US.
Regarding international travel, Americans can easily travel to the United States with direct flights from Grenada’s Maurice Bishop International Airport.
Life in Grenada as an American Retiree
With its pristine beauty, Grenada offers an ideal Caribbean retirement haven for those yearning for tropical weather on one of the region’s most picturesque islands with one of the best things to do in the Caribbean. Outdoor activities in Grenada are abundant, from basking in the sun on Grand Anse Beach to exploring the country’s colonial remnants.
Retirees in Grenada will find the island nation’s past brought to life at iconic landmarks like Fort Frederick and Belmont Estate, offering retirees a deep dive into the rich cultural heritage of Grenada.
Grenada offers some of the best things to do in the Caribbean. The Underwater Sculpture Park off the coast of Dragon Bay is world famous, and the government has commissioned a new underwater sculpture park by British sculptor Jason de Caires Taylor to add to the country’s appeal.
Healthcare
Regarding Grenada healthcare, the largest medical facility in Grenada is St George’s General Hospital, providing state-of-the-art care and medical facilities. Grenada has seven acute care medical centers and around 30 health facilities in total, including private clinics. Retirees can obtain private health insurance from renowned health insurance providers, including Bupa and Cigna Global.
Taxes
Though Grenada isn’t exactly a Caribbean tax haven, residents, including foreigners, are not required to pay tax on income earned outside the country. There is also no obligation to pay capital gains, wealth, or inheritance taxes.
Immigration Options to Move to Grenada
Americans can visit Grenada visa free for up to 90 days. It’s also a Caribbean island that doesn’t require a passport to visit on specific cruises. Any stay longer than 90 days will require a temporary residence permit.
Permanent residency: Foreign residents can gain permanent residency in Grenada after living in the country for two years. This requires a legitimate reason to obtain a temporary residence permit, such as employment, studies, or a resident family member.
Citizenship by investment: The Grenada citizenship by investment program offers Americans and other foreign nationals and their family members the opportunity to obtain citizenship and a Grenada passport by investing in the economy.
Investment options:
- $235,000 to the Grenada National Transformation Fund (NTF)
- $270,000 joint or $350,000 sole real estate investment
Take a look at our Grenada Citizenship by Investment Ultimate Guide
Living in Grenada: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Tropical weather: Grenada offers white sandy beaches, year-round warm temperatures, and sunny weather.
- Affordable real estate: Grenada real estate is cheaper than real estate in the United States
- Daily direct flights: Americans can fly directly to several cities across the US, including New York and Miami.
- English speaking: Grenada inhabitants speak English, making it easier for US expats to adapt to life in Grenada. Additionally, Grenada has a large expat community.
- Fewer hurricanes: Grenada’s geographic position is outside the Caribbean’s hurricane belt, minimizing the risk of severe storm damage to property.
Cons:
- Lack of infrastructure: While Grenada is relatively developed for a small island, the country lacks infrastructure when compared to major US cities.
- Instances of petty crime: Grenada is relatively safe, but residents must be aware of the cases of opportunistic petty theft.
- Reliance on imports: Grenada relies significantly on imported goods, resulting in higher prices for specific items like electronics and certain food commodities.
- Small size: Grenada is one of the Caribbean’s smaller islands, resulting in limited options for entertainment, dining, and cultural activities compared to large US cities and hubs, as well as other islands in the Caribbean.
- Bureaucracy: Dealing with Grenadian bureaucracy and administrative processes is often inefficient and runs on ‘island time,’ making navigating opening accounts at banks in Grenada and other official matters time-consuming and sometimes frustrating.
Best Cities to Live in Grenada
St George’s: The capital city, St George’s, is beautiful, busy, and close to everything you need: Shopping, healthcare, and international schools. Famous for its harbor and large expat community, it’s popular for Caribbean real estate investment and expats seeking convenience.
Grand Anse: Near St George’s, Grand Anse is famous for its beach and attracts many expats and visitors. It has a range of housing, from modern apartments to beachfront villas, and is close to restaurants and shopping amenities. Life in Grand Anse is more relaxed yet is close to city life.
Lance aux Epines: Lance Aux Epines is a quiet upmarket area perfect for those who want a peaceful environment near the coast. It features home to many luxury residential real estate options and is close to the renowned St George’s University.
Westerhall: Along the southeastern coast, Westerhall is known for its family-oriented residential areas and ocean views. It’s a quiet suburban area with various high-end properties that are prime for Caribbean investment. More peaceful than St George’s but only a short distance to the capital.
Gouyave: For a more local and genuine Grenadian experience, Gouyave, known as the “town that never sleeps,” is the place to be. It’s famous for its Friday Fish Fry, a social gathering that attracts locals and expats. This coastal town is for those who want to be more involved in Grenadian culture and community life.
