For many retirees, the thought of trading snow shovels and heavy coats for pink sand beaches and warm breezes is a dream.
But retirement isn’t just about sunshine and cocktails—it’s also about cost of living, healthcare access, and, in the Caribbean, the reality of hurricane season.
Among the islands, Antigua and Barbuda stands out as a destination that balances natural beauty, an active lifestyle, and relative affordability.
Compared with other Caribbean nations, the twin-island state offers some of the region’s lowest living costs.
According to Global Citizen Solutions, non-rent monthly expenses in Antigua and Barbuda average about US$577, ranking fifth-lowest among 13 independent Caribbean countries. By contrast, the Bahamas known for its glitzy resorts ranks among the most expensive places to live globally, with everyday costs far higher than Antigua’s.
Yet lower costs don’t mean fewer attractions. Retirees and long-term residents enjoy more than just lounging on beaches.
Antigua boasts 365 of them one for each day of the year—along with cultural and natural landmarks. Nelson’s Dockyard, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a glimpse of the island’s colonial past, while the Frigate Bird Sanctuary and Pigeon Point Beach highlight its ecological treasures.
Barbuda, with its famed pink sand beaches, adds to the allure. These rare shores, created by tiny red-shelled organisms mixing with white sand, stretch for miles. Pink Sand Beach lies just 15 minutes by car from the island’s only town, Codrington, while the longer 11-Mile Beach (sometimes called 17-Mile Beach) is reached by boat.
For retirees seeking more than relaxation, Antigua offers a range of outdoor experiences—from snorkeling with stingrays at Stingray City to hiking trails at Devil’s Bridge National Park. Offshore islands like Green Island and Hells Gate Island are popular for day trips, boating, and dining.
With about 98 percent of the country’s 94,000 people living on Antigua, most retirees will base themselves there, using Barbuda as a quieter escape. Combined with relatively low costs, walkable streets in St. John’s, and accessible healthcare, Antigua and Barbuda offers a retirement option that blends beauty, culture, and practicality.
Informational pulled from article on msn.com
Affordable now but will it continue to be when /if big spending outsiders flood the country? You know….like they did in Mexico.
I would take sun sea sand and hurricane everyday over America hard life. Then again on the salary we living on not too many of us look forward to retirement
Really? So Old folks are going to be getting robbed and mugged on the streets, more frequently now? How about we deal with the criminal elements that are running rampant in our communities, before we invite folks here for retirement? You people need to take your heads out of the sand and face reality! Antigua is neither safe nor affordable!!! Stop with the gaslighting!🙄🤣
For many, Antigua and Barbuda represents the ultimate retirement fantasy—warm breezes, pink sand beaches, and year-round sunshine. The fact that there are literally 365 beaches, plus rich culture and heritage, makes it more than just a holiday spot. Retirees can stay active, immerse themselves in nature, and enjoy a slower pace of life.
Great to see Antigua and Barbuda being recognized not just for tourism but also as a retirement destination. This could bring sustainable growth to the economy.
Really? So Old folks are going to be getting robbed and mugged on the streets, more frequently now? How about we deal with the criminal elements that are running rampant in our communities, before we invite folks here for retirement? You people need to take your heads out of the sand and face reality! Antigua is neither safe nor affordable!!! Stop with the gaslighting!🙄🤣
The report that non-rent monthly expenses average US$577 is significant. Compared to other Caribbean nations like the Bahamas, Antigua does seem relatively affordable. But of course, costs can vary depending on lifestyle. Imported goods are expensive, and retirees who expect a U.S. or European standard of living may spend much more. Still, for budget-conscious retirees, Antigua is among the more sustainable choices.
To begin is Antigua such a large island to have 365 beaches. The healthcare system is very bad with staff that don’t seem to care. There is the high crime and violence that plagues the country. Why would retirees come to a country where they are not safe.
As for affordable, look no further than the supermarkets, the prices are through the roof.
Just promotion for ANU. Whatever. Dominica is the best