Moving to Jamaica

An idyllic island country in the Caribbean, Jamaica is blessed not only with paradisiacal beaches but also lush rainforests, soaring mountains, and warm, friendly people with their unmistakable accents. If you’re considering a move to Jamaica, be sure to take in both the scenic beauty and the rich culture that make this place special.

That said, this tropical paradise holds a few surprises if you’re unprepared. Crime, particularly in larger cities like Kingston, can be a concern. High crime rates in impoverished areas are largely gang-related and don’t typically affect tourists or expats. Still, moving here requires you to stay vigilant and adjust some personal habits, especially if you’re used to places where safety is less of a concern. Petty theft can be an issue in tourist-heavy areas, so keeping a close eye on your belongings is wise.

Living in Jamaica as an expat

Living in Jamaica as an expat means encountering a mix of modern convenience and traditional island life. While English is the official language, in day-to-day conversations, you’ll often hear the local creole, Patois. Learning a bit of Patois will not only help you understand the culture better but will also make your integration into the community much smoother.

Jamaica’s economy leans heavily on tourism, which accounts for a large chunk of the country’s revenue. In recent years, tourism has boomed, with millions of visitors flocking to its shores. This growth is creating job opportunities in hospitality, but securing a work permit can still be tricky, especially for a spouse. Other important sectors in Jamaica include agro-processing, mining, and light manufacturing, though these offer fewer opportunities for expats.

When it comes to getting around, Jamaica’s public transport is affordable but may feel a bit chaotic. Buses and taxis are your main options, though buses tend to be overcrowded and unreliable. Stick to registered taxis for safer and quicker travel, especially in cities. Driving in Jamaica can be challenging, with winding roads and potholes. Caution is essential if you’re behind the wheel, particularly in rural areas with poor road conditions.

Accommodation varies widely in Jamaica. If you’re looking for something affordable, you’ll find reasonably priced options, though luxury properties, especially in tourist areas or cities, come at a premium. The real estate market is also expanding, with new builds popping up to meet the demands of the tourism sector.

Healthcare is something you’ll need to consider seriously. While Jamaica has state-sponsored healthcare for all legal residents, the quality of hospitals varies, with the best facilities typically near tourist areas. Many expats prefer private healthcare and invest in international health insurance to ensure access to higher-quality care.

Cost of living in Jamaica

The cost of living in Jamaica might surprise you. Prices in Kingston, for instance, are on par with medium-sized cities in the UK and the US, thanks to high inflation and the cost of imported goods. In 2024, Kingston ranked as the 99th most expensive city out of 226 globally, according to Mercer’s Cost of Living Survey. Similarly priced cities include Jeddah in Saudi Arabia and Lisbon in Portugal.

One thing that will quickly eat into your budget is property, especially in city centres where housing prices are climbing. You’ll find more affordable accommodation outside the main urban areas. Inflation can drive up everyday costs, but overall, the cost of living remains manageable.

Expat families and children

Education in Jamaica offers a blend of public and private options. Primary schooling is free and compulsory, covering Years 1 to 6, and secondary school runs from Year 7 through Year 11. Post-secondary education is optional but widely available. Independent schools are popular among expat families, with several excellent international options.

If you’re relocating with children, you’ll want to check out the top international schools in Jamaica. These schools can be competitive to get into, so you have to plan ahead. Some families even start the application process years in advance to secure a spot for their child.

Kingston, once the island’s only city, surprises many with its size and vibrancy. It offers great nightlife, top-notch restaurants, and excellent shopping. If your family enjoys the outdoors, you’ll love exploring Jamaica’s safaris, beaches, and hiking trails. With a large tourist community, there’s no shortage of activities to keep everyone entertained.

Climate in Jamaica

The tropical climate in Jamaica means sunny beach weather almost all year round. That said, the island is prone to hurricanes and tropical storms between June and November. These storms have become more intense in recent years, driven by climate change. A powerful Category 5 storm, Hurricane Beryl, hit Jamaica in 2024, causing significant damage to infrastructure.

Beyond storms, rising temperatures and shifting weather patterns are impacting agriculture and coastal areas, with some coastal erosion becoming a concern. Despite these challenges, Jamaica’s natural beauty remains a major draw, and the weather is one of the top reasons expats fall in love with the island. The rich cultural influences of reggae, ska, and the unique Creole culture further enhance the island’s appeal.

Fast facts

Population: About 2.8 million

Capital city: Kingston

Geography: Jamaica is the third-biggest island in the Caribbean. Much of inland Jamaica is covered in rough and mountainous terrain, with numerous underground rivers. The coastline alternates between white sandy beaches and rugged, rocky areas.

Political system: Parliamentary democracy under a constitutional monarchy

Major religions: Christianity

Main languages: English and Jamaican Patois

Money: The official currency is the Jamaican Dollar (JMD). ATMs and card facilities are widely available in urban centres and tourist areas.

Tipping: A tip of 10 to 15 percent is typically expected for most services

Time zone: GMT-5

Electricity: 110 volts, 50 Hz. Plugs with two flat blades are standard throughout the country.

Internet domain: .jm

International dialling code: +1 (876)

Emergency contacts: 119 (police), 110 (fire and ambulance)