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15 Best Tropical Countries to Live in: Estimated Costs

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In the tropics, the weather is warm and the sun is high in the sky. Your skin feels great and you simply feel better than being stuck in the freezing cold. When it comes to the tropics, many people dream of visiting the tropics. Some that visit these tropics often find themselves envisioning living there. If you ever found yourself asking the question, should I move to the tropics, then you are in the right place. We will provide you word to word with some of the best tropical countries to live in. 

 

 

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Budget

If you are considering moving overseas, one of the first things you would be wondering is the budget that you would have to allocate and the resources you would need. A new report by International Living has identified that when it comes to living and retiring abroad, especially in the tropics, roughly about $2000 would be a good budget to work with. That being the case, the amount of money you would need would depend on your lifestyle. You could see yourself spending a lot more money, at the same time, it is possible to live on a smaller budget. In comparison to living in the United States, the tropics are relatively cheaper with an average American household spending roughly $5000 a month. Thus, when it comes to living overseas, you would find yourself pleasantly surprised at how much you would be able to afford with a smaller budget. On a lower budget, you could see yourself enjoying the tropical lifestyle, at a slower pace, basking in the warm sunshine and good food. 

 

So what are some of the tropical destinations which could soon become your home? Here is a list of the best tropical countries to live in, around the world. 

 

 

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1. Panama

The tropical country in North America, Panama, is a rather attractive destination for many people looking to move to the tropic. Panama has a great and affordable residence program that invites and welcomes new residents to the country. You would find the accommodation in Panama to be really inexpensive, with the rent for a two-bedroom house in one of the small towns of Panama costing roughly $800 a month.

 

Panama offers great year-round weather and the chance to experience the amazing local culture. Considering how affordable Panama is, it is considered one of the best retirement destinations in the world. 

 

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2. Colombia

Bordering Panama, the South American country of Colombia is adored for the beautiful beaches and natural sights. From the coral reefs of San Andres to the Santa Marta port, the country has so much to offer. The nation has a coastline on both the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, which makes for some amazing pictures. 

 

Over the years, the country has seen a slight increase in the number of ex-pats. This does not come as a surprise as Colombia is one of the most popular retirement destinations. The country also boasts a great health care system, which is ranked by the World Health Organisation a No. 22. This outranks the United States who hold the 37th position. 

 

When if comes to the expenses involved in living in Colombia, on average a couple could see themselves living a comfortable life on a budget of around $1500 a month. This number would be higher or lower depending on which city you decide to live in. 

 

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3. Costa Rica

Described as one of the happiest places in the world for ex-pats, Costa Rica has much to offer you by way of a happy life overseas. Costa Rica much like Colombia has coasts of both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, which makes it a great destination for beach lovers. 

 

The country has a rich biodiversity with amazing wildlife. Hence if you are a nature lover, then this could be your destination of choice. From the amazing beaches to the much-loved conservation parks, the country is a great ancient civilization, with a rich culture. If you are a surfer, then Costa Rica would be an absolute treat for you. 

 

On averages, in Costa Rica, you could see yourself spending roughly $1500 per month, yet basking in all the benefits the country has to offer. The natural sights in Costa Rica is truly something that will leave you in awe. Hence if you are considering living overseas, Costa Rica could be a top pick for you. 

 

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4. Mexico

The country bordering the United States, Mexico is a popular destination for Americans looking to move overseas. With roughly a million Americans living in Mexico, it is the low cost of living in the country which drives people there. Coupled with the low cost of living, the country has a vibrant culture and has great weather year-round. 

 

It is one of the most sought after retirement destinations for Americans with ex-pats making a significant percentage of the population. For just over $1500, you could see yourself living a comfortable life. This is rather affordable when compared to the expenses involved in living in the United States, which is probably the primary reason so many people opt for this destination. 

 

With a rich culture, Mexico has some great food and drink to enjoy. The country has plenty of sights to see and you would not find yourself bored if you decide to move here. 

 

5. Ambergris Caye, Belize

The largest island of Belize, Ambergris Caye is a great spot for divers and fisherman. The Belize Barrier Reef is a top attraction for divers. There is a marvellous display of marine life and the rich living coral make for a memorable experience every time you go diving. 

 

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Though an island, you would find yourself having access to all the modern amenities such as phone coverage and the internet. There is also a reliable water supply and you can quite easily source and buy most necessities. You can always take a water taxi to Belize city for shopping, and enjoy a drink and meal in one of the many amazing bars and restaurants.

 

On average, a couple could see themselves living comfortably at a budget of roughly $3000. If you own your own home on the island, then the cost of living is cut in thirds and is reported to be around $2000. 

 

You will learn to relax in the sandy shores and bask in the sunny warmth of the tropical climate, all on a picturesque island that will leave you breathless every time you think. This makes Belize one of the most scenic and iconic tropical countries to live in. 

 

 

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6. Roatan, Honduras

Located in the western Caribbean, this is a must-visit destination for divers. This beautiful island in Honduras boasts a rich reef and marine life which is topped off with some amazing sandy beaches. You will find yourself in a state of eternal bliss as you stroll the sandy beaches in some of the most breathtaking places in the world. 

 

The beaches are unspoilt and pristine. You will find yourself relaxed with no stress in the world, enjoying all the sun and surf that the island has to offer. 

 

For just around $175,000, you could buy yourself a two-bedroom home, facing the water in an unspoilt neighbourhood where the tourists rarely trek. There are also plenty of places to rent from if you choose to live on a more temporary basis. It is a place where an average person could afford a home, making it one of the most affordable destinations for retirees. All in all, a couple could see themselves living a comfortable lifestyle with about $2500 a month. If you love the outdoor, sandy beaches and marine life then Honduras is in the winning of one of the best tropical countries to live in. 

