Living In Belize
First Off, Where Is Belize?
Belize is a small Central American country, it has Mexico to the north, the Caribbean Sea to the east, and then Guatemala to the south and west. The entire country has a population of approximately 423,000 (as of 2025) with the most populated area being Belize City.
Belize has been gaining in popularity in the last decade, and if you are living in the southern United States (Atlanta, Miami, Houston) you can grab a flight and be there in a few hours!
Living In Belize
This is what it was like living in Belize as a Canadian 🌴☀️
Living in Belize was great and also an eye opening experience for myself. I lived in Belize for nearly 2 years and spent time on the island of Ambergris Caye in San Pedro as well on the mainland in Belize City. I also took many trips to Caye Caulker, Placencia, Belmopan, and trips to go see the ancient Mayan ruins.
My trip was supposed to be temporary (6 months) before I returned back to Vancouver, B.C. but I guess there were other plans in store for me 😃.
My Background With Belize
I first got to experience Belize back in 2010 when I took a trip with my dad. He purchased a small house in San Pedro on a whim without even seeing it. It was his plan to fix it up and spend part of the year there once he retired.
Why did he buy a small house without even seeing it? My uncle told him to. But why did my uncle tell him to do this? Crazy story, but follow along 😂
My uncle who lived in the Yukon Territory (northern Canada), met my aunt there and she is from San Pedro. Many years before their meeting, she had met another Canadian from the Yukon while he was visiting Belize.
She moved back with him to Yukon (the exact climatic difference of where she is from) and eventually met my uncle many years later while living in the same city!
I had the opportunity to visit Belize a few times throughout the years before moving there in the summer of 2022. My parents and sister went almost every year but I was always either in university or starting a new job.
Moving To Belize As A Canadian 🍁
If you’re from a country like Canada or the United States, you will have no problems adjusting to Belize as its main language is English. Other languages spoken in Belize are Spanish and Belizean Creole.
As a Canadian moving to Belize it was not a problem for me as both countries are apart of the Commonwealth. All I had to do was just show my passport and then check in with the Belize Immigration Office each month. Every time it is the exact same process, fill out the paperwork, let them them know what I do for work (digital marketer), where I was staying, and then pay a fee of $100 USD. Most times this was quick, but other times it took hours!
Is Belize A Safe Place To Live?
Overall, Belize is a safe place to visit and live and I would recommend anyone to do either. You will love it. Places like Belize City often get a bad rap, and I can tell you from my own experience it is not that bad.
Belize’s economy is mainly tourism based and is also known as a “Blue Economy”. It relies on visitors to come and see all of the beautiful beaches, do activities like boating, snorkeling, scuba diving and visit the Great Blue Hole.
The Best Places To Live In Belize
Belize has a wide variety of places to live and it all depends on what you like.
San Pedro
San Pedro, on the lively Ambergris Caye, is a popular choice for expats seeking an established community and easy access to marine adventures. Golf carts are the primary mode of transport, and beachwear is the daily attire, embodying the island’s relaxed vibe. While slightly more expensive than other areas of Belize, a comfortable life is attainable, especially for those who own their homes.
This vibrant island is a diver’s and snorkeler’s paradise, with the Belize Barrier Reef right at its doorstep. You’ll find a strong sense of community and plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation and social gatherings. English is widely spoken, making integration smooth for North American expats.
Secret Beach
Once a truly “secret” spot on the western side of Ambergris Caye, Secret Beach has blossomed into a very lively destination. Accessible by a golf cart ride from San Pedro town, it’s known for its incredibly clear, shallow, and calm turquoise waters, perfect for swimming and wading without the concern of seagrass. The area has seen significant development, transforming into a vibrant hub with numerous beach bars, restaurants, and recreational activities.
I remember when I visited Secret Beach for the very first time. It took forever to drive out there, and there was literally only one small shack and a dock leading out to the sea. If you wanted to grab a Belikin, you had to go knock on the door and purchase it from the owner.
While it retains its natural beauty and stunning sunsets, Secret Beach is no longer secluded; it’s a popular spot for both tourists and locals seeking a fun, energetic beach experience. For those considering living in this growing area, it offers new construction opportunities for single-family homes and a rapidly developing community, though amenities like full grocery stores still require a trip closer to San Pedro town.
Caye Caulker
Just a short water taxi ride from San Pedro, Caye Caulker offers an even more laid-back “Go Slow” island experience. With fewer than 2,000 residents, it’s a close-knit community where cars are non-existent, replaced by golf carts and bicycles. This tranquil atmosphere is perfect for those seeking to unwind and connect with nature.
