The Cost to Live in Trinidad and Tobago

Our Cost of Living Series brings you another fascinating and dazzling tropical paradise to consider for your next big move- Trinidad and Tobago. The price to call these islands your home is relatively affordable compared to other hot destinations in the Caribbean Sea. 

There are so many reasons to move to this incredible, culture-rich country. However, in this blog, we will focus on the costs you’ll need to think about before making the final call. 

Continue reading to discover what the cost of living in Trinidad and Tobago is really like. 

Living in Trinidad and Tobago  

Those who move to the Caribbean islands of Trinidad and Tobago rave about the breathtaking scenery and incredible climate. Here, winter temperatures fluctuate around a comfortable 70 degrees Fahrenheit and the summers are toasty warm, with maximum temperatures around 89 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Paired with stunning views of waterfalls, lush rainforests, colorful coral reefs, and quiet, undeveloped beaches, it’s truly an island paradise. 

While what surrounds the people is already enough to draw in many tourists and new residents from all over the world, the vibrant and friendly culture really makes Trinidad and Tobago an incredible place to live. Island locals are welcoming and family-oriented. Time with loved ones is highly valued. In fact, families that have moved to Trinidad and Tobago say one of their favorite things about living there is the ample time to spend with the people that mean the most to them. 

For some, the slow-paced island life can be frustrating. Compared to the hustle and bustle of many US lifestyles, the lack of prioritizing efficiency can be challenging to adjust to. If this is the case, most people say they get used to it and begin valuing the change of pace once they let go of their old ways and settle into the island vibes. 

What Does it Cost to Live in Trinidad and Tobago?  

Trinidad and Tobago is considered one of the wealthiest Caribbean countries and one of the three most affluent countries in the Americas. This is because of its oil and gas reserves and other valuable resources on the islands. 

The cost to live in Trinidad and Tobago is challenging to compare to the United States. While some expenses are significantly more affordable, others are much more expensive. But generally, living on the islands is less costly than living in the United States. 

In the following sections, we will dive into the major costs to consider when thinking about moving to these beautiful islands: 

• Housing 

• Food and drink 
• Transportation 
• Entertainment 

Housing 

According to some sources, housing in Trinidad and Tobago is about half the cost of places like the United States, Paris, and Puerto Rico. There’s a wide variety of dwellings, from modest two-bedroom apartments in the city to luxury real estate with remarkable views of the jewel-toned waters. 

With whichever you choose, you’ll find the price is significantly more affordable than the US equivalent. Here are some examples of the average costs of renting apartments on the island: 

• One-bedroom apartment in a major city- $637.05 USD per month, $4,333.33 TT per month 
• One-bedroom apartment outside of a major city- $371.21 USD per month, $2,525 TT per month 

Food and Drink  

While local goods are relatively inexpensive, dining out in Trinidad and Tobago may be best reserved for special occasions. It’s pretty costly to eat a meal at even the local joints in town and very expensive for fine dining experiences. 

Furthermore, it can be pricey to cook your own meals if you want certain comforts of your hometown. The most affordable way to eat in Trinidad and Tobago is to learn how to create delicious meals using local foods. 

The following prices are common foods you can use for reference: 

• Milk (1 gallon)- $7.16 USD, $48.74 TT 
• Chicken Filets (1 Pound)- $4.18 USD, $28.44 TT 
• Onion (1 pound)- $0.58 USD, $3.96 TT 

Transportation 

Purchasing a vehicle on the islands may cost you an arm and a leg. For instance, a new Toyota Corolla has a price tag of about $23,000 in the US but is priced at $33,000 in Trinidad and Tobago. Overpriced vehicles result from the high costs of importing certain goods and luxuries. 

On the other hand, public transportation services like buses, maxi taxis, and route taxis are quite reliable and affordable. 

Entertainment 

Most entertainment in Trinidad and Tobago will be a little pricey. If you plan to do some retail therapy, expect a simple sundress that may be $15 or $20 in the US to be almost $50 at the local markets. 

However, with so many practically free activities, like gorgeous hiking trails, sandy beaches, and local events, you won’t find much need to indulge in other forms of costly entertainment. 

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