 

7. Las Terrenas, Dominican Republic

Found by Christopher Columbus, this island with beautiful coral and marine life is a treat for sea lovers. As he had said, “This is the fairest land under heaven.” With great weather and some exotic beaches, this destination is one of the best tropical countries to live in. 

 

 

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Adding to the fact that the country has a low cost of living and a good government, the Dominican Republic is located rather close to the United States and is great for temporary residents looking to only live part of the year. Boasting some of the finest beaches in the Caribbean, there are some excellent golf courses that are a retiree’s paradise. 

 

The town of Las Terrenas offers all the conveniences of a home with a rather affordable property market. Though a small fishing village a few decades prior, the influx of ex-pats to the region has made it a bustling and exciting small town to live in.  You could see yourself buying a one-bedroom loft for less than $100,000. On average, a couple would see themselves spending close to $2000. 

 

From the picturesque beaches to the amazing mountain trails, the country boasts a great climate, which makes it an ideal destination. The fact that the country is so economical is one of the main reasons, the Dominican Republic has made this list of the best tropical countries to live in. 

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8. Maldives

A dream destination for honeymooners, this country offers pure relaxation and is world-renowned for the exotic beauty within this island nation. There are two types of islands, resort islands and local islands, with the prices in local islands being more reasonable.

 

There are some great restaurants and bars and plenty to shop on the islands. However, the appeal to live in the Maldives rests in all the activities that are on offer. From diving to snorkelling to simply laying on the beach, you would always find something or the other to do on your evenings in the sun. The country boasts great tropical weather and some exciting cuisines. If you choose to live there, you would be looking to cook for yourself and generally, you can find everything you need to maintain a good lifestyle in the Maldives. 

 

You can get a one-bedroom apartment in the city for less than $1000 dollars a month, which makes the country an affordable place to live. 

 

 

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9. Seychelles

The picturesque nation of Seychelles is actually one of the smallest countries in the world. If you enjoy solitude and beautiful island life, then Seychelles could be the best tropical country to live in. With exotic marine life, these coral islands offer a beautiful gateway for the sea lover. You will enjoy everything that the country has to offer, from pristine beaches to the generous sights of mother nature. It is considered a paradise made up of over 100 islands in the Indian Ocean. 

 

A one-bedroom apartment in the city centre of the main island can cost roughly $1000 a month. A couple could see themselves living comfortably in Seychelles on a budget of around $3000. 

 

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10. Sri Lanka

The tropical island nation in the Indian Ocean is a great place to consider if you are looking to retire in a tropical setting overseas. Mixed with a great culture and heritage, the country has great weather and some amazing sights to see. From archaeological sights to some amazing beaches, the locals are friendly and welcoming to ex-pats and foreigners. If you decide to live in a cooler climate but still live in the tropics, you can consider living upcountry where the climate is cooler year-round. That being the case, the country surrounded by the sea from all sides, you are never too far from the beach. 

 

An average couple could see themselves living comfortably on $2000 a month. If you choose to live in the city, the cost of living could be higher. That being the case, the nation has much to offer by way of culture and sights. 

 

 

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11. Hvar, Croatia

On the higher end of the budget spectrum is Hvar in Croatia. With seaside villas ranging from $500,000 and up, the island is an exotic and trendy location to make the move towards if your budget allows you for it. 

 

This island has some amazing beaches and beautiful marine life. With good weather year-round, you will find yourself relaxed, basking in the sunshine as you stroll the beaches of this island. 

 

 

 

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12. Culebra, Puerto Rico

With a tiny population of about 2500 people, you would find yourself in a secluded setting, in a peaceful and quiet environment. As an exotic location, you could see yourself moving with family for the island has a public school for children. 

 

This is one of the less expensive parts of the country, and you can see yourself enjoying a good life for a budget of around $2000 a month for a couple. 

 

 

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13. Vanuata

If you live or seek to live a minimalist lifestyle, you could consider the laid back, beautiful island nation of Vanuata. An island with some of the friendliest local people, you would find yourself welcomed to the island. 

 

Beachfront property in Vanuata goes at around $350,000, with the budget for the average couple at roughly $3000 a month. If you enjoy solitude and minimalistic living and are not bothered with the needs of western life, then this Vanuata could be the best tropical country for you to live in. 

 

 

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14. Malaysia

This is one of the easiest places to relocate due to Malaysia’s ‘My Second Home Program.’ You simply have to deposit $90,000 to a local bank and you will be able to come and go as you please. Malaysia hosts some spectacular beaches and islands and is a hub for shopping. There is so much to experience and the modern amenities of western life are not too far away in Malaysia. 

 

A furnished apartment in Malaysia can cost you less than $900, with a couple living comfortably in the country on a budget of $2500. If you long for the modern amenities of western life in a tropical setting, then Malaysia would be the best tropical country for you. 

 

 

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15. Hawaii

The American state of Hawaii which covers the Hawaiian islands is placed in a tropical setting and is one of the most popular destinations for retirees. You would find yourself in a beautiful island setting which boasts a rich island culture and lifestyle. You would enjoy the local cuisine which is a delight to the senses. The climate in Hawaii is favourable year-round, and you could see yourself living a very happy life here. 

 

That being the case, the cost of living in Hawaii is on the higher end with a two-bedroom apartment costing around $2000. Thus, a couple would have to budget around $5000 per month if you are considering moving to Hawaii. 

 

 

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Living in the Tropics

It goes without saying that living in the tropics has a great appeal to it. Not only do you enjoy the year-round good weather, but you also get to experience a new culture and people. If you are considering moving to the tropics, we hope this article on the best tropical countries to live in have provided you with some good insight and ideas of locations to consider. 

 

We hope you enjoyed reading this word to word and found it helpful! 

 

Happy Travels!

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