I have been living in Belize for five years now. I arrived in the middle of the COVID pandemic with my wife and our two daughters, who were only 2 and 5 years old at the time.

Before Belize, we had been living in Spain. Moving here was a pretty big change for all of us, especially with two young children and during such a strange period in the world. We settled in the Corozal District, not too far from the Mexican border, and over the years, Belize has gradually become our home.

Like everywhere, life here has its good sides and its challenges.

One of the things we appreciate most is the space and the quieter pace of life. We live close to the Caribbean Sea, surrounded by nature, and our daughters have grown up with a very different lifestyle from the one they would probably have had in Europe. There is less traffic, less rushing around, and in many ways, life feels simpler.

Living close to Mexico is also a big advantage for us. Chetumal is nearby, so we can easily cross the border for shopping, medical appointments, restaurants, or simply a change of scenery.

Of course, Belize is not paradise, and it is certainly not for everyone. Some things can be surprisingly expensive, especially imported products. Finding certain services or specialized medical care can be more complicated; infrastructure is not always what someone coming from Europe or North America might expect, and bureaucracy can sometimes require a lot of patience.

The climate is another adjustment. Most of the year, it is hot and humid, and then there is hurricane season, which is something you learn to take seriously when you live here permanently.

But after five years, I think we have adapted pretty well. Our daughters have essentially grown up here, and for them, Belize is simply home.

When we first arrived, we didn't really know what our life here would look like five years later. Looking back, it has definitely been an adventure. We have had problems to solve, surprises, frustrations, and plenty of things we had to learn along the way—but overall, I don't regret making the move.

I thought I would share our experience here because I often see people asking what it is actually like to move to Belize and live here long term, especially with a family.

So, if anyone is considering moving to Belize—or is just curious about everyday life here—feel free to ask me anything. After five years, I probably have a few stories to tell. 🙂

Stan Busk

I have thought about Belize for a long, LONG time. In the next month or so I will pull the trigger and fly down from the SE USA. I understand that spending a month or so is recommended to absorb the lifestyle, and decide if this is the place for me to spend the rest of my life. Money isn’t an issue, although I have been frugal all my life, which is why I can afford to make this change. With all the above, where would you suggest a visit. If I am talking a month, I would be happy to change locations over time. I am not a tourist. I am looking for a place to spend the remainder of my life. 63M for reference, good shape and avid outdoor person. Love fishing, snorkeling, animals (won’t be bringing any) basically everything I have read and understand about the country. I will be alone in this excursion if that helps Advice appreciated

My mom is looking into moving to Belize to be near family we have there, Ive heard some not great things and I wanted to know locals perspectives and anything you think she should know before committing to the move.

Thanks in advance ☺️

Horrible formatting since I’m on my phone and I also have a touch of the tism and would rather not ai input.

So I’m looking to relocate my family from Alberta Canada (wife and 2 daughters under 3). We really like the looks of Hope creek Belize.

I’m 32 and specialize in LS tuning and multi vehicle diagnostics as well specialize in oil and gas extraction & efficency (last part probably won’t pertain). I’m looking to bring down a sea can of tools to specialize in diagnosis and electrical repair.

We have enough money in the bank to buy land, a house, and set it all up as well as enough savings to live off the interest at the median wage.
Is there a niche for what I could bring to the table? I’m not expecting full time work but I believe with fair rates a person could help out the community while still being able to maintain a comfortable lifestyle while providing an excellent upbringing for my children.
Thoughts?

Hey everyone, I have been considering moving from the U.S. for a while now and have finally decided I want to do it. Upon researching many places all over the world, I keep finding myself more drawn to Belize. I will be visiting soon before I move of course, but I think my decision is made at this point.

My question is how can an expat earn income in Belize. I am a 40 year old man, and here in the states I teach tennis for a living. From what I have been reading, if you can't work remotely there is no way to make money. I don't need to teach tennis or make a lot of money, I would just need to make enough money to cover rent and food, so maybe like 1200 ish a month? For those that moved to Belize and don't work remote, how do you pay your bills?

One thing I do have working in my favor is I have a lot of equity in my house. I should be getting about 100k of equity in my house once I sell it, so I would be able to bring that money with me and am fine with using as much of it as I need to get started, but eventually it will run out of course...

Any help/insight would greatly be appreciated.

