An Expat's Guide to Living in Grand Cayman

Experiencing Life on a Tropical Island

Grand Cayman, the largest of the three Cayman Islands, sits about 270 miles south of Cuba in the heart of the Caribbean. While it’s often recognized as a tax haven—thanks to no income, capital gains, or corporate taxes—it’s so much more than that.

This tiny island is a tropical paradise with pristine beaches, turquoise waters, world-class diving, incredible dining, and endless sunshine.

One of the best parts of living in Grand Cayman is that the island’s beauty becomes your everyday backdrop. People pay thousands to vacation here, but as a resident, you get to start your day with a sunrise stroll on Seven Mile Beach, swim in warm, crystal-clear waters year-round, or wrap up the evening with a sunset cocktail by the ocean.

Activities like diving, snorkeling, and sailing are world-renowned and more accessible and often discounted for locals, making it easy to avoid the tourist crowds while enjoying the best of the island.

Of course, no place is perfect, and island life has challenges. But if you’re drawn to swapping the grind for a more relaxed lifestyle with postcard-worthy views at every turn, Grand Cayman might just be your dream come true.

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Is Grand Cayman Safe?

When it comes to living abroad, safety is always top of mind—and Grand Cayman checks that box. As the safest island in the Caribbean, it has a low crime rate, a strong police presence, and a tight-knit community that looks out for each other. 

Of course, like anywhere, minor issues like petty theft or vandalism can happen, but violent crime is rare, with only a handful of homicides reported each year.

During my five years on the island, I always felt safe in Grand Cayman, even when walking around at night. While there are areas to be mindful of, such as certain George Town bars after dark, overall, going out at night isn’t something you need to stress about.

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Working in Grand Cayman

The Cayman Islands' economy is driven by two main industries: financial services and tourism. As a global financial hub, it’s home to numerous banks, law firms, and accounting firms, offering opportunities for professionals in these fields. Tourism also plays a significant role, with jobs in hospitality, dining, water sports, and excursions supporting the island’s thriving visitor economy. 

Here’s what you need to know about finding a job and applying for a work permit:

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Work Permits

To work in the Cayman Islands as an expat, you’ll need a work permit, which functions in place of a visa. These permits are typically issued for one year at a time, with the option to renew. Some employers choose longer permits, lasting 2–5 years, to save on costs. There are also temporary permits (1, 3, 6, or 8 months) for seasonal work or trial periods.

The application process is fairly straightforward, with your employer handling most of the paperwork. You’ll need to provide your personal and professional details along with a few key documents:

• A passport-sized photo
• A police clearance certificate (from the FBI)
• A Medical Declaration Cover Letter
• Any relevant certifications or licenses

With the right preparation, securing a work permit can be a smooth process, allowing you to focus on starting your new island adventure. Learn more on the immigration website. 

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Job Hunting

It’s best to secure a job before arriving in Grand Cayman, as you cannot be on the island while your work permit is being processed. This approach saves you time and money. However, many people find it easier to land a job once they’re already on the island.

That’s exactly what I did. After arriving, I got a job at a newly opened ice bar and was granted a 3-month temporary work permit. After one extension, I transitioned to a permanent position with a pool construction and service company.

Here are some job-hunting resources to get you started:

• Cayman Compass
• Ecay Trade 
• Recruitment & employment agencies
• A company’s website

If you want, it's also possible to teach at international schools in the Cayman Islands, which is one of the best ways for certified teachers to move here.

Note: If you plan to stay on the island as a visitor for more than 30 days, you’ll need to complete a visitor’s permit form and have it approved at the immigration office-it’s a very easy process. 

Island Neighborhoods

Now that you know how to find a place to live, it’s essential to focus on the right neighborhood. Most of Grand Cayman’s residents and expats live on the west side, which offers many safe, expat-friendly areas. Of course, like anywhere, there are neighborhoods to be cautious of.

Here’s what you need to know to navigate your housing search:

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Best Neighborhoods to Live

When choosing a neighborhood, you’ll want to look for areas that offer convenience, safety, and a strong sense of community. Here’s a list of neighborhoods I’d recommend finding accommodations in:

• South Sound
• Snug Harbor
• Camana Bay
• Prospect Point 
• Grand Harbour
• Patrick’s Island
• Seven Mile Beach corridor 

Neighborhoods to Avoid

Here’s a short list of neighborhoods I recommend avoiding, even if the price seems right. These areas may have higher crime rates or be less convenient for day-to-day living, so it’s best to be cautious when considering them:

• West Bay
• Bodden Town
• Inland George Town (near the airport and industrial area)

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Hunting for an Apartment

Grand Cayman has a transient population, with people constantly coming and going, which creates a steady flow of available rentals. Most rental units—primarily apartments and townhomes—come fully furnished. Shared living arrangements are common, and it’s not unusual for strangers, often in the same industry, to become roommates.

