If I had a Belize nickel for every time someone asked me, “Should I move to Placencia or Ambergris Caye?”—well, I’d probably buy a beachfront lot by now.
Here’s the quick and honest comparison, from someone who’s walked both sandy streets:
Ambergris Caye: Buzz, Beaches, and Golf Carts
- Vibe: Island energy with a splash of tourist buzz. San Pedro is lively—more restaurants, more events, and more expats.
- Cost of Living: Higher. Expect to pay more for rent, imported groceries, and utilities (especially if A/C is your best friend).
- Transportation: Golf carts rule here. Fun at first. Expensive over time.
- Healthcare: Good basics on-island, but anything serious means a water taxi or flight to the mainland.
Ambergris is for you if you want energy, expat hangouts, and don’t mind higher prices for convenience.
Placencia: Peace, Community, and Real Belize Charm
- Vibe: Laid-back village feel. Smaller crowd. Slower pace. Fewer tourists lingering year-round.
- Cost of Living: More affordable than Ambergris, especially long-term rentals and local eats.
- Transportation: You’ll walk or bike most places in the village. Easy and cheap.
- Healthcare: Basic clinics nearby. For anything advanced, same story—head to Dangriga, Belmopan, or Mexico.
Placencia is for you if you value quiet mornings, community vibes, and want your budget to stretch further while retiring in Belize.
So… Which Wins?
Depends on your lifestyle.
Ambergris is more active, convenient, and social.
Placencia is more peaceful, intimate, and cost-conscious.
If you're not sure, here’s my advice: rent in both for 30–60 days before deciding. What looks good on YouTube doesn’t always feel right when you’re living it.
Thinking about retiring in Belize and torn between locations? Join the conversation inside our Facebook group: facebook.com/groups/belizebound
You’ll hear what real expats are saying—good, bad, and mosquito bites included.
Written by Cedric Williams
I was born and raised in Belize, and now living in the U.S., I’ve seen firsthand what it’s like to live between these two worlds. My personal experience, paired with insights from others who have made the transition, inspired me to write helpful reports for those considering Belize for expat living.
I have also written books about Belize that are now available on Amazon. You can find them with this link, click here.