22 cities covered · Currency: JMD (J$) · Capital: Kingston
| Expense | Estimated cost | Basis |
|---|---|---|
| Meal at an inexpensive restaurant | J$943 ($6.04) | per meal |
| Three-course meal for two, mid-range | J$3,770 ($24.17) | per meal |
| Cappuccino | J$283 ($1.81) | each |
| Monthly groceries (single person) | J$21,365 ($137) | per month |
| Monthly public transport pass | J$3,456 ($22.15) | per month |
| Basic utilities for an 85m² apartment | J$9,111 ($58.41) | per month |
| Internet (60 Mbps, unlimited) | J$2,639 ($16.92) | per month |
| Fitness club membership | J$2,639 ($16.92) | per month |
| Cinema ticket | J$691 ($4.43) | each |
| One-bedroom apartment in city centre | J$38,591 ($247) | per month |
| One-bedroom apartment outside centre | J$26,846 ($172) | per month |
| Three-bedroom apartment in city centre | J$80,538 ($516) | per month |
Kingston · pop. 1,190,000
Saint Catherine · pop. 182,153
Saint Catherine · pop. 131,056
Saint James · pop. 123,994
Saint Mary · pop. 114,227
Saint Andrew · pop. 96,494
Clarendon · pop. 61,548
Manchester · pop. 48,317
Saint Catherine · pop. 28,665
Saint Catherine · pop. 22,757
Westmoreland · pop. 22,600
Saint Ann · pop. 16,671
Portland · pop. 14,816
Saint Catherine · pop. 13,889
Saint Catherine · pop. 13,807
Saint Ann · pop. 13,671
Saint Thomas · pop. 11,536
Saint Thomas · pop. 11,121
Saint Mary · pop. 8,240
Trelawny · pop. 7,779
Hanover · pop. 6,002
Saint Elizabeth · pop. 4,261
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Jamaica
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Jamaica
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Jamaica
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Jamaica
Living costs in Jamaica vary significantly depending on city size. Large metropolitan areas with populations over one million typically see housing costs 15–30% above the national average, while smaller towns can be 10–20% below it. The national baseline of J$89,683 ($575) per month represents a mid-sized city estimate.
Capital cities and major economic hubs command the highest rents and overall expenses. For budget-conscious residents, mid-sized cities offer a balance of amenities and affordability. Rural and small-town living remains the most economical option, though transport and service access may be limited.