Carriacou: Grenada’s smaller sister island, Carriacou, offers a peaceful, community-focused lifestyle for those who want a quiet rural life. With beautiful beaches and strong local traditions, Carriacou is one of the best Caribbean islands to retire for Americans who want simplicity and a close-knit community. The island is connected to Grenada by ferry, so making trips to the mainland is easy.
Compare Grenada vs Dominica Citizenship in our detailed comparison Guide
Grenada Expat Communities
Expats moving to Grenada or spending an extended visit in the country have grown in recent years, drawn by the country’s natural beauty, safety, strategic location, and favorable conditions for foreign residents. The largest contingents of expatriates in Grenada come from the United Kingdom and North America, and expats living in Grenada frequent online platforms such as Expat Exchange and Reddit.
One of the most significant advantages when comparing the pros and cons of living in Grenada is Americans moving to Grenada quickly form connections due to the country’s large community of like-minded expats interested in outdoor activities like sailing and hiking, or its slower pace of life.
Relocating to Grenada with a Pet
Traveling to Grenada with a pet dog or other animal involves fulfilling requirements to ensure the safety and health of the pet and the island’s native species. The Grenada Ministry of Agriculture outlines the requirements for importing pets into Grenada. These include:
- Import permit: Obtain a pet import permit from the Ministry of Agriculture before departure.
- Vaccination: Pets must have been administered up-to-date on vaccinations listed by the VLD. This includes a rabies vaccination for dogs at least 30 days before arrival.
- Health certificate: A veterinarian must issue a health certificate stating the pet is free of contagious diseases and fit for travel.
- Deworming/flea treatment: Pets must have received deworming and flea treatment within 14 days of departure.
- Quarantine: Pets may be inspected upon arrival, depending on their vaccination status and health certificate.
For the most accurate and updated information, consult the Ministry of Agriculture.
Get in touch with a Caribbean Citizenship by Investment specialist
Frequently Asked Questions about Living in Grenada as an American Expat
Grenada offers a compelling lifestyle for those seeking a slower pace of life and warm weather on a tropical Caribbean island. The country is often cited as a good place to live in the Caribbean because of its safety, political stability, and optimal climate compared to other countries in the Caribbean, like the British Virgin Islands, due to its mild rainy season.
Grenada is a Caribbean country where you won’t have to worry about personal safety due to its low crime rate.
Foreigners can live in Grenada. In fact, the Grenada government welcomes foreigners to enjoy island life by the Caribbean Sea through Grenada citizenship by investment. Foreigners can acquire Grenada citizenship and enjoy permanent residency in Grenada by buying property or donating to the Grenada government fund.
Grenada’s cost of living is about 13 percent cheaper than in the United States, including rent. According to Number, the estimated cost of living without rent for a family of four is about $3,000 to $3,500. A single person’s estimated monthly living costs are $900 to $1,000 without rent.
Grenadian living conditions offer a mix of natural beauty, comfortable amenities, and some challenges. Residents enjoy tropical weather with year-round warm temperatures, white sandy beaches, and numerous outdoor activities.
The island’s infrastructure, including roads, utilities, and healthcare facilities, can vary in quality. The island has one of the Caribbean’s best healthcare systems, but occasional power outages and water shortages in certain areas are not uncommon. While Grenada offers a relatively safe environment compared to other islands in the Caribbean, the island suffers from some instances of petty crime.
Americans find the small island nation of Grenada exceptionally welcoming compared to other countries and islands in the Caribbean, with its friendly local populace and a strong sense of safety. Moreover, the island boasts a sizable expat community, predominantly comprising Grenada passport holders from English-speaking countries, including North America.
Moving from the USA to the radiant island of Grenada is an exciting change for many Americans. In addition to the country’s natural beauty and warm climate, the stable Caribbean environment attracts US expats seeking permanent residency abroad.
Additionally, moving to Grenada can reduce tax through the US Foreign Earned Income Exclusion, as Grenada does not levy worldwide income tax or wealth, capital gains, and inheritance tax.
Moreover, Americans relocating to Grenada choose the Grenada citizenship by investment program, which provides a straightforward pathway to citizenship and a Caribbean passport through investment and access to all Grenada passport visa free countries.
Living in Grenada with kids is appealing, with the country being home to St George’s University, a renowned institution that attracts students from around the world, particularly for its medical and veterinary programs. Furthermore, Grenada’s education system emphasizes bilingualism, often incorporating both English and French classes, which can be advantageous for students in the global job market.
Despite being relatively safe from the Caribbean’s hurricane threats, Hurricane Beryl, which crossed the Caribbean region in June 2028, caused significant damage in the country. Furthermore, Grenada is positioned in an active seismic zone, exposing it to the dangers of earthquakes and tsunamis.
