The Ultimate Costs of Living in Antigua and Barbuda 2025

Housing and Accommodation Costs in Antigua and Barbuda

Housing costs in Antigua and Barbuda vary from location to location and the type of property. In St. John’s, the capital, the rentals for a one-bedroom apartment range from $1,200 to $1,800 USD per month, while in rural or less populated areas, more reasonable rentals would go for $800 to $1,200 USD. Larger houses, those with three bedrooms, run in the range of 2,000 to 4,000 USD a month in most urban areas but increase highly if the home is considered near the coast or located within a high-end neighborhood. If one intends to buy property, the prices go from $20 to 60 USD per square foot of land, depending on the proximity to popular areas. Homes usually start from $350,000 USD for simple homes, while luxury villas or beachfront estates can easily exceed $2 million USD. Utility bills, mostly electricity, water, and internet, range from US$200 to US$350 per month, depending on how a household uses such amenities. Additional costs are laid out for air conditioning or for the generally higher energy use one may incur in these hotter months.

Food and Grocery Costs in Antigua and Barbuda

The cost of groceries in Antigua and Barbuda can fluctuate depending on whether you choose locally sourced or imported goods. As of December 2024, the average monthly grocery bill is about $350–$600 USD for a single person and $800–$1,200 USD for a family. Imported goods tend to be pricier, so opting for local produce can help reduce costs.

• Common Grocery Prices:

• • Milk (1 liter): $3–$4 USD
  • Bread (loaf): $3–$5 USD
  • Rice (1 kg): $3–$4 USD
  • Chicken (1 kg): $7–$12 USD
  • Fresh vegetables and fruits: $2–$6 USD per kg (depending on season)

• Dining Out:

• • Local restaurants: $12–$25 USD per meal
  • Mid-range establishments: $30–$60 USD per person
  • Fine dining: $80–$120 USD per person

Transportation Costs in Antigua and Barbuda

Transportation expenses in Antigua and Barbuda vary greatly depending on your mode of transportation, location, and way of life. Below is a more detailed breakdown of some of the costs involved in various transportation:

• Public Transport: Public transport involves, in essence, buses and minivans across the island. Fares will lie between $2 and $4 per route depending on length. These buses are obviously a lot cheaper but a bit problematic since they have less frequency, which limits their routes to major towns only, particularly in the countryside. As much as the natives are used to using them, tourists and expats might find this service unreliable enough for travel each day.
• Taxis: Taxis are pretty convenient but a little more expensive. The average fare involves shorter-distance travel within towns and cities, costing from $8–$15 USD, while the farther ones can be upwards of $30–$50 USD, depending on the length. Most of the time, taxis run on fixed rates, so it is better one confirms the prices before commencement. Sometimes, ride-share apps may be available. Pricing is competitive.
• Gasoline: It is more expensive in Antigua and Barbuda compared to many other regions due to the price of imports. The estimated cost of gasoline was about $1.75–$2.25 USD per liter in December 2025. This fluctuates because of global oil prices. In general, drivers can find their fuel costs as a key element of monthly transportation expenses, which would be even higher when commuting over long distances or driving extensively with air conditioning.
• Car Ownership: Owning a vehicle in Antigua and Barbuda has a number of associated costs. On average, annual car ownership expenses, including insurance, registration, and basic maintenance, range from $1,500 to $3,500 USD. Insurance premiums will depend on the type of vehicle; comprehensive coverage is more expensive than basic liability. Maintenance costs, such as oil changes, tire replacement, and the occasional repair, add up, with annual maintenance usually ranging between $300–$800 USD, depending on the age and make of the vehicle. Car registration fees are typically around $100–$300 USD per year.
• Car Rentals: Renting a vehicle is common for short-term stays or tourists, with daily rental prices ranging from $60–$120 USD for a standard car. The rates go higher for larger vehicles, including four-wheel-drive cars, and may be in the range of $120-$200 USD per day. Most rental prices include basic insurance, but renters should be aware that extra insurance, GPS, and other optional services will likely be added to the bill. If the rental is for a longer period, then monthly rates are generally more economical, from $1,200 to $2,500 USD depending on the type of vehicle and rental agency.