Caye Caulker boasts stunning natural beauty with sandy streets, vibrant coral reefs, and abundant marine life. It’s a haven for snorkeling, diving, and beachcombing, making it an ideal spot for those who appreciate simplicity and a slower pace of life. The cost of living here is surprisingly affordable for a Caribbean island.
Placencia
Situated at the tip of a peninsula in southern Belize, Placencia is fast becoming a highly desirable location. It boasts stunning Caribbean Sea beaches on one side and a tranquil freshwater lagoon on the other, with views of the Maya mountains. This charming seaside town is known for its relaxed lifestyle and ongoing real estate opportunities.
Placencia offers a surprisingly diverse food scene and a strong sense of community, blending native Belizeans with expats. While it has grown in popularity, a comfortable life can still be enjoyed, especially by embracing local goods and the laid-back pace of “island time.”
Belize City
Belize City, while the country’s largest urban center and a transportation hub, offers a different living experience compared to the islands. It’s where you’ll find the most developed infrastructure, including more advanced medical facilities. The city has a distinct Caribbean vibe with a multicultural population speaking English, Spanish, and Creole.
While it might not have the immediate tranquility of the cayes, Belize City provides access to a wider range of services and amenities. For working expats, it can be a practical base, with various neighborhoods offering different living environments. The cost of living, particularly for rent, can be significantly lower than in many North American cities.
Belmopan
As the capital city, Belmopan offers a more organized and modern feel, distinct from the coastal towns. It’s known for its spacious layout, peaceful neighborhoods, and a friendly population, making it an attractive option for families. You’ll find a mix of administrative buildings, educational institutions, and residential areas.
Belmopan provides easy access to inland activities, including national parks, caves, and Mayan ruins, all just a short drive away. While not a bustling tourist destination, it offers a comfortable and quiet life with a focus on community and nature.
Corozal
Located in northern Belize near the Mexican border, Corozal provides an affordable waterfront living option on the Bay of Chetumal. Prices for everything from real estate to groceries are generally lower than on the islands. Its proximity to Mexico offers convenient access to duty-free shopping and a more Latin-influenced cultural experience.
Corozal offers a simple, laid-back Caribbean lifestyle, appealing to those seeking a quiet retirement or a peaceful escape from the fast pace of urban life. The town has a charming main square, and there’s an active expat community with various social activities.
Belize Cost Of Living
Something you need to know about living in Belize as a Canadian is that they use the Belizean dollar and the U.S. Dollar. Don’t bother brining any Loonies or Toonies.
For every 1 U.S dollar (USD) you will have 2 Belizean dollars (BZD). It is super simple to convert back and forth but most places will be listed in BZD.
Can You Live In Belize For $1,000 A Month?
If you are living by yourself you could squeak by on $1,000 USD per month but if you are coming with family and friends it will cost a bit more. When I was there, I rented a condo and an apartment and the rent was $750 and $900 USD per month. Food, internet, transportation, and activities were all on top of this.
But, If you are just passing through and staying for a week or two there are many hostels and hotels that are much cheaper making your stay more affordable.
The Pros And Cons Of Living In Belize
Pros Of Living In Belize:
- It is hands down a beautiful country with so much to see and explore.
- It is an English speaking country, you do not need to know Spanish to communicate.
- There is a large Canadian and American expat community.
- It is close to both Mexico and Guatemala, making it easy to get away for a long weekend or a mini vacation.
- It is relatively easy to fly back to Canada or the United States.
- World class diving and snorkeling at the 2nd largest barrier reef.
- The opportunity to explore the Belizean culture, foods, and people.
- The country is still developing so you can purchase land or a home at a more affordable price. There are many Facebook groups you can checkout, and I’ve seen some pretty good deals.
Cons Of Living In Belize
- It gets pretty hot in Belize, so be prepared for the heat.
- Belize gets a lot of its electrical power from Mexico, there are blackouts.
- Belize has a laid back and slower pace of life and It’s nothing like living in a big city.
- There is a hurricane season so you can expect some rough weather during the fall.
Living In Belize: FAQs
Is Belize a high risk country?
I spent nearly 2 years living in Belize, and I can personally vouch that it is not a high risk country. I have been to many different parts of the country and it is not dangerous. It is only dangerous if you make it dangerous.
Belize City often gets a bad rap for being violent and unsafe, but I can also confirm that it is not true. I always went for walks before or after work (often in the dark) never once had any problems.
Is Belize or Mexico safer?
Belize is a much smaller country compared to Mexico, so technically there is less crime. Although a smaller it does deal with all of the same problems (drugs, robbery, murder, etc.).
What is the most common crime in Belize?
The most common crimes in Belize are burglaries and theft.
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