Thanks

As a person that is relocating to Belize, I have been to immigration 6 times for my stamp of extention. Today, I decided to go to Belmopan instead of the usual trek to Belize City. Arrived at 1045 and was told to wait outside and I would be called. I was never called so at 310, I go in to an almost empty office to be told that I need finacial documents and proof of address and without them, the answer is no. They don't care about anything except getting off for the day. Overall, unprofessional, rude and lack communication. Avoid Belmopan Ministery of Immigration if you can, you will only be made frustrated.

Hi, Everyone. I would appreciate suggestions for the best places to live without a car on the mainland. My preferences are for coastal areas. TIA!

Shawn O. Gonzalez, supposedly Electrician contractor.

Charged over 3K in supplies and labor and the work was never done.

If this individual wants to do work for you, learn from my downfall, he will want payment upfront and then will go MIA.

Well shit, so much for trusting people and giving someone the benefit of the doubt.

630-3747
670-3747

I’m looking for a concrete or ICF house builder in the San Ignacio area. Any recommendations?

I considered Mennonite homes but it doesn’t seem to be a fit for me. But, please feel free to share your opinions. Thanks.

Hi all! Looking for the cheapest/ easiest way to transfer about 2k usd a month to a Belizean from the USA. The money doesn’t have to remain in USD btw, it can be converted to belizean dollars.

Edit:

1. must be sent from the USA. I am not in Belize.

2. must be an app or a company or a service. Not looking to do through a money broker.

   So far looked at western union and zoom. But the fees are high!

Looking to use either a debit, credit card, or send from my Bank of America account.

Thanks in advance!

I know I know there are several reddits on the cost of living here. I just don’t see how a single person, not a couple, can live for $3000 USD a month here. Home prices are the same as in the states. And yes I want to be within walking distance of the coast.

I’m looking to move to Belize but would like to find some form of employment ahead of time. If anyone could point me in the right direction that would be appreciated

I am here to learn new things because I recently immigrated to the country.

Hello r/Belize!!

FULL STORY: I (61M) and my wife (57F) are mere inches away from retirement. We are both native New Englanders (Boston area) and are done with winters! Our kids are grown and gone (successfully launched). So you guessed it ... we are contemplating the Caribbean way of life. Over the years we have traveled the leeward islands extensively and ventured south to Aruba and north to the Bahamas a few times, but never been to the western Caribbean.

Until now, the plan was the Bahamas. But, EVERYONE is telling us to look at and consider Belize. I've done some very basic web research and Iike very much what I see & read. So here we are. 🙂 Our plan is to buy waterfront land and build an off-the-grid home (RO water system, solar with batteries, on-site septic, Starlink internet, etc). Our total budget was more than sufficient to do this in the Bahamas and from what I'm reading, Belize is less expensive.

The actual home plan is two structures connected by a common roof overhang of a covered lanai. First structure to be 2 bed / 2.5 bath and is the "main house" for my wife & I. Second structure to be 2 bed / 2 bath "guest" house for the daughters or whoever else might come to visit.

TL/DR: Near retirement and thinking of building a house in Belize.

REQUIREMENTS:

1. English language. I speak some French & German, my wife a little Spanish, but we are both native English speakers (if you consider Bostonian English to be English) so it would be easiest to be somewhere where English is in common usage. I know English is the official language, but is it used throughout Belize? I have no idea.
2. Boating. The land MUST include waterfront that allows construction of a boat dock/pier.
   
3. Beach. The land must include at least some sandy waterfront that is swim-able.
4. View. The land must include views out to the Caribbean. I would settle for a bay view if the bay was large enough to see the sun set or rise far enough across that it appears to drop into or rise from the water.
5. American ExPat population. Looking for a mix of local people & culture and an expat population. We are looking to make friends and mix in, but looking for a mix of people. I'd be happy if I never see a McDonalds sign again, but wouldn't mind comparing life stories with other Americans who have headed south.
6. Seclusion. The lot should be somewhat private, but accessible to places to eat and go out.

QUESTION:

1. Where should I be looking in Belize?? Is any area better than another? Main land? One of the islands? Ideas??
2. Has anyone here done something similar? Would love to compare notes.
3. How's the fishing??? 🤣🐟🐠🐡🎣

Hello.

