Best Place to Live in the Bahamas: Top Picks for 2023

The Bahamas is a stunning archipelago located in the Atlantic Ocean, known for its crystal clear turquoise waters and pristine white sandy beaches. With over 700 islands and cays, it can be difficult to decide which is the best place to live. Whether you are an expat looking for a new home, a group of friends seeking adventure, a history buff wanting to explore the past, or a family in search of a safe and vibrant community, the Bahamas has something for everyone.

1. New Providence Island:

This island, home to the capital city of Nassau, is the best place to live for expats. With its bustling city life, international schools, and diverse communities, New Providence offers a vibrant and cosmopolitan lifestyle. Whether you choose to live near the city center or in one of the many gated communities, you’ll find a range of housing options to suit your needs.

2. Grand Bahama Island: If you are looking for a place to live with a group of friends or like-minded individuals, Grand Bahama Island is the perfect choice. With its numerous resorts, golf courses, and recreational activities, this island offers plenty of opportunities for socializing and adventure. Freeport, the main city on the island, provides a range of housing options, from apartments to waterfront homes.
3. San Salvador Island: History buffs will be drawn to San Salvador Island, where Christopher Columbus is believed to have made his first landfall in the New World. Explore the island’s historical sites and immerse yourself in its rich past. Though less developed than other islands, San Salvador offers a tranquil and idyllic setting for those seeking a peaceful lifestyle.
4. Paradise Island: As the name suggests, Paradise Island is the best place to live for families. With its world-class resorts, stunning beaches, and family-friendly activities, this island offers a safe and enjoyable environment for children. The island is also home to Atlantis, a famous resort and water park that provides endless entertainment for the whole family.
5. The Exumas: This chain of islands is a true paradise for nature lovers. With its secluded coves, pristine beaches, and abundant marine life, the Exumas offer a serene and unspoiled environment. Living in the Exumas means being surrounded by stunning natural beauty and having access to world-class fishing, snorkeling, and boating.
6. Eleuthera: Eleuthera is known for its pink sand beaches and laid-back atmosphere. If you are seeking a slower pace of life and a close-knit community, this island is the perfect choice. Enjoy the charm of small towns, explore hidden coves, and indulge in delicious local cuisine.
7. Harbour Island: Located just off the coast of Eleuthera, Harbour Island is famous for its pink sand beaches and charming colonial architecture. This island offers a luxurious and upscale lifestyle, with boutique hotels, high-end restaurants, and designer shops. If you are looking for a sophisticated and exclusive place to live, Harbour Island is the perfect choice.
8. The Abacos: The Abacos are a group of islands and cays known for their boating and sailing opportunities. If you are a water enthusiast, this is the best place to live. With its calm turquoise waters and protected harbors, the Abacos provide the perfect setting for boating, fishing, and exploring the beautiful surrounding islands.

Whether you are looking for a vibrant city life, a secluded island paradise, or a close-knit community, the Bahamas has a place that suits your preferences. With its warm climate, friendly locals, and breathtaking natural beauty, the Bahamas truly is a dream destination to call home.

What is the safest place to live in the Bahamas?

The Abacos, consisting of Great Abaco, Little Abaco, and several smaller barrier cays, are widely regarded as one of the safest places to live in the Bahamas. With a population of around 17,000, these islands offer a peaceful and family-friendly environment. The Abacos boast beautiful beaches, such as the world-renowned Treasure Cay, which is known for its pristine sands and crystal-clear waters.

In terms of safety, crime statistics in the Bahamas can be found on the Royal Bahamian Police website. While no place is entirely devoid of crime, the Abacos have a reputation for being relatively safe compared to other areas in the Bahamas. This makes them an attractive destination for those seeking a tranquil and secure place to call home.

Other islands in the Bahamas, such as Eleuthera, Cat Island, Exuma, and Long Island, also offer affordable and safe living options. These islands provide a range of amenities and activities while maintaining a sense of tranquility. Whether you prefer a bustling community or a more secluded retreat, the Bahamas has options to suit your needs. So, if you are looking for a safe and peaceful place to live, the Abacos and other similar islands in the Bahamas can be excellent choices.

Where do most expats live in The Bahamas?

