Jamaica is a beautiful Caribbean island country filled with picturesque beaches, lush rainforests, mighty mountains, and warm, hospitable people. It can be a perfect place for people of all ages, even young expat families looking to start a new life elsewhere. That being said, this tropical paradise frequently has some surprises in store for expats who are unprepared for what lies ahead. Thus, you should conduct thorough research before considering relocating to this island country. Therefore, here are the best places in Jamaica for expat families just like your own.

Kingston

Kingston, Jamaica’s capital since 1872, is situated on the country’s southeast coast and serves as both the island’s commercial and cultural center. Visitors that only want to visit Jamaica’s beautiful beaches often ignore Kingston. However, this is where you should go if you want to spend the day dining out or hanging out in malls while you spend the evenings listening to the best music there. After all, Kingston is all about the music scene. However, expat families will also be able to take full advantage of the excellent school system. Furthermore, they can partake in various spacious gardens and parks and impeccable fun activities.

Unfortunately, Kingston is infamous for a high crime rate in impoverished inner-city areas. This is why we recommend locating to areas near universities such as Mora. These neighborhoods are generally considered safer and nicer for expat families. If you want to purchase property, it will set you back quite a bit more than it would in Philadelphia since the median home price is currently $650,000. On the other hand, if you plan to rent, expect an average of $393 monthly.

Montego Bay

The county’s northwest coast is home to Montego Bay, sometimes known as Mobay, which is well-known for its resorts, golf courses, and gorgeous beaches. The city is bustling with activity and provides a wide range of possibilities for the shopper, partygoer, adventurer, and family man. Even though it is primarily a tourist destination, it is one of the best places in Jamaica for expat families.

Given the abundance of safe housing options, this city is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to relocate to Jamaica. However, Mobay can be pricey, particularly if you plan to live in the downtown area. The average monthly rent is $498, while the average monthly living cost is $1332. If you have young children, The Montego Bay Christian Academy and Heinz Simonitsch School are two of the most popular schools among expats. As for transportation, you may need to invest in a car to move around the city. And if you ever want to fly out somewhere, the nearby international airport is perfect for such occasions.

Mandeville

Mandeville, a lively but laid-back town in a mountain setting, is located 2,000 feet above sea level on the Manchester plateau in the west-central highlands of Jamaica. It is perfect for those expat families interested in something other than white-sand beaches and luxurious resorts. Here, you may go face-to-face with Jamaica’s breathtaking flora, fauna, and architecture. Due to the town’s low amount of tourists, many expats chose to call it home and create a welcoming expat community you could join. And, if that isn’t enough, the central location of Mandeville allows easy access to other areas of the country you might wish to explore. 

Mandeville is a wonderful town that is packed full of personality and colorful tropical flowers wherever you may go. However, it is also quite an affordable place with a low monthly rent of $202 and a monthly living cost of $620. If you’re moving from Philadelphia, the only thing left to do is to look for a safe facility where you can rent storage for some of your unnecessary items. Once you do that, you will be able to start enjoying a simpler and more minimalistic lifestyle in this great town of Mandeville.

Ocho Rios

On Jamaica’s north coast, in the St. Ann Parish, sits the town of Ocho Rios. Ocho Rios is an exceptionally well-liked place for expat families, with a vast range of activities and attractions for every family member. Especially those who are looking for a bit of adventure! It offers a variety of activities to discover the real nature surrounding the town. There is access to beaches, hills, forests, and rivers. Furthermore, it also boasts some of the lowest crime rates on the island. This means you and your family will feel safe while exploring everything this area offers.

Ocho Rios has a magnetic charm that is impossible to ignore. However, it does have a greater cost of living. You may expect a monthly rent of $512 and a monthly living expense of $930. However, if you truly want to move to Jamaica, Ocho Rios will provide you with everything you would expect from such an experience.

Negril

Many of us, especially those with families, wish to find a place with all the amenities a city can offer without the hustle and bustle of city life. In such a case, Negril, a town on the island’s west coast, is your perfect choice. It is a fantastic place for those couples wanting to rekindle their romance. After all, what is more, romantic than a stunning sunset over one of the most beautiful beaches in the world? While there, you can snorkel, paraglide or go on a booze cruise. Moreover, along the white-sand beach stretching for five miles, you will see beautiful five-star hotels, all-inclusive resorts, beach bars, restaurants, snack shacks, and gift stores. 

However, even the rest of the city has plenty of places to offer for dining and enjoying your life. Take a stroll along its wonderful streets, and we assure you, you’ll find something to do. With plenty of places for renting, The Gentleman Mover suggests weighing your options and picking a place you feel will fit your family. That being said, the expected monthly rent is $353, and the average monthly expense is $866.

Treasure Beach

Treasure beach is a secluded paradise largely untouched by tourists, which makes it one of the best places in Jamaica for expat families. So, if you ever want to reside near a picturesque beach that inspires your free-spirited nature, make Treasure Beach your new home! The beach stretches for 6 miles and truly lives up to its name. Moreover, the quaint area outside of the beach is just what you’d expect it to be: laid-back and rustic. And since most hotels, pubs, and restaurants are managed by families, your kids will have a lovely community to grow up in. Furthermore, with the lack of available wi-fi spots, you and your family can truly unplug from the rest of the world.

Many residential housing options are available. Particularly around Frenchman’s Bay, if you want to be close to the liveliest parts of the town. This is where you will have the highest chance of landing a job. Lastly, the average monthly rent you can expect is $403, and the average monthly expenses are $914. 

As you can see, there are many good places in Jamaica for expat families. It all depends on what you’re currently looking for, but we’re sure you’ll find your dream town in no time!

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