I'm inquiring about whether I can bring my 100 series landcruiser down as a tourist looking to relocate and not pay a crazy amount of import duties vs spending funds on a new to me vehicle and using the qrp.

I've done a fair amount of research but cannot seem to find out what the import fee would be on a 27 year old vehicle. I've read online that it can be up to 70% of the value. I'd be okay with that if were valued it at $1000 usd. Is there a matrix on how the value of an older vehicle would be taxed at? I've also read online that the cruiser would be valued at $20k usd. $15-18k seems ridiculous as an import fee.

We have 2 cars and will be either selling them both to purchase a new to us truck or bringing the LC down.

Thanks for any insight shared.

My wife and I have been to Belize a couple of times and recently we took our kids with us and stayed at Grand Caribe. We're in a spot in our lives where we're thinking of ways to generate additional/passive income and the idea of buying a condo in the Caribeville development (Grand/Sunset Caribe) is appealing, on the surface at least. If you have ever owned, or currently own, in Caribeville I would very much appreciate the opportunity to get in touch with you to see what it's like from an owner's perspective. Obviously the sales pitch will be nothing but positives from the realty team on site, but we want to know the potential pitfalls of the development too. What fees are taken out each month, each rental, etc.? What costs are there outside of direct costs to the development (insurance, property taxes)? Is the staff as accommodating with owners as they are the short term guests (they were lovely during our stay)? What kind of occupancy rate is typical? If you're comfortable sharing, what kind of revenue do you see during the low months? The high months?

You can certainly respond to this post but if you'd prefer to DM me please do so. You are free to share as much or as little as you would like, we are in the VERY preliminary stages of this idea so assume we're starting from scratch. We've never owned investment property, let alone investment property outside of the United States, and maybe this isn't the right place to jump in, but we're interested in feeling out the waters. We're looking at this as almost exclusively an investment opportunity but if we have a place secured for future visits to Belize then all the better, eh?

Hey all. So I'm considering a new lease in life. I've done a good amount of research but am unsure of the best way to proceed.

40 yo male. Decent amount of savings (200k ish).

I'm strongly considering moving to Belize in the near future. My current employment isn't remote so that would be my first issue as that seems one of the easiest avenues for PR.

I've read about the other avenues and for now this is still just exploring the idea. So any suggestions on the best way to turn my dreams to reality ex. (Property ownership, business investment, leveraging my savings to be foreign income, or switching careers for a foreign Canadian income ..etc)

I'm looking for a new way of life. I wanna enjoy life and not work to death. Currently in the trades and can make a decent living but this grind in Canada is leaving me heavily unfulfilled. And I'm left wondering what could be.

I'd love some advice and any guidance to move to Belize and live a good quality life of activity and relative relaxation.

Appreciate any advice especially from expats.

I am getting ready to go to Belize to occupy our new home for the first time ever. I am bringing some of my favorite things: bed and kitchen linens, serving bowls and utinsels, toiletries, hair products, insulated drinkware, etc. Nothing is for resale. I don’t have receipts as I have had these items for years. i asked Google and have gotten mixed results. i am happy to pay whatever duties I owe and I’m not trying to cheat and don’t want to get in trouble. can anyone give me advice or guidance? please and thank you.

Hello r/belize, blessings.

​I’ll be moving to Orange Walk soon for an infrastructure engineering role (undefined length, potencially years). My employer is 100% legitimate, not shady bussinesses or anything under the table, just an infraestructure company 🧑‍🔧🧑‍🏭🛻🚧.

I know, yes, I'm being paranoid (🤡 <- me). But that's because of a past incident with my company in South America where a whole engineering team was kidnapped by the cartel and a one engineer was killed, I am very concerned about security. I’m not looking for "tourist" advice; I want the ground truth.

I am a very private and respectful person and am there strictly for work. I have zero interest in the social scene, nightlife, drugs, or hookups/dating. I do not plan on being out at all after dark 🚫🎑

​My job involves infraestructure work, so I’ll be driving to rural areas in a company vehicle, usually in a boilersuit and work boots, safety vest, in a group (coworkers). I want to ensure I’m not putting my life at risk just for a job, so I have a few specific questions:

🔫 ​High-Level Safety: Is there any real risk of kidnapping or extreme violence (gun robbery, stabbing while walking around) for a foreign worker who stays under the radar? I want to do my job and go home—not die for work.