Of the 700 islands, only 30 are inhabited. Most expats moving to the Bahamas find themselves relocating to New Providence Island, where roughly two-thirds of all inhabitants live. New Providence Island is home to the capital city of Nassau and offers a wide range of amenities and services that make it an attractive choice for expats.

Many expats choose to live in the western part of the island, where you can find popular communities like Cable Beach and Lyford Cay. These areas offer beautiful beaches, luxury resorts, and golf courses. They also have a range of international schools and shopping centers, making it convenient for expat families.

Nassau, the capital city, is the hub of commercial activity in the Bahamas. It has a vibrant downtown area with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. Expats who prefer a more urban lifestyle may choose to live in Nassau, where they can enjoy the convenience of city living.

Other popular areas for expats include Paradise Island, which is connected to New Providence Island by a bridge. Paradise Island is known for its luxury resorts, casinos, and stunning beaches. It offers a more exclusive and upscale living experience.

Overall, New Providence Island offers a mix of urban and beachfront living options, making it the preferred choice for most expats moving to the Bahamas.

Can a US citizen live full-time in the Bahamas?

Yes, a US citizen can live full-time in the Bahamas, but it does require permission from local authorities. Unlike Canadian and US citizens visiting the Bahamas for tourism purposes, individuals who wish to move to the Bahamas from the US or Canada need to go through an immigration process to obtain the necessary permission. Upon arrival in the country, US citizens will need to complete an Immigration Arrival card.

It is important to note that living in the Bahamas as a full-time resident may require meeting certain requirements, such as obtaining a residency permit or visa. These permits typically have specific criteria, including financial qualifications, health screenings, and background checks. It is advised to consult with the Bahamian government or a legal professional to understand the specific requirements and process for obtaining residency in the Bahamas.

Is the Bahamas a good place to live?

Whether you’re looking for safety, a waterfront property, or a city-based Bahamas condo, The Bahamas has it all. There are endless reasons to move to The Bahamas. One of the major advantages is its **tax-neutral status**. The Bahamas offers great tax incentives, making it an attractive destination for individuals and businesses alike. This means that residents can enjoy financial benefits, including no income tax, no capital gains tax, and no inheritance tax.

Aside from the favorable tax environment, The Bahamas boasts **near-perfect tropical weather**. With warm temperatures and sunny skies year-round, it’s an ideal place for those who enjoy outdoor activities and a relaxed lifestyle. The beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. Additionally, The Bahamas offers a wide range of recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and golfing.

Living in The Bahamas also means having access to a high standard of healthcare, education, and infrastructure. The country has a well-developed healthcare system with modern facilities and highly skilled medical professionals. There are also many excellent educational institutions, including international schools, which provide quality education for both locals and expatriates. The infrastructure in The Bahamas is also well-maintained, making transportation and communication convenient and efficient.

Moreover, The Bahamas is considered to be a safe place to live. The crime rate is relatively low compared to other countries in the region, and the government takes measures to ensure the safety and security of its residents and visitors.

In terms of real estate, The Bahamas offers a wide range of options. From luxurious beachfront villas to modern city condos, there is something to suit every taste and budget. The real estate market is thriving, and property prices have been steadily increasing over the years, making it a great investment opportunity.

In conclusion, The Bahamas is an excellent place to live for those seeking a tropical paradise with a favorable tax environment, beautiful weather, high-quality healthcare and education, and a safe and secure environment. Whether you’re looking for a permanent residence or a vacation home, The Bahamas has much to offer.

What is the safest island in the Bahamas to live on?

The Abacos, located in the Bahamas, are widely considered to be one of the safest islands to live on. Known for their family-friendly atmosphere, the Abaco Islands have a relatively small population of around 17,000 residents. This low population density contributes to a sense of security and tranquility on the islands.

The Abacos consist of Great Abaco, Little Abaco, and several smaller barrier cays. These islands offer a peaceful and laid-back lifestyle, making them attractive for those seeking a safe and secure place to live. With pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a tight-knit community, the Abacos provide a sense of security and comfort for residents.

If safety is a top priority, it is always advisable to consult crime statistics. The Royal Bahamian Police website provides comprehensive crime statistics for the Bahamas, allowing potential residents to make an informed decision. Overall, the Abacos’ reputation as a safe and family-friendly destination makes it an appealing choice for those looking to live in the Bahamas.