Many people advertise open bedrooms on ecayTrade, the go-to website for connecting landlords and tenants. You’ll find a mix of rentals available immediately or within a month.

Rental services are another popular option for those with a larger budget or planning to move with roommates. They can help you find a place that meets specific needs, making searching easier.

When I first arrived, I rented a room in a townhome behind Kirk’s Marketplace, sharing it with a woman from Nova Scotia who became a lifelong friend—and even helped me land my job at the pool company. While it’s always smart to take precautions, shared rentals are a standard and practical option.

Three years later, a friend and I used a rental service to find a two-bedroom townhome in South Sound. Both approaches worked well and offered great living arrangements.

Note: As you look for jobs and apartments, prices are listed in the local currency, the Cayman Islands Dollar. As of November 2024, the exchange rate for 1 Cayman Islands Dollar (KYD) is approximately 1.21 USD. 

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Cost Of Living In Grand Cayman

Let’s be real—Grand Cayman is one of the most expensive places to live, but with that comes one of the highest standards of living you’ll find anywhere. While wages are higher than in many regions, the cost of living reflects this, with salaries often adjusted to accommodate the higher expenses.

Of course, what you pay to live here depends on factors like where you live, how you get around, and your lifestyle. With that in mind, let’s dive into the numbers and see what you can expect to earn and spend while calling Grand Cayman home.

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Salaries & Wages

Salaries in Grand Cayman vary widely depending on the industry and position. As of 2024, typical gross monthly salaries range from approximately CI 3,500 to CI 5,000 for various professional roles, with higher wages in sectors like banking, finance, and construction.

Employers often also offer additional benefits like health insurance, pension contributions, and other perks to help balance out the cost of living.

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Pension

Grand Cayman has no income tax, which is a major perk for expats. However, you are required to contribute to a pension plan set at a 10% rate. This is usually split equally between you and your employer—5% from each—and is deducted directly from your paycheck.

You can access your pension at age 55, but since most people don’t stay that long, you can choose to withdraw your full pension as a lump sum two years after leaving the island. Alternatively, you can leave your pension in the plan. I personally withdrew mine after filling out a simple form, and I received the payment via wire transfer within 3-5 business days​. 

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Housing

The average rental price for a one-bedroom apartment in Grand Cayman can range significantly depending on location and amenities. In areas like Seven Mile Beach, one-bedroom condos can cost between CI$2,800 to CI$2,900 per month​. 

However, rental prices in other areas like South Sound are generally more affordable, with one-bedroom units averaging between CI$1,800 to CI$4,000 per month​. Remember that these prices may vary based on the property’s proximity to the beach, condition, and the included features.

Utility bills for a smaller apartment can add another CI$349 per month, and internet service costs about CI$148.

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Transportation

In Grand Cayman, most expats rely on personal vehicles to get around, though walking, biking, and public transportation are also common options. E-bikes have become more popular, and there's a public bus system available. 

If you have a vehicle, you’ll have to budget for gas. Expect to pay CI$5.00 to CI$5.30 per gallon. The good news is, being a small island, the tank will last you a while. 

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Groceries & Dining

Groceries are another major expense. Basic food items like milk, chicken breast, and eggs can cost a bit more than you might expect, with prices for items like 12 eggs averaging CI$6​. A single person can expect to spend approximately CI$100 to CI$150 per week on groceries, depending on dietary preferences and shopping habits.

Dining out, particularly in business districts, can also be pricey, with a typical lunch setting you back around CI$21.

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Purchasing a Vehicle

If you're planning to live in Grand Cayman, owning a vehicle is pretty much a must for getting around. Most people opt for used cars, with prices for a standard sedan typically ranging from CI$4,000 to CI$10,000. You can either pay in cash or explore financing options like Cayman Leasing, or you can even apply for a loan through a local bank. Just keep in mind that you’ll need to budget for this big purchase as it’s essential for daily life on the island.

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Why It’s So Expensive

The high cost of living in Grand Cayman is largely due to its reliance on imports, which brings about high shipping and import duties that drive up the cost of everyday goods. Although the island's appeal lies in its lack of income and corporate taxes, the government compensates for this by imposing higher import duties and consumer taxes, further contributing to the overall expense of living.

In addition, the demand for housing, especially in sought-after areas like Seven Mile Beach, far exceeds the supply, pushing rental prices higher. 

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Grand Cayman’s Social Scene

Grand Cayman's social scene is friendly and relaxed, making it easy to connect with others, especially since many expats arrive alone and are eager to build a community. People often form friend groups based on shared interests or work, so it's common to see groups tied to specific industries or hobbies. 