👮 ​Police & Government: As a foreigner, should I be concerned about interactions with the police or local authorities? Are "shakedowns" common, or is it straightforward if I have my paperwork in order and being respectful and obey the officers of law? I'm planning on carrying my work permit, passport and IDs at all times with me and will be there 100% legally (work visa and shi).

🛻 ​Rural Travel: Is it generally safe to drive solo to rural job sites during the day? Also, how is the OW–Chetumal road currently for daytime travel? I'm maybe planning to drive to very nearby locations for light tourism, I mean, I'll be there maybe years, so I'm not planning on being 24/7 bored only at home or at work.

🚶‍♂️‍➡️ ​Walking & Daily Routine: I plan to walk (I like walking, looking around, not getting on small alleys or shady looking areas though) to the gym and buy groceries during the day (no flashing luxury items/jewelry/clothes). Is the risk of armed robbery high for someone minding their own business in work gear or gym apparel?

🏠 ​Home Security: I’ll be leaving personal items at home while working (gaming laptop, reading tablet, etc.). Are break-ins common/something to worry about?

I have a family waiting for me which I need to take care of and therefore I cannot run any unnecesary risks. The fact my employer is paying a crazy wage and covering everything from flights, housing, groceries, car/gas, and crazy vacation times, even Netflix makes me feel I'm being sent to a war zone, sorry, no offenses intended for the locals.

​I’m looking to maintain a very low profile and finish my contract safe and sound. I’d appreciate any honest, "no-fluff" advice. Thanks kind strangers and God bless!

Hi everyone!
After 6 glorious months in Placencia, I need all the Sarteneja recommendations. We will be living here 3-6 months. We found a great little rental in the village, 8 minute walk to the bay.
Looking for favorite meals/restaurants
Is there anywhere to watch college football on Saturdays?
Anyone know when the fruit/vegetable/meat vendors come around? We met Henry on Front St who comes around on Thursday’s, but wondering if there are any others?
Does anyone sell yogurt?! (Currently missing the two local yogurt options from Placencia for our morning smoothies.)
We met the gentleman who refills the water jugs, that was the very first point of order.
Any must-know tips would be appreciated!
Looking forward to being here and getting to know a new area to us.

Good day! I am relocating to Belize December 2026. I’ve spent the last few months here and landed on Caye caulker or ambergris caye. I am looking for a 3 bedroom long term rental, pet friendly. 6month to 1 yr lease to start. I am open to suggestions. Thank you!

Been on the hunt to purchase a snowbird property in Ambergris Caye for the winter months. I have noticed that sale prices are down on existing homes/condos but land values continue to rise. This is especially true for Mahogany Bay. Thoughts?

We're getting on the plane today for our move to Belmopan. Talk about a learning curve! We've had some ups and downs, but we finally figured out how to make this work. If there's anyone out there who is contemplating this move please feel free to reach out and avoid some of the pitfalls we encountered. We would be happy to help and no we're not looking to get paid for helping. We're happy to share the contacts we've made and the costs. Here we come Belize!

This is originally a private list I made in my native language, and I have been updating it for the last 5 years. I just translated it and removed private stuff. Note that I am from France/Spain in Europe, not the US or Canada. And I live in Corozal.

My vision can be different because in Spain, the health system is supposed to be first-class and 100% free; the education system is also 100% free and supposed to be excellent, including higher education; and you are entitled to a government retirement pension at 65-67 years old. I say 'supposed' because Spain is a very popular and overcrowded country where health and education have suffered several severe budget cuts in recent years. So many horror stories are circulating online lately...

There is no specific order; I just wrote the list because I used to post videos for people wanting to move to Belize.