Healthcare Costs in Antigua and Barbuda

Healthcare in Antigua and Barbuda is both public and private, but private is more expensive, with shorter wait times and specialized treatments. The following is a breakdown of the healthcare costs for 2025:

• General Healthcare:
  • A general physician visit will cost between $50 and $100 USD. Consultations may also vary depending on the expertise of the physician and the condition.
  • Standard dental cleanings, on the other hand, range in price from 75-150 USD, which is subject to the clinic and the services provided.
• Specialized Care: The cost of specialized medical treatments is way higher. Common treatments include specialist consultations, surgeries, and procedures, which go for between 150-500 USD or more, depending on the nature of the care.
• Health Insurance: Health insurance in Antigua and Barbuda is privatized. Annual private health insurance can be obtained from about $1,500-$5,000 USD, depending on the level of coverage, age of the subscriber, and pre-existing conditions. Comprehensive plans that would also include medical care, hospitalization, and emergency evacuation tend toward the higher end of this scale.
• Specialized Treatments: General and basic healthcare services are relatively accessible on the islands, but most specialized medical treatments require travel to neighboring Caribbean countries or the United States. Such trips can include additional expenses like airfare, accommodation, and out-of-pocket medical expenses, totalling several thousand USD for each treatment.

Education Costs in Antigua and Barbuda

For families relocating to Antigua and Barbuda, the cost of education is an important factor to consider.

• Public Schools: Education in public schools is generally free, although there may be additional fees for uniforms, books, and extracurricular activities. Public schools tend to have limited resources and may not offer the same range of programs as private or international schools.
• Private Schools: Tuition at private schools in Antigua and Barbuda typically ranges from $5,000 to $15,000 USD per year. Private schools often provide smaller class sizes and a more individualized education, along with better resources and extracurricular options.
• International Schools: For families seeking an international curriculum, fees at international schools can exceed $20,000 USD annually. These schools are popular among expatriates and offer programs such as the International Baccalaureate (IB), catering to students from various backgrounds.

Entertainment and Leisure Costs in Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua and Barbuda offer a wide array of leisure activities, both for locals and visitors.

• Leisure Activities:

• • Gym memberships cost between $40 and $70 USD per month, depending on the facility and location. Some gyms may offer additional services, such as personal training or group classes, for extra fees.
  • Cinema tickets are priced around $10 to $15 USD, with new releases typically falling at the higher end of the range.

• Tourist Activities:

• • Island tours and excursions are a popular way to explore Antigua and Barbuda, with prices ranging from $50 to $150 USD per person, depending on the length and type of tour.
  • Water sports, such as snorkelling or kayaking, typically cost between $20 and $50 USD per activity, though prices may vary based on the provider and equipment included.

Miscellaneous Costs in Antigua and Barbuda

In addition to major living expenses, there are other daily costs to keep in mind:

• Mobile Plans: Mobile phone plans in Antigua and Barbuda range from $20 to $50 USD per month, depending on the data, call, and text packages included. Plans with higher data allowances or international calling features may be priced on the higher end.
• Haircuts: A standard haircut costs between $15 and $30 USD. Prices may vary depending on the salon and whether additional services, like styling or beard trimming, are included.
• Personal Care: Monthly expenses for personal care products such as shampoo, soap, and toiletries typically range from $30 to $50 USD. Luxury or branded products may cost more, while basic items are available at lower prices.

Conclusion

Living in Antigua and Barbuda combines breathtaking natural beauty with modern conveniences, making it an appealing choice for retirees, expatriates, and those seeking a new lifestyle. While the cost of living can be relatively high—especially concerning housing and imported goods—effective budgeting and planning can help ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience on the islands. By understanding key expenses like housing, food, healthcare, and transportation, you can create a tailored financial plan that meets your needs. Whether you’re considering a short-term stay or a permanent move, this guide provides the essential information to help you navigate life in Antigua and Barbuda with confidence.