For instance, I had friends from my industry as well as a group of divers, made up of a teacher, accountant, lawyer, and bartender, I met on the weekends. While it’s possible to form friendships across different circles, this tends to be the main dynamic on the island.

What’s the Nightlife Like?

Grand Cayman isn’t a party island like Ibiza or Cancun, but it still knows how to have a good time. The nightlife leans more toward casual beach bars and a few club-style venues. The island also hosts plenty of community events, like my favorite, Pirate’s Week in November, with parades and parties everyone enjoys.

Over the years, there’s been a shift toward a more upscale vibe, focusing on luxury over late-night partying. Keep in mind that Sunday is a day of rest on the Island, so all bars close on Saturday at 12 am. 

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Fun Things To Do in Grand Cayman

I found Grand Cayman so fun because I absolutely love being in and around the water. To be honest, if water activities aren’t your thing, living here might feel a bit limiting since so much of island life revolves around the ocean. While activities on any island can feel repetitive, skipping out on the water cuts out a huge part of the fun.

That said, these are my top must-do activities in Grand Cayman:

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Sunday Funday at Rum Point

Rum Point is the ultimate Sunday hangout. As the island takes it slow, locals and visitors flock to the shallow waters of Rum Point in Northside for a laid-back day of sun, music, and drinks. To get there, you can join a tour group or hop on a private boat. You’ll quickly find that Grand Cayman’s “the more, the merrier” vibe makes it easy to score an invite.

Believe it or not, this is a great place to network and make new friends-Cayman just does things differently. 

Even if big crowds aren’t your scene, Rum Point is worth a visit. It’s one of the best beach clubs I’ve ever been to. It offers everything you need for a full day of fun. Plus, it’s the departure point for the next iconic experience—Stingray City!

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Wade into Stingray City

Stingray City is hands down Grand Cayman’s most famous attraction—and one of my absolute favorite experiences on the island. I’ve been countless times, and it never loses its magic. This shallow sandbar, just 3-4 feet deep, off the north reef, is where southern stingrays gather to be fed squid. What makes it even better is that nearby snorkeling sites let you pack even more underwater adventures into one trip.

You can join a tour (look for local rates!) or make friends with someone who has a boat—it’s all part of the island lifestyle.

Fun fact: Stingray City started accidentally when fishermen cleaned their catch here to avoid mosquitoes, and the rays began gathering daily. Now, it’s your chance to swim alongside these graceful creatures in calm, crystal-clear water.

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Hit The Beach

Grand Cayman has so many beautiful beaches beyond the famous Seven Mile Beach, and each one offers something special. From quiet spots perfect for reading or snorkeling to lively areas for BBQs and sunsets, there’s a beach for every vibe. Whether you’re looking to wade in calm waters, explore underwater life, or just soak in the beauty, Cayman’s beaches are the ultimate way to unwind.

Here are my top beaches, besides Seven Mile Beach, that you absolutely need to check out:

1. Starfish Point
2. Rum Point
3. South Sound, aka Consuelo’s Beach
4. Smith’s Barcadere 
5. Spott’s Beach 
6. Barefoot Beach

Note: Every beach on Grand Cayman is public and free to access.

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Go Snorkeling

Grand Cayman has some seriously amazing snorkeling, and honestly, the underwater world is just as stunning as the island above. The fish and all the little creatures down there are a blast to watch.

And the best part? You don’t even need a boat! Many of the best snorkeling spots are right off the shore, especially on the south, east, and north sides of the island. 

Just grab some gear, either from a dive shop or find it secondhand on ecay Trade, and you're good to go. Plus, since everything is so accessible, it’s an affordable way to experience the island's vibrant marine life.

Here are the best snorkeling spots to access from the shore:

1. Cemetery Beach
2. Smith’s Barcadere 
3. Rum Point
4. Cheeseburger Reef
5. Eden Rock/Devil’s Grotto
6. Spott’s Beach - best chances of seeing turtles

Here are the best spots to access by boat:

1. USS Kittiwake
2. Coral Gardens
3. Barrier Reef

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Go Scuba Diving

The Cayman Islands are famous for world-class diving, and honestly, some of my best memories are from exploring these waters—I’ve done over 30 open-water dives here! Whether you’re into shore dives or heading out on a boat, there’s no shortage of options. 

If you’ve never dived before, no worries! Plenty of dive shops offer certification courses or even one-off sessions so you can test the waters. Gear is easy to rent, or if you’re looking for a deal, check out ecay Trade—lots of people leaving the island sell their gear for a great price.

Here are the best shore dives:

• Eden Rock/Devil’s Grotto
• Macabucca 
• Sunset House

Here are my favorite boat required dive sites:

• Oro Verde 
• North Wall 
• USS Kittiwake 

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Go on a Horse Swim

Horseback riding in Grand Cayman is incredible! It’s such a peaceful way to connect with the horses and take in the island's stunning views. There are two riding options: a beach walk or a swim. I opted for the Horse swim, but if that’s not your jam, you can simply do a beach walk and stay dry. 

