Accommodation in the Cayman Islands

Renting accommodation in the Cayman Islands is a straightforward process, with a wide selection of apartments, condos, and houses available for long-term rent. Costs vary substantially depending on location, amenities, and proximity to areas such as George Town and the Seven Mile beachfront.

Rental accommodation is relatively easy to find, and annual leases are generally available. During the tourist season (December to April), securing an annual lease can be more challenging due to increased demand.

Types of accommodation in the Cayman Islands

There are various types of accommodation to choose from when renting in the Cayman Islands, catering to different lifestyles and budgets.

Apartments and condos are popular choices for professionals and expats, with options ranging from budget-friendly units to high-end waterfront residences. Townhouses are often found in gated communities. These offer more space than apartments and are ideal for families or professionals. 

Standalone houses and villas are located in suburban or residential areas. These properties provide greater privacy and larger living spaces. Shared housing and rooms are a more affordable option, often rented by students, seasonal workers, or those on a budget.

Furnished vs unfurnished

Most rental properties in the Cayman Islands come fully furnished, making it convenient for new arrivals. Unfurnished properties are less common but may be available for those preferring to furnish their own space.

Short lets

Short-term rental options are ideal for those not looking to commit to a long lease. You can find these through platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo or local rental agencies.

Useful links

• Airbnb
• Vrbo

Finding accommodation in the Cayman Islands

Real estate agents across the islands can assist with house hunting, and many property listings are available online. Given the fast-moving market, it’s best to act quickly when securing a lease.

Popular online platforms for finding rentals include Cayman Resident, with guides and property listings; EcayTrade , a classifieds site featuring rental listings, and various Facebook groups and real estate agencies like Re/Max, Century 21, and Coldwell Banker.

In the Cayman Islands, landlords typically cover real estate agent fees when securing tenants, so renters usually don’t need to pay an agent fee. However, you should budget for a security deposit (typically one month’s rent) and potential utility setup costs.

Useful links

• EcayTrade
• Cayman Resident

Renting accommodation in the Cayman Islands

Renting accommodation in the Caymans is often the most practical choice if you’re planning to stay for two to three years. The property market is well managed, catering to the transient nature of expat living. Once you’ve found a suitable property, approach the landlord as soon as possible to negotiate the lease terms, pay the deposit, and sign the contract.

Making an application

The first step in securing a rental property is submitting an application. You can apply directly with the landlord or through an estate agent. Expect landlords or agencies to conduct background checks, which may include proof of employment in the form of a job letter or recent payslips, reference checks and a credit check.

Leases

A standard rental contract in the Cayman Islands lasts 12 months, with an option to renew at the end of the term. Some landlords may offer shorter leases, but these are less common and often come with higher rent. Short-term leases are more likely to be fully furnished, while long-term rentals may be unfurnished.

Key clauses in lease agreements usually include:

• Security deposit conditions – specifies refund policies and potential deductions.
• Utility responsibilities – clarifies whether utilities (electricity, water, internet) are included or separate.
• Maintenance responsibilities – landlords typically cover structural repairs, while tenants handle minor maintenance (e.g., AC filters, lightbulbs).
• Termination clause – outlines the required notice period and any early termination penalties.
• Renewal terms – details automatic renewals or rental rate adjustments.

Deposits

To secure a rental, you’ll need to pay a deposit, usually equivalent to one month’s rent, plus the first month’s rent upfront. Your deposit is refundable at the end of the lease, provided the property is returned in its original condition, aside from normal wear and tear.

Terminating the lease

Lease termination policies vary, but tenants typically need to provide 30 to 60 days’ notice. Some leases include break clauses allowing early termination with a penalty fee. If no break clause exists, tenants may be responsible for rent until a new tenant is found. Certain landlords may allow early lease termination for job loss or employer relocation, which is common among expats.

Utilities in the Cayman Islands

Before signing a lease, check which utilities are included and what extra costs you’ll be responsible for. Most rentals do not cover utilities such as electricity, water, gas, and internet, so it’s essential to budget accordingly. Some landlords may require a utilities deposit.

Electricity

Electricity in Grand Cayman is supplied by Caribbean Utilities Company (CUC), while Cayman Brac Power & Light services Cayman Brac and Little Cayman. The voltage is 120V/60Hz, with Type A and Type B plugs (the same as in the US and Canada). Due to the warm climate, air conditioning is essential, making electricity costs a significant expense.

Gas

There is no piped natural gas system in the Cayman Islands. Instead, most residents use bottled propane gas supplied by companies like Home Gas. Gas is mainly used for cooking, although some homes have propane water heaters. Electric stoves are also common.

Water

Tap water in the Cayman Islands is safe to drink and meets World Health Organization (WHO) standards. The primary sources are Water Authority – Cayman (government-owned) and Consolidated Water (a private supplier). Some properties also use well water for non-drinking purposes. While tap water is safe, some residents prefer filtered or bottled water due to the tap water’s chlorine taste.

Bins and recycling

Garbage collection is managed by the Department of Environmental Health (DEH) and occurs once or twice a week, depending on the district. Recycling is available but limited. Drop-off bins for glass, aluminium, plastics, and paper are located at various recycling centres.

Useful links

• Caribbean Utilities Company (CUC), Cayman Brac Power & Light
• Home Gas
• Water Authority – Cayman, Consolidated Water
• Department of Environmental Health (DEH)