The Cayman Islands, a British Overseas Territory located in the western Caribbean Sea, is a tax-free haven.
Therefore many people find themselves moving here. With its tropical climate, white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and friendly locals, the Cayman Islands offer a variety of options for those looking to live or visit there.
This island is accessible by boat from many places in Central or South America, but if you are an expat in Mexico, then you will have to charter a boat or fly.
As appealing as being tax-free sounds, it comes with its complications. The Islands’ supermarket prices are relatively high, making the Caymans an expensive spot to settle in. Nevertheless, let’s explore the best places to live in the Cayman Islands.
Best Places to Live in The Cayman Islands for…
- Expats: Prospect & Red Bay
- English Speakers: George Town
- Couples: Bodden Town
- Groups: West Bay
- Digital Nomads: East End
- Solo Travelers: Seven Mile Beach
Top 10 Places to Live in The Cayman Islands
1. Prospect & Red Bay
Best Place to Live for Expats
Cost of Living: $$
These areas are next to one another, so they are often mentioned as a single unit. Located right next to George Town, Prospect & Red Bay have access to everything you would ever need. It is the island’s fastest-growing area, which is why it is an excellent fit for expats.
Tip: Put your knee pads on and visit the second-largest skatepark in the world, Black Pearl Skate Park.
Who Would Like to Live There: Expats
Pros:
- Close to good schools and amenities
- Tons of properties to choose from
- Access to a fantastic skate park
Cons:
- Traffic can get backed up
- Lack of nightlife
- Limited restaurants compared to other areas
2. George Town
Best Place to Live for English Speakers
Cost of Living: $$
George Town is the capital and largest city of the Cayman Islands. This city offers a more urban lifestyle for expats and English speakers.
It is considered the financial hub and is home to the Cayman Islands National Museum. Many cruise ships and boats will dock here, with easy access to expat havens like Jamaica.
Tip: Learn about this Island’s history and culture at the Cayman Islands National Museum.
Who Would Like to Live There: English speakers, Expats
Pros:
- A vibrant nightlife
- Many western conveniences
- Easy airport access
Cons:
- Limited parking options
- Extremely packed during tourist season
- The cruise ships port of call is here
3. Bodden Town
Best Place to Live for Couples
Cost of Living: $
Are you someone who can’t stand traffic and tons of tourists? Then this historic town on the east end of Grand Cayman is for you. Bodden Town offers a more laid-back lifestyle for travellers on this famous island and a beautiful space to settle down and potentially have a family.
Tip: Head to the Bodden Town Art Shop to learn about the history and to grab some souvenirs.
Who Would Like to Live There: Couples, English Speakers and Expats
Pros:
- A more authentic Caymanian experience
- A tight community
- Lower prices than other parts of the island
Cons:
- Sparse shopping and dining options
- Not many activities are on offer
- Little nightlife
4. West Bay
Best Place to Live for Groups
Cost of Living: $$$
West Bay is a quiet spot that offers you all you need. This area has beautiful beaches, a hiking trail, and an abundance of high-end resorts. There is something for everyone in this calm bay.
Tip: Adventure through the Mastic Trail, a 4.5-mile nature trail that offers beautiful views.
Who Would Like to Live There: Groups
Pros:
- Luxurious spas
- Quieter than most areas
- A variety of water sports are available
Cons:
- Higher cost of living
- Heavy traffic during peak tourism season
- Fewer dining options in George Town
5. East End
Best Place to Live for Digital Nomads
Cost of Living: $$
This small town, with a population of roughly 2,000 people, has a rugged beauty to it. The beaches are empty, with crystal clear waters, so it’s perfect for anyone that likes more peace and privacy. This small community, with access to busier parts of the island, makes this area ideal for digital nomads trying to get their work in!
Tip: Visit the Cayman Parrot Sanctuary, a rehabilitation center for birds, snakes, and more.
Who Would Like to Live There: Digital Nomads
Pros:
- Peaceful environment
- Many outdoor activities
- Stunning fauna and flora
Cons:
- Needs more amenities
- Small expat community
- It might be too remote for some
6. Seven Mile Beach
Best Place to Live for Solo Travellers
Cost of Living: $$$
Seven Mile Beach is the most famous and popular beach on the island. You will find some of the most luxurious resorts, restaurants, and bars in this area. If you love living close to all the action, Seven Mile Beach is the spot for you.
Tip: Go parasailing along the beautiful Seven Mile Beach strip.
Who Would Like to Live There: Expats, Digital Nomads
Pros:
- A large expat community
- Beautiful beaches
- Many restaurants and bars to visit
Cons:
- Very high real estate prices
- Many tourists during peak season
- Traffic can be an issue
7. North Side
Best Place to Live for Nature Lovers
Cost of Living: $$
North Side is a coastal area on Grand Cayman. This little town is most appealing to people who want to settle or retire due to its harmonious energy. The North Side has some beautiful restaurants, one being Upstairs at Kaibo, which has a Michelin-starred chef!
Tip: Explore the fascinating Cayman Crystal Caves.
Who Would Like to Live There: Nature Lovers
Pros:
- Authentic Cayman experience
- Cooler weather due to winds
- Spectacular restaurants
Cons:
- A far drive to the airport
- Offshore winds bring salt, which degrades materials
- Not as many activities as in other areas
8. Rum Point
Best Place to Live for Water Activities
Cost of Living: $$
Rum Point is a secluded, quiet area on the north shore of Grand Cayman, next to the North Side. It is known for its beautiful beaches, excellent snorkeling, paddleboarding, and more. This area offers a variety of homes, from mansions to affordable condos, so you will find something that suits your needs.
Tip: Tap into your inner mermaid/merman and visit Starfish Point.
Who Would Like to Live There: Water Activity Addicts, Digital Nomads
Pros:
- Peaceful atmosphere
- An abundance of water activities
- Variety of home options
Cons:
- Limited nightlife
- Swarmed with boats and tourists during peak season
- Limited grocery stores
9. Savannah
Best Place to Live for Prospective Homeowners
Cost of Living: $$
Nestled between Prospect Bay and Bodden Town, Savannah offers newlyweds and young families a well-rounded lifestyle.
Property is more affordable than other regions on offer, with the bonus of decent-sized gardens and shade. This little town is filled with the history and culture of the island, so it’s a great place to experience.
Tip: Witness the bird species and other animals residing in the Cayman Islands at Governor Michael Gore Bird Sanctuary.
Who Would Like to Live There: Expats
Pros:
- Well-priced land and houses
- Rich in history and culture
- Large shopping center in the area
Cons:
- Lack of beaches
- Traffic can be an issue
- Some properties are very close to the shoreline
10. Camana Bay
Best Place to Live for Active People
Cost of Living: $$$
Camana Bay is situated near Seven Mile Beach and stretches towards the north. This area has been designed based on new urbanism, allowing you to stroll to everything you need.
Streets and walkways interconnect schools, shops, restaurants, and houses, so you never have to get into a car!
Tip: Head to the Camana Bay Observation Tower and get a view of the whole island.
Who Would Like to Live There: Expats, Active People, English Speakers
Pros:
- Easily walkable
- Close to Seven Mile Beach and its amenities
- Sense of community
Cons:
- Limited outdoor activities
- Can get busy
- Shops are expensive