The horses are super sweet, and the guides are really knowledgeable and patient. Don’t worry if you’re not an experienced rider—I’ve been on a horse less than five times and felt totally at ease. The whole excursion lasts about three hours and takes you through the beautiful Barker’s Beach. If you're looking for a great guide, I definitely recommend Pampered Ponies.

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Go Paddleboarding

Standup paddleboarding quickly became one of my favorite activities in Grand Cayman. It’s such a fun way to see the island from a new angle, and you get a great workout in the process. You can rent boards easily from places like White Sand Water Sports, which even delivers and picks up, so it’s super convenient whether you’re out for an hour or the whole day. With calm, shallow waters around spots like Seven Mile Beach, it’s the perfect way to enjoy nature and explore the coastline.

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What’s the Weather Like

The weather in Grand Cayman is pretty consistent year-round—think warm and tropical with plenty of sunshine. Most days are partly cloudy, and the summers feel a lot like Florida: hot, humid, and with those daily afternoon showers.

Hurricane season runs from June to November, with the peak months being August through October. But don’t worry, the island is well-prepared—if a storm is on the way, there are plenty of flight options for those looking to head out.

Overall, temperatures are pretty mild, ranging from 75°F to 87°F, making it a perfect place to enjoy the outdoors most of the year.

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Shopping in Grand Cayman

Shopping in Grand Cayman isn’t exactly like what you might be used to in the States. There aren’t a ton of clothing stores, so while you can grab the essentials, you won’t have a lot of variety to choose from.

Most people shop for clothes when they head off-island or make a trip to Miami a couple of times a year. You can have things shipped but be prepared to pay import taxes and high shipping fees. While you won’t be without basics like swimsuits or shoes, options are pretty limited.

They’ve been making strides in recent years with new upscale shopping spots like Camana Bay, which offers a variety of upscale boutiques and dining options, giving residents and visitors more options to shop locally.

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Pros & Cons of Living in Grand Cayman

All in all, I think Grand Cayman is a fantastic place to live. I’ve covered a lot of details, so here’s a quick recap with a pros and cons list to help you decide if it’s the right fit for you.

PROS:

• High quality of life
• No taxes
• Live in a vacation destination
• It’s generally safe
• It is easy to find a community of like-minded people
• There are plenty of water-based activities

CONS:

• High cost of living
• It is hard to source specific goods
• Obtaining a work permit can be stressful
• Isolation is real
• Things can get monotonous 
• The island is prone to hurricanes

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The Boring but Important

Before you pack up your bags and get ready for life in the Caribbean, there are a few more things you'll want to prepare for that aren't necessarily exciting but are important.

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Getting a Bank Account

Due to the island’s history with money laundering, banking regulations in Grand Cayman are quite strict.

To open a local bank account, you’ll need to be employed. Until you have an account set up, you’ll be relying on cashing paychecks or using international cards for transactions in your local currency.

Keep this in mind as you settle in, as it can take a bit of time to get everything in order. 

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Shipping Your Things

Since most rentals in Grand Cayman come furnished, many people end up fitting their lives into their suitcases. However, if you have items you want to ship, it's a straightforward process.

Start by choosing a shipping company like Island Shipping, Cayman Freight, or Caribbean Container Line, which offers both containerized and smaller shipments. Make sure to securely pack your items, especially fragile ones, and have the proper paperwork for customs clearance. You can either drop off your goods at a port or arrange for them to be picked up from your location.

Shipping usually takes 2-3 weeks, depending on the departure port, with common options being Miami or other Caribbean hubs.

Once your items arrive in Grand Cayman, the shipping company will deliver them to your address, but you may need to clear customs and pay import duties or taxes.

While shipping by boat tends to be more affordable than air freight, it does take longer. It’s smart to get quotes from different providers to compare costs and services. You can find more information from local shipping companies directly.

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Take Advantage of Local Rates

Many hotels and excursions in Grand Cayman offer special resident rates, giving locals a chance to enjoy luxury experiences at a fraction of the cost.

For example, the Ritz-Carlton offers a $99 resident rate a few times a year. To take advantage of these deals, all you need is an ID or proof of residency. It’s a great way to indulge in the island’s high-end offerings while saving a bit of cash.

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Will You Move to Grand Cayman?

Before moving to Grand Cayman, I wish I’d realized how quickly time would fly. While I loved my years there, I regret not taking more moments to soak it all in—skipping a beach walk or passing on a weekend dive feels like missed opportunities now.

You’ll face challenges when you arrive, but the community will always help you out. Just make sure to pause and enjoy the beauty around you. Remember, people pay thousands to visit the place you get to call home—don’t take it for granted.