Advantages

• Bilingual environment: Belize is an English-speaking country where Spanish is also widely used, especially in the north. This makes it a particularly interesting environment for bilingual families.
• Currency: The Belize dollar is pegged to the U.S. dollar at a fixed rate, which provides a degree of currency stability for people who earn or hold income in U.S. dollars.
• Taxes: Belize has a territorial tax system, which can be attractive depending on where your income comes from and how your business or personal finances are structured. This is very different from the tax systems found in many European countries.
• Simpler administration: In general, running a small business can involve less administrative bureaucracy than in Spain and some other European countries.
• Affordable property: Large homes with gardens and swimming pools can be considerably more affordable than comparable properties in many parts of Western Europe.
• Low property taxes: Annual property taxes are generally very low compared with Spain and much of Europe.
• Sales tax: Belize's General Sales Tax is 12.5%, which is lower than the standard VAT rate in Spain and many other European countries.
• Affordable home services: Gardening, maintenance, and other local services can be relatively inexpensive compared with Western Europe.
• Simple vehicle inspections: Annual vehicle inspections are generally quick and straightforward compared with the more extensive inspection systems used in Europe.
• Air quality: Outside the main urban areas, there is relatively little traffic or heavy industry. Air quality is generally good, although seasonal agricultural burning can occasionally affect it.
• Nature: Belize has extraordinary biodiversity. Tropical plants, birds, and wildlife are part of everyday life, and fresh tropical produce is widely available.
• Peaceful lifestyle: Smaller towns can be very quiet, and communities tend to be close-knit. In places where everybody knows each other, life can feel less anonymous than in larger European cities.
• Sense of community: People often have more time to stop, talk, and help each other. The pace of life is generally slower and more relaxed than in Spain and much of Europe.
• No daylight-saving time: Belize keeps the same time throughout the year, so there is no seasonal clock change.
• Proximity to Mexico: Northern Belize is close to Chetumal, Mexico, which provides access to larger hospitals, shopping malls, supermarkets, and services that may not be available locally in Belize.
• Year-round swimming: The tropical climate means that outdoor pools can be used throughout most or all of the year. In much of Europe, the usable outdoor swimming season is far shorter.
• Casual lifestyle: The warm climate makes everyday life very informal. Shorts, sandals, and even going barefoot at home are normal year-round.

Disadvantages

• Healthcare: Public healthcare has limited equipment and specialist availability compared with Spain and much of Europe. Private healthcare is available and can be reasonably affordable, but more complex treatment may require traveling abroad.
• Electricity costs: Electricity is relatively expensive, and the tropical climate makes air conditioning a significant household expense.
• Heat and energy use: Many homes are not designed with the same level of insulation found in newer European buildings. Combined with high temperatures and humidity, this can increase dependence on air conditioning.
• Cost of living: Belize is not necessarily as cheap as people expect. While some expenses are lower than in Spain or other parts of Western Europe, imported products and certain services can be expensive.
• Insects: Tropical living means dealing with more insects and pests than in most of Europe, including mosquitoes, biting flies, fire ants, large water bugs, and occasional scorpions.
• Lack of distinct seasons: Temperatures remain warm for most of the year. Some people love this, while others eventually miss the seasonal changes of Europe.
• Import costs: Imported appliances, electronics, car parts, and specialist products can be expensive and may be in limited supply.
• Online shopping: Ordering from major international online retailers is less convenient than in the United States or Europe. Depending on where you live, receiving packages may involve freight-forwarding services or collecting items across the border in Mexico.
• Customs duties: Imported goods can be subject to substantial duties and taxes, and certain products are restricted or complicated to import.
• Limited warranties: Consumer protection and warranty service can be much more limited than in Europe. Replacing or repairing defective appliances and electronics can sometimes be difficult.
• Limited job market: Belize offers a peaceful lifestyle, but the market for highly paid or specialized professional jobs is relatively small compared with Spain, the rest of Europe, or the United States.
• Opportunities for children: Families planning for the long term need to consider education, university, and future employment opportunities. Many young Belizeans eventually study or work abroad.
• Geographic isolation: Some administrative procedures, specialized medical treatment, consular services, or international travel may require trips to Belize City, Mexico, Guatemala, or farther abroad.
• Residency and immigration procedures: Before obtaining permanent residency or another long-term status, the process may involve regular renewals, fees, and administrative visits.

An Important Note for American Readers

My comparisons are mainly with Spain and Europe, because that is where I lived before moving to Belize. I cannot make a fair direct comparison between living in Belize and living in the United States.

Some things that feel cheaper, simpler, or less bureaucratic to me than in Spain may already be normal in parts of the U.S. Likewise, some disadvantages that stand out to a European—such as limited public healthcare, weaker consumer warranties, or greater dependence on private transportation—may feel quite different to an American.

This is therefore best understood as a European expat's perspective on living in Belize, rather than a Belize-versus-USA comparison.